In step with style of the times

Khan Morjan at Wafi Mall is hosting an exhibition for young Emirati fashion photographer, Fatima Abdullah.

Abdullah is very busy with her guests, her eyes watching every angle in the exhibition to ensure everything goes as planned.

Asked how she prepares for such events, she replies: “I begin a month in advance to ensure that everything moves smoothly.'' This higher-diploma holder takes us to her studio, the place where she and her team go through what she describes as “joyful stress''.

She explains how she organises her photo shoots: “I usually meet a model and start doing some tests to try a variety of looks and finally select the best.

"Then I begin to do some sketches to give the model a new look or, to be more specific, a natural look. And finally we discuss which make-up artist to hire and what kind of clothes she has to wear.''

The photographer starts her day early. She gives us an idea of her schedule: “I start my day keeping in mind the kind of photo shoot I have to begin with — commercial, fashion or model portfolio. Based on that, I select the equipment needed.''

And before she heads to her studio she enjoys browsing through magazines while having a cup of her favourite hot chocolate.

“I skim through the magazines. Then I go back to scan the pages that have caught my eye. I concentrate on the finer details of each look in the photographs.''

Abdullah would like her photography to reach the level of top fashion magazines such as Vogue.

She pays attention to the finer details because she believes that such details could raise the quality of the image.

“Photography doesn't mean only a good look or a fabulous outfit. As a matter of fact, it goes beyond to capture the feel of the place, time and the rhythm of a certain era. In short, it is not merely photography, it is history,'' she says.

Abdullah's make-up artist is Farah Al Shohomy. “While I check my e-mail in my office, the make-up artist makes preparations in the studio. When the model arrives, we see what kind of collection she has brought — accessories, clothes and shoes.''

She says: “My studio is equipped with a wardrobe that contains garments that match the latest trends just in case we need to add some extra touches to go positively with the lighting and shade and the overall atmosphere of the site.''

She and her make-up artist discuss which colours and styles to use for the photo session.

While the make-up artist works with the model, Abdullah's assistant makes arrangements in the studio and ensures that the lights, shades and background for the photo shoot are all conducive.

In half an hour the team evaluates the final look and chooses suitable outfits.

Usually Abdullah takes about 15 minutes to finish a shoot. “Then we check if the photos are up to the mark and if we find them lacking, we shoot again until we get the desired results,'' she says.

The team takes a break for lunch and later returns for the second session. Abdullah likes to go for a look that accentuates the natural beauty of the models.

She says: “I ask the make-up artist to remove the model's artificial eyelashes and lipstick and we sometimes add a wig for some shoots just for a change.''

When she is done, she goes back to her office and checks all the photos to select the best images, which she then recommends for the model's portfolio.

“After a long fruitful day, we have a relaxed chat. I leave the office with my assistant in the evening,'' she says.

Abdullah enjoys her work. She likes every aspect of it; even the long hours do not bother her.

“I enjoy all the stages of my work. I even add my touches to the styling of the models to ensure that I achieve the desired result. My team and I really enjoy our work, especially when we have more than one model,'' she says.

Abdullah is happy that her childhood dream has come true: “It is like a movie and each model has a role she enjoys playing.

No one can resist looking at the dresses, bags, jalabyas (baggy gowns), accessories and shoes! It is a work I enjoy spending my entire time in.''

Abdullah takes into consideration the moods of her models.

“It is crucial to keep the models relaxed because we need their inner happiness to shine through in the photographs.''
Abdullah does not photograph weddings, parties or private or public events.

Her work is limited to fashion and commercial photography. That means she works only for advertising companies and fashion agencies.

“It's true I'm a photographer. But photography has many branches and I am focusing on fashion/commercial photography.

I receive a lot of requests to shoot weddings and private events but that is not my domain,'' Abdullah says.
She dedicates her success to her family, friends and those who have encouraged her.

“I thank my family. They had faith in my talent and didn't spare any effort to support me and help me overcome obstacles confidently. I also extend thanks to my friends and to everyone who encouraged and appreciated my work.''

Fatima Abdullah's photographs are being exhibited at Khan Morjan, Wafi Mall, Dubai, until June 30.