In the Space Between
by Marcello Junior Dino
HeyBoy Exclusive
In the Space Between
by Marcello Junior Dino
HeyBoy Exclusive
Photographer: Marcello Junior Dino
M Managment: Antonio Stephon
BANANAS MODELS: Oscar Franco
Stylist: Zarina Dzhioeva
Groomer: Anne Fayet
Parc Monceau, Paris
HeyBoy Exclusive
Q) You often explore themes of fragility and strength, especially in your portraits of male beauty. What inspired you to delve into this juxtaposition, and what do you hope your audience takes away from it?
A) I’ve always been fascinated by male fragility, especially while working with professional models who typically embody the stereotype of physical strength or the ideal male representation. As a homosexual man, I’ve never felt represented by the macho character often seen in fashion photographs. Perhaps that’s why I’ve chosen to explore different areas. I want my pictures to recognize heterosexual men and convey the message that male
fragility has its own aesthetic representation and should not be subject to mockery.
Q) Your photographs exhibit a striking use of light and contrast. Could you share your creative process when approaching a new project?
A) Having a background as an art director, my creative process stems from crafting a well-defined mood board. I frequently have a vision of who I want to photograph and how I want to do it. My attention to detail in lighting is unwavering, and I insist on using lights that I have designed or made myself.
Q) Fashion is ever-evolving. How do you stay ahead of trends while maintaining your distinctive style?
A) This is an excellent question. I think I have been and am constantly evolving too, which is why I define myself as a “fashion photographer”. While respecting my lights and my distinctive signs, I have always followed fashion as a scholar, not as a follower, trying to understand its evolution over the seasons and in photography, taking here and there what best represents me as a person and as an artist.
Q) Can you tell us about a particularly challenging shoot and how you overcame the obstacles to achieve your vision?
A) I don’t recall a particularly difficult photo shoot, but I do remember that the first few times were generally tough due to the emotions involved. The first major editorial, the first important cover, or the first shoot for a famous brand – they all evoke strong emotions for me because of the initial difficulty I experienced, which was later overcome on the day of the shoot.
Q) Collaboration is key in fashion photography. Who are some of the most influential creatives you’ve worked with, and how have they impacted your work?
A) Two individuals stand out in my mind: Ib Kamara, with whom I had the privilege of working for Off-White, who taught me the importance of having a clear vision for your work; and Anita Bitton, whom I met in New York a few years ago. Anita shared valuable insights about her work as a casting director, which I still cherish and reflect on when I conduct castings.
Q) Reflecting on your career, what are some moments or projects that have been the most rewarding for you personally and professionally?
A) I prefer to believe that the best is yet to come. 😉
Q) Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring photographers looking to carve out their niche in the competitive world of fashion?
A) Aspiring fashion photographers should focus solely on their ideas and their work, drawing inspiration from art and everyday life rather than competing with others. Remember, “the eye has to travel,” as Diana Vreeland once wisely said.
