A Humble Beginning
The world of cosmetics had always seemed like an intricate tapestry of colours, textures, and emotions to me. As a photographer and videographer, I was accustomed to capturing moments, but venturing into the realm of cosmetics photography and videography was uncharted territory. My first collaboration with Sugarbelle Cosmetics marked a pivotal moment in my career, laden with both excitement and apprehension.
It was my first time officially taking on a photography job and charging a client. The weight of the responsibility was not lost on me, and I embarked on this journey with both eagerness and nervousness. The world of cosmetics, with its lipsticks, lip creams, foundations, and eye shadows, was unfamiliar territory.
What truly astonished me was Sugarbelle's unwavering trust in my abilities. Despite this being my very first paid photography project, they believed in me and tasked me with creating 15 videos to showcase their brand. It was a daunting challenge, but their faith in my vision fueled my determination.
From Studio to Nature: Seeking Inspiration
The quest for inspiration was a fascinating journey in itself during my collaboration with Sugarbelle Cosmetics. It was an exploration of both controlled indoor environments and the vast outdoor world, each offering its unique charm and creative challenges.
A canvas of control
Initially, I sought creative sanctuary indoors, within the meticulously controlled confines of a studio. Here, I could orchestrate each shot with surgical precision, experimenting with lighting, angles, and compositions. The studio transformed into my canvas, where I carefully curated every detail. I was enthralled by how subtle shifts in lighting and backdrop could metamorphose a lipstick or unveil the intricate facets of an eyeshadow palette. In this realm of calculated artistry, the soft click of the camera and the gentle hum of studio lights created a symphony, as I endeavoured to capture the very essence of Sugarbelle's cosmetic marvels.
The Nature's Palette
As the project unfolded, the initial wave of inspiration began to ebb, leaving me yearning for a fresh perspective. I instinctively turned to nature's grandeur, a realm where the unexpected blossomed at every turn. The natural world, with its ever-changing palette of hues and moods, beckoned me. It was time to venture beyond the studio's structured embrace.
In the embrace of nature, I found myself a humble collaborator, allowing its textures, colours, and moods to dictate the visual narrative of Sugarbelle Cosmetics. Each outdoor location gifted me a new facet of beauty, akin to an artist discovering new shades on a palette.
The Sweet Taste of Success
As the project neared its completion, the nerves that had accompanied me at the start gave way to a sense of accomplishment. Sugarbelle was delighted with the results, and seeing my work adorn their brand was a moment of immense satisfaction.
This journey has taught me that venturing beyond one's comfort zone can lead to extraordinary discoveries. While I began with trepidation, I ended with a deep appreciation for the world of cosmetics photography and videography. It was not just a professional milestone but a testament to the power of inspiration, dedication, and the trust that a client can place in the hands of a passionate artist.
Credits
Photographer/Videographer: Siang Hooi
Model: Shereen Wee
Video Edits: Siang Hooi
Device: iPhone 14 Pro Max
Applications: VSCO, VN, Adobe Lightroom