Credits:
Earrings and necklace, IAMELENI
Pants, BEATRICE STENMARK. Ring, IAMELENI
Top, SWING SWING. Jewelry, IAMELENI
Top, stylist own. Skirt, SWING SWING. Shoes, MM6 MAISON MARGIELA. All jewelry, IAMELENI
L’ART du RÉCIT
José Camacho in conversation with photographer Jordan Drysdale
As I delve into the world of Jordan Drysdale, his work speaks before he does. His images—poetic, raw, cinematic—demand a closer look, an unraveling of narrative through light and movement. Our exchange unfolds effortlessly—a dialogue on creativity, identity, and the evolution of fashion photography. We explore his inspirations, creative process, and the evolving landscape of fashion imagery. Together, we discuss the art of storytelling, breaking traditional beauty standards, and the future of fashion imagery.
“Many things inspire me,” Drysdale muses, his words as measured as his compositions. “A color, an object, a feeling, or a place. That initial spark of curiosity leads me to explore deeper through photography. My approach to image-making is about more than just composing a photograph; it’s about creating an emotion that can be conceptually interpreted.”
This pursuit of emotion is where Drysdale’s magic lies. Each frame is deliberate, yet it hums with spontaneity, an exquisite balancing act between technical mastery and instinctual storytelling. His work is a study in contrasts: raw yet refined, calculated yet impulsive, grounded yet ethereal.
Your photography seems to blend elements of storytelling with fashion. How do you approach a shoot conceptually, and what influences your creative direction?
“I come from a technical background, having studied photography at university, and that foundation has been incredibly valuable. Having a strong technical backbone gives me the freedom to focus on emotional connection—whether through color, pose, or my personal relationship with the subject. However, I’ve also learned that technical perfection can sometimes stifle spontaneity. Some of my most resonant images have come from moments where I abandoned the idea of a ‘perfectly lit’ or ‘well-shot’ photograph.”
Drysdale’s understanding of when to lean into chaos and when to pull back is what makes his work so visceral. “As I’ve grown into my style, I’ve found joy in knowing when to break the rules, when to lean into unconventional shooting methods, even those that contradict what I was taught.”
“Fashion is often the anchor that informs the tone and concept of a shoot,” he explains. “Everybody has a relationship with fashion to varying degrees, and there’s an ever-changing historical reference for people to connect with. The first emotional response usually comes from the model or the garment, so both need to be utilized in a way that reveals the underlying narrative.”
His ability to layer meaning within his visuals is heightened by his masterful use of environment. Whether amid untamed landscapes or within the controlled elegance of a studio, Drysdale’s work conveys a sense of timelessness. “Landscapes and natural elements inspire me deeply—both visually and historically. Nature embodies resilience and interconnectedness, and its textures, colors, and patterns have influenced art for centuries. In my work, nature creates a sense of tranquility and emotion, adding another layer to the storytelling.”
Fashion photography is a constantly evolving field. How do you push the boundaries of traditional beauty standards and challenge conventional ideas of identity?
“The world I create through my photography is rooted in identity,” he states. “I strive for my images to evoke a sense of wonder and magic, embracing the beauty of individuality and diverse perspectives. Fashion photography has the power to shape how people see themselves and the world, and I want my work to contribute to a more inclusive and expansive vision of beauty.”
His images exude a sense of belonging—a fantasy that feels tangible yet slightly out of reach. “I want the world I create to feel timeless and fantastical, yet still connected to human emotion. I use color, emotion, and perspective to craft a sense of fantasy while maintaining honesty in my relationship with the subject. The forms, textures, and movement within my images carry emotional weight, leaving space for the viewer to interpret their own narrative.”
Diversity is at the heart of modern fashion. How do you approach representation in your shoots, and why do you think it’s important to include multiple perspectives?
“Representation is integral to my work. I aim to create a world that everyone can connect with. History, identity, and cultural context are rich sources of inspiration, and I believe we can learn so much from one another. Photography is a language of its own, and by embracing diverse perspectives, we expand the conversations it can hold.”
Looking forward, Drysdale’s ambitions remain as bold as his visuals. “I’ve been working toward exhibitions, and I’d love to release a photo book—that’s something I’ll be focusing on. I also have plans to create in Europe, which excites me. In terms of style, I see my work becoming even more gentle and dreamlike as I continue to lean into storytelling.”
“Be authentic. Draw inspiration from personal and natural elements, and don’t be afraid to fail. The industry is saturated with incredible work, and it can feel overwhelming to find your own voice. But take a step back—consider what is truly important to you, and let that guide everything you create. Your voice is your power, and it’s what will ultimately set your work apart.”
As for the future of fashion photography, Drysdale anticipates a thrilling evolution. “Fashion photography is evolving in exciting ways, especially with the fusion of different mediums and unconventional production methods. I see the blending of fine art and fashion photography becoming even more prevalent, and that’s something I want to explore further in my own work. The future is about experimentation, pushing the limits, and embracing new ways of storytelling.”
Jordan Drysdale is not simply capturing fashion—he is building visual worlds that pulse with energy, elegance, and a hint of the surreal. Within his lens, fashion is no longer static; it is lived, it is breathed, and most importantly, it is felt. PHOTOS BY JORDAN DRYSDALE.
Credits:
Right: GIL HURSTHAUSEN look. Tights, SWEDISH STOCKINGS