Jade Campbell: Sharp

Could you please provide us with a professional introduction about yourself and your creative direction work?

I am Jade Campbell. I grew up in London and began my career as a hairstylist, often working on set. That experience gave me a glimpse into the creative process behind the scenes, which I found incredibly inspiring. Over time, I decided to step into a role as a creative director, where I could take on more responsibility and bring my creativity and imagination to fruition.

As a creative director, I enjoy finding ways to make ideas feel unique and impactful. I also focus on creating a positive and productive environment for everyone involved, whether it is the clients, models, or the creative team. For me, the process of coming together and bringing a vision to life is just as rewarding as the final result.

What was your passion driving you during your journey? Who or what prompted you to begin?

I had so many ideas constantly bursting in my head during my time as a hairstylist, and one thing about me is that I never like to hold back on bringing my ideas to life. While working behind the scenes, I paid close attention to how everything came together and really absorbed the creative process. When the moment came where I felt ready, I didn’t hesitate. I gathered a team, trusted my vision, and brought my first project to life. That passion for creating and seeing ideas take shape has been driving me ever since.

Could you walk us through your photoshoot planning process?

First, I start by putting together a moodboard. For me, without a clear vision, there’s no project, so the moodboard is essential to set the tone and direction. After that, I look for creatives whose work matches the vibe I’m going for and reach out to see if they’d be interested in joining the project.

Sometimes I already have a set date in mind before I reach out, but other times, I work with the team to find a date that works for everyone. Once we’ve locked that in, I either book the studio or, if the project requires it, scout for locations that fit the vision.

Then, I get into pre-production planning. This is when I gather the team for a meeting to make sure everyone’s on the same page and understands the concept and their role. We go over all the details, from wardrobe to props, so there are no surprises on the day of the shoot.

Where do you get your ideas for photoshoots?

My ideas come from all over. Pinterest, Google, and social media are great for inspiration, but honestly, I also get a lot of ideas just by being out and about. Whether I’m shopping or just going through my day, I tend to notice things that catch my eye and spark new concepts for shoots.

How do you strike a balance between your artistic expression and your client's expectations during a shoot?

I always make sure to understand the client’s expectations and make sure I meet them without stepping over any boundaries. At the same time, I like to bring in my own vision and make sure there’s a good flow of communication with the client throughout the process. By staying in touch and getting feedback along the way, we ensure we’re on the same page and create something that satisfies both their needs and my creative direction.

How do other artists influence your work? Are there any other creatives in your field you look up to? Who?

Honestly, I don’t have any specific creative directors I look up to right now. My influence really comes from the things I see in my day to day life, but I’ve also worked with so many amazing directors that I’d struggle to pick a favourite.

Can you tell us about the most difficult photographic challenge you've ever had, including lighting, unexpected situations, and how you managed the issues on set?

Yes, there was one shoot, and it actually happened to be my first ever project as a creative director. The photographer wasn’t too confident with their lighting skills, and on top of that, there was an unexpected stray light shining onto the set. I had to rely on everything I had observed from lighting teams on other projects I’d been a part of. I made adjustments based on that experience, and while it turned out great, it wasn’t perfect. It was a tough learning experience, and I quickly realised the importance of having a photographer who’s confident with lighting or, if that’s not the case, always ensuring a lighting team is on board from the start.

Can you tell me about an upcoming project you're working on and the idea behind it?

I’m working on a few projects right now, but one of them involves silk and feathers. I like to keep things a secret until it’s ready to be revealed, but the idea behind it is to exaggerate beauty by creating something unique, loud, and bold.

Can you tell us the story behind creating the photographs you submitted?

The story behind the photos is about blending old and new classics. It’s a mix of premium and high street pieces that come together to feel both sophisticated and modern. The stylist played with structured tailoring and added pops of red, along with fun details like scarves and bandanas. The end result is a look that’s timeless, yet bold, with a fresh, contemporary edge that’s perfect for the modern man.

Where can we view more of your work and connect with you?

Instagram: @JaadeCampbell

Website: Coming soon

How do you enhance your vision after a session by post-processing the photos? Do you have a best-kept secret for editing processing that you'd like to share?
Photo retoucher - Erin Rudy: "When it comes to retouching/post-processing, less is more. I have a standard retouching process that I put each image through. If images require more clean up than what the process includes, it typically indicates an atypical session. Then I compare all the images together to make sure they match in colour temperature, contrast, overall retouching, & style.

I like to discuss the final vision with the photographer & creative director before the session starts with a vision board and after I receive the images. I work to match that, while still showcasing my own style of retouching."

Cr Dir & Hair: @jaadecampbell

Model: @marcoaniel_

Photo: @shotbyfuchsia

Retoucher: @erinrudyphoto

Model: @oscareggz

Stylist: @justemimi

Assistant: @rei.shot.u

MUA: @cosmikglow_

Creative Director Assistant: @samharriee

Pub Ed: @bea_a.ayim