This image came from a model test I photographed for a hairstylist and nail technician, working with a model from Elite Model NYC.
We created a few different image series during the shoot, using clothing from Zara and building each look around a strong beauty and fashion direction. For this frame, the idea was to push the energy a little further. The hair needed movement and attitude. The nails needed to become part of the expression. The styling needed to feel simple enough to let the beauty elements take control, but still strong enough to support the fashion story.
I wanted the image to feel immediate and slightly raw, with hard light, deep contrast, and a close crop that brings the viewer directly into the modelβs face, hands, hair, and nails. The red details create the tension, while the black styling keeps it graphic and controlled.
That is what I enjoy about model testing when the right creative team is involved. It becomes more than a portfolio image. It becomes a space to experiment, to build a visual point of view, and to give everyone involved something that feels intentional and elevated.
The full series is featured here:
Wild is a beauty editorial by NYC photographer Ken Jones featuring dramatic hair and claw-inspired nail styling, creating a fierce animal-in
