Effortless imagery for capsule collections with taste and storytelling

When I imagined a test shoot inspired by that Mallorca-meets-Zara moment with Cindy Crawford and her daughter, I envisioned a blend of effortless sophistication, subtle whimsy, and natural textures. The result? A fashion-forward yet relaxed lifestyle look that feels like intentional magic—and is exactly the kind of visual storytelling that small-to-medium fashion brands and capsule collections deserve.

The Vision Behind the Shoot

This creative collaboration wasn’t a client commission—it was a test shoot born from inspiration and intention. I wanted to produce editorial-style lifestyle imagery with a Loewe-esque energy—something that felt tactile, elevated, and full of quiet personality. The goal was to create visuals that would resonate with brands that embrace understated luxury, spontaneity, and soulful styling.

Planning the Details

Creative Brief: Every shoot I plan—yes, even model test shoots—starts with a full creative brief. Mood boards, lighting treatments, location logistics…it’s all part of the process.

Once the vision is clear, I go look by look, mapping out potential accessories and wardrobe choices to bring it to life.

Styling Choices: I styled model Irina Bartell in a Zara dress (yes, our dress—more on that below), a sculptural belt by Michael Kors, an oversized cross-body bag from All Saints, and a straw hat, also from Zara.

While I’m not a professional stylist, I’ve taken Fashion Styling at FIT and lean into fashion with a vision: refined, directional, but always wearable.

Wardrobe Curation: For test shoots or creative collaborations where a professional stylist isn’t on set, models often bring their own clothing based on the creative brief.

Some share their picks with me beforehand, but not always—so I plan for every look. I often shop in advance, envisioning accessories and key pieces to round out each outfit.

From there, I blend those new finds with my own studio wardrobe—an ever-evolving collection of coats, scarves, and both fine and costume jewelry. (I used to own a jewelry business, so let’s just say: I have options.)

My goal is always to create cohesive, brand-ready looks that reflect the mood of the shoot while staying wearable and real.

Location + Light: We shot this look in a quiet golden hour moment in my backyard, just as the clouds parted from a bout of near-torrential rain. The trees softened the light naturally—proof that you don’t need a studio to get something editorial-worthy.

Adapting the Mood Board: While the original inspiration leaned heavily into beachy, Mallorca-style vibes, I knew I could translate that feeling into a wooded setting. The goal was never to mimic the exact location, but to evoke the same relaxed, luxurious mood through natural textures, golden light, and effortless styling.

Choosing the Right Model: Irina Bartell

Casting is one of the most critical elements of a successful shoot. I don’t just look for a beautiful face—I look for someone who can embody the story, the movement, and the energy behind the creative vision.

For this shoot, I had already planned to collaborate with Irina Bartell, and I knew right away she would be the ideal muse for this look. With a background in fashion lifestyle and commercial modeling, she brought the presence and versatility this look needed.

One of the things I love most about working with Irina is how easy she is to collaborate with. She's a total team player—charismatic, grounded, and fully committed to making the shoot a success. She gets along with everyone, brings a fun energy to set, and delivers effortlessly in front of the camera.

Because she’s so experienced and intuitive with posing, we were able to shoot this look quickly—and still had time to capture several other concepts as part of the larger creative collaboration.

Behind-the-Scenes Fun

We’d been planning to shoot multiple looks, but this one was a favorite—and it nearly didn’t happen. Rain hovered all day, and we caught just a 20-minute dry window to shoot this look.

Funny story? I actually bought the Zara dress for my son’s college graduation. But Irina ended up wearing it first during this shoot, and now I jokingly call it our dress. It’s a reminder that some pieces are meant to be shared—and that styling can carry meaning.

Why This Matters for Fashion Brands

This type of lifestyle imagery is designed for brands launching capsule collections or preparing for digital campaigns. It's relaxed, elevated, and packed with feeling—perfect for labels that want to tell a subtle but compelling story.

Credits & Team

• Model: Irina Bartell, THE Artist Agency @irinabartell
• Makeup: Stephanie Gonzalez. @stephaniedidmymakeup
• Hair: Angela Phrench @phrechmade
• Nails: Amy @nailstechbyamy
• Styling, Creative Direction, Photography: Yours truly @adrianaephoto

What It's Like to Work With Me

Working with me is a mix of structure and soul. I plan every shoot in detail—think creative briefs, organized timelines, and clear communication—a smooth, organized process from start to finish, so everyone knows what to expect. 

But once we’re on set, the vibe is relaxed, collaborative, and genuinely fun.

I treat every team member with genuine respect, especially during creative collabs where we’re all showing up with passion (and often working long hours for the love of it).

I make sure people are fed, supported, and appreciated. And we almost always celebrate when we wrap—it’s a little tradition I love.

Ready to Create Magic for Your Next Campaign?

If you’re a fashion brand planning a capsule collection, launching a new line, or simply ready to elevate your visual storytelling, let’s collaborate. I bring thoughtful art direction, curated styling, and editorial-quality photography to every shoot—whether it’s on location, in-studio, or right in the backyard during golden hour.

Let’s make your next campaign unforgettable. Contact me here or schedule a call with me to get started.

¡Hasta la vista!

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