FEATURE REVIEWS

While collaborating with you on photography, I noticed that you have a great sense of "ceremony." Your style is very fashionable; do you maintain this in your personal life as well?

Absolutely. I think photography, fashion (as self-expression), and spirituality go hand in hand in my life. They’re all my love languages to the world. I truly believe that art is love. Lately, I’ve been experimenting more and more with my personal style. More than ever, I’ve dressed bolder and louder. A lot of the time, this is often seen as “oh, he loves the attention,” but truthfully, it’s the most vulnerable I’ve ever been. Growing up, I always wanted to dress the way I do now—big shoulder pads, pointy shoulders, jackets made of Pokémon plushies, entire looks made of hair... the list goes on. I feel like it’s always been inspired by surrealism, which is also a style I often explore in my work. Photographically and spiritually, I would agree with you. I try to make all of my shoots an artistic and spiritual experience. It really is a ceremony—one where a group of likeminded, brilliant creatives come together to bring a vision of a muse to life based on the concept we’re creating. There’s something so powerful in the creation of art.

Can you share your thoughts on collaborating with ACCA?

My collaboration with ACCA has truly been a joy and an honor—an experience that has exceeded my expectations in so many ways. Working alongside Maya and Carlos, the brilliant and visionary minds behind ACCA, has been nothing short of magical. From the moment we started collaborating, it felt like the start of something really special. They’ve created a space where creativity flows freely, and I’ve felt completely supported in bringing my most ambitious ideas to life. As an artist, there’s something incredibly fulfilling about being seen and understood in such an authentic way. Maya and Carlos have given me the freedom to explore, push boundaries, and trust my instincts without hesitation. What I find so remarkable about ACCA is their deep-rooted foundation in both the art world and media, which blends seamlessly with my own perspective on fashion and pop culture. The intersection of these worlds has led to the creation of some truly exciting, innovative imagery. It’s rare to find collaborators who not only understand your vision but elevate it in a way that takes it to places you never imagined. Our collective work has been a fusion of ideas and aesthetics, merging the avant-garde with the accessible, the surreal with the real. Looking ahead, I am eager to continue this creative journey with ACCA. Our partnership feels like an ongoing exploration of new possibilities, and I’m excited to see where it will take us. With their expertise and my passion for pushing the limits of fashion, art, and culture, I have no doubt we will continue to create powerful, boundary-pushing work together. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with such talented individuals and can’t wait for what’s next.

How do you typically select your new muses?

Truthfully, I see a lot of myself in every single one of my muses. Whether it’s their drive, their passion, their love for art or fashion, there’s always a connection I feel with them. Having started in the industry at just 14 years old, I’ve always been determined to prove that, with passion, hard work, a willingness to learn, an unapologetic sense of self, and that extra “je ne sais quoi,” anything is possible. I want my muses to embody that mountain of unapologetic passion—the kind of energy that tells you to keep pushing, keep dreaming, and keep striving for what others might think is out of reach. But beyond that, I want my muses to represent everyone. I don’t want them to be confined by a specific look, culture, or any other superficial factors. My muses aren’t just about beauty or style—they’re about resilience. They’re a testament to strength, to overcoming obstacles, to refusing to conform to societal expectations. I want them to reflect the many facets of human experience and to show that true artistry and self-expression come in all forms. In the end, my muses are not just individuals—they’re symbols of possibility, resilience, and the power of staying true to who you are. They are an embodiment of everything I believe art and self-expression can be: boundless, fearless, and ultimately, transformative.

What factors do you consider when curating your team for a photo shoot?

First and foremost, I’m incredibly grateful for the amazing team I get to work with— honestly, to me, they’re like family. When I’m curating a team, there are certain qualities I always prioritize: professionalism, passion, dedication, talent, and, above all, kindness. These are the core values that shape everything we do together. I believe it’s so important for my muses to feel like they’re stepping into a safe space when we’re shooting. It’s not just about creating beautiful imagery—it’s about making sure that everyone involved feels seen, appreciated, and loved. I always strive to create an environment where everyone feels supported and empowered to do their best work. I also believe in the power of growth, both creatively and personally. My goal is for everyone who collaborates with me to leave the shoot feeling like they've become slightly better at their craft than when they walked in. Whether it’s learning something new, pushing creative boundaries, or just gaining a deeper sense of confidence, I want everyone to feel like they’ve grown in some way by being part of the process. In the end, it’s not just about creating great art—it’s about the experience of working together, building relationships, and uplifting each other along the way. That’s what makes every shoot so special to me.

I noticed that this year, for Glamour Cover, you shot five covers for “Women of The Year.” After achieving such great success in 2024, what is your vision for 2025?

Oh my God, yes! Truly, it’s such a surreal moment to be able to lock not one, but five Women of the Year covers for Glamour. Growing up, my biggest inspirations have always been powerful, inspirational, and unapologetic women—women like my incredible mother, Diana M. Putri, as well as icons like Lady Gaga, Elsa Schiaparelli, and Marina Abramović. These women have always shown me what it means to be bold, unafraid to break boundaries, and unapologetically themselves. So, when the Glamour team reached out and graciously asked me to shoot five incredibly unique, diverse, and inspirational women for their Women of the Year issue, I was truly honored. The experience felt full circle in a way I couldn’t have imagined. To be able to capture the essence of women who have not only achieved greatness but continue to inspire others through their authenticity and resilience—it was an opportunity I will always cherish.

What advice would you offer to newcomers aspiring to break into fashion photography and fine art photography?

Be unapologetic—but remember, being unapologetic doesn’t mean being rigid or unwilling to grow. It means staying true to who you are and what you believe in, even when the world tells you to fit into a mold. It means accepting constructive criticism with grace, learning from it, and evolving, but never compromising on the essence of your artistry. You can be open to feedback while still holding firm to your unique vision. In this industry, it’s easy to get caught in the noise and start doubting your worth or second-guessing your choices. But that’s when you have to dig deeper and trust your instincts. So many artists—especially in a world that values trends and marketability—are made to feel like they need to lose themselves to be successful. Don’t fall into that trap. Don’t let anyone strip away what makes you you. Your individuality is your most powerful asset. It’s what connects you to others, what makes your work resonate, and what keeps your art alive and fresh. The industry can be tough, and the pressure to conform can feel overwhelming, but remember: authenticity always stands out in the end. Stay grounded in who you are and remember why you started in the first place. Keep pushing boundaries, keep creating with passion, and above all, never forget that your voice, your perspective, and your vision are invaluable. You are meant to take up space, and your unique expression is not only valid—it’s needed. So, keep showing up unapologetically, with humility, kindness, and the unwavering belief that you are enough, just as you are. The world needs more of you, not a watered-down version of what you think you should be.

Coming from an artistic family, who has had the most influence on you?

100%—my incredible mother, Diana M. Putri, Fashion Designer and Creative Director behind Diana Couture. Her ability to seamlessly integrate her style—the classic Diana Couture woman, an empowered yet elegant woman of the 21st century—into everything she touches has been nothing short of inspirational. Watching her work and seeing how she embodies grace, strength, and bold creativity in her designs has shaped not only my approach to art but my perspective on life. Her impressive clientele speaks volumes: from Lady Gaga, Ariana Grande, and Paris Hilton to BLACKPINK, Janet Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Carrie Underwood, H.R.H. Princess Kristine De Bagration-Mukhrani, Toni Braxton, Ashanti, Camila Cabello, Normani, and so many more. These iconic women are a testament to the universal appeal and timeless elegance of her work. But beyond her professional success, what truly amazes me is the authenticity and heart she brings to everything she does. Having such an incredible mother who is also my best friend, collaborator, and, more than anything, my biggest inspiration has been a true joy and privilege. The way she balances creativity with compassion, ambition with humility, and vision with hard work has shaped the artist and person I am today. I could never fully express how much she has impacted my life, but I hope to continue learning from her and carrying forward her legacy of empowerment, beauty, and artistry. She’s not just a mother—she’s a force of nature.

Q1:  As a fashion designer, who has had the most influence on your work? 

A1:  I have a lot of influences that inspire my work. Fashion brand wise, Dolce & Gabbana and Dior have always has caught my attention in terms of interesting silhouettes and a balance of a classic and fun aesthetic. Another influence of my work is Japanese animation (anime). Growing up I watched a lot of anime, so the characters and concepts I cherished in my childhood continued to inspire my creativity into my adulthood. A third big influence on my work is architecture and history. With architecture, the use of line and shape can really inspire me to design diverse silhouettes. The Palace of Versailles in France has been a huge influence on me. While it has a dark history attached to it, part of creating art is taking from anything and making it into something positive. Regarding history; it always repeats itself. Sometimes looking to the past can help you create your present, which in turn can change your future to a better outcome. And lastly, styling has had a lot of influence on my work as a fashion designer. Style and design go hand-in-hand together. A key component to designing is understanding style. Without that understanding, it can be difficult to create a harmonious design. All these influences go hand in hand to influence me in different ways at the same time. 

Q2:  What motivated you to pursue a career in fashion?

A2: Ever since I was young, I always felt that clothing would tell my story and essence to the world.  Fashion is all about expression. In a way you are adorning your soul with worldly materials to reflect your inner self to your outer self. I feel it makes life more interesting. Plus, the idea of expressing your truth in your fashion choices boils down to accepting yourself. Accepting yourself and loving yourself are tied to fashion much more than we humans think. 

Q3:  What are your main goals as a fashion designer?

A3: My main goals as a fashion designer are to create garments that will be loved and last. I like to do things with purpose, and designing with a purpose is the most mindful thing a designer can do. Another main goal of mine is to have fashion and aiding humanity become the standard as being one. With consumerism at an all time high, my goal is to have fashion have a more positive spin to it.  

Q4:  I noticed in your new collection you used sequins/beaded embroidery. Is that one of your favorite materials? 

A4:  Beaded lace and/or embroidery has always been one of my favorite textiles for garments. The intricate detail makes it extraordinary, and its alluring nature has romantic undertones. I have always been a romantic at heart, so my designs tend to romance the eyes. For sequins, it took some time for me to warm up to them. Now I actually do like sequins a lot. Just last year I actually bought a sequin top for the first time actually. Sometimes we need time to realize what our favorite things are. 

Q5:  Who is the target demographic for your collection?

A5: My collection is for women who are attracted to fashion with a classic silhouette, but want to have a modern twist. Sometimes a modern twist is having a shorter hemline, and other times it is experimenting with color and/or texture. Overall, she walks a fine line between a fun classic style to a more conservative classic style. I think there are different layers to women, and fashion choices exhibit that. I added a range of luxury and contemporary styles because I wanted to create a collection that all women could have a part of. Fashion isn't the same as it was 20 years ago. There is a gap between different types of fashion. I want to create a bridge to have quality fashion attainable once again so women won't have to rely on fast fashion. 

Q6:  What is your favorite color to use, and what draws you to it? 

A6: This answer will always change for me because as I grow, I enter a new phase in my life which will make me drawn to different colors. I am always re-creating myself. Part of my initial design process is selecting color, which colors resonate with me at that moment when I create. Right now my current favorite color to use is green. It is a color of healing, the color of life. And depending on the culture, it can be a symbol of life or death. I appreciate the duality of this color and it has been the best color to express myself in this phase of my life.

Q1:  Growing up in Southern California, who were some of the earlier artists that influenced you to pick up the camera? Now that you are entering the fine art scene, could you tell us about this new direction?    

A1:  Growing up in Southern California, my introduction to photography stemmed from an early fascination with beauty and transformation. In my youth, I would skateboard around scouting models at high schools, parks, and beaches. Borrowing a camera from a friend, I would do their hair and makeup, then take their photographs and send it to modeling agencies. The models I discovered soon found themselves signed and whisked away into the modeling scene worldwide from Paris to Milan and New York. Inspired by the whirlwind of the fashion industry and with a passion for beautifying talent, I moved to Milan as a celebrity hair and makeup artist. I travelled the globe while transforming legends of the time and working with iconic figures such as Elizabeth Taylor, Whitney Houston, Cindy Crawford, Farrah Fawcett, and many more. These stars became my inspiration and muse, and I would secretly take photos of them off set for my personal collection of memories. During my time as a hair and makeup artist, I had the opportunity to work alongside legendary photographers Herb Ritts, Helmut Newton, Peter Lindbergh, Arthur Elgort, Patrick Demarchelier, and Bruce Weber while learning invaluable insights and laying the groundwork for my own artistic evolution. 

After working many years as a celebrity hair and makeup artist, I transitioned my career into a fashion and celebrity photographer, with these early influences fueling my desire to capture and create visual stories through the camera lens. Now, as I embark on this new chapter entering the fine art scene, it's a culmination of a lifelong passion and years of archived photographs. The exclusive collection I'm sharing reflects not just my artistic journey but also a deep narrative woven through my experiences. This new direction highlights the transformative power of fine art photography, where simplicity and depth collide, and where the beauty of modern stars blends seamlessly with the timeless elegance of my work.

Q2:  Can you share with us how your work has impacted the development and trends in your fields of works?

A2: Throughout my dynamic career trajectory, my influence on the development and trends within the realms of celebrity, fashion, and fine art photography stems from a rich background that began as a model scout and celebrity hair and makeup artist. By working with the celebrities and supermodels of the time, I not only honed my craft but also contributed to shaping the beauty standards of the era.

As I transitioned to photography, I brought a unique perspective influenced by my experiences behind the scenes. My distinctive style as a photographer, characterized by a timeless and elegant aesthetic, set new benchmarks and trends within the celebrity and fashion photography domains. Through capturing the essence of stars like Leonardo DiCaprio, Zendaya, Charlize Theron, and the Kardashians, my work contributed to the visual language of storytelling through the eye of a fashion photographer. Beyond capturing moments, my work becomes a force in building and revitalizing brands. Partnering with global giants like Mercedes Benz, J Crew, and Warner Brothers, my timeless and elegant approach serves as a transformative tool for brands seeking a fresh identity, blending tradition with contemporary innovation.

Q3:  Some models or actors have become famous after being photographed by you. Will you continue to photograph young people who are not yet famous?

A3:  Absolutely, the journey of scouting and discovering talent is a passion that runs deep within me, and I don't see it ever coming to an end. From my early days as a teenager scouting models based on my keen eye for beauty, to the present, where I've had the privilege of discovering supermodels Taylor Hill, Jeremy Meeks, Gigi Hadid, and many others, the process of uncovering raw talent continues to be a source of inspiration.

In establishing my management company and mother agency, White Cross Management, I've taken the opportunity to guide the careers of aspiring models. This initiative goes beyond representation; it's about providing guidance and support to help young talent flourish in an industry that can be challenging. Having witnessed the darker aspects of the modeling world, I felt compelled to make a positive impact.

Embarking on this ongoing journey to scout models worldwide is a dream come true for me. It's not just about capturing a beautiful face; it's about recognizing the potential for change that resides within young people. I firmly believe that they are the voice for change, and through this process, I hope to contribute to shaping not only their careers, but also impacting the world positively. 

Q4:  As a renowned fashion photographer, you have worked with top brands and industry professionals. What advice do you have for aspiring photographers who want to make a name for themselves?

A4:  Running towards fear has always been an integral part of my creative journey. Throughout my career, I've come to understand that fear often signals the potential for growth and evolution in the creative process. Whether experimenting with a new photography style, embracing innovative techniques, or diving into unfamiliar subjects, it’s important to push forward into uncharted territories and break free of the fear.

This willingness to push boundaries, even when discomfort arises, has led me to more opportunities, more relationships, and a deeper connection with my artistic identity. The journey of growth is as significant as the destination.

I would recommend to aspiring photographers:

1. Let your passion guide you

2. Embrace every opportunity to learn and evolve

3. Seek mentorship

4. Continuously refine your skill

5. Develop a unique voice and vision that reflects your values and beliefs

Q5.  As technology continues to advance, how do you see the future of photography evolving? Are there any new techniques or tools that you are excited to explore?

A5:  Looking ahead at the future of photography, the constant growth of technology sparks my curiosity and excites me. Advances in digital imaging, AI, and post-processing will reshape the entire photography industry. I envision a future where AI not only simplifies editing but also opens new creative possibilities, potentially changing how I tell stories through my own lens.

I'm particularly intrigued by virtual and augmented reality in photography. The fresh idea of creating immersive experiences beyond traditional images sparks my creativity. 

For me, the future of photography isn't just about technology; it's a personal journey of exploration. Staying updated on these advancements and incorporating them into my artistic practice is thrilling, ensuring that my work reflects the dynamic blend of modern technology and creativity, while staying true to my roots of a timeless airy aesthetic.

Q6.  As an influencer and an expert, what do you look for to create timeless works?

A6:   Creating timeless works often involves embracing simplicity, going beyond complex camera gear or elaborate lighting setups. I find beauty in the purity of a shot, focusing on the basics that enhance a moment. Natural lighting adds a genuine quality to the visual story, and the play of light and shadow can evoke timeless charm or create dramatic effects.

This simplicity extends to the visual elements within the frame, from clothing to makeup and styling. I prefer minimalism, stripping away unnecessary details to let the raw beauty of the subject and the narrative shine. Capturing a moment in its purest form holds a unique power to endure.  Additionally, authenticity and a genuine connection with the talent are priorities for me. Creating a comfortable, liberated, and fun environment on set is essential to creating beautiful works of art. Timelessness comes from content that resonates personally and goes beyond trends. Understanding my own aesthetic and storytelling helps me to photograph images that stand the test of time.

How do you explore the themes of love and hate in your artwork? What inspires you to delve into these complex emotions?

It is more than just nature’s dualism of light and shadow, Tolstoy’s war and peace or Goethe’s Faust reflecting on love and despair - LOVE HATE is everywhere!  In families, relationships, politics or religion - it’s evolutionary - yet complex!  Within our society today, I feel there is a battle of extremes on both sides - for or against:  It seems that we can only love or hate - make or leave - blaspheme or praise - kiss or rave - dance or stand still - be there or leave - follow or lead - judgment or mercy - shame or fame?

That is why art in public space is so important, to open a dialogue on two seemingly irreconcilable points of view and to symbolize a change of perspective. We need love more than ever. As one of my favourite poets - Hermann Hesse - once said: "The beginning of all art is love!"

Have personal experiences or societal events influenced your exploration of love and hate in your artwork?

Certainly - pain is my petrol for creativity, as is deep delight. I am the personified essence of Love and Hate; the balancing act between reality and dream, hope and disillusionment, artistic freedom and establishment is my daily struggle for survival. Artists have always been like seismographs of society - they feel, unfiltered, what the rest of the

world goes through and try to reflect upon it within their work. One example is my museum show Edges of Europe about the refugee crisis for which I manufactured a taxidermy of a winged horse - Pegasus. It’s a symbol of transition - loved at home - hated in a foreign land - metaphorically, but in relation to the hardship of refugees. I had the inkling of this theme, humanitarian catastrophe in Europe, as an artistic vision for a long time. Those Love Hate moments happen 24/7 in my mind - I just have to choose which one I create artworks from....

Do you believe that love and hate are interconnected? How does this understanding shape your artistic practice?

In my eyes, Plato's Allegory of the Cave explains that very well: Plato wants to motivate us with his iconic story to go out of the darkness into the light. According to this, the ignorant man has turned away from his true divine origin (sun) and considers only the outer appearances to be the absolute truth. He is convinced that only the knowledge from the

shadow world is the sole truth. To get out of the cave means for Plato to reach the knowledge of the unchanging ideas and finally the highest idea of the good. It only works if we experience the contrast tangibly - the discrepancy between day and night, rich and poor, nature and technology, healthy and sick, happy and sad, beautiful and terrible. Without the previous we would not be able to grasp the present.... just like love and hate! Even our planet is bipolar - just like all my art babies born on this earth!

Navigating the fine line between expressing intense emotions and potentially triggering discomfort or controversy in your artwork can be challenging. How do you approach this delicate balance?

I’m art

Says my heart

I’m a born idea

That's why I’m here

Lastly, could you share any upcoming projects or ideas where you plan to further explore the themes of love and hate in your work?

I just had the most extreme experience: My family and I moved to Maui, Hawaii literally days before the fires erased Lahaina. We were in shock and still are. What was supposed to be a liberating nature experience turned into the greatest natural disaster I have ever witnessed. The last few weeks we tried to be of use - we donated, helped and tried to process it all - I am certain, I will make something out of this memory once the time is right and we have familiarized ourselves with the Hawaiian culture, what is appropriate and what is not. So for now, my team and I are concentrating on the planning of a US tour of the LOVE HATE sculptures, starting from Washington, Austin, Nashville, Chicago via all US cities in which a German Consulate resides (like LA, Atlanta, Miami or Houston). The USA, like Europe, is a deeply divided country and the extreme dualism of love and hate fits the zeitgeist. Therefore we need art in public space as a bridge builder to create attention for controversial topics within our society. Nietzsche, with whom my maternal family is related to, once said: "We have art in order not to die of the truth!"

Hi Jamie , thanks for showing us your lovely pink house, What inspired you to pursue a career in fashion photography, and how did you get your start in the industry?

As a teen, I expressed myself through fashion. I constantly scoured thrift stores and modified my clothing using scissors and safety pins.  I discovered photography as a tool for further expression and began shooting my friends.  After high school, I honed my technical skills at Brooks Institute of Photography and received my Bachelor’s of Arts degree.  Upon graduation, I moved to New York City to pursue my dream to become a fashion photographer.  After a successful 12 years in the city, I relocated to Los Angeles where I bought my dream home—a Hollywood Regency style pink palace.  I spent the next five years remodeling my studio with floor to ceiling shag fur, round beds, and analog TV sets and stereos.  Before I knew it, I had morphed the rooms into colorful vintage themed art installations.  I was surprised that my outlandish designs attracted major celebrities, music videos, and commercials productions.  I now live, work, and play in a 70’s time warp.

You've photographed many famous female celebrities, including Gwen Stefani, Drew Barrymore, and Megan Thee Stallion. How do you bring out the unique qualities of each woman you work with, and how do you showcase their individual beauty and personality in your photographs?

Whether I am shooting a best friend who has never modeled, or a seasoned celebrity, I truly enjoy empowering my models.  I start with a warm-up phase in which I explore the unique personality of each person through untapped angles and facial expressions.  I like to get up-close-and-personal, shooting tight beauty portraits in an intimate fashion.  As I direct my models, I create a fun and disarming environment, making a fool of myself as I demonstrate poses and shout encouragements throughout the shoot. I believe true art is created in the magic of collaboration between photographer, model, and the entire creative team. 

Do you have any tips for women who feel nervous or uncomfortable in front of the camera? How do you help your female subjects feel confident and at ease during a shoot?

My best tip is that a model should be willing to explore multiple moods, angles, and poses– fully committing to my vision.  Modeling is like acting––the subject must embody that certain je ne sais quoi in the eyes, or the images will fall flat.  A great ice breaker is when I arrive on set dressed in theme.  I am always making a bold statement with my attire–whether adorned in glitter, bell bottoms, wild prints, or vibrant colors.  My models are entertained by my audacity and authenticity– thus inspiring them to also be their unapologetic selves. Because I have done some modeling for brands and films myself, I am empathetic with the models’ insecurities on set.  I make a point to give continuous encouragement as it can be intimidating to perform in a room of people staring at you.  I support my models by posing along with them, being silly, and spouting cheesy cliché lines when caught up in the moment.

Breast cancer is unfortunately very common, and it's important to both raise awareness of the disease and celebrate the strength and resilience of women who have survived it.  I am a breast cancer survivor myself.  If you had the opportunity to photograph a group of breast cancer survivors together, what sort of message would you hope to convey in the resulting images?

Breast cancer survivors are on their own level of bad-assery!  In photographing breast cancer survivors, I would encourage them to create awareness by proudly baring their scars as badges of honor. I believe that confidence, resilience, and resourcefulness are some of our most attractive characteristics.  By displaying the survivors’ battle wounds in the open, together we can expand society’s perception of beauty. It would be a dream project to shoot portraits of bad-ass survivors through my lens as the sexy, strong, and empowered women they truly are.