SCMP Style South China Morning Post Style Magazine

Nov 2025

For the 'Hands Up!' editorial in SCMP Style, photographer Freddy Persson explores the intersection of high-fashion portraiture and industrial aesthetic. The series centres on the interplay between luxury timepieces and a series of vault-inspired settings, using sharp tailoring and refined accessories to build a cohesive visual narrative. Working alongside fashion editor and stylist Joanne M Kennedy, Persson leans into a chiaroscuro lighting approach to highlight the tactile qualities of leather, metallic surfaces, and intricate watch movements. Models Felix Cheong-Macleod and Lydia Reid serve as the subjects, framed by set designs from Carlota Cabrera that range from bank vault interiors to forensic-inspired, minimalist compositions. With detailed hair by Masashi Konno, makeup by Mari Kuno, and manicures by Chiara Ballisai, the project maintains a moody, cinematic tone throughout. The photography balances extreme close-up beauty portraits with wide compositions, relying on soft light to emphasize skin texture and the polished hardware of the featured luxury watches.

Editorial, Vertical, Moody

Editorial