Puss Puss Magazine with Editorial Lighting Techniques


Introduction: Sci-Fi Meets High Fashion

In this article we’ll be doing a behind the scenes look at my Puss Puss Magazine with Editorial Lighting Techniques with Jourdan Dunn . For this shoot I set out to create a cinematic world influenced by some of my biggest visual inspirations. Drawing from the rich, futuristic atmospheres of DuneBlade Runner, and Akira, I aimed to bring a sense of scale, shadow, and story to a fashion context. This was not just a photoshoot, it was a constructed visual environment. The shoot was produced in collaboration with stylist Justin Hamilton, who crafted a wardrobe that mirrored the sculptural and futuristic tone of the concept.


Editorial Concept: Building a Cinematic World for Fashion

Rather than working on location for our editorial for Puss Puss Magazine with Editorial Lighting Techniques, we chose to build a custom set that reflected the sci-fi narrative. The materials and structure of the set were selected to interact with the light, creating texture and depth. Corrugated surfaces, structured backdrops, and industrial elements served as the foundation for a futuristic atmosphere. This decision helped reinforce the connection between fashion photography and the language of science fiction cinema.

Creating an immersive environment allowed us to move away from traditional editorial setups and towards a more filmic experience. The set did not just support the shoot, it shaped it.


Lighting Setup: Profoto Zoom Spot and Precision Control

The lighting for this shoot with Puss Puss Magazine with Editorial Lighting Techniques was designed to mirror the dramatic visuals seen in sci-fi films. I used a Profoto Zoom Spot to create tightly controlled spotlight effects, along with grate-style shadows that added layers of tension and mystery. This light modifier gave us the ability to direct the viewer’s eye and build graphic compositions inside the frame.

In addition to the Zoom Spot, I incorporated 7-inch reflectors and Photek umbrellas from Profoto. These were used to soften or enhance contrast when needed. The overall goal was to maintain a sharp, dimensional light that sculpted Jourdan and the set without overwhelming them. Each source was chosen to contribute to a look that felt both editorial and cinematic.

If you are looking to recreate this style in your own work, you can learn more about Profoto lighting techniques.


Styling by Justin Hamilton: Futuristic, Sculptural Fashion

Stylist Justin Hamilton approached the shoot with a clear understanding of the visual language. The clothing he selected featured strong silhouettes, synthetic materials, and metallic finishes. Each look contributed to the futuristic story we were building, while remaining refined and editorial.

The styling was not about mimicking costumes from sci-fi films. It was about creating a fashion-forward vision of the future. Combined with the set and lighting, the wardrobe helped root the images in a world that was speculative but elegant.


Jourdan Dunn: Commanding the Frame

Working with Jourdan Dunn brought a level of power and presence that elevated the entire shoot. Her ability to bring subtle emotion to stills made her the perfect subject for this cinematic approach. She moved with control and intention, holding space in each frame without exaggeration.

Her performance played a major role in bridging the gap between fashion photography and science fiction storytelling. Every pose felt like a scene in a film — sharp, quiet, and full of character.


Conclusion: Fashion Photography with a Sci-Fi Narrative

This project is an example of how fashion photography can move beyond surface and enter the realm of storytelling. By combining a set build, controlled lighting, futuristic styling, and a model with cinematic strength, we created a narrative space that feels like it belongs to both the world of fashion and film.

This shoot represents what I aim for in editorial work — world-building, mood, and concept-driven image-making. Whether I am shooting for brands, magazines, or personal projects, my goal is to bring atmosphere and narrative into every frame.

For more examples of my fashion work, visit the fashion portfolio. You can also explore my still life photography and directing projects for other editorial and commercial projects with a strong visual signature.

Editorial Photography