We were informed to bring a bag and fashionable clothes/ make-up/ accessories to explore looks during this styling session. Everyone was permitted to take photos in groups of two or three in all areas of the university. Afterward, we experimented with editing the images in order to enhance the pictures we took.

I wore a black open-knit shirt paired with flared leather jeans for the styling session. I also borrowed a brown blazer from the university’s ‘styling box’ as I thought it would add more colors and diversity to the fit and match the brand logo. I planned to do my own modeling at first, but Sally wanted me to model for her. I was very delighted to do it. Since we weren’t allowed to use the same models, I decided that she was going to model for my photographs (we are a group of 3). Because of this, we had to exchange outfits. I did my makeup a bit differently than usual so I didn’t have to spend more time in class to change it. I started off by taking photographs for Kaylah. I’d say I was pretty good at it since she was pleased with the results, I made sure to take the angles the way she wanted them and constantly asked for her opinion and feedbacks so it matches her expectations.

As I was the model, I asked my friend to completely share her ideas on what concept she was planning to do so I was able to pose the way she wanted her visuals to be. The process was quite fast, I felt like Sally was able to direct me in a way I can understand easily. When it was my turn, I guided my friend on what poses she should do and where to position the product. I experimented by taking pictures in different backgrounds with different positions. The idea I had in my mind was to portray how the model uses the bag in a natural way people usually wear it. Therefore, I took pictures of her searching for things in the bag and her walking while carrying the bag. These positions I am talking about are how I captured her when she was relaxing, walking, and standing while wearing the tote bag because people do these things daily. The main point is so that people can visualize the idea of how they’ll look carrying the bag. I am quite satisfied with the shots I have taken as this was my first styling photoshoot where I have to focus on a particular object. I have to admit, it was sometimes confusing how and where to position the bag in such a manner that the concept is able to be delivered clearly.

I actually expected my photographs to be more of a street style and to represent Carhartt better. I think garments like overalls and baggy jeans would suit the vibe better. However, I tried exploring other styles, like those shown in the pictures. I decided to go with more of a casual style, and I think I was pretty successful in showing how the tote bag can be worn by people with different styles. Unfortunately, I realized that the inner open-knit shirt wasn’t visible, I feel like it would’ve made a great detail to the picture. I had planned to do the shoot outdoors with the help of the sunlight but it was gloomy so I wasn’t able to capture the ray of light like how I had imagined it. I will need to pay greater attention to the details, decide on a specific concept, and on what elements to include when styling next time. I really enjoyed editing the pictures as I was able to explore with ideas. I tried different ways to collage the pictures together. Finally, yet importantly, I was glad that my group can cooperate and collaborate well with each other. All of us were very understanding in terms of communication.