Making Paces

Making Paces is the result of a close collaboration between photographer Naomie Laan, model Sonja Hulsman, stylist Quinten Beugeling, and hair & makeup artist Nataly Vasilchenko.

Inspired by Sonja’s striking features, quiet strength, and natural elegance, we set out to capture a woman who brings character and intention to every frame. Our aim was to portray her as she is—experienced, powerful, and effortlessly expressive.

Shot partly on asphalt under direct sunlight and partly in a calm studio environment, the series plays with contrasts in form, light, and mood—from sharp shadows and motion to stillness and control.

The resulting images unfold in a visual rhythm—shifting between tension and ease, clarity and abstraction. The narrative reflects Sonja’s autonomy and presence; she doesn’t perform for the camera—she inhabits it, fully and deliberately.

What emerged is more than a fashion editorial—it’s a portrait of a woman moving entirely at her own pace, occupying her own space.

The tone of the work is echoed in a poetic text written by the multitalented Nataly Vasilchenko.

pants CHRISTIAN WIJNANTS
pants via WENDELA VAN DIJK
knee-highs WOLFORD
shoes VAGABOND

knit HEACH
pants COS
knee-highs WOLFORD
shoes VAGABOND

trenchcoat DRYKORN
shoes STEVE MADDEN

shoes STYLISTS ARCHIVE

necklace STENN JEWELRY
bomber KASSL EDITIONS
pants HAIKURE
pants and bomber via WENDELA VAN DIJK
blouse UMBER
blouse via AFURA STORE

knit TESS VAN ZALINGE
pants TESS VAN ZALINGE

coat DRIES VAN NOTEN
coat via ENSO VINTAGE
blazer CALVIN KLEIN
pants ARMA
shoes VAGABOND