Classroom to couture: shooting with steven khalil
WORDS BY NFC STUDENT, JOYCE LIN
Studying fashion at NFC has given me so many amazing opportunities in the industry. While we learn theory in class, NFC prioritises having that hands-on experience of the real world through internships, moving beyond the glamour everyone sees on the surface and into what actually goes on behind the scenes. One of the many opportunities I got to work on, was as an assistant on a photoshoot for the gorgeous bridal and couture designer Steven Khalil. I have always loved elegant formal wear, so when I secured my spot as the photoshoot assistant, I was super psyched and couldn’t wait!
When the day came, I got there a bit early just in case, and also got to spend a good moment just staring at the beautiful window display of the boutique. The gowns embellished with intricate details were simply mesmerising. As soon as I entered, I was met with my supervisor Michelle who welcomed me warmly and introduced me to the man himself, Steven Khalil.
They sat me down and briefed me on my roles and responsibilities, followed by a tour of the boutique and introduced me to the lovely team I would be working with. Of course, I wasn’t there just to admire the dresses, so I got to work immediately and started steaming the garments that would be used on the shoot.
Once the hair and make-up artists got the model all dolled up, beautiful, and ready to go, I helped dress and fit her making sure she was ready for the camera. And this is where things got really exciting. The photoshoot was mainly to promote Steven’s jewellery collection, which most people would assume a few close up shots of the jewellery pieces, but for Steven and his team, there is art in everything they do. Watching Steven and Michelle who have worked together for many years direct the photographer and model was such a good learning experience for me, as I am personally interested in creative direction. It was like watching magic happen right in front of my eyes!
From the way the jewellery pieces were styled down to how the fabric of the dress laid out, it all came together resulting in absolutely stunning photos. I was definitely lost in awe of it all coming together, and honoured to have been chosen to be a part of the project.
Once the photoshoot was over, Michelle and Steven not only thanked me for my assistance but generously gifted me a pair of earrings which I could not have been more grateful for, as the experience alone was enough for me.
I cannot wait for another opportunity to work with Steven and his team again. This will definitely remain as one of, if not the best experience I have had so far. Thank you NFC for this experience, and I can’t wait to see what other opportunities are waiting for me in the future!