Urban Vibes & Sunlight: Black-and-White Editorial for Blank Creation in Dupont Circle

Some shoots are about location as much as style, and this one in Dupont Circle, Washington DC, brought both together perfectly. Just behind the iconic Mission bar and next to the metro, I discovered a side street dotted with homes that—thanks to their textures, colors, and patterns—feel worlds away from DC and more like a slice of Mexico right in the city’s heart.

The Inspiration

For this session, the brand in focus was Blank Creation, a label I built around bold self-expression, effortless style, and a global feel. The model was eager to help bring this to life—her incredible, voluminous hair and presence turned a simple city moment into a full-on editorial.

The Scene

We positioned just right: leaning against patterned stucco, framed by vibrant architecture, while city life hummed in the background. I wanted to channel that international, sun-drenched vibe, so I embraced the harsh midday sunlight. The challenge? Using that light creatively to highlight shape and energy—no hiding from the shadows, but celebrating them.

The Creative Choices

Instead of showing off the street’s colors, I chose to go black and white. This stripped the image down to pure contrast: the brightness of sunlight against dramatic shadow, the shine in her hair, soft skin against urban textures. The monochrome palette transformed the scene, making the DC alleyway feel cinematic and timeless—like an old film set in Mexico City, or a fashion magazine story from a different continent.

The Gear

For this shot, I switched to a wide-angle lens. This let me capture the full vibe: model, details of the unique homes, and that immersive cityscape all in one frame. The angle made her presence even bolder, accentuating movement in her hair and the lines of the set.

What Made It Special

What I love about this image is its fusion—urban DC meets the spirit of a far-flung locale, fashion meets street, elegance meets grit. Blank Creation, as a brand, is about embracing originality and global inspiration, and this image captures that energy with every contrast and shadow.

Sometimes, the best stories are told not by color, but by light, laughter, and the perfect city backdrop—plus a model who knows how to own the lens.

Want portraits that turn your story into art—wherever inspiration strikes? Reach out. Let’s create something unforgettable, together.