What comes to mind when you think of fashion and storytelling? For me, it’s the magic of collaboration, the spark of creativity, and capturing moments where these two worlds come together. Recently, I had the opportunity to photograph Pinky Mutiara wearing a design by Smaranika Nikki Sarangi at Casa Nomada Bali, and the experience was truly memorable.
A Designer with Vision
Working with Smaranika Nikki Sarangi is always a delight. She’s a designer with a bold vision and a heart of gold. We’ve collaborated on projects from the San Francisco Bay Area to New York and now Bali. I’ve also captured her unique designs on the runway at The Next Bay Area Runway, Summer Breeze, and Silicon Valley Fashion Week. Each piece tells a story, showcasing her creativity, skill, and passion for making people feel empowered through fashion. Her designs celebrate individuality, and that’s what makes them so captivating. One hallmark of Nikki’s style is her use of asymmetrical designs and hand-woven fabrics, which reflect her heritage in a deeply personal way.
A Picturesque Setting
The setting for this photoshoot, Casa Nomada Bali, was just as beautiful as the designs themselves. Nestled in the lush beauty of Bali, the location’s serene vibe and distinctive architecture provided the perfect backdrop for showcasing Nikki’s work. With its rustic wooden doors, cacti-lined pathways, and earthy tones, the villa added depth and character to each shot, enhancing the vibrant designs. It was a setting where tradition met modernity, complementing the essence of Nikki’s creations.
The Star of the Shoot
Speaking of the model, Pinky Mutiara was an absolute star. Her energy and professionalism shone through despite the challenging heat and humidity of Bali. With her striking features and graceful poise, Pinky brought an effortless elegance to every frame. She wore a red and blue ensemble featuring intricate patterns, bold colors, and an asymmetrical design, perfectly highlighting Nikki’s signature style. Pinky’s ability to connect with the camera made the garments come alive and allowed us to truly capture the essence of the designs.
Pinky also featured designs by Bach Mai and Scott Braxton that day, adding an exciting variety to the shoot. Her versatility as a model allowed her to seamlessly transition between the different looks, from structured silhouettes to flowing fabrics. Watching her bring these designs to life was a reminder of how much dedication and hard work goes into every photoshoot. Thank you, Pinky, for your unwavering enthusiasm and grace!
The Magic of Collaboration
What I appreciated most about this collaboration was how it blended diverse elements to create something truly meaningful. Nikki’s designs, rooted in her unique perspective, paired with the vibrant personality of Pinky and the rich cultural backdrop of Bali, made every frame dynamic and memorable. Fashion photography isn’t just about clothes or locations; it’s about the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke.
A Creative Symphony
For me, blending different styles, cultures, and environments is what makes photography so exciting. It’s about bringing together individual elements to craft a narrative that feels alive and personal. Every detail matters, and every photoshoot collaboration carries its own unique charm.
Photoshoot Credits
- Model: Pinky Mutiara ⨁
- Fashion Designer: Smaranika Nikki Sarangi ⨁
- Wardrobe Stylist: Hannah Do ⨁
- Location: Casa Nomada Bali ⨁
- Photographer: Paul Tocatlian
Let’s Collaborate
If you’re a brand, model, designer, or creative looking to bring your vision to life, I’d love to work with you. Whether it’s a photoshoot, runway coverage, or an editorial project, let’s create something memorable together. Contact me and let’s make your story unforgettable.
© Paul Tocatlian. All Rights Reserved.
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