Time seems to stand still as Michele Reis steps into the Lou Lim Ioc Garden in São Lázaro, Macau. Under the nostalgic lens of renowned photographer Wing Shya, the former actress once again transforms into an elegant leading lady as she roams between the lush lotus leaves of the tranquil Suzhou-styled garden.
This is your first time shooting a cover for VOGUE Hong Kong. How was the experience for you?
Collaborating with VOGUE Hong Kong this time was quite a process due to scheduling conflicts. Before my cover shoot was confirmed, I was excited but also uncertain about how the photographs would turn out. What would the final result be? What kind of state would the photographer and I be in? Considering that I would be flying in from abroad the day before my shoot in Macau, would everything fall into place? As the shoot date approached, however, I became more and more excited.
Fortunately, the final outcome of the shoot was fantastic! The team was extremely professional and surprised me. It was a joyful experience for me, and the whole process was smoother than I had imagined. It’s been a while since I last shot with film, which feels completely different from digital photography. With digital, you can keep taking photos continuously. There is a unique charm to Wing Shya’s film lens. I’m really looking forward to seeing the final printed version.
Dress and pants, Giorgio Armani. Les Pétales Place Vendôme necklace in white gold, akoya cultured pearl and diamond. Bracelet in white gold, white south sea cultured pearl and diamond, all Mikimoto.
How do you feel about shooting at the Lou Lim Ioc Garden in Macau?
I think the Lou Lim Ioc Garden is very special. I’d never been there before, so I wandered around upon my arrival. From the outside, you only see tall buildings — I didn’t know there were Grotto-heavens inside. Every corner was picturesque. The garden is incredibly beautiful with its small bridges, flowing streams and art galleries. The most memorable moment for me was shooting on the winding stone bridge over the pond, where I was surrounded by lush lotus leaves. There are traces of Suhou influences everywhere. Being able to shoot in this garden was a pleasant surprise for me.
Dress and shoes, all Prada. Necklace in white gold, akoya cultured pearl, aquamarine and diamond, Mikimoto
It’s been a while since you were in front of the camera. How did you prepare for this shoot?
Whether I am working or not, I always try to keep myself in a good state because I would be under a lot of pressure if I only prepared myself when it’s time to work. My goal is to be in my best condition at all times and be ready for work. However, I also remind myself not to put too much pressure on myself because stress is the biggest hindrance to good performance. (laughs) The shoot was challenging because I was in Malaysia for work the day before, and I returned to Hong Kong really late. When I set out for Macau the next morning, I was worried that I wouldn’t be mentally prepared for the shoot and that my skin wouldn’t be in good condition. Fortunately, the team was a great help, and the shoot turned out well.
Top, blazer, pants, scarf, shoulder ring and belt, all Saint Laurent by Anthony Vaccarello. Les Pétales Place Vendôme earrings in white gold, akoya cultured pearl and diamond, Mikimoto.
What have you been up to lately? How has life been after the pandemic?
Recently, I have been focusing on the JMJ Children’s Charitable Foundation and investing in my health and that of my family. After the pandemic, I’ve learnt how to live in the present. I feel more grateful, and I cherish the time I spend with my family and friends. I have also taken more time to take care of my physical and mental well-being. These things are all very important.
What hobbies have you picked up lately?
Right now, I have a strong desire to learn new things because I am someone who enjoys learning. Recently, I have been enjoying practising Gyrotonic, and I am also learning how to play tennis. I learn something new from my children every day, so my days are busy and fulfilling!
How would you define your personal style?
My personal style is relatively simple. Although I have opportunities to explore different styles and types of clothing, I always gravitate towards a minimalist, classic look, which suits me best.
Blazer, skirt and shoes, all Prada. Earrings in white gold, white south sea cultured pearl and diamond, Mikimoto.
Family has always been a priority for you. How have you found strength in your family?
My immediate family provides me with a lot of encouragement and emotional support. Regardless of whether I am happy or sad or how others perceive my successes or failures, they have always been a source of comfort for me. Their support has been very important to me and has made me understand the significance of family in different stages of life. Later on, when I formed my own family, I realised the power of love and sacrifice for my loved ones. Seeing them happy and content brings me joy and motivates me. Despite the occasional argument or moments of frustration, we still make the effort to understand each other, and that brings me comfort.
If you could give your 20-year-old self some life advice, what would it be?
Dare to try more things without fearing failure. Your twenties are a time where you can make mistakes, learn from them and understand yourself. Don’t care what other people say. The more you fear failure, the more you will feel lost, so just unapologetically be you and try to get to know yourself along the way.
Dress and shoes, all Giorgio Armani. Earrings in white gold, white south sea cultured pearl and diamond. Brooch in white gold, akoya cultured pearl and diamond. Les Pétales Place Vendôme ring in white gold and diamond, all Mikimoto.
Photography: Wing Shya
Creative and Fashion Direction: Sean Kunjambu
Executive Producer: Katherine Ho
Makeup Artist: Pinky Ku
Hair Stylist: Kolen But
Producer: Wendy K. Stoker @CIRRUS Productions
Gaffer: Samuel Chan
Lighting Assistants: Sun Wing Chung, Ho Kin Kui & Fox U Heng Wa, King Pun & Tashika Cheang
Fashion Assistants: Foxla Chiu & Timothy Tse
Production Assistants: Tony Tam, Kiwi Im & Lewis Kou @CIRRUS Productions
Seamstress: Lora Lo
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VOGUE HONG KONG
