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Last October, renowned photographer BJ Pascual represented the Philippines in the Calvin Klein Fall/Winter 2023 launch at Warehouse Terrada in Tokyo, Japan. He was selected for the star-studded affair along with Hallyu bigwigs and the hottest Asian superstars, artists, and content creators. The global event was a gathering of no less than the likes of BTS member Jungkook, model-turned-actor Rowoon, Thai actor Bright Vachirawit, and many more.
No stranger to the CK scene, BJ Pascual first worked with the fashion brand back in 2019 for Pride Month. “It was their first collaboration with an influencer in the Philippines, so I wanted to do something special,” BJ shared in an interview with Metro.Style. “I knew I wanted to shoot with my friend—photographer Regine David—who is based in Tokyo. So I flew to Japan and somehow got Paco Raterta—an amazing director—to fly with me to Japan and shoot!”
“Omar Ermita, one of my favorite makeup artists, was also there,” BJ said. “So I basically blew the whole budget on just the production but the photos and videos turned out amazing!” the lensman continued, recounting the reason for why he was chosen by Calvin Klein to be part of the prestigious celebration. “I guess they remembered that and I think that’s how I got chosen for this global event,” he concluded.
Leaving an impression and landing an invite from the label is definitely a milestone for BJ, who, during his first night at the function, savored a seamless tempura dish. He told us that he enjoyed teaming up with famed fashion photographer Leslie Kee, too, passing the experience as one of the exciting highlights of his trip. Honored, BJ was in plain awe to have rubbed elbows with a roster of A-list personalities and tastemakers.
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Walking us through the event, BJ enthused over his overwhelming encounter: “As a photographer, I’ve been a fan of his work since 2012 so I really took the opportunity to fanboy and had him sign a book of his that I had brought with me! And of course, seeing my photos alongside some of the biggest stars in the world like Jungkook, Bright Vachirawit, Disha Patani, Rowoon and Shownu was insane to me!”
“I was screaming in disbelief when I entered the venue and saw the photos flashing on the giant wall!” he added, still in amazement. In terms of style, meanwhile, BJ stays true to his priorities, which is beyond physical and surface-level. He stems from a much deeper meaning, counting self-care as an everyday essential. “I try to prioritize sleep as much as possible and get into a positive headspace everyday. Eating healthy and working out comes easily if you’re in a good mood.”
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