Men With Style: BJ Pascual, Fashion Photographer

The 37-year-old Filipino fashion photographer knows how to have fun with fashion and push boundaries.

By Gracia Phang - published 26 Sep 2025

“When John Galliano commented on one of my shoots: ‘The colourama drama sophistiquée’, I nearly passed out,” quips the fashion photographer, who has 16 years of experience shooting campaigns, fashion editorials and covers under his belt, including our May 2025 cover featuring Niana Guerrero.

Aside from his outstanding body of work, BJ Pascual extends his love for fashion into his personal style, where he is unafraid to experiment with silhouettes, colours and makeup. Blessed with a boyish charm and easygoing personality, Pascual lives and breathes fashion in the most fun way possible.

What was your first fashion memory?

“My first fashion memory would have to be the Spice Girls. They made me realise how fashion could instantly switch up your personality or how people saw you. it was the first time I became obsessed with owning a specific piece: platform sneakers. They were difficult to find in the Philippines back then, but I eventually got my hands on a suede pair from Skechers. Close enough!”

How would you best describe your style?

“Cute, experimental, pop star! My childhood dream was to be a pop star, but I can’t carry a tune to save my life. I guess now it comes through not just in how I dress, but also through my work as photographer.”

Who is your style inspiration?

G-Dragon during his 2025 world tour show in Paris
Photo: Courtesy of Chanel

“I’ve had many style inspirations over the years. From Robert Mapplethorpe’s raw, minimal sensuality, to David Bowie’s fearless reinvention, to G-Dragon’s effortless blend of streetwear and high fashion. Each of them pushed boundaries in their own way, and that’s what inspires me most.”

In your line of work, who do you look up to, and why?

“I’ve always looked up to Richard Avedon, Steven Meisel, Paolo Roversi, and David LaChapelle. Avedon for his ability to capture movement and emotion with such clarity, Meisel for his incredible range and storytelling across eras and aesthetics, Roversi for the sheer poetry and softness in his work—and LaChapelle for his bold, surreal, hyper-saturated worldbuilding. They’ve all shaped the way I see beauty, light, and fashion in completely different but equally powerful ways.”

What is the most treasured piece in your wardrobe?

“My grandfather’s vintage Rolex is something I treasure. I definitely get my love of nice things from him—and more than anything, it reminds me of him. Lately, I don’t see him as much, and wearing it makes me feel close to him.”

What is your favourite runway collection of all time?

“Balenciaga spring/summer 2008! I was so obsessed when it came out—the futuristic florals, the sharp silhouettes; everything about it felt so new. Fast forward to 2024, I wore a skirt version in the floral print from look 9 when I judged an episode of Drag Race Philippines. Such a fun, full-circle moment!”

How do you think your Asian heritage has shaped your style and how you view fashion?

“Compared to the West, I feel like Asian men have become more comfortable in embracing their femininity, and I love being part of that shift. I shop in both the men’s and women’s sections to create looks that feel true to me. Lately, I’ve been experimenting more with makeup too—it’s become such a fun, essential part of how I express myself.”