W Korea

Jul 2026

For their Cannes Diary project, W Korea captures the ephemeral, sun-drenched allure of the French Riviera through an evocative visual series that bridges high-fashion editorial and travel storytelling. Under the creative lens of photographer Pakbae, the project leans into a sense of effortless sophistication, documenting the quiet moments between the chaos of a film festival. The editorial spread follows model Esther Kim as she navigates the coastal topography of Cannes, transitioning seamlessly from the stark, graphic intensity of vibrant turquoise studio walls to the organic, textured reality of Mediterranean cliffside trails. Each frame is bathed in soft natural light, reinforcing a serene, cinematic atmosphere that feels both grounded and aspirational. With expert hair styling by Quentin Guyen, the imagery balances minimalist silhouettes—such as sleek halter tops and structured mini dresses—with the rugged, weathered masonry and dense greenery of the local landscape. The result is a masterclass in fashion-forward reportage that prioritizes composition and mood over excess. By marrying the polished aesthetic of a luxury magazine with the candid, observational quality of a travel diary, the project creates a tactile narrative. These images do more than showcase garments; they encapsulate the particular, golden-hued light of the French coast, serving as a distinct stylistic signature that defines the publication's unique perspective on modern lifestyle and media culture.

Editorial, Lifestyle

Natural light

Magazines, Media & Entertainment