Timeless Frames: Shooting ELCE Swim on 35mm Film with Aisha Katerina in Bali Studio

Hey everyone, Glen here – sitting in my Bali studio with a fresh roll of film drying and that quiet satisfaction you only get after a really good day behind the lens. There’s something special about slowing down for analog; no instant preview, no delete button, just trusting the light, the moment, and the person in front of you. That’s exactly how this e-commerce shoot for the lovely Australian brand ELCE Swim felt – pure, intentional, and a little bit magical.

ELCE Swim is one of those brands that quietly stands out in the crowded swimwear world. Founded in Sydney by Laura Sheather and Tara Mitchell, it’s all about thoughtfully designed, conscious women’s swimwear built to last. Premium fabrics, flattering cuts, supportive bikinis and one-pieces that feel refined yet relaxed – pieces you reach for again and again because they just work. No fast-fashion rush; more like timeless essentials with a subtle edge of audacity and ease. It’s swimwear designed around a feeling rather than a fleeting trend, and shooting for them always feels aligned and honest.

The star of the day was Aisha Katerina – Bali-based, radiant, and one of my go-to collaborators when I want effortless energy. Aisha has this natural glow and quiet confidence that makes everything look better; she’s been modeling here for years, traveling between Bali and beyond, and her presence turns even the simplest studio setup into something alive. We’ve worked together enough now that the rhythm is easy – good playlists, fresh coconuts on ice, a few laughs, and then we just get to it.

We kept the studio clean and focused: soft, even lighting to show every detail of the fabrics and fit, a seamless white backdrop for pure product clarity, and a couple of natural window setups for subtle warmth and depth. But the real heart of the shoot was shooting everything on 35mm film. There’s a different kind of patience required – loading the camera carefully, metering by eye, composing with intention because each frame counts. The grain, the color rendition, that slight unpredictability… it adds this organic, human texture that digital can sometimes miss. For ecomm, we still nailed the must-haves: crisp front/back views, close-ups on straps and hardware, subtle movement to show how the suits sit and move on real bodies. But the film gives those images a soul – they feel premium, tactile, and true to ELCE’s conscious-luxury ethos.

By the end of the day, we had a mix of digital backups for quick turnaround and those precious film rolls waiting to be developed. Walking out into the Bali evening with that quiet buzz – knowing we captured something real and lasting – that’s the feeling I chase.

Huge thanks to Aisha for always bringing her best self, and to the ELCE team for trusting the analog approach. These kinds of shoots remind me why I love this work: it’s not just about selling clothes; it’s about telling a story through light, texture, and genuine connection.

If you’re a brand looking for thoughtful ecomm photography in Bali – especially with the warmth and character only 35mm can bring – or if you’re just curious about more behind-the-scenes, drop by the portfolio or say hi.

More analog goodness coming soon.

Stay inspired (and shoot film when you can),

Glen Krohn

Bali Fashion & Swimwear Photographer

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