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Shelby Thurston Brings Retro Glamour to Life in Arcade-Themed Photoshoot
- Robert White
- Aug 15
- 2 min read
Model Shelby Thurston is no stranger to turning heads, but her latest collaboration with photographer David Blazze brings an unexpected twist—melding high-fashion flair with the playful nostalgia of a vintage arcade.
Shot against the neon glow and pixel-perfect backdrops of a retro game hall, the series captures Shelby in a mix of vibrant streetwear, bold makeup, and confident poses that channel both ‘80s arcade culture and contemporary style. From leaning over pinball machines to striking a pose beside old-school racing games, Shelby’s charisma brings the entire space to life.
“An arcade is a place where people come to escape, to have fun, to feel that adrenaline rush,” Shelby says. “We wanted to capture that same energy in the images—bright, bold, and a little bit rebellious.”
Photographer David Blazze is known for his ability to transform ordinary locations into dynamic fashion sets, and this shoot is no exception. By playing with colorful lighting, unique camera angles, and the natural movement of Shelby’s poses, Blazze created a cinematic series that blurs the line between editorial photography and pop art. “Shelby has this magnetic presence,” Blazze explains. “She can be elegant and edgy in the same frame, which made the arcade the perfect setting to showcase her versatility.”
The shoot also reflects a growing trend in fashion photography—bringing high-style concepts into unconventional environments. Rather than shooting in a sterile studio, Shelby and Blazze embraced the arcade’s visual chaos, using flashing screens, joystick consoles, and candy-colored prize machines as part of the storytelling.
With the final images already creating a buzz online, Shelby sees this project as a celebration of creativity without boundaries. “Fashion should be fun. It’s about expressing yourself, taking risks, and making a statement—whether you’re on a runway or next to a Pac-Man machine,” she says with a smile.
The arcade shoot not only highlights Shelby’s ability to adapt to diverse themes but also cements her reputation as a model unafraid to push the limits of style and setting. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to stand out is to play the game differently.
