Poupée : Fashion, Fragility and Power in the Streets of Paris
In collaboration with Andrea Figueroa, a photographer from Guadalajara, we decided to create a visual project that captures the multifaceted essence of femininity. “Poupée” is an exploration of fashion and feminine character in one of the most iconic settings in the world: the streets of Paris. Inspired by the idea of a woman who can be delicate and strong at the same time, we wanted to break away from traditional stereotypes of the “Poupée” as fragile and powerless. During the day, our model walks around showing her tender and refined side, while at night , her sensuality and inner strength emerge, revealing her powerful and confident character. This project seeks to demonstrate that femininity is much more than an image, it is a spectrum of emotions, style and strength that transform according to the context and the light that surrounds them.
Day shoot
For our photo shoot, we chose the Place des Vosges garden in Paris as the primary location for "Poupée" . The choice of Place des Vosges—known for its classical symmetry, manicured gardens, and historic architecture—was deliberate, as it allowed us to emphasize the contrast between timeless settings and a modern, doll-like figure.
In the series, the styling is minimalist yet impactful. The model wears long satin gloves, sheer tights, and a structured white ensemble that accentuates her poised, almost porcelain-like demeanor. The look is refined, evoking the image of a high-fashion doll brought to life, but still somehow apart from her surroundings. This stylization creates a visual harmony with the historical setting, making both the fashion and the environment equally prominent elements in the composition.
One image captures the model standing before the iconic fountain, her posture statuesque, echoing the stillness and elegance of the sculptural forms around her. Another shot places her near the entrance of a nearby boutique with vintage-inspired signage and detailing, creating an interplay between the doll-like figure and the texture of Parisian street architecture. This setting adds a different layer to *"Poupée"*—it's as if the model, like a doll on display, is observing her surroundings with quiet curiosity.
The session benefited from the low foot traffic in Place des Vosges, allowing for uninterrupted shooting and greater creative freedom. We took advantage of various vantage points around the garden, experimenting with the model's poses and expressions to capture a range of perspectives that highlight her ethereal presence. The fountain, lush greenery, and historic facades provided a multi-dimensional backdrop, enhancing the project’s layered concept.
For photographers considering an outdoor shoot, I would recommend exploring not just the primary setting, but also surrounding areas that might add unexpected textures or visual depth. In this case, integrating elements like the nearby boutique storefront added a subtle narrative touch, as though the doll had stepped beyond the familiar garden and was now encountering the world with fresh eyes. The varied backdrops within a compact area allowed us to maximize the environment's potential, yielding a diverse yet cohesive visual story that aligns with the project's high-end, art-inspired aesthetic.
