It takes a village: Behind the scenes with EJ Geronimo, Adrian Sevilla, and Ica Villanueva
Behind your favorite performers is a huge team of creatives who work extremely hard to make sure every piece of the puzzle fits: from their hair and makeup to their music, choreography, and even staging and set design. You’ve also probably admired other specific aspects of their work, like how the cinematography in their music videos complements their sound or how their style fits exactly the concepts they’re going for.
We interviewed EJ Geronimo, Adrian Sevilla, and Ica Villanueva and asked them to give us a peek behind the curtain on your faves’ outfits, photos, and stage production.
EJ Geronimo is a photographer who has worked with Marina Summers, Christine Juliane Opiaza, and Arizona Brandy.
Adrian Sevilla is the CEO and one of the founders of Adonis Production House, a production house that produces drag shows, brunches, and events. They’ve worked with Viñas Deluxe, Shewarma, and Precious Paula Nicole.
Ica Villanueva is a stylist and currently works as BINI’s visual director.
The Philippine STAR: What is your creative process? Do you like to plan things out and seek inspiration?
EJ GERONIMO, PHOTOGRAPHER: My creative process is different for every shoot because every shoot is unique. Sometimes a concept starts with the wardrobe, sometimes with a certain mood or feeling, and sometimes with a conversation. There are also shoots where I don’t have a fully realized vision yet, but that doesn’t mean I go in blind. It’s more about trusting what the project could become.
A lot of that comes from experience and trust in the people I work with. I genuinely believe the best work comes from collaboration. I don’t think I hold all the creative ideas in the room. Some of my favourite projects were created alongside friends I’ve worked with for years, such as CJ Opiaza, Dia Mate, Arizona Brandy, Anita Rose Gomez, Mami Yaj, Michole, Randell, and many others.
ADRIAN SEVILLA, CEO AND CO-FOUNDER OF ADONIS EVENTS: I’m a pretty calm person, so I don’t like creating under pressure. I usually start with a simple idea and then build on it. Inspiration can come from anywhere, like travelling, conversations with friends, music, social media, or even random things I see throughout the day. I like having a plan, but I’m also open to changing things if a better idea comes along.
ICA VILLANUEVA, STYLIST AND VISUAL DIRECTOR: My creative process usually starts with getting to know the artist first. Before thinking about clothes or visuals, I try to understand them, the music, and the message we want to communicate. I gather references from fashion, art, film, architecture, history, and even everyday observations. From there, I build and develop concepts that align with the artist’s identity and also the theme of the event.
I like having a clear direction—I work with intention, but I also leave room for spontaneity because some of the best ideas happen during fittings, rehearsals, or conversations with the team. Creativity, for me, is a balance between preparation and being open to unexpected inspiration.
More and more people look at the “behind-the-scenes” aspects of their favorite artists and celebrities. How do you feel when your work gets praised or acknowledged? Have any messages stuck with you?
EJ: One moment that really stands out to me was working with my friend Marina Summers on the cover art for her single, Amafilipina. It was one of those projects where there wasn’t a rigid formula or roadmap. I simply trusted what the shoot could become.
When we saw the final output, we were incredibly happy with what we had created. But what made it special wasn’t just the image itself. It was seeing the impact it eventually had. I remember watching Marina perform Amafilipina on the Miss Universe Philippines stage and thinking, “Wow, we did that.”
ADRIAN: As a show producer, it always feels nice because a lot of the work I do happens behind the scenes. People usually only see the final show or event, so it means a lot when someone notices the effort that went into making it happen. The messages that stick with me the most are when people say they felt happy, inspired, or accepted because of something we created.
ICA: What means the most to me is when people recognize not just the aesthetics, but the thought and story behind the work. I’ve received messages from young creatives saying that seeing our work inspired them to pursue their own path. Those messages stay with me because they remind me that creativity has the power to encourage others, give hope, and create opportunities beyond the project itself.
What would you say would be the proudest moment of your career, or a highlight from your career so far?
EJ: I’m proud of the people photography brought into my life. When I find myself surrounded by people I met through this journey—people who inspire me, challenge me, and genuinely care about me beyond work—there’s always a moment where I think, “This is exactly where I’m supposed to be.”
ADRIAN: I think seeing Adonis Production House grow and watching our shows sell out is something I’m really proud of. But more than that, I love seeing the artists we work with grow and get opportunities. It’s nice to look back and see how far we’ve all come.
ICA: One of the highlights of my career has been building the visual identity of eight young Filipinas (BINI) on both local and international stages. I'm very thankful that the management gives me the creative freedom artists need to establish that certain confidence in creating a brand. Seeing the girls perform on global platforms and watching audiences connect and appreciate the visuals we’ve carefully crafted as a team has been incredibly fulfilling.
A particularly special moment was preparing for Coachella. It challenged us creatively and logistically, but it also showed how Filipino talent, craftsmanship, and storytelling can resonate with a global audience and leave a big impact. Being part of that journey is something I’m very proud of.
Is there someone you really want to work with or collaborate with?
EJ: There are definitely people and brands I admire, but more than a specific name, I’m interested in working with people who are passionate about what they do and are willing to create something meaningful together. Throughout my career, I’ve learned that great work comes from great collaboration. Some of the most rewarding projects I’ve done came from unexpected opportunities and relationships. I’m always open to working with creatives, artists, performers, and visionaries who challenge me to think differently and push my creativity further.
ADRIAN: There are honestly so many people I’d love to work with. I’m always excited to collaborate with creatives who have fresh ideas and aren’t afraid to try something different. For me, it’s less about the name and more about the energy and creativity they bring.
ICA: There are so many creatives I admire, both locally and internationally. I’m always drawn to artists/creatives who have a strong sense of identity and aren’t afraid to take creative risks. I would love to collaborate with people who push boundaries in fashion, music, and visual storytelling because those collaborations often lead to the most exciting ideas.
The recent Coachella experience made me realize just how big the world is. It inspired me to broaden my perspective, expand my knowledge, and seek new experiences that allow me to continue learning and growing.
Do you have any advice for someone wanting to get into your industry?
EJ: This industry is incredibly competitive, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. My biggest advice is to trust in what you can do and to see yourself where you want to be before you actually get there. A lot of my career was built on believing that I belonged in certain spaces and then working relentlessly to earn my place there.
Keep creating, keep improving, find the people who believe in your vision, and don’t be afraid to take opportunities when they come. Most importantly, trust the process and trust that what’s meant for you will find its way to you—as long as you’re willing to do the work.
I’d also like to give a special mention to my team. They’ve been there through the highs, the challenges, and the many creative risks we’ve taken. Much of what people see as my work is really a reflection of the collective passion and commitment that exists behind every project we create.
ADRIAN: Just start. A lot of people wait until everything is perfect, but you learn so much by actually doing. Be nice to people and be professional. Opportunities usually come from the relationships you build, so start building your network. Also, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there; you never know who’s watching.
ICA: Stay curious and never stop learning. And when you give, give it your all. Don't settle.
Don’t wait for big opportunities to start creating. Build your portfolio with whatever resources you have, collaborate with friends, and treat every project as a chance to learn. Be humble, be reliable, and be kind to the people you work with. Talent is important, but professionalism and consistency are what help sustain a long-term career.
Most importantly, develop your own point of view. Trends come and go, but having a unique perspective is what makes your work memorable.
