Words & Photography: Kasia Guzik
For the second time this year, I found myself immersed in the excitement of a fashion show at London Stadium. While many photographers flock to the runway, there’s something about being behind the scenes that captivates me more. The buzz of last-minute adjustments, the energy of models getting ready, and the genuine, unfiltered moments are where the magic truly happens. Shooting behind the curtain offers spontaneity and depth that you rarely see on the runway.
Watching the process unfold, from the arrival of the garments to fittings, hair, and makeup, right up to rehearsals, it feels like witnessing art in motion and watching the real essence of fashion, those are the moments I enjoy capturing the most. Runway photography can feel a bit repetitive; everyone tends to get the same shot. But behind the scenes, it’s more personal. You get to interact with designers, models, and the crew, forming connections that make each shot more intimate. I even ran into some of the models I photographed at the previous show. A simple, “hey, I remember you in that purple dress from last time, you rocked that outfit! Good luck tonight”, instantly broke the ice, earning their trust and allowing me to capture their true essence as they prepared to take the stage.
I’ve only recently developed a passion for shooting in black and white. To me, it’s timeless and focuses the viewer on the subject without the distraction of colour, unless colour plays a key role. Black and white tells the story behind the photograph in a simple, yet powerful way. This trip to London was just another step in the journey, and there’s so much more to come. For now, here’s a glimpse behind the curtain, where the real stories of fashion unfold.
