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American intern at Studio Shapes
As I crossed the doors of Studio Shapes Paris on the first day of my internship, I felt enthusiastic but slightly intimidated. Not because the photo studio in Paris itself was impressive – it's actually the complete opposite. The Parisian studio is like a small jewel nestled in the 10th arrondissement; warm, inviting, and radiating creativity. What intimidated me upon arriving that first day is that I am not a photographer. I am the kind of person who admires images, ideas, and creativity from the outside, and here I am, in the midst of a creative hub filled with professionals, fashion photographers, and even stylists.
I quickly realized that this internship represents much more than photography and knowing how to capture quality images. It's about observing, contributing, and learning how the creative energy flows in a professional photo studio. A large part of my first week was spent observing this process unfold while taking on a new role – filming behind-the-scenes content for the studio's social media. Social media marketing is quite new to me, so this part of the internship has been both exciting and intimidating. Nevertheless, diving into it has already taught me a lot about creativity in unexpected places.
My time at the photo studio in Paris so far has been a mix of calm and chaos. Some days are quieter, filled with emails, organization, and those peaceful moments that give the studio spaces a gentle rhythm. Other days are lively, with dynamic photo shoots and model castings that bring energy and excitement. Being backstage during the castings and fittings has been a highlight – models from around the world come to showcase their talents, and I've had the chance to have surprisingly meaningful conversations with a few of them. I've also been able to attend two fashion photo shoots for brands, both of which I enjoyed immensely. One photo shoot in particular gave me the opportunity to shoot behind-the-scenes content directly in the studio, and seeing the creative process unfold up close was truly remarkable.
Beyond the studio, Paris itself feels like a masterclass in creativity. Strolling past the cafés, galleries, and streets adorned with art has been a constant reminder that inspiration is everywhere. Being in a city where visual culture is woven into everyday life has made working in the photo agency in Paris even more vibrant and alive.
After this first week, I realized that I gained more than just an understanding of the workflow – I discovered a new way of seeing things. Not through the lens of a photographer, but through the perspective of someone learning to observe, question, and appreciate the reflection and craftsmanship behind each image.
I am eagerly awaiting the weeks to come, excited to continue finding my place in this creative and lively space while adapting to the Parisian way of life. Between navigating the streets of the city, discovering hidden cafés, and soaking up the culture that surrounds me, I am slowly learning how the rhythm and energy of Parisian photography influence both daily life and creativity in the studio. Each observation, task, and small contribution feels like a step not only in my internship but also in learning to move comfortably in this vibrant city – and in the world of showrooms, fashion week, creative campaigns, and art that make Paris such a hub for photography.
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