Elle France

May 2026

Captured through the lens of photographer Rocio Ramos, this editorial portrait series for Elle France reimagines the classic lifestyle aesthetic through a sophisticated, high-contrast monochrome palette. Featuring the iconic French model Estelle Lefébure, the project channels a timeless sense of ease, leaning into a preppy-inspired wardrobe that transitions seamlessly from varsity-influenced layering to serene, water-bound silhouettes. The creative vision thrives on a minimalist approach, where the interplay of natural light and high-key lighting serves to elevate every frame, turning simple pool-side moments into study-like explorations of form and movement. With meticulous beauty direction provided by Javier Palacio on hair and Tatsu Yamanaka on makeup, the resulting imagery feels both grounded in a sun-drenched, candid reality and elevated by an editorial refinement that captures the essence of refined leisure. The compositions, ranging from dynamic water-surface reflections to sharp, sun-kissed portraits, highlight the versatility of the subject while maintaining a cohesive, airy narrative. By stripping away extraneous detail, Ramos allows the subtle interplay of light and texture to define the visual language of the shoot. This project serves as a masterclass in editorial portraiture, demonstrating how the careful application of light and a keen eye for spontaneous movement can transform familiar motifs into something undeniably resonant and classically elegant.

Editorial, Monochrome

Natural light

Magazines

Outdoor Pool

Editorial