Various Covers

Jun 2026

For the June 2026 cover of Cartola, photographer and fashion editor Manny Roman crafts a striking visual narrative that perfectly encapsulates the magazine’s bold editorial identity. The project leans into high-impact simplicity, utilizing a vibrant, textured blue backdrop that creates a sophisticated monochromatic interplay with the subject's form-fitting swim briefs. By choosing to bathe the scene in soft, even natural light, Roman highlights the subject's physique with a level of intentionality that feels both grounded and aspirational. The composition reads as a masterclass in modern editorial portraiture, where the balance between the subject's poised, direct gaze and the deliberate spatial awareness of the frame allows the typography to sit naturally within the vertical layout. It is a confident execution that avoids the clutter of over-production, instead prioritizing the clean lines and saturated tones that define top-tier media and entertainment aesthetics. This work demonstrates an expert understanding of how color theory and framing can elevate a standard portrait into a compelling cover story, effectively bridging the gap between minimalist photography and high-fashion sensibility. By leaning into these specific stylistic choices, Roman ensures that the imagery resonates with the reader while maintaining the distinct, curated polish expected from a publication of Cartola’s stature, solidifying the brand’s visual authority in the crowded magazine landscape.

Editorial, Vertical

Natural light

Magazines, Media & Entertainment