Elle UK

Feb 2026

For the Elle Beauty Awards 2026, the editorial team has crafted a striking visual narrative that pushes the boundaries of modern portraiture. Captured through the lens of photographer Thiemo Sander, this beauty campaign eschews traditional gloss for a sophisticated, monochromatic aesthetic that leans into editorial minimalism. By utilizing a masterful interplay of high-key and low-key chiaroscuro lighting, the project highlights the intricate textures of both skin and fashion, elevating simple, sleek hair styling and sharp, clean compositions into a series of timeless images. Fashion editor and stylist Céline Bourreau complements this vision by curating a tactile wardrobe of leather and shimmering sequins, which, when paired with the precise makeup artistry of Maria Olsson, creates a cohesive and elevated look. The series is defined by its clever use of mirrored surfaces, water-distorted glass, and layered depth, transforming standard studio portraits into a dynamic study of form and reflection. Each frame captures an atmospheric, cinematic mood that feels both grounded and ethereal, perfectly aligning with the prestigious reputation of the awards. By focusing on the interplay of sharp geometry and soft human contours, the campaign succeeds in articulating a vision of beauty that is as tactile as it is visual, cementing the project as a standout piece of high-fashion creative production.

Editorial, Vertical

Natural light