Frame Forge EP.1: Grogu Toy Photography Edit Challenge
What happens when two toy photographers swap RAW files and take over each other’s edits?
As toy photographers, we spend countless hours dialing in our own lighting, framing, and diorama setups. We get comfortable with our specific color grading habits and post-production tricks. But what happens when you hand your raw files over to someone else? That is the exact question that sparked our brand new series on the channel called Frame Forge.
The concept is straightforward. I collaborate with another creator; we agree on a figure to shoot, we take our photos in our distinct styles, and then we swap the RAW files. We each edit the other person’s photo however we see fit, bringing our own storytelling elements into the mix.
Enter Photo 2 Toys
For Episode 1, I am incredibly hyped to team up with Sebastian from Photo 2 Toys. If you are active in the toy photography community on Instagram, you have likely seen Sebastian’s work. He has a fantastic grasp of visual storytelling. Just look at his recent reels; instead of putting a figure in a vanilla pose, he relies on atmospheric lighting and clever composition to build a narrative that hooks you instantly. I knew his style would be perfect for this file exchange.
We decided to focus our lenses on a modern classic for this episode. We chose Grogu.
The Figure: Star Wars The Black Series Grogu
Before we started shooting, I made sure we were working with my preferred scale. I personally like to work in 3.5-inch and 7-inch scales. So, The Black Series Grogu is an excellent piece of engineering for its tiny footprint. What makes this scale essential for toy photographers?
• Lineage & Detail: Tracing back to the early Mandalorian waves, Hasbro has continually refined the paint applications and soft-goods robes.
• Environmental Scaling: When you take a 7-inch-scale figure outside, ordinary leaves, twigs, and moss suddenly transform into massive, alien terrain.
The Photo Exchange: Three Unique Takes
Once we finished our respective photoshoots, we swapped files and got to work. We narrowed our showcase down to three specific images that highlight how different editing choices change the entire story.
1. Priorities (The Frog Buffet)
For this shot, Sebastian set up an awesome practical tunnel using rocky textures. When I received his RAW file, it was a great low-angle framing of Grogu looking into a tunnel. I jumped into Photoshop to add a little Force levitation to complete the story. I composited several floating frogs around him. Mando might be standing right outside waiting for him, but Grogu is strictly focused on the all-you-can-eat frog buffet. It completely changes the mood of the shot into something much more humorous.
2. A Jurassic Galaxy
For my end of the photoshoot, I took Grogu straight into the dirt, setting up an outdoor crossover with a massive dinosaur looming right behind him. When I sent the files over, Sebastian brought the movie magic in post. His color grade completely amplified the natural moss and scales from the outdoor environment. It gives the scene this heavy, dense forest vibe. Mando isn’t around to bail him out of this one, and the lighting makes that isolation feel very real.
3. From Prey to Predator
This is the second edit Sebastian did of my outdoor crossover shoot, and it is easily my favorite surprise of the episode. When Mando leaves you alone for five minutes, you accidentally wander into Jurassic Park. I shot this practically in the dirt, but Sebastian took over the post-production and added a glowing green lightsaber to Grogu’s hand. That one single addition completely changes the dynamic from prey to predator. The way the green light reflects off the dinosaur’s scales is a brilliant touch.
The Power of Perspective
This entire raw file exchange challenge proved exactly why I wanted to start Frame Forge. It is incredibly easy to get stuck in a creative rut by using the same lighting setups and the same color grading adjustments. Handing your files over to a creator like Sebastian forces you to see your own dioramas through a completely different lens. The addition of the lightsaber or the subtle shift in atmospheric contrast completely redefines the story being told.
I cannot wait to see where this series goes next. Make sure to check out the full YouTube video to see the complete behind-the-scenes of my outdoor setup, the step-by-step Photoshop breakdowns, and my real-time reaction to seeing Sebastian’s final edits.
Which of the three edits is your favorite?
Be sure to drop a follow to Photo 2 Toys on Instagram to see more of his incredible work.
