Sabela Arteaga de Cominges’s journey is that of a photographer who has transformed artistic sensitivity into a rapidly growing professional career. From her early work covering concerts and events to her debut at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, her evolution reflects a strong commitment to developing a distinctive visual voice within fashion photography.

Collaborating with brands such as Hannibal Laguna, Custo Barcelona, and The Label Edition has propelled her career forward, allowing her to engage with the real pace and demands of the industry. Throughout this process, her training has been essential in refining her technique and consolidating her professional profile.

Tell us a bit about yourself and your background

My name is Sabela Arteaga de Cominges, and I’m from Vigo. I studied graphic design, but I’ve always loved photography and painting; my grandmother is an incredible painter, and my mother is also very artistic, so I guess I take after them.

I’ve had a camera in my hands since 2018, thanks to my uncle, who encouraged me to pursue photography. However, it was three years ago that I started taking it more seriously on a professional level. I focused mainly on concerts and events, but gradually I became more interested in fashion. I decided to take a chance and applied for accreditation to attend Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid. I was able to attend alongside Hannibal Laguna White, which led me to start working with them, creating content for their social media channels and photographing their events.

I decided to move to Madrid in September to pursue opportunities here (as I had already been traveling frequently for work while living in Vigo) and to study something related to fashion photography to expand my knowledge.

During my time in Madrid, I worked with several brands, both creating social media content and producing photographic content. I attended MBFW again in March, and this time I worked with Custo Barcelona, The Label Edition, and Hannibal Laguna, which was incredibly exciting. I would love to attend fashion weeks in other cities and I’m really looking forward to going back in September.

Which Vogue Diploma did you complete?

I completed the Vogue Diploma in Fashion Photography.

How did you discover the program?

I discovered it on Instagram. I came across the Vogue Diploma in Fashion Photography and didn’t hesitate for a second. I wanted to enroll in the September intake, but it was too last-minute, so I waited for the next one.

Why did you decide to study this diploma?

I’ve always loved photography, and it seemed like a very interesting course and a great way to learn more and immerse myself further in the fashion industry.

During the program, is there any project you would highlight? Tell us more about it.

One day we had access to the studio for personal projects, and I immediately took advantage of the opportunity. I reached out to a model I met at MBFW named Echi to do a test shoot, and they were happy to join.

At the time, Bad Bunny was performing in Madrid, so I got the idea to use the Zara x Bad Bunny collection and create an editorial inspired by that theme. The photos turned out incredible, and I’m really happy with the results.

Echi by Sabela Arteaga
Photo: Sabela Arteaga

What was your experience during the course?

Honestly, I learned a great deal, especially about lighting and studio photography. I had previously worked as an assistant to a photographer in Vigo, and thanks to that experience I had some knowledge of studio lighting, but this course really helped me deepen and strengthen that area, where I still had a lot to learn.

Which professor or session stood out to you? Why?

The professors who had the biggest impact on me were Jenny Bauser, who showed me how crucial a stylist’s role is and how challenging it can be to source the right pieces, and Flavio Orsolatto, who taught me a lot about lighting, as I mentioned before.

What did you enjoy the most, or what do you remember most fondly?

I have very fond memories of Debbie Smith’s classes. She is an excellent instructor. In her Masters of Photography course, she introduced us to incredible photographers and gave me very strong references that I still rely on today.

What do you think is the most important thing you learned for your current work?

I learned how to work with stylists, how to direct models more effectively, and how to communicate professionally with companies or clients. Before, I used to send emails a bit randomly, but now I approach them in a much more structured and effective way.

Any additional comments or advice for someone starting out in this field?

I used to be quite introverted, but what has worked best for me is putting myself out there, being brave, sending lots of emails, and following up consistently. Over time, you gain confidence, everything starts to feel more natural, you meet more people in the industry, and things begin to flow more easily.

Collaborations are very important to build a strong portfolio, and little by little, opportunities start to come naturally.

Shape Your Vision in Fashion Photography

The Vogue Diploma in Fashion Photography is designed for those looking to develop a strong creative vision through hands-on training with industry professionals. You will learn everything from lighting and model direction to editorial production.