Theme 2: Infected - 31 Days of Halloween Series

This theme was photographed in downtown Willmar, Minnesota, weaving through colorful train trailers, alleys, industrial buildings, and the quiet stillness of the streets that felt perfect for an apocalyptic storyline.

From the very beginning, I knew I wanted this theme to challenge me. I wanted to explore new locations I’d never shot at beore, push myself visually, and create an apocalyptic storyline. This theme wasn’t just about the costume or the makeup but about building a full environment that made you feel the story I want to share in an editorial artistic way.

We started in full sun, tucked between random train trailers that bounced unexpected colors across the model’s skin. Normally I would move someone away from color casts like that, but something about the scene felt right. So I fully embraced the editing challenge. From there, we made our way into downtown Willmar, stopping at buildings I’ve always dreamed of shooting at. The architecture, the textures, the sense of abandonment… it all felt like stepping into another world. Our model wore a yellow hazmat suit, we could’ve chosen white, but the yellow was absolutely the right call. It popped against every backdrop, making her look like a living warning sign you can’t ignore.

The storyline behind the photos centers around a rapidly spreading infection: a world completely abandoned, streets silent, no one coming to save you. Whatever this thing is, it changes everything it touches. An editorial apocalypse, exactly the vibe I wanted.

Makeup for this theme was created by Jessi B Artistry.

Stay tuned for Theme #3. It's more beautiful than anything.