Life as a Fashion Stylist on Set

Start writing... hey all you creative out there. My name is Nailah and I live in Brooklyn New York which is one of the best places to be as an artist because you are constantly stimulated with creativity and inspiration. I began designing things as a little girl, which led to styling an interest in styling because I loved seeing the before and after while on set at phooshoots. I was just amazed to see how someone could transform a person and their surroundings with imagination and a few tools. Every Stylist has their own niche and mine is customizing on set. Often clients have a vision that they want executed but all the items to complete their Vision are not always tangible or available to be purchased, therefore this falls on the stylist to challenge themselves as an artist to create whatever is needed to develop the vision that the client wants. These are my favorite photoshoot to work on because they constantly put me to the test so I don't become complacent or repetitive with my styling ability. I was recently contacted for a Denim and swimsuits themed photoshoot. The client expressed that they wanted the swimsuits to be the focus but with an edgy twist of denim incorporated to show a more Street Savvy way to style and wear swimsuits. I was very excited about this concept because I automatically thought this would be an opportunity to customize pieces on set which I'm very passionate about. Denim is one of my favorite fabrics to work with because I can use scissors and a blade to completely transform the look without damaging it. I actually have FISKARS scissors in my kit and they always come in handy especially because there are multiple different sizes so they are perfect for all the behind the scenes jobs that take place at a photoshoot. For example the makeup artist used the mini scissors to cut false eyelashes for the models, while I used the larger scissor to cut and customize the denim jacket and knee-high boots. I personally find that people are fascinated to see how someone can transform a garment and make it even more beautiful. For this photoshoot there were two models and once their outfits were chosen I began cutting and distressing the denim items they were going to wear. They were very excited to see how I was going to transform each piece they would be modeling which made the photo shoot even more exciting and made them feel like they were wearing a one-of-a-kind piece specifically made for them. It started with a few snips and then evolvd into different size cuts and tears in order to really showcase the swimsuits. Of all the days we ended up shooting on the hottest day that's far what is 93 degree temperature so it was a bit challenging because it was so hot. The models were absolute Troopers with constant visits to get powdered to avoid any shine in the images and of course some water breaks. The photographer was absolutely amazing and have some great tips and suggestions because she is an artist herself and she also models. We decided to shoot in the park which definitely drew some attention but was also a great advertisement for the client and the denim collection because it was definitely a crowd favorite. We decided to shoot some solo shots and some shots where the models were grouped together in order to show versatility with the collection. It's always great shooting in a park because it gives you the freedom to roam around as the models are dressed to find the perfect backdrop for a stunning image. To have nature as your backdrop will always produce amazing imagery because it's something that you can't put a price tag on. As we toured the park searching for the perfect locations to shoot, it presented a great opportunity for the models to network and get to know each other which always lends to better pictures because they feel more familiar with each other and therefore more relaxed in front of the camera. Although it was super hot that day we had a blast because everybody was professional and had an amazing personalities. After reviewing the images from the photo shoot and examining the stylized looks I was very happy to hear that the client was pleased with the end result and they mentioned how it was the exact Street savvy Look that they wanted

I believe that as an artist and a creative you must always be a step above yourself , and in order to do so you constantly have to dig in your Creative Bags to see what you pull out, but just know that a good pair of scissors is an essential tool to have for any transformation. Happy Cutting😁✂