What Makes a Photoshoot Stand Out?
Is it the outfit, the setting, or the energy of the person in front of the camera? During my recent photoshoot with Frenni Dolsie Acuesta, featured in the first issue of COPIED Magazine by The Next Bay Area Runway, it became clear that it’s all about the combination. This session captured movement, personality, and how fashion transforms when someone truly connects with it.
A Quiet Start
When Dolsie stepped in front of the camera, she brought a calm energy that set the tone. She wore a stunning gown from the Kisau Clothing Collection, curated by Hannah Do. The dress sparkled with sequins that caught every bit of light, making it feel bold yet elegant.
We started with simple poses. Her soft gaze and composed posture worked perfectly with the industrial steel backdrop. The contrast between the shimmering dress and the sleek, modern setting gave the first few shots a balanced and grounded feel.
The Energy Shifts
As the shoot continued, Dolsie’s movements became freer, and the energy shifted. She began exploring the gown, lifting the hem to reveal its detailed craftsmanship. Her steps and twirls added a sense of playfulness, and it was clear she was having fun with the process.
Then came a moment of pure motion. Dolsie leaped into the air, the gown trailing behind her, shimmering in the light. It wasn’t just about the dress anymore, it felt like an extension of her energy. These moments brought personality into the photos and showed how fashion can take on a life of its own.
A Collaboration That Clicked
What made this session so special was how collaborative it felt. Dolsie didn’t just stand still for the camera. She interacted with the setting, the gown, and the moment itself. Every shot felt purposeful, like it was telling part of a larger story.
The feature in COPIED Magazine captures this perfectly. It describes how Dolsie sees life as a series of cinematic moments, and she brought that same energy to the shoot. Her movements, expressions, and creativity made the session feel dynamic and alive.
Setting the Scene
The location gave the photos a bold and modern edge. The steel backdrop, with its clean lines and cool tones, created a striking contrast to the sparkling gown. This combination of elegance and modernity made the images feel fresh and visually engaging.
The dress seemed to respond to Dolsie’s every move, whether she was standing still or in motion. Its sequins caught the light beautifully, while its flowing fabric added depth and texture. The interplay between the gown, the setting, and her energy made each frame unique.
Find It in COPIED Magazine
Seeing these photos featured in COPIED Magazine is such a rewarding moment. The magazine celebrates individuality and creative expression, making it a perfect fit for this project. If you want to check out the full spread, copies are available through @TheNextBayAreaRunway.
Let’s Create Together
This session reminded me of why I love photography. It’s not just about the technical aspects or the final product. It’s about connecting with people, sharing ideas, and bringing them to life. If you’re a designer, brand, or creative looking to collaborate, let’s talk. Whether it’s for a fashion project, an editorial shoot, or something new, I’d love to work with you to create something exciting.
© Paul Tocatlian. All Rights Reserved.
Kisau Photography 