i-D Magazine

May 2026

In Masc Appeal for i-D Magazine, photographer Aidan Zamiri explores the fluid boundaries of masculinity through a striking series of portraiture that leans into the intersection of high fashion and street-level subculture. The project functions as a visual manifesto on identity, utilizing editorial minimalism and experimental styling to challenge traditional masculine tropes. By incorporating sculptural masks, vibrant plastic accessories, and unconventional face paint, the editorial team creates a compelling aesthetic tension between the covered and the exposed. The use of 35mm film adds a raw, textured grain that bridges the gap between documentary sincerity and the polished demands of a contemporary fashion spread. Guided by the precise fashion curation of Billy Lobos, the visual narrative is further sharpened by the deliberate, high-contrast lighting of studio strobe setups juxtaposed against softer natural light environments. Every frame, from close-up portraits of models like Saul Rodriguez to candid car-interior lifestyle shots, feels intentional and deeply considered. With hair by Joey George and makeup by Marcelo Gutierrez, the series maintains a cohesive, edgy sophistication throughout. This project exemplifies how modern media platforms can dissect gender performance while remaining firmly rooted in the visual language of youth culture. It is a masterclass in styling and casting, proving that even with obscured faces, a powerful, human-centered narrative can resonate with clarity, grit, and significant cultural resonance.

Editorial, Vertical

Natural light

Magazines, Media & Entertainment