SECOND Magazine is a photography-driven editorial publication that celebrates the beauty and character of thrifted objects. The project grew from my personal love of thrifting and the thrill of discovering hidden gems that carry stories from the past and find new life in a new home. Every photograph in the magazine features items I personally found while thrifting, styled and captured to highlight their texture, craftsmanship, and quiet elegance. The goal was to elevate second-hand objects through thoughtful photography and editorial design, showing that overlooked items can hold as much beauty and value as something brand new.
This project is deeply personal to me because thrifting is something I genuinely love. The magazine became a way for me to share that experience visually by documenting the process of searching, discovering, and appreciating objects that might otherwise be forgotten. Through careful styling, lighting, and composition, I wanted each photograph to feel intentional and almost archival, honoring the unique character of each piece.
All photographs were taken and edited by me, using a digital camera and Adobe Lightroom to refine tone, contrast, and color while preserving the natural character of the objects. The magazine layout was designed in Adobe InDesign, using editorial grid systems, varied image sizes, and deliberate negative space to create a refined, collectible publication. Typography and pacing were carefully considered to guide the viewer through the pages, allowing each object to feel like its own discovery.
Beyond the magazine, SECOND expands into a cohesive brand system centered on the culture of thrifting and collecting. The project includes a curated kit designed for thrift enthusiasts, featuring a canvas bag, an emerald-green tassel, a branded measuring tape for sourcing furniture and decor, and printed guides highlighting favorite California thrift locations and tips for identifying valuable pieces, such as distinguishing glass from crystal. Branded apparel further extends the identity, positioning SECOND as both a publication and a lifestyle.
