SCMP Style South China Morning Post Style Magazine

Jun 2026

Topsy Turvy, a striking editorial project for SCMP Style, pushes the boundaries of traditional beauty and fashion photography through a lens of whimsy and high-concept surrealism. Photographer Ekin Can Bayrakdar masterfully orchestrates a series of studio-based portraits that juxtapose the human form with an eclectic collection of miniature objects, from toy horses and sailboats to household power strips. The project leans heavily into visual storytelling, utilizing crisp studio strobe lighting to emphasize the interplay between skin texture, metallic jewelry, and the matte finishes of props, creating a distinctively cinematic atmosphere. The editorial narrative is anchored by the presence of model Jerzy Madison, whose pensive, controlled expressions contrast beautifully with the chaotic, dollhouse-like staging. Central to the visual impact is the meticulous work of makeup artist Kenny Leung, who employs vibrant pink tones and sharp metallic accents to elevate the portraits into the realm of modern art. Casting director Jasmine Perrier helps maintain the project's precise tone, ensuring the talent complements the experimental, often jarring composition. By blending editorial minimalism with surrealist elements, the series challenges the viewer to reconsider the relationship between the subject and the inanimate object, proving that even the most static portrait can be transformed into a dynamic and provocative piece of creative work.

Editorial, Vertical

Studio strobe