Post-Real
Photographer: Giulia Hepburn
1. What significant life experiences or events have influenced and shaped your artistic vision?
Growing up in a small town in Italy, I was surrounded by a rich visual heritage, but I often felt too bold or “weird” to fully express myself. Opportunities to explore creative ideas with others were limited, and there wasn’t much space for experimentation or alternative perspectives.
My artistic vision was born out of that longing, for freedom, for community, for representation.
Moving to London was a turning point. The city’s diversity and creative energy gave me the space to explore identity through photography, pushing me to create work that celebrates vulnerability, authenticity, and bold self-expression.
2. Collaboration often sparks fresh creativity. Can you share an example of a collaboration that led to an unexpected and exciting artistic outcome?
One of my most inspiring collaborations has been Long Live the Kings, an ongoing personal project dedicated to the drag king community in the UK and Europe. Working closely with performers both in and out of drag, I captured their transformation and explored how performance and identity intersect.
The project quickly evolved into something deeper than just a portrait series. It became a way to elevate and celebrate a community that often receives less visibility than other parts of the drag scene. The collaboration with each individual shaped the storytelling, and the trust we built allowed me to photograph them with care, honesty, and respect. It was a creative exchange where I gave space and platform and in return, received vulnerability, insight, and a renewed sense of artistic purpose.
3. Walk us through a specific project that challenged your creative boundaries. How did you approach it, and what did you learn from the experience?
The Bettie Page campaign with Beauty Spock pushed me to my creative and logistical limits. I was tasked with designing a western-inspired set from scratch in just four days, using a very limited budget.
I had to think resourcefully: I hand made cacti from cardboard and paint, created a “desert” floor out of real sand, including figuring out how to distribute it safely without damaging the equipment or flooring. Despite the time pressure and budget constraints, the process was incredibly energizing.
I learned that creativity often flourishes under pressure, and that problem-solving is just as important as vision. In the end, we created a cinematic, immersive set that looked far more elaborate than the resources behind it, and that’s something I’m incredibly proud of.
4. In the ever-evolving art world, what do you believe sets your work apart and makes it unique or groundbreaking?
The fashion photography industry, like many others, can be filled with strong personalities and ego. I think what sets me apart is kindness and respect.
I bring my full personality to the set, often silly, always focused, and deeply caring. I listen to the people around me: their stories, their concerns, their dreams. I remember the details. That trust translates directly into the final images. My portraits feel intimate and personal because they are built on genuine connection.
For me, photography is not a solo act, it’s a team effort. And I believe that creating a safe, supportive environment allows for the kind of honest expression that makes the work truly stand out.
5. As you reflect on your journey, are there any specific goals or milestones you've set for your artistic career in the coming years?
In the next few years, I want to exhibit my work in galleries around the world and publish a series of photo books. I'm also focused on building long-term editorial and commercial partnerships with brands that align with my values of inclusion, empowerment, and strong visual storytelling.
I’m exploring more video work, especially for social platforms, and I want to merge still and motion in exciting ways. I'd also love to do more mentoring. Teaching and sharing knowledge brings me real joy, and I’m always happy to guide others on how to bring their creative visions to life.
-
The editorial explores the concept of accelerated cultural evolution, how fashion, identity, and perception are constantly shifting in our hyper-digital age.
By mixing Adidas streetwear staples with Balenciaga’s avant-garde silhouettes, the styling creates a deliberate clash of accessibility and high fashion, echoing the fluid identity of modern youth culture. There’s a clear nod to Y2K aesthetics, but reimagined through a contemporary lens, literally.
The use of a fisheye lens distorts and expands the frame, challenging the viewer’s sense of proportion and space. This distortion serves as a visual metaphor for how we currently experience reality: filtered, hyper-stimulated, and in flux. Ultimately, the editorial is a statement on how style and perception are no longer fixed, they’re stretching, glitching, and evolving in real time.
-
Photographer: Giulia Hepburn
Wardrobe Stylist: Zaneta Kaminska
Creative Director: Anna Swiczeniuk
Makeup Artist: Grace Gray
Model: Yessica Moreno @Gucaya Model Management
-
Bodysuit: Threadbare
Boots: Balenciaga
Briefs: Adidas
Dress: Adidas
Heels: Balenciaga
Jacket: Ivy Park
Leggings: Adidas
Shoes: Adidas
Shoes: Balenciaga
Skirt: Balenciaga
Skirt: Bimba y lola
Snood: My accessories
Socks: Adidas
Sunglasses: Balenciaga
Top: Bimba y lola
Tracksuit: Adidas
Tracktop: Adidas
Trainers: Adidas
Trench: Balenciaga
Trouser: Adidas
T-shirt: Sdidas