In a celebration of identity, self-expression, and the boundless creativity that defines Pride Month, Ms. Lawanda Dupree took part in an extraordinary Wildstyler Photography photoshoot. Set against the surreal and expansive landscape of the Desert Road in Waiouru, this photoshoot was nothing short of a fantastical journey down the rabbit hole, inspired by the whimsical world of Alice in Wonderland.
A Wonderland on Desert Road
The photoshoot’s setting was a striking contrast between the harsh, rugged terrain of Waiouru’s Desert Road and the vibrant, dreamlike elements brought in for the shoot. In this otherworldly scene, Ms. Dupree, adorned in an elaborate pauldron of flowers and foliage, exuded an air of regal grace with a hint of mystery. The photos captures her in moments of contemplation, sipping tea amidst a surreal tea party set, complete with decadent cupcakes and other baking from Little Beach Kitchen, that look almost too good to eat.
The styling of the shoot leans heavily into an Alice in Wonderland aesthetic, but with a distinct twist. The colour palette, dominated by muted blues, soft pinks, and deep blacks, lends the scene a haunting yet enchanting feel, reminiscent of Tim Burton’s darker, more gothic take on the classic tale. The whimsical details—the intricate floral arrangements, the towering, ornately designed cake stand, and the delicate porcelain teacup held by Ms. Dupree—all contribute to a scene that feels both familiar and fantastical.
Ms. Dupree’s Presence: A Queen in Wonderland
Ms. Dupree herself is the embodiment of a Wonderland queen—dignified, powerful, and slightly otherworldly. Her gaze, directed past the camera, is contemplative, as though she is considering the next move in a game of chess with the Queen of Hearts herself. The setting sun casts a soft, ethereal glow over the scene, enhancing the magical realism of the photograph. The overall vibe is one of surreal elegance—a world where reality bends and the lines between the possible and the impossible blur.
The choice of Waiouru’s Desert Road as the backdrop adds a layer of depth to the shoot. The barren, windswept landscape mirrors the theme of journeying into the unknown, much like Alice’s descent into Wonderland. Yet, in this vast, desolate space, there is beauty and celebration, symbolising the diversity and inclusiveness that Pride Month champions.
A Celebration of Identity and Pride
This photoshoot is more than just an artistic endeavour; it is a celebration of identity and pride. Ms. Dupree’s participation in this shoot, with its bold and unorthodox themes, reflects the courage it takes to embrace one’s true self, especially in the face of adversity. The Wonderland theme is a fitting metaphor for the journey of self-discovery and the celebration of individuality that Pride Month represents.
In the end, this Wildstyler photoshoot is a testament to the power of art to convey complex emotions and themes. Through the lens of the camera, Ms. Dupree’s Pride celebration becomes a vivid, tangible experience—one that invites viewers to step into her world, if only for a moment, and to see the beauty in the extraordinary.