Always wanted to write for a magazine...

Positivity is a word that springs to mind when describing my next guest on the Alt Girl botherer blog. Today I’m delighted to be able to welcome the wondrous Temptation to my pages. I was first alerted to this magnificent model’s work via my facebook page; such stunning imagery, with powerful themes and emotions running throughout. To merely call Temptation a model would be a mistake, because along with superb images she also has a magnificent message. That message being everyone of us is beautiful, and we shouldn’t be shackled by anyone else’s idea of beauty. Talking with Temptation over the course of this interview has been an uplifting experience. I’ve so enjoyed researching her work, and so enjoyed putting this article together. I hope I am able to introduce some new fans to her work, and share her positive energy with all my readers.

Welcome Temptation. It’s great to be able to feature you on my blog. How are you doing today?
I’m doing great!! It has been an absolutely beautiful day today.

Model, artist, spokesperson, mentor, mother… I could go on and on about your amazing qualities Temptation. You’re a character and personality that I had to feature on my pages. I reached out to you after being introduced to your modelling, but there is so much to talk about in this piece. I’ll jump right in and ask where the “character” of Temptation comes from? Who is this positive and powerful woman in the photographs?
“Temptation” comes from a place where I used to want to be. I wanted to be desired, wanted, yet not in the way most may take that statement. I didn’t want men to drool over me or write me dirty messages, but I wanted to be wanted. I wanted people to look at my photos and be ‘Tempted’ to put themselves out there. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to show off their curves, their bodies to the world. I wanted them to be ‘Tempted’ to be bold and believe in their beauty. As I started to believe in myself and my beauty, I became more confident. I started to believe in the power within myself, the power I had to convey true confidence and self worth to others that may be lacking in those areas. 
When did your modelling journey begin? What was it that made you step in front of the camera that first time, and did you have any idea what to expect or where you wanted to go in the industry?                                                                My journey started back in 2010. I was feeling down and just really low about myself. I was trying to recover from a really bad eating disorder that I had and was having a pretty hard time. My sister has always wanted to be a photographer and the day she got her own pro camera she asked to take some photos of me. At first, I was a bit standoffish but I did it. I didn’t do it for her, or for me. I did it for other women struggling with the same issues. We looked over the photos and I was in pure shock. I LOVED them!!! They were beautiful and AMAZING! I was so proud of both of us. We continued to do these random shoots to build both of our skills and portfolios; little did I know it was also building my confidence. I started submitting my photos to different places but never thought I’d be where I am now!! Featured in 5 magazines, a few runway shows and a bunch of online publications!!!

You’ve been in the industry for over two years now, what can you remember from those first few shoots? What emotions did you experience in the lead up to your first shoot and how do you think those pictures turned out?
Oh geez!! I was soooo nervous!! It was so scary and I couldn’t really believe I was even doing it. I remember just thinking “Be pretty” “Loosen up” “Suck in your stomach” “Push out your booty” lol So many different things running through my mind. The photos actually turned out alright. They were for the NOH8 movement for gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgendered rights and I had a few featured on some different websites!

How do you feel about them term plus size model? Is it a title that bothers you as you make your way in your career, or is it more a badge of honour you wear that makes you stand out from the pack?
Well, I actually get this question a lot. The answer is simple, I am proud. I love who I am. Unlike the girl I was during my first few shoots, I love ME. I love my curves, my shape, my body… everything. And the fact of the matter is, I AM plus sized. I am curvy, I am a BBW, I am ME. I don’t mind being labelled as any of these things and when people see me doing what I do, they do see me as “That plus sized model, Temptation” and it doesn’t bother me one bit!

You’re as dextrous and agile as any model, and the body positions you’re able to achieve are wonderful. Do you do a lot of work on flexibility and posing?
I was a cheerleader for about 6 years in my teens and I’ve been able to hold on to a lot of my flexibility which is highly beneficial in my shoots actually. But, I do stretch as part of my routine before getting dressed for a shoot, just in case. I guess I never really have an exact plan of what I’m going to do, or how I’m going to pose during a shoot until I’m there and in the moment. But, I love the crazy, different poses that require a lot of skill and flexibility. 

I’ve noticed that emotion is an important weapon for you when you’re working. It’s incredible to watch you convey such strong feelings in a single frame. Do you have any performance background at all, any theatre or dramatic experience that you draw on while working?
No, I actually don’t. I am a very emotional person that can connect with any other emotion, feeling or situation presented to me, which definitely benefits me in my shoots. I’ve had shoots that are happy, where I’m literally smiling from ear to ear because of how the setting makes me feel, or shoots where the tears that you see are real because the concept of the shoot is so strong, and I literally feel all of it. I just try to feed off of the photographer, concept and situation. 

Such emotion is particularly evident in your “Kiss me to Death” shoot. This set has a real narrative to it, and every shot from it tells a story. Could you tell us a little more about that shoot? Was it a difficult state of mind to get into while shooting? What was the day like for you?
That shoot is very deep and personal for me. Someone that I love very much and was very close to is highly into drugs and is an alcoholic. They have hurt me a lot over the years but have hurt themselves even more. That shoot was to show what those things can do to you. I was drowning in the water, with a bunch of alcohol around me, wilted and dead rose petals in the water, money at the bottom of the tub and white powder on a glass tray. At first I had to take a few minutes to pull myself together because it was so powerful but once I did, my main focus was to save someone. Show them exactly how they could feel if they went down that road and by me actually living through it I was able to portray my own personal story along with these photos. It was a really emotional day, but soooo worth it!

Lush Moments Photography is a company that you have worked a number of shoots with. What is your relationship like with the guys over there? Do you bounce ideas off one another, or are you more their muse?
I have an AMAZING relationship with them. The company is actually owned by my sister and they are my favourite. We have both grown so much in a professional and personal manner. She is an awesome person and her work is ridiculously amazing!!!!! We work together on concepts and she always takes my opinion into consideration when planning shoots.

You’ve spoken many times about how you use the negativity of the world around you to get into certain moods to aid a shoot. The views and opinions within the modelling industry seem to feature regularly in your work. Can I ask what you think of the business today? Do you think there is enough equality in terms of representing different shapes, sizes and people?
Today, things are actually evolving. In the industry plus size women, clothing, shapes, sizes are coming more to the front of things, and people are starting to take notice of them. With that said, society as we know it is completely different. There are definitely people that think like I do, they have the “everyone is beautiful” state of mind but there are more of those that don’t have that quality. There is more hate that has to do with size than anything as of right now and it is heartbreaking but that is the reason I do this. I put myself out there so others can see that it is okay. It’s okay to be you and to love yourself regardless of your size, race, gender, sexual orientation, anything. I don’t know if there is enough equality as of now, but I do think we’re on our way there!
 You’ve been featured in a number of publications already Temptation, most notably Very Full Figured Magazine and Curvi Magazine. Publication and celebration is a goal for models today. What is it like for you when you see yourself in print or on sites, how do you feel knowing your work has inspired so many people?                                                                                      

Wow, well first of all it feels AMAZING. It is the best feeling to open a magazine and there I am! lol But, more than just feeling great because I’m showing the world my beauty, I feel great because I’m once again showing girls that look like me that it is okay to be you regardless. 

You’re based in Vegas, and as a foreigner over here in the UK when I think Vegas I think showgirls and burlesque. Would you say you have something of the Vegas showgirl in you? Do your surroundings influence your art at all, and what is it like living and working in the neon city?
I don’t think I have the ‘showgirl’ in me that most do, but I do think that Vegas influences and more so inspires my work. It is such a huge place with tons of opportunity and different places to shoot and work. I love it! 

There’s a distinctive message in some of your shoots Temptation, and you’re passionate in your dedication to showcasing the beauty in the world. I love how vehemently you appose negativity about appearance and weight. Is it a hard battle to face, or does the positive response your campaign generates help keep you going?
The positivity that I generate from my work and fans is so much motivation and is such a huge push that it cancels out the negativity for sure! Don’t get me wrong, I definitely get my share of hate mail but I rarely read it and I never let it affect or get to me. I love my fans!

Cosmetology is another avenue for your creativity, is it a skill that has influenced your career? Have you ever been inspired to shoot based on a technique or style you’ve created with make-up?
Oh for sure!! At the beginning I did my own make up for every shoot and actually did make up/hair for a few other plus size models. I feel like the creative side of me that loves cosmetology has played a huge part in my success. 

Do you do your own hair and make-up for shoots now? Or is it a joy to have it done for you sometimes?
It’s awesome having it done for me for once, since I spend so much time making others beautiful, but I do like to do it myself sometimes! Guess I’m kind of picky.

Another set of yours that I adore is the work you’ve done with Jessica Nichole. Particularly involving the styling and wardrobe choices of Kelley Palmer. In the pictures there is a distinct retro feel, and the style is very vintage indeed. Was that a fun shoot to be a part of; is the vintage style something you enjoy working within?
I love it!! People tell me all of the time that I should have been born in the 50’s because I love that style so much!! It was so much fun and they are both such joys to work with!

From all of your past shoots, is there a theme or style that you haven’t yet indulged in that you would really love to?
Hmm, fetish I think. I just got a few different latex items and corsets in the mail today, so I would love to shoot in those. Besides that, maybe something completely opposite and more commercial.

Yet another thing that impresses me about you and your work Temptation, is your willingness to give back and pass on your experiences. Conducting modelling workshops and speaking about your own trials and tribulations in the industry is something you’re dedicated to. What do you get out of those sessions, and where do you see that classes going? Perhaps a road show?
I get a lot of them! I feel like, if I can pass on my knowledge to another woman and help her get started in the industry, or just help her have a day where she’s pampered and made to feel beautiful, then my job is complete. I would LOVE to take Plus Size Dreams Workshop on tour eventually. That would be so much fun!

I couldn’t interview you without talking about a set of yours I refer to as “the body graffiti set”. These are the pictures where you have words such as “ugly” and “worthless” written on your skin. They are very powerful images, with a strong message behind them. Can I ask where the idea for this shoot came from? I already know it took a lot out of you to shoot, but would you revisit those emotions and tell us about posing with those words on you?                          The shoot idea came from me, I came up with the concept after I got the worst piece of hate mail I’ve gotten yet. It was horrible and although I am confident and know none of that is true, it made me sad that there were people that ignorant out there that really thought that way. So I pitched the idea to Lush Moments and we started working on it. The day of the shoot as the make up started being caked on to show a black eye, and my hair was ratted, the emotions started. It was painful to see myself look beat and battered but then the words started to get painted on my body and the tears started to flow down my cheeks. It wasn’t because I was hurt personally but I started to feel the hurt and pain from other girls. It was horrific. I felt for them and it hurt. When the second shot came around and I was able to get those words crossed off and the word “Beautiful” painted across my chest, I felt a sense of relief. I could breathe and I looked in the mirror as I have done many many times before and said “You are beautiful and you are worth it” 

The complete antithesis of the beginning of that shoot is the tattoos you actually have on your body now. There are some truly beautiful pieces, and inspiring messages. I know you must get asked about them all the time, but could you shed some light on some of your favourite designs, and what they mean to you?
Well, I have my sons name on my back which isn’t the prettiest but means a lot to me because he is my world. I also have a rose with my Mom’s name, angel wings with my baby sisters’ names, and a crown that represents my Mom’s maiden name “Crownover”. But, my favourite is my chest tattoo that says “You may think I’ve changed but I’ve just found myself” it is accompanied by a sparrow on each side that represents freedom. 

Lastly, before I let you go. It’s clear that your fans mean a great deal to you. You celebrate them on your pages, and love their feedback and interaction. Do you have a message for all of your supporters out there?
Yes, as I always tell you guys… I love you all. You area all beautiful and I believe in every single one of you. I appreciate the love and support that you have all shown me in the past few years, and I can’t image not having all of you by my side. I love sharing my journey with you so hold on, the ride isn’t over yet!!!

What projects are you working on at the moment? Where might fans be able to see your work in the near future?
I have a lot of different concepts and ideas to pitch but nothing set in stone yet except a wet shoot and a fetish shoot. But I’m always open for fan suggestions!!!

Can we please end with Bernard Pivot’s questionnaire:
What is your favourite word? Inspire
What is your least favourite word? Failure
What turns you on? Strength, Motivation, Courage
What turns you off? Laziness, bad hygiene
What is your favourite curse word? Tehehee, I curse A LOT. Uhm, I say F**K a lot. lol 
What sound or noise do you love? My son’s laugh, and my girlfriends voice
What sound or noise do you hate? My alarm in the morning! lol
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Well, I’ve already accomplished Cosmetology and I’m 1 month away from graduating Medical Assisting school, so who knows!
What profession would you not like to do? Hmm… I would hate to be a chef, or maid. lol Guess I’m not the housewife type
If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates? “Welcome home, thank you for exhausting all outlets I gave you… Now enjoy your destiny, you deserve it”

It was a real treat to be able to feature Temptation and her work on my blog. I can’t thank her enough for her enthusiasm and help putting the piece together. I’m honoured to be featuring her wonderful imagery and opinions here, and urge everyone to visit the link below for more information:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/TEMPTATiON/144760672292105

http://msgrimes78.wix.com/curvifall2012#!curvi-beauty-jessica-palmer/cklj

I am delighted to bring you my latest interview today. It’s with an armature photographer whose professionalism and quality have earned her rave reviews from the models she works with. The lady in question is Laura Hince, an artist whose work I have had the opportunity to appreciate thanks to some fine examples of her work appearing in previous interviews on this blog. Having photographed a few models that have featured here, it’s been my privilege to showcase her images in the past, and a real joy to get this opportunity to talk with her about her craft now. In this piece I was lucky enough to pick Laura’s brains about how she first got into photography, as well as her methods and equipment. Well versed in the art of photographing latex, I was also very excited to be able to hear some tales of shoots past from Laura, who shares her experiences of working with the wonderful material. As always I’m proud showcase talent from every spectrum of various industries; in Laura I bring you a dedicated and creative woman, whose story and passion are quite simply fascinating… 

 

Q: Welcome Laura. How are you? Always a treat to interview a photographer on this blog.
Laura: I’m very well thanks.
Q: I’m always interested in what drives individuals into their chosen field of expression. What was it for you that first made you pick up the camera and start taking photographs?
Laura: Well from an early age I can remember my dad always had to have the latest compact camera that was available, he also showed me how to use a Polaroid camera for the first time. He wasn’t interested in photography as such but he was always snapping away on holidays and at family events, so I was always playing around with cameras. However the big turning point for me was studying Media Moving Image at Oldham College. My class were the guinea pigs, as it was the first year of that particular course, and it was fantastic. It was an introduction to numerous fields in media; mainly writing, editing and production for video and radio. We were using video cameras and stills on a daily basis to construct storyboards. So that’s where my passion for cameras and lighting really kicked in.
Q: Did you have a particular inspiration in terms of photography; was there someone who you admired while you learnt, or even before you began that journey?
Laura: I have been a fan of Philip Warner aka Lithium Picnic for years. For me his work with the suicide girls was quite ground breaking, and his influence in the field of alternative photography has been huge. His images are sexy and playful and full of personality from both his perspective and the models’. In my eyes he made alternative erotica more palatable for a mainstream audience, and that can only be a good thing when it comes to breaking the mould of what is deemed beautiful and sexy. I’m also a fan of Ellen Von Unwerth and Helmut Newton; black and white photography is a field that I would like to explore in more depth at some point in the future.

Q: Speaking of learning your trade, you studied at Manchester Metropolitan University, how was that course and the experience in terms of shaping your method and approach to taking photographs?
L: Manchester Met is where my qualification came from, but the course was mainly taught at Manchester City College and we only went to the University for a weekly-lecture. To be honest I wouldn’t recommend going to University to study a subject like that to anybody. Maybe it’s a case that I’m slightly jaded as a result of missing over half of my course due to spending a lot of time in hospital. I’d probably recommend going for a night class, or a lot of photographers do tutorials. Spend your money on something like that and a good book and just get hands on experience. Playing around and experimenting and just getting in a studio and networking is what set me off in the right direction, not a foundation degree. I think some tutors are very narrow minded and if your work doesn’t fit what they are looking for then you are on the back foot from the start. It can become tiresome and degrading trying to mould your own style to fit somebody else’s vision. However the one plus I did take away from University was with their constant criticism of the direction I wanted to take, it did make me dig my heels in and make me more determined to stick to my guns and continue with alternative portraits. That’s what kept me sane.
Q: I’ve always felt that photography is a much underrated skill; with too many people thinking it’s an easy profession to break into. Do you think photography can be taught, or does the individual need a certain “eye” and passion for the craft?
L: I believe you need passion for anything you want to do or else it becomes a chore rather then something exhilarating. I think in an era when camera phones are progressing at such a rate, there’s no excuse for people not to have fun playing around with pictures and experimenting. However to become a photographer I do believe you need an eye for detail, such as distractions in the background or framing etc. Just taking my mum for example, her photos would improve tremendously if she took the time to notice that she was cutting the top of people’s heads off in almost all of her shots! Then again the “egg cup” shot is meant to be the in thing at the minute, so maybe she’ll prove to be more successful than me in the near future.

Q: Your portfolio is a joy to behold, I had a great time looking through it while researching this interview. The female form and female models feature prominently, is that subject matter something that you enjoy capturing? It must be a wonderful challenge trying to portray something so familiar yet so uniquely versatile.

L: Thank you very much. It’s not really something I have thought about to be honest. From time to time I place casting calls on ModelMayhem and I do put it out there for male and female models, however I hardly ever get male models interested in working with me. On the odd occasion when they have, they have proven to be quite unreliable, and haven’t even bothered to text to say they can’t make a shoot. It has made me quite wary. So I haven’t chosen to concentrate on women it has just worked out that way, but I wouldn’t change it for the world. I have had the pleasure of working with some amazing people over the past couple of years, and as you said, the female form is uniquely versatile and I have also found that women are more then willing to suffer for their art. Whether that’s contorting themselves into unimaginable poses or tottering around in skyscraper heels. They give you their all and the results tend to be amazing.
Q: I notice that you’ve worked with a delightful model called Whiplash in the past; I always have to ask about this talented lady as she’s a good friend to this blog. How did that collaboration come about, and what is she like to shoot with?
L: She is fantastic isn’t she! I have had the pleasure of working with her twice. The first time came about after I posted a casting call regarding a collaboration I was doing at the time with latex designer Little Rubber Cherry. Whiplash was chomping at the bit to take part and I was over the moon to work with a model of her calibre. The second time we worked together was for a shoot that was going to be filmed for LatexGirlsHD, this involved working with the amazingly talented film producer Cole Black and latex designer Pandora Deluxe. Whiplash sent me a message simply entitled “Latex” and that was that, I was already onboard before I’d even read the rest. She was just asking if I was interested in taking part as we had, had so much fun working together the first time. The icing on the cake was when I saw the outfits and that we were shooting “The Riddler” dress. Now I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m a bit of a geek, and that the whole “Ka-Pow” range of outfits is just drool worthy. As for what it’s like working with Whiplash; she is the ultimate professional, always punctual and well prepared and we always have a giggle. We can chat about everything from games and movies to each others latest projects.
Q: Another theme that I am very pleased to see peppered through your portfolio is latex. You’ve shot some dazzling pictures of models wearing my most favourite of materials. Can you tell us a little bit about your relationship with latex? As an observer I love to look at latex imagery, do you feel that latex garments transform or enhance the wearer at all?
L: Well as far as my relationship with latex goes, I have a couple of small items but I’m not really a latex wearer as I don’t feel I could pull it off. I believe that it transforms and enhances the wearer. From a physical point of view it pulls you in and seems to do wonders in enhancing the cleavage. But it also seems to draw out a different side to the wearer’s personality. I think the best example of that was a shoot I did with Strawberry Venom. We started by shooting some regular outfits for a clothing company called “Not for Ponies” and she seemed like a fish out of water modelling those clothes. The minute she put on her latex outfit though she was back to her majestic best; strutting her stuff and posing like a trouper, she felt sexy again and that just brought out her confidence.

Q: What have you found it’s like working with latex clad ladies? Is there a different energy on a set, and do you see models struggling to move about at all? I always love to hear behind the scenes accounts of shoots that involve latex.
L: Yeah I think there is a different atmosphere. I found it so hard when I first started. On my second photo shoot I had one model that said “will you hold my boobs while I zip this up?” and “how do my boobs look in this pose?” I stood there not sure how to react, because while we were all women together, it’s not a question I was use to answering. Now 3 years down the line that’s just normal, as is chatting about games and movies while the women around me are semi or completely naked. I don’t blink an eye anymore. The best behind the scenes story I have happened last year when I had a model in the studio and we were shooting for Little Rubber Cherry. She hadn’t worked with latex before so she was getting changed into a bra and knickers set while I was shooting another model. I could suddenly hear a twanging noise and giggling behind me. I turned around and she was just stood there pulling and snapping the side of her knickers because she loved the sound that it made! Everyone in the studio was killing themselves laughing at her enjoyment. It’s because of moments like that, that I will never get bored working in this field of photography. Most models say latex is like wearing a sexy shiny second skin, though it does get very warm. But I have to say, the thing that tends to hinder movement the most is some of the crazy shoes that I have shot.

Q: How would you describe your working style? What would you say is your ideal working atmosphere?
L: I hope that people that have worked with me would say that I’m friendly, quick and efficient. Models in the past have laughed at me for fussing over small details and playing with my lighting a lot. For me, banter in the studio is a must; on average I tend to have 4 models in at a time so there’s always something going on, and I also make sure there is plenty of metal/rock music playing as I work.
Q: Do you like models to bring their own ideas and improvise during shots, or is it important for you that you get your ideas across first, before any improve occurs?
L: I tend to say; “right here are my ideas for the shoot, what do you think and is there something else you want to shoot in the time that we have available?” I would be really disappointed if a model felt they couldn’t give their input. I want everyone that takes part in the shoot to get something that they are happy to add to their portfolio.

 

All images used in this piece were taken by Laura and feature the following models/MUA in order of appearance:

1)    NeeChee Neko (model)

2)    Emma Dion (model) Amy Pilkington (MUA)

3)    Abbie Mac (model) Zoe Rhodes (MUA)

4)    Whiplash (model) Pandora Deluxe (latex)

I’m back with another interview for you folks, and this one is with the very beautiful, very talented, Alice Cat. I’ve been wanting to do something with Alice since the end of last year, and a number of things have gotten in the way of attaining that goal. But finally now everything has fallen into place and I’m thrilled to be able to bring you our collaboration. I first came across Alice’s modelling work on a social networking site called “the Alt Collective” where she was already getting rave reviews for her contributions. From there I sought out her website and model mayhem page and was hooked. In the process of researching and planning this interview I have discovered a multitude of different aspects of Alice’s work that I was previously unaware of, and it’s been a joy as an admirer of her out put. I’m sure like me you’ll find this piece chocked full of passion, personality and wit, all traits that can also be associated with the imagery she produces. As fortune would have it, I have also caught Alice in the midst of launching her own jewellery and accessory company called Fair Fiorita. Yet another creative outlet for this remarkable lady.

 

Q: Hello there Alice, welcome to my blog, how are you doing today?
Alice Cat: I’m very well thank you! I’m stoked because I’m launching my business Fair Fiorita today, very exciting.
Q: I was first introduced to your work through “the Alt Collective” where I was totally captivated by your look and work. Was modelling a childhood ambition of yours at all? How and where did you begin your journey?
Alice Cat: It actually wasn’t, I always wanted to be an actress. I fell into modelling via my love of pin-up. I wanted some photos done in that style, so I asked my partner to take some photos down the beach, posing with my friend’s Morris Minor. Then I had another shoot with a photography student friend of mine in a hotel room. I found out about Model Mayhem and joined with the photos I’d had taken, and the bookings came from there! One month later and I had my first paid shoot - I was thrilled!
Q: Did you find the modelling industry a welcoming one? How were your first few shoots as a newbie? Were there any negatives or difficulties in particular you had to overcome?
Alice Cat: I’ve found the industry wonderful. Although I don’t really work in the “real” industry, just the alternative and internet one! But yes, I’ve found the majority of people to be lovely. As a newbie my first few shoots were with some very talented and experienced photographers which I think definitely helped me get off on the right foot. I haven’t dealt with difficulties as such, just the usual things that every model has to go through; learning what poses suit your body shape, how to do make-up properly… I’ve loved every second of it!
Q: As I’ve mentioned, I’m a big fan of your look, your raven hair against pale skin is beautiful, and your styling choices in shoots and in everyday are wonderful. Have you spent any time cultivating a “look” or signature style at all, or is it just you?
AC: Thank you! And it’s just me really. I’ve always loved having pale skin so I make sure I look after it and I don’t go within a mile of fake tan. Black hair is just the colour I went to after having my hair dyed bright red throughout secondary school, sort of as a statement of my womanhood if you like… It’s a look that is easy to maintain and can be switched to suit any style, from gothic to pin-up to fashion, so I’ll be keeping it for a while I think.

Q: What are your views of the modelling industry as someone who works within it? Did you have any idea what the work would be like before you started out, and have those ideas been changed at all during your career?
AC: There are many different levels of “working in the industry”, and I’m fairly close to the bottom rung! I’m very critical of myself and I believe I’m still very much a tiny fish in an enormous ocean of mermaids. I think a lot of people concern themselves with how many “fans” they have on their Facebook page and other trivial things, when really, that’s not the real industry. It just isn’t. To me, being a real model involves being signed with a London agency and playing with the big boys, modelling for L’Oreal and Calvin Klein, not working TF with Phil from down the road who usually photographs squirrels. I’m still learning and trying to get my foot in the door.
Q: How does someone in your position learn a craft like modelling? Is it something you’ve just jumped into and learnt as shoots progress, or are there ways of practicing and perfecting certain aspects of the job?

AC: I can’t speak for anyone else, but personally, I just learnt as I went along. Little things like practising poses probably helps, but more than anything, completely immersing myself in my modelling jobs and by looking at the images of others is how I’ve learnt. I think my acting experience has helped immensely as well, it’s easy to switch between emotions and “get into character”.
Q: I’m always blown away by the range and variety of shots you exhibit in your portfolio. Everything from fetish to elegant beauty shots, you’re prolific at the lot! Is there a certain genre of modelling that you prefer, or are you happy mixing it up?
AC: At the moment I’m dabbling with a bit of fashion work, which is surprisingly challenging! Never before in a shoot have I stopped and gone “Crap, I don’t know what to do next”, until I started doing fashion. That’s what I love about it though, it’s something I’ve done little of and I’m really enjoying pushing myself to learn new things again.

Q: I adore the work you’ve done with Charis Talbot, the two of you have collaborated on quite a number of photographs. Could you share your thoughts on these collaborations, and what it’s like working with a photographer who captures so many sides and facets of you?
AC: I love Charis, pure and simple. I love the way she edits, I love how she’s so passionate and knowledgeable, it’s always exciting working with her and receiving new images from her. Her images are some of my absolute favourites in my portfolio, and always will be.

Q: Fun and personality is something I always associate with your work. From candid snaps and outtakes, to the shoots themselves, you always seem to enjoy the process. Is the atmosphere on a set important to you? Is there an ideal way you like to work?
AC: I’m actually fairly shy and I struggle to make conversation with people I don’t know well, so I think that the whole acting the clown thing just lightens me up and breaks the ice for me. I like for there to be some music if possible, just a radio on in the background will do! It’s fun if there’s a couple of people there apart from myself and the photographer, like a MUA or another model, just because you can all bounce ideas off one another and it makes the atmosphere buzz more.

Q: On the subject of collaboration, are there any artists out there at the moment that you’d love to work with, or a project/theme of shoot you’d love to get involved with?
AC: Oh there are lots! I have a list of “must work withs” that I’m hoping to start on this year. I’m keen to do more charity work, there’s a few I have my eye on.
Q: You’ve dabbled with some nudity and implied nude previously, do you have any hang-ups when it comes to nudity in your work Alice? Is it a big deal today when a shoot calls for some degree of nudity?
AC: I’ve never done nudity, implied or otherwise, for an official photoshoot. The recent implied photos were actually done with my partner, who’s practising to become my “in house” photographer. I don’t have hang ups about being naked, I love the female form, but I’m fully aware that once you start doing topless/implied/nude in photoshoots, you’re in danger of being pigeon holed and of having people ask only for those genres and nothing else. I’m more interested in beauty and fashion type projects at the moment, so I’m holding off on doing any nude work. There’s just no need to right now, I’m doing okay!
Q: I have to mention FRONT magazine in this interview and congratulations are in order for your recent Alt Girl DIY showing in issue 169. I was wondering how you felt getting into the publication, and what your thoughts and feelings are about the mag in general?
AC: It was really cool! I’ve always loved the fun, tomboy style of the models in FRONT, in particular I’m a huge Vikki Blows fan. I take inspiration from the magazine when it comes to doing lingerie shoots.

Q: I love talking tattoos with interviewees and I can’t let you go without asking about yours. You have two distinct pieces on your body, would you be so kind as to tell us about your ink, and the decisions/ideas that went into getting them?
AC: My first piece was a very generous freebie from David Roberts of Maverick Tattoo Studio in Tenby. I’d done a shoot at the tattoo studio with The Pix Factory and at the end of the shoot he offered me a free tattoo! Obviously I said yes! I had initially planned on having a couple of paw prints, but then went to him with the idea for an Alice in Wonderland piece… I’ve always loved the story and thought it’d be very pretty. I left creative freedom entirely up to him and the result is wonderful! I love how it curves with my body, the colours, everything. It’s perfect. My second piece was done at Hidden Jewel Tattoos in Carmarthen by Chessy. It’s a pink and purple bow with a turquoise background and hearts, at the top of my right forearm. I intend to add more cute tattoos around the same area, turning it into a mini sleeve… There’ll be bats, a rainbow, stick figures, smiling stars, an angel cat, an ankh, a ghost, a balloon…! I have it all planned, I just need to get an artist to sort the design out for me. I’ll undoubtedly go to Chessy again as she has this signature cutesy, feminine style which is why I went to her for the bow in the first place. I want some more traditional pieces on my calves too, so I think Dave will be the man for those.
Q: As a bonus to doing this interview, during the research process I stumbled upon your YouTube channel. I had no idea you had a presence on the site, and loved your videos not only for your gorgeous Welsh accent but also your entertaining reviews. Are you looking to branch out with more videos at all Alice?
AC: Thank you! I’m hoping so, the internet is an extremely powerful tool and if nothing else it’s fun to make those videos. I’m flattered that people are interested enough to watch them.
Q: I mentioned Wales, and being a proud Welshie myself I have to dwell on it. You come from the gorgeous Pembrokeshire area, and base your work in the south of the country as well as periodic trips to England. I was wondering if you could say a little something about working in Wales, is it somewhere where the modelling “scene” is thriving?
AC: I’ll be honest, it isn’t thriving here. It’s become a bit of a vicious circle where everyone’s working for free, so the more serious models, make-up artists, and photographers who deserve to be paid are getting over looked. I still get paid work through the studio I am with and I get bookings via my website, but it’s pretty difficult at the moment! I’d love to go full time but it’s just not possible, and it’s a real shame. I’d love for Wales to have a better modelling scene than it does
but as it stands, London is still the place to be! I’m applying for more jobs up there and looking to do more promotional and acting work in between.

Q: Before I ask the final questionnaire question, can you tell us what projects you’re working on at the moment Alice? Where will we be able to see your work in the near future?
AC: Well I have literally just launched my jewellery and accessory company Fair Fiorita, which is a real mishmash of retro, cutesy, surfer, indie type bits and bobs, there’s something for everyone! I have multiple tastes and styles and I think a lot of other women are the same, I like to chop and change between what persona I want every day. I’m aiming to provide that for others with Fair Fiorita. Apart from that I’m focusing on applying for agencies up in London.
Q: Finally can we end on the Bernard Pivot questionnaire?
What is your favourite word? Herro (it’s one of those that makes me smile when I say it)
What is your least favourite word? I don’t have one. I like words.
What turns you on? Nice hands.
What turns you off? Bad breath.

What sound or noise do you love? Rain (only if I don’t have to go out in it though!)
What sound or noise do you hate? Crying babies. Honestly makes my heart ache, I’m stupidly maternal.
What is your favourite curse word? The classic; Fuck.
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I’d love to try my hand at photography one day.
What profession would you not like to do? I know everyone always says this, but I’d hate a stereotypical 9-5 office job. Or any 9-5 job really. I can cope with part time work, but really I think I’m too independent and strong willed for full time. I want my own business and to manage my own time, for sure.

If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates? It’s not your time yet.

 

As I mentioned at the start of this piece, working with Alice has been something I’ve wanted to do for ages. It’s been an absolute pleasure to feature her on my blog, and I have to applaud her professionalism and candour during the interview. I am so happy with the finished article and I hope I have generated some more attention for a really wonderful woman and her work. I’ll put some links below for you to learn more about Alice, and I hope you’ve enjoyed reading this piece as much as I enjoyed writing it.

http://www.FairFiorita.com

http://alice-cat.tumblr.com

http://www.alicecat.co.uk

 

All images used were provided by Alice, and photographer credits follow in order of appearance:

Charis Talbot

Charis Talbot

Charis Talbot

Donald Mannering

Charis Talbot

I’ve got to be careful how I type the beginning of this interview post, a slipped keystroke could be a catastrophe; here goes. The CULT of Abbie Mac has been all-consuming for me since her debut in FRONT’s DIY section (issue 165), and while this tremendous young model would never describe herself as a cult figure, I’ve enjoyed pursuing her career to date as such. When I first turned to page 59 of FRONT issue 165, Abbie’s DIY inclusion jumped from the page, and her images stayed with me. I implored FRONT to feature this unknown lady in a full Alt Girl shoot, and to my sheer delight they decided to in issue 167! I felt like someone who sees a band in their local, before they get their record deal, and it spurred me on to find more of Abbie’s work and approach her for an interview. I was very happy when she obliged, and during our conversations I found Abbie to be a unique, ambitious and down to earth woman, with a geeky side that’s out of this world and an incredible sense of humour. She’s a fascinating model, with her career in front of her. I feel very lucky to be able to feature Abbie at the beginning of said career, and am look forward to following her work closely in the future.

Q: Welcome Abbie, it’s wonderful to have you on my blog, you’ve become a bit of a cult hero for me since your first appearance in FRONT magazine. How are you doing?

Abbie Mac: I’m doing really well thanks, just got over a ridiculous 3 weeks of having every illness known to man so I’m finally fighting fit again and it feels awesome!

Q: That’s good news. Would it be correct to say you’re relatively new to the modelling game? How long have you been doing shoots, and how did you first get involved with the biz?

Abbie Mac: Yeah, I’m only a baby in terms of modelling really. I’ve been doing shoots now since about January - not a long time but I’ve been cramming them in wherever I can! Modelling was never something that crossed my mind for a long time - I didn’t even really wear makeup until I was 18, I’m not the girliest of girls. At the beginning of December I honestly don’t know what came over me, but I decided to send some photos into Front on a whim. I didn’t think anything would come of it but quite soon after I got an email saying I’d made it into the magazine and it all kind of went from there really!

Q: Would you say you’re looking at modelling as a career for the future? Or a hobby that you’re enjoying at the moment?

Abbie Mac: It’s definitely something I’d love to progress in - a the moment it’s a hobby and I’m really enjoying it, I love transforming into a different person for each shoot and I’m learning a lot. It would be great to make it into a career but I’m realistic and I know that the industry is saturated and it’s a very difficult thing to pull off. But if I can pull it off, it would be an amazing path to go down!

Q: That’s terrific, I applaud you for having the conviction to say you actively want to pursue it as a career. You’ve voiced strong feelings in the past, particularly about the glamour side of modelling. What are your views on the industry as someone just beginning their journey? Did you have any expectations going in? Is it a welcoming industry would you say?

Abbie Mac: I’m under no illusions, I know that it takes a lot of hard work and I’m not going to be booking so many shoots that I’m turning down offers this time in 6 months, but it’s a fun journey to go on and if I get there I get there, if not then I’ve not lost anything and I’m having a great time trying! I didn’t really have any expectations to be honest, it’s not something I thought long and hard about to be quite blunt - everything I’ve done so far has happened pretty quickly but I’m glad to say that I’ve not had a single bad experience with it, I’ve not had any negativity either and everyone has been nothing but supportive. I’d say that yeah to a degree it is welcoming, there’s the obvious downside of being rejected when applying to casting calls and such but I knew about that already and didn’t really expect to get every shoot I put myself forward for. I’ve met some lovely people so far, which is more than a lot of people can say in a regular job… believe me, I used to work in sales!

Q: I first saw your work in issue 165 of FRONT, those photos being the DIY shots you sent in (in December). Why did you choose to submit to FRONT Abbie? You must have been a fan of the magazine previously right?

Abbie Mac: Yeah I’ve been a fan for a while, I love that you can tell straight away when a photo is from Front and they always seem to come up with really great, fun ideas for their spreads. I like the humour in the magazine too, and I’m a big fan of lasses with tattoos, as is my boyfriend, so it’s a good one for us both to read!

I toyed with the idea of submitting photos a couple of times but brushed it off, I didn’t think I’d stand a chance of getting in the magazine itself. But, this probably sounds a bit daft, I tend to get bored and send my boyfriend daft photos of me in my underwear wearing pig masks and things when he’s away, and one night while we were at the pub he brought up Front and the Alt Girl thing and suggested I sent some photos in… and the next day I thought… well, I’ve got nothing to lose, why not!

Q: Underwear and pig masks. Lucky boy! Why pig masks may I ask Abbie? Those first three photos you sent in really did make you stand out from the other DIY entries that month. I was so impressed that I singled you out as someone I thought should definitely return for an alt girl feature. How did it feel when you got the news you had made it into the mag?

Abbie Mac: Haha I’m not sure, I have quite a collection of latex animal masks and they look pretty hilarious paired with frilly knickers or a nurse’s outfit, and I like to get a laugh or two where I can! Awh thank you, I was a bit sceptical when I sent them in because I didn’t think I was what Front usually goes for, so getting the email was definitely a surprise! I was absolutely chuffed though, it was definitely a boost because I didn’t expect to hear anything back at all!

Q: I couldn’t help but comment on and compliment your unique look in the shots. I likened it to everything from cabaret to vamp. Your hair in particular is a fabulous style and coupled with your black suspenders and raven hair on pale skin, it was an impressive debut. Could I ask what inspired your look?

Abbie Mac: Thank you so much! It was a number of things really. This time 2 years ago I had a short a-line bob that would be blue one week, then pink, then purple… which was good for a while but it killed my hair so I decided to grow it out, and the only way I could keep it healthy was dying it black and sticking to it. I’ve always been a fan of the Bettie Page look and gothy pinup ladies in general so I decided to go down that route a bit, I’m white as a sheet anyway so it wasn’t exactly a huge leap haha. The Vulcan fringe was born purely out of boredom (it’s very hard to resist going back to bright hair) and a love of all things sci-fi! And I’ve always loved suspenders and corsetry and anything with a bit of kink… who can say no to a bum caged in suspender straps eh?

Q: I know I can’t! The Vulcan fringe is a total winner, I’ve never seen it utilised so stylishly. Except for on Mr Nimoy of course. It’s clear you’re a geek to the core Miss Abbie, does it impact a lot on your fashion/style choices? Ever done the Princess Leia?

Abbie Mac: Haha thank you, it’s such a little change to a standard fringe but it makes a lot of difference I think! I’d say being a bit of a nerd does influence my style to a degree - I can’t abide those faux-geek oversized plastic rimmed glasses, but I have a wardrobe full of Star Wars and Batman t-shirts, Xbox controller necklaces (a gift to myself for hitting 10k gamer points…I’m very sad!) and things like that. Haha I’ve not done the Leia yet, but I’d jump at the chance to ooze around in that slave outfit! It’s a classic for a reason!

RubberMonkey has just made some Avengers themed latex outfits, and good god, if I had the money I’d be wearing every single one of them right now!

Q: YES, thank you, those thick black rimmed glasses are a bugbear for me as well! I’ve seen those Rubber Monkey Avengers outfits and they are awesome. Have you seen the Avengers by the way? What did you think? Loki fan or Downey Jr fan?

Abbie Mac: As a glasses wear myself I am frankly offended by their popularity, haha. Yeah I went to see it recently, what a film! I can’t say no to a bit of RDJ, he’s in my favourite film Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, but for me Thor stole the show. There’ll always be a place in my bed for Chris Hemsworth, baby or no baby! Haha!

Q: Kiss Kiss Bang Bang, what a film. Val Kilmer is hilarious in it. That bit when Downey pees on that dead girl, it kills me. Anyway sorry, back to FRONT. You were in the magazine again two issues later for your full Alt Girl shoot, when did you find out about that, and could you fill us in on the process Abbie? How was it all set up etc…

Abbie Mac: Somewhere, right now, an all you can eat buffet is losing money on Val Kilmer! haha. Well, shortly after my first set was in issue 165 Becca contacted me and asked for another set, which is on the website now. As we emailed back and forth she sent a bit of a cryptic “Just checking, where are you based? I’ll contact you soon” which I responded to and didn’t hear anything of for 2 or 3 weeks, so I kind of assumed she was just double checking for my online profile. But about 3 weeks before issue 167 came out she emailed me and asked if I was free the following Monday for a shoot at home, and put me in contact with Nadia King (Scarlett Studios). I exchanged a few emails with the photo guys at Front where I sent them samples of about 8 outfits, and they chose what they wanted me to wear for the shoot. After faffing about swapping my shifts at work we settled on a time for Nadia to come round, and the shoot went really well. It took a few hours and we got a lot of shots all over my house - jumping on my bed, crawling up my stairs, on the table in my dining room, melting off the sofa in the living room..! At one point while I was posing in front of my window in nothing but my knickers I caught my next door neighbour’s eye… slightly awkward! Nadia was absolutely lovely, really funny and very helpful with direction which I appreciated because it was my first proper shoot. After that it was a nervous 3 week wait for the mag to come out, hoping they wouldn’t put my painfully terrible winky face in!

Q: It was a fantastic shoot, and one I rhapsodised over in a review. I really loved what you did in your photos, and they came out wonderfully. You decided to go topless and semi nude in some shots, was this a tough choice for you?

Abbie Mac: Thank you, I really appreciate it! To be honest… no, it wasn’t! I’m of the opinion that you’re only young once, and the human body is a beautiful thing not something to be ashamed of, so why not? I used to have very low self esteem and I was bullied a lot while I was at school for the way I looked and the music I listened to etc etc, as is the case with a lot of people in secondary school, but the past few years I’ve come out of my shell a lot more and I’m proud of who I am and my body, and if someone wants me to show it off (in a non-sleazy way) then who am I to say no, haha!

I’ve not done a lot of topless work since, purely because I want a wide range of images in my portfolio and it’s very easy to fall into just getting topless shoots, or just getting nude shoots, and while I appreciate the human form I don’t want to pigeonhole myself just yet.

Q: Very well said. Everything with FRONT seemed to happen extremely quickly for you, it’s an experience I’m sure you’d love to do again, and to work with Nadia must have been a thrill. She’s the queen of the Alt Girl shoots, and would you say you learnt something from having her take your photo?

Abbie Mac: To be honest I was surprised with how quickly everything went, I remember reading stories on the old forums of girls not hearing anything for months then suddenly being told they were going to be in the magazine! I’d absolutely jump at the chance to do it again - I’m actually planning on doing another DIY set when I get some time to myself this week. I absolutely loved working with Nadia - I was a big fan of her work to begin with and she was full of brilliant ideas, I learned a lot from her definitely. She was really friendly and fun to shoot with which relaxed me a lot, I hope I get another chance to work with her in the future, it really was a great experience.

To be continued…

Photographers are never far from this blog. I love the insights you can glean from talking with these talented souls, and the different perspective they can give to something as seemingly simple as a photograph. It was my intense pleasure to talk with Kitty from Pirate Photography recently about her magnificent work, as well as her intriguing process and fabulous raft of experience with some truly dynamic individuals. You only need to glimpse Kitty’s work to know she is a special photographer with a very different and refreshing skew on what makes a beautiful picture. She has worked with some of the most interesting models in the industry today, and continues to produce new and different pieces of brilliance. I hope I can introduce those who are not aware of Kitty’s work to the wonderful world of Pirate Photography. You won’t be sorry you check it out.

 

Q: Welcome Kitty, fantastic to have you feature on my blog and can’t wait to talk about your craft. So what first drew you to photography? Was taking pictures something you found yourself doing as a child, or was it an outlet you discovered later on?

Kitty: Thank you for having me! Photography was something I only really began thinking about when I was 18, before that I would occasionally use my parent’s compact camera to take really bad photos, but hadn’t ever considered photography to be art. I was really into punk, wrote terrible poetry and dressed rather weirdly, and I spent a lot of my time online as I was living away from home for the first time at university. Through MySpace I discovered Masuimi Max and developed a major girl crush. I had always thought of models as only being able to look like normal fashion models, but then finally here was a model that looked like my friends, crazy hair, tattoos, and piercings. I realised that there was a whole separate part of the industry involving bad ass alt girls and I wanted to be a part of it. I got my first SLR just before I turned 19, it had a fixed lens, and the manual modes didn’t work properly, but I immediately started photographing my friends and had lots of fun, so joined modelmayhem to meet ‘real’ models.

Q: Can you remember the first set of pictures, or the first single picture you took that you were really pleased with?

Kitty: I do. It was a photograph of a singer from my home town, we were shooting in the spare room in my parents’ house, and I was playing around with using a lamp as lighting. I had the lamp in one hand, and was using my camera on a tripod with the other, and I knew as soon as I took it I finally had taken a good photo. Now when I look back, while I still like the photo, I do cringe because I was still using the camera on auto, and I don’t really feel like I can call it a good photo that I actually took, because other than me waving a lamp around, the camera did all the work. I think the first shot I took since I switched to all manual, and using a proper SLR was a bondage fashion shot I took of Black Lotus, it was the first time I’d ever been in a studio and used lighting, the first time I’d shot bondage, and everything just clicked. I still love that shot and it is one other people seem to like as well.

Q: Photographers to me are an interesting bunch. A very misunderstood profession and taken for granted far too regularly. What do you think it takes to be a photographer?

K: I think it definitely takes some good people skills. You need to be able to communicate with people, both online and in person. This is the thing I most struggle with, I can be really awkward, and I’m partially deaf, but generally you know pretty quickly whether or not you have clicked with a model. I spend a lot of time talking to models online before we shoot which makes things a lot easier. I think it takes a combination of training and practice, with having a natural eye for ‘the shot’. All the training in the world cannot make someone artistic or creative, but without the knowledge you cannot express what your creativity is wanting to. Someone can pick up the technical side of any art form with enough practice, but if they aren’t naturally artistic, their work will forever just be good, and not elicit emotion.

Q: What training have you had in the art of photography? Do you think the majority of your work is driven by experience, or those first few lessons you learnt starting out?

K: I had no training, by the time I got into photography I was already at university, so I had no way to get lessons. I read a lot online, and studied other photographers’ work who I admired so I could try and figure out their techniques. It has taken a lot of practice, with few hits and a whole lot of misses before I really got to grips with my camera, but I am relatively confident that I have a pretty good idea of what I’m doing now haha! I think.

Q: Your photography excels at capturing your subject matter, and there is a definite relationship you create between audience and model. What do you look for when deciding on a person to photograph? Do you look for people to fit specific ideas or themes you have, or do you let the model/subject speak to you primarily?

K: Thank you so much! Generally I look for models that have a certain emotion about them. There are a lot of models who can pose, but not so many who can express real feelings through their eyes and their expressions. I don’t like fake tan, so if a model obviously fake tans I am inclined to not work with them, other than that, I have no real preferences for how a model looks. Fake tan just never looks even, photographs well, or looks natural. I choose a theme to fit a model I want to shoot with, but also pick models to shoot themes I want to shoot, it entirely depends on which I happen upon first. More often than not it is the model who inspires me. Certain looks lend themselves to different concepts, and by choosing a model first, I know they will fit what we shoot. If I have the concept first, I often struggle to find a model who I feel would work with it well, so it gets pushed aside for a long time. I would rather wait a long time to shoot a theme, than force it with someone who I am not sure about. I work with some models over and over again because they click well this my aesthetic, and the way that I shoot, but I am trying to find more models to collaborate with regularly.

Q: I’m always interested in an artist’s process. How do your ideas come to you, what are some of your inspirations? Also, once you’ve got an idea in your head, where do you go next?

K: Music, art and movies are the things that tend to inspire me. I love sci-fi and horror, not the gore and obvious shocks involved in them, but the subtlety, and the psychology behind it, so my conceptual work often focuses on that. It will be pretty, but also eerie or slightly creepy. I spend a lot of time looking at art and different things from a piece of art could inspire me, whether it is a use of colour, or light. Lyrics and music will often make me think of a theme when I am listening to them, or I will think of a particular model and want them to convey a certain emotion. I got rather lax with acting out these inspirations in my work last year, mostly because I wanted to shoot more fashion and I felt that I couldn’t experiment within that, but I’ve realised how wrong I was about that. The fashion photographers that I admire the most are those that are telling stories, as well as showcasing clothing and beauty. If I have a specific idea I want to cast a model for I tend to mention it on social networks first, rather than go right to modelmayhem. Often I will have a particular model in mind right away, so I hope that it catches their eye, or I message them about it. I can’t draw (seriously, even stick men are wonky when I sketch!) so I try to explain a concept verbally instead. A lot of the time I will have a specific shot in mind, so I will aim to shoot that first, and then experiment based around that. A good example would be the ‘Sleep’ series I shot with an anonymous model, I had one particular shot in mind, once we had that we experimented, and I ended up loving the later shots even more than the one I actually had intended for us to shoot.

Q: You’ve exquisitely photographed many ladies in your previous work. What is it about the female form that inspires so much, and lends itself to your wonderful brand of photography?

K: Every woman is so different. Two women who could have the same dress size and be the same height, can still have completely different bodies. I love the stories that the female body can tell, the little scars that give hints of someone’s past, the birthmarks and freckles that make people unique. I think my love of individuality is why I do so little Photoshop. Removing a scar or a mole removes that hint of the real person in front of me.

I have photographed men, but I just don’t find them as inspiring. The light doesn’t reflect from them in the same way, and I think the way that I shoot is innately feminine, without my meaning it to be. My personal fashion is a sort of glam girly goth, and that is often manifested in the styling and themes. I think in terms of fashion, there are just so many more options for women, I wish there was more for men, I very much disagree with the boundaries that have been set by society in that women can wear certain things, and men cannot. If I were to shoot men, I would want to shoot androgynous men in what are deemed female fashions.

I initially never intended for there to be so much nudity in my work. Actually, to begin with I wouldn’t shoot nudity at all. For the first year I shot, I only shot implied nudity at the very most, and I was a bit unsure of that. Then on maybe my second or third shoot with Jessica Abidde she wanted to pose nude, and it didn’t even occur to me that I was shooting a first for me. Since then it’s been a game of seeing if anyone was going to keep their clothes on! I don’t tend to suggest nudity to models unless we have worked together before or know each other well, I don’t tend to think it is my place to ask people to share themselves so openly like that, so I prefer that nudity is always the models suggestion.

Q: I’ve noticed that nature as a location plays a regular part in some of your work? Why do you choose to shoot in forests and in and around trees etc? Is it a necessity at times, or do you like the contrast of intense female beauty against the backdrop of nature’s beauty?

K: It comes from both necessity, and a love of nature. I live in a tiny, and I really do mean tiny, one bedroom flat. There is no way to shoot in my flat unless the model stands in the bathtub against the wall above it, and well, I just don’t think that is professional haha! So instead, I explore the world outside. Nature tends to be the quieter place, a forest or woodland is often relatively isolated, so you can avoid intrusion from the general public. I had a phase of shooting models in grungy, urban areas when I lived in Grimsby, but it felt too repetitive to me. Buildings and structures do not tend to change over time, whereas a forest is constantly changing, constantly evolving, the seasons and the weather have so much impact upon nature, and I like that the same area can look so different each time you visit. Because I don’t have an indoor area to shoot in, I don’t have any lighting, which then restricts my shooting indoors when I’m presented with that option. I don’t tend to travel for shoots because my preference is to shoot outdoors, and I know the areas where I live, but sometimes I will risk it if a model convinces me they have somewhere interesting to shoot, or that their home lends itself to natural light. I enjoy the lines and curves of the female form when mixed in with nature. In winter when there are no leaves, and the forests are stark, a nude figure emphasises this, when it is summer, and the surroundings are lush, a smiling face fits. I wish I had more time and money so that I could explore more different locations, but it is not a luxury I currently have.

Q: Were there any photographers that inspired you as you progressed with your career? Or work from individuals that particularly spoke to you?

K: I am very lucky, and have been able to speak to some photographers who I really admire, and some have even helped me and critiqued my work. I adore the work of Steve Diet Goedde, I think there is no one else like him, and the way that he shoots, with very little artificial light, and on film, is something I aspire to. Corwin Prescott is a fantastic, and I think genuinely creative photographer. I am a big fan of motion in photography, and he often utilises that in his erotica, so I love seeing how he uses light and motion. Steve Prue is completely different to Corwin Prescott or Steve Diet Goedde, he focuses on colour and crazy lighting, and he uses diptychs and different points of focus to tie them together. Thanks to Zivity.com I have been able to speak to both Corwin and Steve Prue. I owe a lot to Zivity.com, being on a site with such amazing photographers has really pushed me to work harder and be more creative, and get better.

I also really enjoy the work of Chip Willis, Photos by Vance, Sita Mae and so many more. In terms of more famous photographers, I like Helmut Newton and Ellen Von Unwerth a lot, I love fashion magazines, particularly LOVE magazine. I tend to prefer photographers who have a certain rawness to their work, and don’t focus on retouching and editing, I love seeing work that I know has been composed in camera, rather than with digital trickery.

to be continued..