The Illustrated Woman (Patreon)

Bambi (not to be confused with my bunny, also named Bambi) styled and directed this set with the idea that the pin-up aesthetic should come naturally through the images themselves. In the exaggerated poses, arched lines, expressions and carefully constructed silhouettes, as opposed to through costume or imitation. Drawing inspiration from the illustrated glamour of Gil Elvgren and Olivia De Berardinis, and the photographic language of women like Bettie Page and Bunny Yeager, we set out to make the photographs feel almost painted.

Photographer Valentin Zhmodikov purposely set up the lighting to mimic the distinctive illumination of classic pin-up illustrations.

Even the black tulle was repurposed by Bambi from an underskirt to be instead sculpted around the body, creating sweeping, feathery shapes. All adding to the desired illusion.