Strike a pose

Senior photography major and UD Magazine student photographer Julia Daschbach had the opportunity to travel to New York City to photograph New York Fashion Week, February 11–16.

“It was both grounding and energizing, and it pushed me to step more confidently into my role as a photographer,” she said. “Being surrounded by people so committed to their creative practices challenged me to trust my instincts and work with intention in a fast-paced environment.”

Daschbach was able to get press access to several fashion shows, including for designers Carolina Herrera and Calvin Klein. But said the work, though invigorating, wasn’t easy.

“Working independently in a city as demanding as New York required adaptability, confidence, and a willingness to take risks — whether that meant approaching new people, navigating unfamiliar spaces, or making quick creative decisions under pressure,” she said.

Daschbach said she was definitely pushed beyond her comfort zone as a photographer, learning to be more decisive along the way. But, in the end, made her more resilient and more prepared to tackle her career dreams after graduation in May.

“New York Fashion Week, without a doubt, affirmed my desire to pursue photography as a career,” she said.

“It reinforced the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and support in shaping my artistic voice as I prepare to move forward.”

Daschbach hopes to move to the fashion capital of the world, Milan, Italy, after earning her degree at UD. Last summer, she had an internship with an Italian handbag brand in Milan, and said she’s dying to return.