Creative Directed, Styled, and Photographed by Ljs Studios for Sauce Mag with Shangdi Sun took place in an unexpected yet charming suburban playground setting, bringing fresh, playful energy to the editorial. The contrast between Shangdi’s elegant presence and the whimsical surroundings created a unique narrative where sophistication met nostalgia in a space designed for childhood play. The playground’s vibrant colours and geometric structures provided the perfect backdrop for a series of dynamic, light-hearted shots that played with the idea of youthful freedom and joy yet infused with a sense of modern style and refinement.

As the sun peeked through the trees, pockets of soft, golden light became central to the shoot, bathing the scenes in a warm, natural glow. This use of light brought out both the boldness of the setting and the subtlety of Shangdi’s movements, capturing her in moments that felt spontaneous and full of life. The styling choices reflected this carefree atmosphere—bold, playful silhouettes paired with muted tones to balance the vibrancy of the location, bringing a refined yet approachable feel to the editorial.

Ljs Studios had the privilege of creative directing and photographing Louise Yates in an urban setting, crafting a shoot that was both visually striking and evocative. The cityscape provided a perfect canvas for this editorial, with textured backdrops of concrete and brick against the rich, warm tones we introduced to the shoot. The light was carefully manipulated to create deep shadows and highlights, enhancing the moody, atmospheric vibe we were aiming for. This allowed us to bring a sense of depth and emotion to each shot, elevating the overall feel of the editorial.

Premium brands, expertly styled by Lucy Ralston, became an integral part of the visual narrative. From structured silhouettes to luxe fabrics, the pieces seamlessly complemented the urban environment, offering a sophisticated edge that was both modern and timeless. The fashion choices enhanced Louise’s striking presence, blending effortlessly with the warm tones we used to frame each scene. The synergy between the clothing, setting, and mood created a cohesive story—one where every detail, from the angle of the light to the texture of the garments, worked together to embody a sense of effortless luxury and urban chic.

Zara was photographed at the Flint House in Birkenhead, nestled on the North Shore of Auckland, where the blend of urban charm and natural light made for an ideal setting. As the sun filtered through the windows, we sought out those soft, sun-drenched moments that highlighted both the architecture and Zara's effortless presence. Each corner of the space offered unique lighting, from golden rays bouncing off the walls to subtle shadows that added depth to every frame, allowing us to capture her in a way that felt both intimate and timeless. The balance between the original, structured design of the Flint House and the warmth of the natural light created an atmosphere that made every shot feel organic and full of life.

Photographing and styling Commercial Bay’s menswear editorial allowed me to shape the entire creative vision, from selecting the looks to capturing them on camera. Styling gave me control over how the outfits came together, focusing on clean lines and textures that felt both current and classic. Behind the lens, I worked to highlight the details and fit, using lighting and angles to bring out the essence of each piece. The process felt natural and seamless, letting me balance the technical aspects of photography with the creative decisions in styling to create a cohesive, sharp editorial.