Daniel Stier captures plush bags and contraband in a story for Esquire

Commissioned by Esquire magazine, photographer Daniel Stier has captured a still life fashion shoot of men’s bags. A glorious clash of plush leather goods with various objects banned at airport security, the series is full of textural contrasts in Daniel’s signature stark style.

“I regularly work for Esquire, normally shooting portraits or features. Fashion is probably the only thing I don’t get commissioned for, so yes, it’s a bit rare for me,” says Daniel. “But I’m not bothered by fashion, so for me this was a still life shoot with a great narrative which makes it easy and fun.” The photographer worked with art director Peter Ainsworth on the project, who came up with the “great narrative of shooting a contraband story with the men’s bags”.

“After a few ideas bouncing back and forth, we quickly agreed on props and the feel of an airport security/customs room. Peter then left me absolute freedom to do the shoot,” says Daniel. “Vicky Lees was briefed to do the prop styling and did a fantastic job – she obviously had to battle with the challenges of octopuses and rotten fruit.” The project is a visual collision of precision and Daniel sees the project as a perfect example of when a “good concept leads to a good visual story”.