Maria Klaumann posing in an expansive pale lime green ruffled gown in a monochrome studio set with a vintage armchair.

Model Maria Klaumann in a dark printed catsuit and flame-like sculpture headpiece standing on a round plinth surrounded by smoke.

Model Maria Klaumann in a metallic fringe gown leaning against a vintage chair under backlighting for V Magazine Enlighten

Model Maria Klaumann poses arched over a distressed antique armchair wearing sheer trousers and a white top against a studio background.

Model Maria Klaumann wearing a sculptural textured white gown with pink floral ear accents on a magazine spread titled Enlighten.

Model Maria Klaumann wearing an elaborate gold-embroidered crimson cape and a feather halo headdress amid ambient mist.

Model Maria Klaumann poses in a sculpted chrome corset and metallic silver fishtail gown in a cool-toned studio setting.

Maria Klaumann wearing a sculptural black gown with large wing-like accents while holding a glowing light form next to an antique chair.

Model Maria Klaumann poses in a draped peach chiffon gown with sculptural flowering branches under a radiant halo backlight.

Model Maria Klaumann in an embellished white gown with flowing blonde hair in V Magazine Enlighten editorial by Nick Knight

V Magazine Enlighten 2026

About

Enlighten, a high-fashion editorial showcase for V Magazine, serves as a masterclass in visual storytelling, blending the precision of luxury fashion houses with a dreamlike, avant-garde sensibility. Under the vision of Editor-in-Chief Stephen Gan, the project pushes the boundaries of traditional portraiture, leaning heavily into a cinematic aesthetic that prioritizes sculptural silhouettes and ethereal textures. Photographer Nick Knight masterfully navigates the interplay of light and shadow, utilizing studio strobe techniques alongside natural light to transform garments into living, breathing pieces of art. The execution is elevated by the intricate styling of Anna Trevelyan, whose selection of ornate couture pieces—ranging from metallic fringe to flame-like embroidery—complements the deliberate, minimalist studio environments crafted by set designer Andrew Tomlinson. Featuring model Maria Klaumann, the imagery thrives on high-key lighting and dramatic backlighting, creating a radiant halo effect that frames the subjects in an otherworldly glow. With the collaborative artistry of hair stylist Franco Gobbi and makeup artist Val Garland, each frame achieves a polished, editorial perfection that feels both static and kinetically charged. By integrating live-action techniques and abstract sculptural elements, Enlighten transcends simple fashion documentation, creating a cohesive, high-fashion world that feels intimate, regal, and profoundly conceptual, effectively redefining the intersection of luxury apparel and fine art photography in a contemporary landscape.