Lily Dai

My collaboration with Lily began with a spontaneous "5-Minute Coffee and a portrait" session, an unscripted interview and portrait series designed to capture the artist's raw presence. That initial meeting laid the foundation of trust that allowed us to push much further in our follow-up work: a dual-themed portrait series exploring the intersection of classical music and London’s urban landscape.

The first half of our session was a study in contrasts: Street Art meets Classical World. We utilised Shoreditch vibrant, textured backdrops to frame a narrative that feels contemporary and grounded. The second half, a yet-to-be-released series, shifts toward Brutalist architecture and timeless elegance, using the sharp, geometric lines of the city to mirror the discipline of the craft. And let’s not forget her signature hightech by Bam case trying to steal the main character spot.

As any London-based photographer knows, the weather is its own character. We shot through a chaotic mix of sudden rain and piercing sun. While outdoor shoots in London are always a gamble, the shifting light provided a dramatic, cinematic depth that no studio lighting could replicate. It forced us to stay present and adaptable, resulting in some of my most authentic work to date.

This evolution, from a quick coffee to a complex, multi-themed shoot is exactly why I prioritise long-term collaboration.