Nike: Step into the Upside Down

The eerie glow of a red neon sign and the misty darkness of a familiar forest mark the entrance into the Stranger Things universe, perfectly setting the stage for Nike's Stranger Things Blazer Mid. In this project, we brought together the retro 80s aesthetic of Stranger Things with the iconic Nike Blazer Mid to create a composition that evokes nostalgia and mystery. The image is a tribute to both the classic Nike design and the otherworldly atmosphere of the popular Netflix show. The tagline, "Step into the Upside Down," invites viewers to experience the intersection of style, adventure, and a love for the 80s.

Project Description
Title: Step into the Upside Down: Nike x Stranger Things
Objective: The goal was to craft an immersive and visually striking image that communicates the fusion between the retro design of Nike Blazer Mid and the nostalgic elements of Stranger Things. The composition seeks to evoke the 80s atmosphere while showcasing the shoes as a tangible connection to the show's adventurous, dark, and mysterious tone.

Components:

• Digital Matte Painting

• Adobe Photoshop

• Creative Concept and Design

Creative Process

Concept Development:
The concept focused on blending the visual language of Stranger Things with Nike's legacy. By placing the Nike Blazer Mid in the familiar, eerie environment of the Upside Down, the design emphasizes both the retro style and the adventurous, mysterious feel of the show. The red neon light of the "Stranger Things" logo contrasts with the dark forest, drawing attention to the shoes while also hinting at the hidden dangers lurking in the Upside Down.

Image Composition:

• Background and Setting: The dark forest, bathed in the eerie red light, mimics the ominous tone of Stranger Things, evoking feelings of mystery and adventure. The glowing red neon sign, synonymous with the show's title card, reinforces the show's iconic visual identity while setting the backdrop for the Nike collaboration.

• Design of the Nike Blazer Mid: Positioned in the center, the shoes stand as a symbol of retro cool, a perfect match for the 80s-themed show. The crisp lines and bold red swoosh of the sneakers contrast sharply against the dark background, pulling focus toward the product. The subtle Stranger Things logo on the tongue further solidifies the collaboration's authenticity.

• Details and Enhancements: The combination of soft lighting and shadows creates depth, while the neon glow adds an element of surrealism, much like the Upside Down itself.

Photoshop Techniques:

• Layering and Blending: By combining various elements of the forest, neon signage, and the sneakers, the scene creates a harmonious fusion of the two worlds. Multiple layers ensured that the shoes naturally integrated into the dark forest scene, while blending techniques made the neon sign glow realistically.

• Lighting and Shadows: Red neon lighting was used to heighten the atmosphere, casting ominous shadows on the ground to immerse the viewer in the world of Stranger Things. Subtle lighting accents highlighted the textures of the Nike Blazer Mid.

• Color Grading: Red and black tones dominate the composition, reinforcing the eerie, supernatural vibe of the Upside Down, while keeping the focus on the bright red Nike swoosh.

The final image successfully communicates the fusion between Nike and Stranger Things. By placing the Blazer Mid sneakers in the show's dark and mysterious environment, the image captures the spirit of both brands in a bold, visually engaging composition. The project demonstrated the seamless blending of pop culture with a classic sneaker design, creating a piece that speaks to fans of both Nike and Stranger Things.

This case study showcases how creative storytelling and digital design can come together to amplify brand collaborations, turning a product into a part of a larger, iconic narrative.