Spotlight Session: Futuristic Fashion and Bold Energy with Kayon
A Natural Model: Kayon’s First (and Second!) Photoshoot Experience
One of my favorite things about being a photographer is working with clients who bring their full energy to the camera. Kayon (he/him) booked two photoshoots with me — the first for his birthday, and the second just because he deserved to celebrate his incredible spirit.
Despite not having formal modeling experience (to my knowledge!), you would never guess it from the final images. Kayon was a complete natural.
Birthday Photoshoot: Futuristic Inspiration and Silver Dreams
For the first shoot, we drew inspiration from JT the rapper's silver futuristic photoshoot — think bold, reflective, and full of star power.
We hired an amazing makeup artist, Maribel Rivera (she/her), to create a full silver body paint look. It was jaw-dropping! While she worked her magic, my partner and I spent way too long blowing up silver star-shaped balloons — but it was absolutely worth it for the atmosphere we created.
We shot at a local studio with multiple futuristic sets. One space had glowing blue hexagonal lights circling around Kayon, which made him look like he was straight out of a sci-fi blockbuster. Another set featured mirrored walls — it took us forever to find the light switch, but once we did, the entire space transformed with a deep purple glow. Pure magic.
Second Shoot: Gritty, Cinematic Energy Meets Futurism
Our second photoshoot had a completely different vibe, but Kayon brought the same fearless energy. We booked a studio that featured a "bunker-style" set — complete with camouflage decor, old computers, scattered gear, and a military-inspired workstation. (Think action-movie scene with tons of personality.)
First, we started with car portraits using a plain black backdrop and dramatic lighting. Kayon borrowed a friend's Mercedes-Benz (or a BMW, I don’t know cars like that) for the shoot — it was my first time photographing a car! My favorite unexpected detail? The tire marks left on the studio floor, which added a raw sense of motion to the images.
Next, we moved into the bunker set. Kayon rocked a camo outfit, bulletproof vest, and serious attitude — showing off versatility and character in every shot.
Finally, we circled back to the black backdrop to lean even deeper into the futuristic theme. Leather gloves, mesh tops, sunglasses, and bold posing highlighted his strength and creative edge. Showing off his abs and confidence, these portraits quickly became some of my personal favorite images to date.
Documenting Confidence, Creativity, and Growth
Photographing Kayon reminded me why I love what I do. It's not just about pretty pictures — it's about capturing transformation, confidence, and celebration.
Whether you're booking a birthday photoshoot, a cinematic studio session, or just celebrating yourself because you deserve it, there's no wrong time to get in front of the camera.
Ready to Book Your Own Dream Photoshoot?
If you’re feeling inspired by Kayon’s sessions, let’s create something uniquely you. From futuristic glam to cinematic storytelling, your shoot can be as bold or as soft as you want it to be.