Cyberpunk aesthetic shoot – 2019

This was the very first photo series I created, and it feels important to include it here as a way of tracing my journey. Although I had taken photos before — particularly during my time living in Japan (2018–2019) — this shoot marked a turning point, where I began seriously applying what I had learned and experimenting with more intentional visual storytelling. The series was inspired by the video game Ruiner (2019), a dystopian, cyberpunk game influenced by classic Japanese sci-fi such as Akira, Ghost in the Shell, and Blade Runner. While I didn’t research specific artists at the time — something I’ve come to value in later work — I did look closely at the game’s aesthetics and tried to echo its key elements. For instance, the colour red plays a dominant role in Ruiner, and I worked to incorporate that vibrancy throughout the shoot. At the same time, I wasn’t afraid to experiment with cooler tones and contrasts to push the visual boundaries. Looking back, this shoot taught me some crucial lessons: • The importance of planning and location scouting, • How to collaborate with models effectively, and • The role of atmosphere in shaping narrative and tone. The model I worked with on this project was not only a professional but also a close friend. I learned so much through their patience, energy, and insight — I can honestly say my photographic journey wouldn’t have begun in the same way without them. Including this shoot here isn’t just about showcasing the work — it’s a reminder of where I started, and how far I’ve come.