A Still-Life Dream for Justine Quintal’s Fine Jewellery
I’m excited to share one of my favourite shoots I’ve ever done — a fine art still-life session for Montreal jewellery designer Justine Quintal. Her work is already sculptural and poetic, so photographing it felt like creating a series of tiny tableaus. With artistic direction of Lea Berger, the creative process flowed effortlessly from start to finish.
The Art of Adornment
Where jewellery becomes art.
Instead of photographing these pieces on a standard white background, we built delicate still-life scenes inspired by classical painting. Pale pink calla lilies arched across marble blocks, white strawberries nestled beside gold rings, and soft cherries sat next to jewellery like jewels of their own. Mushrooms, Queen Anne’s lace, and white anemones brought an unexpected, almost storybook charm to the compositions.
As primarily a portrait photographer, I love when clients invite me into the world of product photography and commercial photography. It’s a chance to slow down, notice the smallest details, and let each object take on its own personality. Justine’s designs — from textured gold bands to asymmetrical gemstone rings and refined pendant necklaces — felt more like tiny sculptures than accessories. I wanted every frame to honour that artistry, capturing each piece as if it belonged in a gallery.
This shoot reminded me why I became a Montreal photographer in the first place. The combination of thoughtful styling, beautiful materials, and an effortless creative flow with Lea made it an absolute joy from start to finish.
