—  About

Hermeilio Miguel Aquino (Kino) is a creative director, fashion photographer and filmmaker.

He is proud to be a Nikon European brand ambassador.

For his complete directing and DP work, please click here.

Kino is a visual artist who draws inspiration from diverse sources, creating a bold, dynamic style that blends techniques across stills and moving images. He is known for his ability to create striking scenes that leave a lasting impression on viewers.

His vast and intricate knowledge of the creative industry from every angle sets Kino apart. His career began behind the scenes, shooting backstage at prestigious events such as London and Paris Fashion Weeks and working as a creative content producer at Interpublic group, producing and shooting content across Proctor & Gamble, Pepsi, Zippo and various blue chip brands, where he honed his craft and developed a keen understanding of branding and advertising. This experience proved invaluable as he went on to work as a creative director for various brands, where he applied his creative vision across design, branding, photography and commercials. He is Defiant's co-founder and current creative partner—a strategy and creative agency in London. The client list is Semrush, Zoe, Deliciously Ella, and Work Life.

Kino is a member of The International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences ( IADAS)

With his unique background, Kino has become a sought-after artist whose work is celebrated for its originality, innovation, and sheer visual impact.

Awards

Royal Photographic Society Portrait Award 2023 - Shortlisted

Shortlisted British Photography Awards - Advertising 2023

Shortlisted British Photography Awards - Documentary 2023

Shortlisted British Photography Awards - Fashion 2023

Winner - Life Framer Youth Series Award

Shortlisted - Life Framer Series Award 2023

Creative on the Rise Award, 2022

Winner, Best Drama at the London Independent Film Festival, 2022 - Short film Wearing Thin

Honourable Mention, Berlin Music Video Award, 2022 - Oblivion

Exhibitions

  • World Bank HQ - New York City, 2023

  • Photo London Nikon Gallery - London, England 2023

  • Averted Disaster Awards - Brazil 2022

Talks

Photo London “The art of fashion photography”

Association of Photographers (AOP) “The future of AI and Photography”

London College of Fashion “How to create a mood board that sells”

Nikon Photography Series - Fashion

Nikon Photography Series - Photography & Self-Expression

Judge

The Webby Awards, The Lovie Awards and The Anthem Awards.

Selected clients

Fender, Jaguar, Range Rover, Aussie Hair, Russell & Bromley, ICI Paris XL, Pantene, Sony Music, Warner Music, Lenovo, BBC, Soho House, The World Bank, WaterBear Network, Nikon, People of all Nations, Deliciously Ella, Kite Eyewear, Three Mobile.

Guest Lectures

London college of Fashion; Art Direction

Selected Web & Publications

Contributor Magazine, Vogue Italia, Vogue India, PhotoVogue, Solstice Magazine Evening Standard, LBB, Nikon Magazine, & British Vogue