A Couture Story Unfolds
As a fashion and editorial photographer, I’ve always been drawn to the powerful connection between design, setting, and expression. These elements don’t just form the core of an image. They shape the emotion, movement, and message of the entire shoot. Together, they create visual narratives that invite you in and encourage you to look closer.
Recently, I had the honor of photographing Monique Zhang’s latest collection, AZIMUTH – Legend of the Sea. Through the collaboration of a talented creative team, we brought her stunning vision to life at two of the Bay Area’s most iconic landmarks: the San Francisco Legion of Honor and the Pulgas Water Temple.
Monique Zhang is more than a designer. She is a creative force. A lifelong storyteller. A philanthropist. Her medium just happens to be fashion. Born and raised in Taiwan, Monique was immersed in the arts from a young age. Her mother, an art teacher, and her aunts, both pioneers in introducing Western couture to Taiwan in the 1960s, gave Monique a front-row seat to the merging of tradition and innovation.
These early influences helped shape her East-meets-West design philosophy, which continues to define her work today. With a degree in Shakespearean Theater, Monique’s foundation in drama and storytelling is visible in every fold, detail, and silhouette. Her latest collection, AZIMUTH, is a poetic tribute to the ocean. Each gown captures the shimmer of light on water, the mystery of coral reefs, and the natural rhythm of ocean currents with reverence and imagination.
San Francisco’s Legion of Honor: Classic Meets Couture
Our first shoot was held at the Legion of Honor. This neoclassical museum radiates timeless elegance and was the perfect backdrop to showcase Monique’s detailed and sculptural gowns. Model Kellie Mozelle wore each look with grace and presence.
She moved through the architecture wearing four striking designs from the AZIMUTH collection. A golden, shell-inspired gown glowed under the afternoon light, while a dramatic black dress shimmered with pearl-like embellishments. Another look featured a crisp white gown with layered, coral-like shoulder detailing. The final design was a vivid sapphire-blue masterpiece, rich with texture and sculptural volume. Each pose was deliberate and expressive. The classical columns became a theatrical backdrop for modern couture. The variety of colors and silhouettes added rhythm and dimension, making each frame feel cinematic and alive.
Pulgas Water Temple: A Dream in Motion
For our second shoot, we headed to the Pulgas Water Temple. Surrounded by cypress trees and tranquil reflecting pools, the setting felt sacred and surreal. It was a natural complement to the ethereal qualities of the AZIMUTH collection.
Kellie was joined by model Sara Moon, whose presence brought a luminous and ethereal quality to the shoot. Across six distinct looks, Kellie and Sara embodied the elegance and mystery of deep-sea royalty. From sweeping seafoam silhouettes adorned with embroidered kelp-like patterns to structured blue gowns echoing the rhythm of waves, each design told a unique story. One gown featured radiant lavender tones with crystal beadwork, while another shimmered in translucent icy blue with coral-like spires rising from the bodice. Their movements reflected the grace of ocean currents, while the designs, rich in texture and fluid in form, captured the spirit of marine life in both visual poetry and craftsmanship.
A Creative Team Behind the Magic
Hair and makeup artist Francoise Zhang crafted dreamy, otherworldly looks that gave both Kellie and Sara a celestial glow. She worked with incredible focus, transforming the models into sea goddesses with shimmering eye shadows, ethereal highlights, and hair adorned with golden accents. Her presence behind the scenes, whether applying makeup in the field or adjusting delicate details, was a masterclass in calm precision.
Stylist assistants Veronica Mercado and Yasemin Ozcan, both from City College, brought their own creative spark and tireless energy to the set. From arranging flowing trains to smoothing final touches between shots, they handled every detail with care. Watching Yasemin crouched on the floor adjusting a hemline or Veronica perfecting a shoulder drape, I was reminded that this kind of beauty is built through collaboration.
Seeing everyone work together in rhythm was deeply inspiring. Fashion photography is never just about the final image. It’s about trust, teamwork, and a shared dedication to bringing a creative vision to life.
The Gala: Where Fashion and Philanthropy Meet
These images were created ahead of the upcoming All-Star Cruise Gala on May 17, 2025, at The Alexandria in San Carlos. Presented by Moonstar Charitable Organization and produced by Catwalk for Charitable Causes, the gala promises an evening of luxury and giving back. Guests will enjoy wine tastings, culinary delights, live performances, and a high-fashion runway experience.
Monique’s AZIMUTH collection will debut alongside designs by Sue Wang in a fashion showcase that celebrates creativity and compassion. All proceeds will benefit Moonstar’s senior meal programs, supporting underserved communities across the San Francisco Bay Area.
Gratitude and Creative Unity
This project was a celebration of artistry, culture, and connection. Working with Monique Zhang is always an immersive journey. She brings soul to every stitch and purpose to every production. I’m grateful to have played a part in capturing her designs in motion.
From breathtaking locations to the dedication of every team member, this was more than a photoshoot. It was a story told through light, fabric, and human connection. To everyone who brought this vision to life: thank you. Your talent and heart made it unforgettable.
Photoshoot Credits
- Fashion Designer: Monique Zhang
- The Models: Kellie Mozelle and Sara Moon
- Hair and Makeup Artist: Francoise Zhang
- Stylist Assistants: Veronica Mercado and Yasemin Ozcan
- Photographer: Paul Tocatlian
If you’re a brand, designer, model, or creative looking to collaborate on future photoshoot collaborations or runway coverage, I’d love to connect with you. Let’s create something beautiful together. Please reach out to start the conversation!
© Paul Tocatlian. All Rights Reserved.
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