The Art of Fashion & Photography: A Collaborative Runway

Saturday, November 21, 2026

6:00–8:00 p.m.

MOPA@SDMA Atrium

Free with RSVP

Celebrate the intersection of fashion, photography, and community at The Art of Fashion & Photography: A Collaborative Runway, a free public event bringing together San Diego’s local designers, emerging photographers, students, and creative enthusiasts.

Inspired by Cecil Beaton’s Fashionable World, on view at MOPA@SDMA from July 11, 2026, through January 10, 2027, this event explores the relationship between fashion and visual storytelling through a hands-on photography experience.

The evening features a curated LED runway showcasing original garments by local designers. From 6:30–7:00 p.m., attendees are invited to photograph models as they present each look, capturing the movement, details, and artistry of the designs. Following the runway portion of the event, an open-floor photoshoot welcomes all attendees to continue photographing and engaging with the creative community in the MOPA@SDMA atrium and explore the Cecil Beaton exhibition on view.

Beyond the runway, the event encourages photographers and designers to connect and share their creative work. Photographers will have the opportunity to share images with participating designers after the event, creating opportunities for portfolio development, creative exchange, and future collaboration.

The evening will feature:

• A curated LED runway showcasing original designs by local fashion artists
• Open-floor photography opportunities for all attendees
• Hands-on experience capturing fashion, movement, and creative details
• Opportunities for photographers to create and share images with designers for portfolio and promotional use
• Networking with local designers, photographers, students, and fellow creatives
• Cash bar supplied by Panama 66

This event is made possible through the participation of local designers, educational partners, and photography organizations. Collaborators include:

• San Diego Mesa College: Fashion Design Students
• Outside the Lens
• Jennafer Grace Collection
• Marty Ornish
• Sew Loka San Diego
• Susan Lazear / Cochenille Design Studio

Whether you're an aspiring photographer, designer, or a student, or simply passionate about the arts, join us for an evening of creative exploration and connection. Bring your camera, capture the runway, and meet the people shaping San Diego's creative community.

Free with RSVP

Featured at top: Cecil Beaton, The Second Age of Beauty is Glamour, Checked Suit by Norman Hartnell (detail), 1947. Modern print from original colour transparency. © Condé Nast Archive UK.