What makes a photoshoot collaboration stand out? It’s a question I often ask myself when I step behind the lens. How do you take something as fleeting as a moment and transform it into a story that captivates? Recently, I returned to Melbourne, Australia, a city I once called home, for the launch of my photo book, The Melbourne Portraits Project: A Photographic Ode. While there, I had the chance to reconnect with old friends, meet some incredible new people, and collaborate on a photoshoot with Elasha Chhantyal. The backdrop? Melbourne’s seamless blend of wild and urban charm. The fashion? A jaw-dropping gown by designer Scott Braxton that seemed to tell its own story.
A Dynamic Collaboration: Elasha Chhantyal and Scott Braxton
Elasha Chhantyal, graceful, intense, and utterly magnetic, was the heart of this shoot. Her poses brought the energy of every scene to life, from commanding confidence with piercing gazes to creating motion that made Scott Braxton’s gown flow like a living entity. Scott’s designs, celebrated for their fusion of American fashion sensibilities with global inspiration, were perfectly represented in this gown. Earthy tones, intricate patterns, and a fabric that seemed to breathe with each shift in movement made it unforgettable.
Working with Scott is always an adventure. He doesn’t just design clothing. He crafts experiences. Every stitch and detail carries a piece of his story, often inspired by nature, architecture, or personal journeys. I’ve been fortunate to photograph Scott’s designs in Paris, New York, Bali, Los Angeles, and the San Francisco Bay Area. Each location and runway setting has brought out unique facets of his work, and this Melbourne collaboration was no exception.
Melbourne as the Perfect Backdrop
Melbourne’s charm lies in its ability to surprise, offering a mix of nature and industry in close proximity. We sought locations that complemented both Scott’s design and Elasha’s energy: ivy-draped walls that brought organic softness, graffiti-covered textures that whispered rebellion, and weathered wood that added timeless authenticity. These settings became part of the story, each highlighting a different aspect of Elasha’s dynamic presence and the gown’s elegance.
Creating a Visual Story
This shoot captured the essence of Melbourne’s diverse atmospheres. From serene, ivy-clad walls framing Elasha’s elegant movements to bold, graffiti-splashed urban scenes, every location contributed to the narrative. Cinematic lighting and painterly natural elements added depth, while the seamless transitions between settings showcased the harmony between fashion and environment. The interplay of textures, tones, and moods made each frame a chapter in a cohesive visual story.
Behind the Scenes: The Creative Process
Every photoshoot is a dance. A collaboration of vision and execution. Before stepping on location, we outlined our ideas, blending Scott’s inspirations with Elasha’s interpretations. Together, we built a framework for the story we aimed to tell.
On location, everything aligned. Shifting light, Melbourne’s textured urban landscapes, and Elasha’s intuitive movements came together effortlessly. This is what photography is about: capturing moments that are more than just visually striking. They’re emotionally resonant.
Elasha adapted flawlessly to each setting, embodying strength, grace, and individuality. Scott’s gown evolved with every frame, becoming a unique character in its own right. Melbourne provided the perfect canvas, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the project and leaving us all inspired.
Let’s Make Magic Together
Are you a model, designer, or brand ready to create something extraordinary? Whether you’re dreaming of a photoshoot, launching a collection, or planning a runway event, let’s work together to bring your vision to life. Contact us to see how we can collaborate. Link in bio. Let’s turn your ideas into unforgettable stories, together.
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