A Picture-Perfect Milestone
Today, I am overjoyed to announce a milestone that marks both an end and a beginning in my creative journey. The most recent collaboration with the beautiful and talented Meera X Jiao has culminated in this captivating series of photographs. These images have found their rightful place on the cover of the June 2023 issue of Untold Magazine, a publication known for its unerring eye for unique and compelling stories. This achievement is not just a moment of immense personal pride and satisfaction, but it also holds a special significance in my photographic journey: it is the 100th time that my work has graced the pages of magazines.
This latest photoshoot with Meera was conducted amidst the historical grandeur of Place Vendome in Paris, a location that mirrored her captivating charm and sophistication. However, this is just one among a myriad of stunning locations that I’ve had the privilege of working in. From the disparate settings of the San Francisco Bay Area to the vibrant and dynamic streets of Melbourne, Australia, and Saigon, Vietnam, each location has brought a unique charm and identity to my work, helping to shape a creative vision and approach.
This collaboration with Meera marks the third occasion of its kind, with each collaboration serving as a unique platform to delve into and artistically represent her complex and intriguing personality. The first collaboration was carried out at the Domaine National du Palais-Royal, an enduring monument nestled in the heart of Paris. This initial project was not merely a photo session but an exploration of culture, history, and individuality, all set against the backdrop of the Palais’ grand courtyards and tranquil gardens. The majestic architecture of the palace, paired with Meera’s dynamic charisma, resulted in captivating images that echoed both grace and strength.
After the compelling venture at the Palais Royal, we embarked a few months later on our second collaboration. This time, we chose the iconic Gardens of Versailles as our open-air studio. The meticulously sculpted flower beds, the meticulously planned layout, and the extravagant fountains of the Versailles Gardens provided a stark contrast to the urban charm of the Palais Royal. This difference in setting allowed us to cast a fresh light on Meera’s multifaceted personality, capturing it against the baroque grandeur of Louis XIV’s masterpiece. The resulting photographs bore the mark of regal elegance, with Meera’s presence imbuing a contemporary touch to the time-honored surroundings.
Each collaboration with Meera has been a confluence of diverse ideas, abundant creativity, and profound mutual respect. The exploration of various grand settings, the interplay of different themes, and the synergy between the collaborators have culminated in a collection of enduring photographs. These images serve not merely as visual delights but as visual narratives that beautifully encapsulate the depth and complexity of Meera’s personality.
The Article
Embarking on a creative journey as a photographer is always filled with excitement, especially when collaborating with talent like Meera, an experienced model, and actress. This artistic endeavor led us to the charming Place Vendome in Paris, which served as the stunning backdrop for our photoshoot.
The journey began with us brainstorming a narrative, intricately interlacing our chosen theme and mood with the very essence of Place Vendome. This creative exchange of ideas formed the cornerstone of our project.
A critical component of this narrative was wardrobe selection. With her astute sense of style, Meera chose a single outfit from the Kisau Clothing Collection, curated by Hannah Do, which became the keystone in the architectural design of our photoshoot.
Under the ethereal afternoon glow of Place Vendome, Meera, elegantly attired, worked her magic in front of the lens. The photoshoot lasted around three hours, with each pose meticulously orchestrated to ensure authenticity and continuity in our shared vision.
The creative collaboration didn’t end with the shoot. Together, we sifted through the images, handpicking those that best depicted our narrative. These were then subtly retouched to enhance their aesthetic appeal.
The fruits of our collaborative effort are reflected in this very publication. Each image serves as a testament to our creative journey, a narrative which, while anchored in Place Vendome, will hopefully resonate with readers globally, highlighting the impact of a well-executed visual narrative.
We’re all in this together
Looking back, the journey to my hundredth publication has been filled with collaboration, learning, and growth. I’ve had the privilege of working with some of the most gifted and innovative minds in the industry. Each individual’s unique talents have contributed to this shared vision, making every photograph a collective creation.
My heartfelt gratitude goes out to Miae Nelson, whose Art Fashion Jewelry has added a touch of elegance and sophistication to so many of my projects, and Tom Basler, whose Avant-Garde Jewelry has consistently lent a unique, artistic flair to our models. The transformative magic of Ethel MH Reddy and Mayra Aguiar, our exceptional hair and makeup stylists, has breathed life and vibrancy into our models, while Hannah Do‘s innovative approach to wardrobe styling and her Kisau Clothing Collection has seamlessly married fashion and concept to create visually compelling narratives. I am equally grateful to Jesse Aquatico and Amethyst Sallinger, the forward-thinking fashion designers whose creations have added layers of depth and intrigue to our projects.
Of particular note is the invaluable contribution of Pia Gould, an exceptional magazine consultant. Her extensive experience, sharp acumen, and unwavering support have played an instrumental role in navigating the intricate world of publications. For those who dream of seeing their own photographs in the glossy pages of a magazine but feel daunted by the process, I highly recommend reaching out to pia@piagould.hmua. Her keen eye for detail and deep understanding of the industry can provide you with valuable insights, advice, and guidance. With her by your side, you can take confident strides toward achieving your publication dreams.
As we celebrate this milestone, my heart is filled with gratitude towards every individual who has been part of this journey. Each one of you has contributed to this beautiful tapestry of stories that span continents, cultures, and creative visions. Here’s to many more collaborations, shared successes, and continued exploration in the world of photography. Thank you all!
Kisau Photography 