In Cut Above, a sophisticated fashion editorial produced for Glass Magazine, the interplay between structure and minimalism takes center stage. Photographer Otto Masters masterfully utilizes studio strobe lighting to carve out form and texture, creating a series of portraits that lean into the precise elegance of high-end jewellery. By focusing on the juxtaposition of sharp, tailored garments—ranging from denim zip-ups to structured black blazers—against delicate metallic accessories, the work achieves a refined aesthetic that is both timeless and contemporary. The styling, helmed by fashion editor Lyla Cheng, prioritizes clean lines and intentional detailing, allowing chevron rings, silver chains, and diamond studs to define the narrative rather than distract from it. Through the casting direction of Paul Isaac, model Laura Rylands brings a steady, neutral presence that grounds the dramatic, low-key chiaroscuro lighting effects. The result is a body of work that feels deliberate and poised, favoring a minimalist visual language that elevates the jewellery to the primary subject. Each portrait operates with a stark clarity, utilizing negative space and controlled shadows to highlight the tactile quality of fabric and the brilliance of polished metal. This project serves as a compelling study in portraiture, demonstrating how careful framing and focused light can transform standard fashion accessories into evocative pieces of art.
