By Tina Edward Gunawardhana

Photographer Prasantha Yahampath narrates his story as a fashion photographer in Europe

From the quiet solitude of a darkroom in Holland to the electric energy of Paris Fashion Week, photographer Prasantha Yahampath has come a long way—both geographically and creatively. Now based in London after years of honing his craft in the Netherlands, Prasantha brings with him a wealth of experience in fashion, editorial, and portrait photography. What began as a school art project quickly evolved into a lifelong pursuit... A chance opportunity to shoot a friend’s final fashion collection at an art academy unlocked a new direction—one that led him to the heart of Europe’s most vibrant fashion scenes.

In Amsterdam, Prasantha made his mark photographing runways and collaborating with designers, including an award-winning Philippine designer whose collections took him from Amsterdam to London to Paris in a whirlwind three-week fashion tour. One of his most memorable shoots involved capturing bridal couture on the bustling streets of Paris—an experience that was equal parts logistical nightmare and creative triumph. Now in the UK, Prasantha is building his photography practice anew, bringing with him the same curiosity, adaptability, and storytelling spirit that has shaped his journey so far. He’s particularly keen to work with Sri Lankans in the diaspora who are passionate about fashion—whether they’re aspiring models, designers, or creatives. From helping build professional portfolios to capturing ethereal pre-wedding shoots, he offers not just technical skill, but a collaborative and empowering approach. Prasantha sees photography as a story unfolding in real time—full of unpredictability and beauty.

Q Tell us about your journey. How did you first get into photography, and what drew you to fashion in particular?
My journey into photography began in the darkroom while I was finishing high school. Photography was part of my art classes, and I was introduced to the darkroom, where I was mesmerised by how light could create images and how chemistry played a crucial role in reproducing them. It was a very old-school approach, but it truly highlighted the essence of photography for me.

As for how I got into fashion, it was quite by accident. A dear friend of mine, who was also Sri Lankan and in his final year at the academy, asked me to photograph his final collection. At that time, I had already completed my studies and was practising in portrait and advertising photography, but I had always harboured a passion for fashion. One opportunity led to another, and before I knew it, I found myself shooting for his friends and working at fashion weeks and various catwalk shows.

Q You worked extensively in Holland, covering major fashion weeks and editorial shoots. What were some of the most memorable moments from that period?
One highlight at Amsterdam Fashion Week was the opportunity to collaborate with an award-winning Philippine international designer. This collaboration led to an exciting journey as I worked with her at Amsterdam Fashion Week, followed by London Fashion Week, and then wrapping up at Paris Fashion Week, showcasing three different collections across three consecutive weeks.

A particularly unforgettable moment occurred during Paris Fashion Week. Just before the preparation for a bridal collection, the designer wanted to do an editorial shoot on the streets of Paris. It was quite challenging to keep the outfits clean for the catwalk while trying to capture stunning images, especially amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Successfully managing to pull off three fashion weeks in three weeks under pressure was intense, but it also filled me with energy and excitement, truly highlighting the thrill of working in the fashion industry.

These experiences taught me invaluable lessons about adaptability, creativity, and the importance of teamwork in high-stress situations.

Q Your work has been featured in Hi Magazine. Could you share the story behind one of your favourite shoots for them?
When I had the opportunity to shoot for Hi Magazine, we began preparations six months prior to my visit to Sri Lanka with this writer herself.  We meticulously organised every detail, from the locations and outfits to the models and makeup.

On the day of the shoot, we arrived at our first location and were immediately greeted by the breathtaking scenery that Sri Lanka has to offer. In that moment, I realised that sometimes it’s best to let go of the mood board and simply go with the flow.

One of the most memorable parts of the shoot involved a young model who bravely climbed up an old, withered tree with the help of a ladder. I had envisioned a specific pose for her, but I was acutely aware of the risks involved. That shoot perfectly encapsulated the thrill of working in such a dynamic and unpredictable environment.

Q Fashion photography requires a unique eye. How would you describe your signature style or approach when behind the lens?
I think your question highlights an important aspect of fashion photography: the role of personal style. I wouldn’t say I have a specific style just yet; I’m still on a journey to capture what that truly means for me. Describing oneself through a unique style can certainly help photographers stand out in such a competitive industry, and I recognise that it's one of the key elements in creating impactful images.

I often draw inspiration from the photographers I admire, considering their unique approaches while also trying to find my own voice. For me, the main focus is on the storytelling aspect of my work. Each photograph should convey a narrative and evoke emotions, allowing viewers to connect with the subject on a deeper level. Ultimately, I hope that as I continue to grow and evolve as a photographer, I will be able to define and articulate my signature style more clearly. Until then, I remain committed to capturing compelling stories through my lens.

Q What are the challenges you faced working independently in the fashion industry, and how have those experiences shaped your work?
The fashion world is often perceived as glamorous, filled with champagne and excitement, but there are significant challenges that come with working independently in this industry. One of my biggest challenges has been the realisation of how easily artists can be taken advantage of. Many of us are so focused on our craft and the artistry of photography that we sometimes overlook the financial aspects that are crucial for sustainability.

I found that while I am deeply passionate about my work, achieving financial stability is essential. I realized that to truly thrive, I needed to have a helping hand—someone who could manage appointments, payments, promotions, and networking. This support allows me to dedicate more time and freedom to the creative process, ensuring that I can focus on what I love most: capturing compelling images and telling stories through my work.

These experiences have shaped my approach to photography by emphasising the importance of balance between creativity and business. I now understand that having a solid support system can enhance my ability to produce high-quality work while navigating the industry's complexities.

Q Now that you’ve relocated to London, what are your goals for launching your photography business there?
One of my primary goals is to build a strong portfolio that showcases my unique style and versatility in fashion photography. I want to capture the essence of the vibrant fashion scene here, which is rich with creativity and innovation.

Another important goal is to focus on networking and building a new client base. London is a hub for fashion, and I aim to connect with designers, brands, and fellow creatives to establish meaningful collaborations. By engaging with the local community and participating in events, I hope to create opportunities that will help my photography business thrive.

Ultimately, my vision is to become an integral part of London’s fashion landscape, telling compelling stories through my lens and contributing to the dynamic world of fashion photography here.

Q How do you stay inspired and keep your creative vision fresh in such a fast-paced and trend-driven industry?
Staying inspired and keeping my creative vision fresh in such a fast-paced and trend-driven industry is crucial. Coming from the Netherlands, where the fashion sense is often more subdued and focused on practicality, the vibrant streets of London have been a refreshing contrast for me. The colourful styles and bold expressions I encounter here truly ignite my creativity.

I make it a point to visit exhibitions and local fashion shows regularly. These experiences expose me to new ideas, innovative designs, and emerging talents, all of which help fuel my inspiration. Additionally, I find that reading books—whether they are about fashion history, photography techniques, or biographies of influential artists—provides valuable insights and perspectives that can spark new concepts in my work. Moreover, I believe it's essential to embrace contemporary trends, including the rise of social media and AI- AI-generated artwork. These platforms not only showcase current trends but also offer new ways to engage with creativity and art.

By immersing myself in this dynamic environment and continually seeking out new experiences and knowledge, I can stay inspired and keep my creative vision evolving in alignment with the ever-changing landscape of fashion.