Laurs Kemp — Reworked Fashion

Jul 1

Studio Lookbook session with designer Laurs Kemp —

Laurs Kemp specializes in small-batch and reworked one-off pieces handmade in Portland, Oregon.

Some kind words from Laurs: “Everything you want in a photographer: prepared, collaborative, creative, efficient, knowledgeable, fun, dependable, and a pleasure to be around. I needed photos for a reworked fashion collection I designed and I was on a tight budget. We only had two hours to shoot two models in four or five looks each, and they got it done! And the photos were stunning! This shoot was a while back and I still use one of the photos as my business profile photo because it’s such a striking image. I would definitely book with Mia again!”

I have been an admirer of Laurs since I moved to Portland and began discovering the slow-fashion industry here. Her original designs are crafted with the reduction of waste in mind at every turn — all the while giving new life to secondhand garments and deadstock fabrics. As someone who puts sustainability first when styling my own shoots, this collaboration felt like a natural one.

Laurs’ latest collection caught to transform older styles with new paint, vintage buttons, and cute clips. What started as a conceptual footwear shoot quickly grew into a full collection, defined by high-contrast monochrome blocking, curves, and pops of color. A checkerboard motif is present in myriad forms and colors. I am incredibly honored that Laurs entrusted my to capture these pieces. Making moodboards and scheming up ideas with fellow creators is always a joy, and this. one was no exception. These models were an absolute dream to work with, and Laurs’ assistant Avan worked incredibly hard to help this go smoothly! And lastly, I want to extend a huge thanks to the studio for having us.

Photos featured in Shoutout LA!

Designer: Laurs Kemp / Laurs Kemp Workshops
Models: Alexandra Gómez + Mytia Elliott
Assistant: Avan Reed
Studio: Cream Creative Space