Launched a neckwear line where I executed full visual production pipeline from fabric selection to product presentation and image capture. Styled, sewed, and photographed 700+ custom bow ties for digital and boutique display, maintaining visual consistency and product accuracy from all angles.
Gear & Lighting Setup
Camera: Canon Rebel XTi (EOS 400D) with stock lenses and cell phone cameras.
DIY light box: built out of cardboard with windows cut out for fabric diffusers.
Light source: desk lamps, clamp lamps, flashlights, anything I could get my hands on.
Infinity curve: White poster board.
Post: Photoshop for background removal and bumping product brightness.
Instagram Template
Challenge:
I had signed up for a sewing class I couldn’t get out of
Armed with my grandma’s sewing machine and a chip on my shoulder, I turned that mistake into a handmade bow tie brand focused on ethical, made-to-order neckwear. I handled every part of the business, from design and sewing to fabric sourcing, product photography, packaging, and sales.
What I did:
→ Sewed 700+ custom ties with my grandmother's machine. → Designed the brand identity, packaging, and shot all product photography using a DIY lightbox. → Managed end-to-end production, fulfillment, and boutique partnerships independently. → Created one-of-a-kind pieces tailored to client needs in fabric, style, and construction.
Results:
→ Commissioned by University of Central Arkansas to design ties for Bill Nye’s keynote visit. → Selected for Startup Junkie’s 2.7.0 Accelerator for early-stage retail entrepreneurs. → Placed SKUs in three Arkansas boutiques and a product onto Massdrop.com.
Product Photos
Most of the ties were double sided, photographing them proved to be a challenge as the tie needed to be ironed after reversing the fabric.