Interview with New York Photographer Yann Feron

Yann Feron is a very talented fashion photographer based in New York. He was raised in France and has traveled to over 38 countries. In addition to fashion he shoots glamour, swimsuit, lingerie, art, commercial and fitness. He has been an avid photographer since he was 17. Yann shoots for international magazines and has been instrumental in helping to launch the careers of musicians, actors and actresses, models and artists.

In addition, he has worked with male and female models from the following agencies: 301, BASIC, ALL ABOUT HYPE, CODE, CHOICE, ELITE, MAJOR, ID, APM, IMG, IPM, IKON, NEW YORK MODELS, CHOICE, MC2, LEVEL1, Q, SILVER, RACE, RENEGADE, TRUMP, WILHELMINA, NEXT, KARIN, MEGA, CRYSTAL, MADEMOISELLE PARIS, RED, and many others.

I am thrilled to have been able to interview him! He is great!

AVIVA: Have you always wanted to be a photographer or did you have other career aspirations when you were younger?

YANN FERON: I started my career as a semi-pro photographer when I was in high school. I went to Ecuador for a hiking trip and did a documentary in slides in 1992. That's how I got more serious about photography, but I did not think about being a pro photographer. I studied then SPORTS SCIENCES and got a bachelor degree in Physical education, which I taught for ten years.

After travelling to more than 50 countries and documenting my trips, I landed in NYC and started doing portraits of people for fun, and I started doing fashion... 10 years later I only do photography and gave up teaching 4 years ago.

 

AVIVA: What photographers inspire you and why?

YF: There's only one-Helmut Newton...that is all! He is a master in sensuality and empowering the beauty of women.

 

AVIVA: What achievements in your career are you most proud of? (ie. publications, etc)

YF: Lately, I've had the cover of FHM in CZECH and get more and more features like in Singapore, Netherlands etc.

I've shot also for SHOEHOLICS magazine with their 2 entire issues in 2 days. It was a lot of work but filling 80 pages of a magazine in 2 days was a great accomplishment. I learnt lately that some of my photos were showcased in TIMES SQUARE NYC. Although I did not see it, it feels good to know that.

AVIVA: Do you pre-visualize your photos or do you put all the components together as you go?

YF: I always start with an inspiration and with my guts. I am surrounded with talented people for make up hair and wardrobe stylist, so I explain to them my vision and then they do their crafts. I am like a conductor of a classical orchestra i.e. I direct lead but don't impose.

AVIVA: What excites you about photography?
YF: The plurality of photography: this week I shot an art series with a ballerina for a book I am preparing (" BACK TO BACK"), a headshot for an actress, a glamour spread for FHM, a test shoot for an agency, shot Javier Colon (winner of THE VOICE) for HOMBRE magazine and did 2 castings for two shoots for next week. Every day is something special.

AVIVA: Do you feel your travels have helped you with your photographic visions and if so how?

YF: Well I shoot super fast, I don't spend lots of time on each look. I know what I want and I guess my photojournalism past has helped me to capture a moment without building it.

A photo has to stay natural.

AVIVA: What piece of advice do you have to models who would like to succeed in their careers?

YF: Be a pro! This means: lifestyle, health, diet, fitness, no smoking (your skin will thank you when you'll be in your late 20s) and have fun, take risks. In America nudity is a taboo, and in France nudity is art and models are so concerned about a nipple showing because most of American photographers use nudity in a sexual way,and in Europe nudity is used in fashion as a must for the beauty of a woman... there is a big difference.

AVIVA: What do you look for in a model?

YF: Spontaneity, versatility and personality.

AVIVA: Do you have any additional comments?

YF: Stay tuned and watch me. :) In 2013 I should have a new TV show on STYLE TV network called MODEL GENIUS where I'll be the co-host and judge.

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I would like to thank Yann for the interview and I wish him all the best! Check him out: FACEBOOK, Tumblr, WEBSITE, TWITTER, ZENFOLIO.

Interview with European Model Veronica LaVery

Veronica LaVery is an amazing European model, originally from the Czech Republic currently living in California. She is very versatile in her looks and posing ability, although she specializes in fashion, lingerie, bikini and commercial modeling. Veronica has a wide range of publications under her belt, including the cover of Playboy Czech Republic, features in FHM and MAXIM, and many others. She is stunning, knows how to work in front of the camera, and has the drive and ambition to make huge strides in the modeling world.

Photo & Make-up by: Philipe

I am thrilled to have interviewed Veronica and I hope that you enjoy this interview as much as I did. :)

AVIVA: How long have you been modeling?
VERONICA LAVERY: In August '12 it is gong to be 3 years since I started working on my modeling portfolio

AVIVA: What is the most exciting part about your job?
VL: There is more than just one 'exciting part' of my job, I love how I get to work on various projects all the time, I never know what to really expect from my schedule and upcoming opportunities. For example, in an 8-hour everyday office job you will hardly ever get any unexpected surprises; and I'm glad modeling is not like that.

Photo: Philipe

AVIVA: Did you always want to be a model or did you have other career aspirations when you were growing up?
VL: Not at all! I never felt like I could ever be a model, I grew up as a little 'emo kid', with piercings, hating my life, and I didn't have any ambitions. The moment we moved to the States has started to change me and my vision on things and the opportunities I'm being given. So I started using them, and look where I am today.

Above: FHM CZ, Photography by Dre

AVIVA: What achievement(s) in your career are you most proud of?
VL: Besides all the big names I worked with, or for, magazines that are coming my way, magazine covers. I think I'm mostly proud of the 'progress' in what I do and in my own personal life in general. I think I keep 'shocking' people with my abilities in modeling. Which I like

AVIVA: Apart from having a great look, what else do you think is an important factor in succeeding as a model?
VL: You gotta be the whole 'package', there are millions of beautiful girls out there, but do their features and height give them the ultimate success? No, not at all, you gotta work hard, keep in shape, make smart decisions, know who you are, be professional, stay focused, know your advantages and your personality. I think the personality plays a major role here apart from the look, because that is what can make you stand out more.

Photo by: Martin Alonso Castaneda

AVIVA: Where do you see your modeling career going 5 years from now? (best case)
VL: I believe I can push myself into another level and that would be acting, there's still a lot I can and will do in modeling itself but I do want to stay in the entertainment industry and in front of the camera, so acting will be a good call. Let's hope I can do it even with my little Czech accent

AVIVA: What would you do if you won the lottery?
VL: Get at least one house, new cars for me an my family, invest in big things. I don't even wanna dream like that...haha

Photo by: Barry Fontenot

AVIVA: What piece of advice do you have for aspiring models?
VL: Once you set your goals, go towards them, don't let uneducated people put you down, be around the right people, and do what you love.
AVIVA: Do you have any additional comments?
VL: Visit me on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, my other Facebook, and my WEBSITE so you know what's new in my modeling life  and thank you for reading all this.
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I would like to thank Veronica for this interview, and I wish her all the best in the future.

Cheers,
Aviva

The Beauty, Usefulness, and Versatility of Trainers

Why is a trainer a great shoe for the whole family?
When you’re on your feet all day being a busy mum, you just want to wear something you can be comfortable in. That’s why trainers are such a popular choice for many mums on the go. But you don’t want anything too flashy, for instance the bright coloured high-top trainers popular with the kids are a bit much, aren’t they. However, a classic white or light trainer with simple style and design is perfect for giving support and being kind to your feet. They also look great with jeans and other casual clothes.

Why are trainers so popular?
The beauty of trainers is that they are so versatile. Originally used for sports training, as the name suggests, it was in the 1960s that young hipsters started wearing them for everyday use. It just seemed to make good sense. They were comfortable and a far cry from the stuffy, solid and boring shoes people had to wear before then. Trainers were convenient, comfortable, relaxed and the best part was that you didn’t even have to polish them.

Even today, if your trainers get a little bit dirty you can just stick them in the washing machine and they come out as good as new. The same rules apply for all your kids’ shoes too, which saves lots of time which would otherwise have been spent cleaning. Trainers are also great for kids because they are durable and easily replaced. With lots of trainers available at great places online, you can pick up the perfect shoes for your family at really great prices.

It’s all in the design

Reebok trainers are always popular with mums and kids alike because they make really stylish shoes. The Reebok Classic trainer has always been a popular choice because of its simple running shoe design. But there are many different brands on the trainer market. Whatever style or colour you like, you can find several different types to suit your tastes.

Of course, trainers are also essential for exercising. Whether you’re hitting the gym or pounding the pavement, you need a strong pair of trainers for maximum support. Go for running shoes or cross trainers for use in the gym. It might also be a good idea to get an air freshener as for all their greatness; trainers do tend to trap odours!

Interview with Los Angeles Glamour Model Sabrina Maree

Sabrina Maree is a very beautiful and highly published glamour model. Throughout her career, she has been featured in a variety of publications including: Playboy Magazine, Penthouse Magazine, Mayfair Magazine, and many others. She knows how to pose and is not afraid to show her sexy side.

In addition to modeling, she is also an actress and dancer, having appeared in a wide range of music videos. Most recently, she starred in a music video called "Casual Sex" by My Darkest Days.

Check out the video below:

I am thrilled to have been able to interview Sabrina for this feature.

 Photo by Russell Perkins; MUA/Hair: Tamanna Roashan; Model: Sabrina Maree

AVIVA:  Have you always wanted to be a model or did you have other career aspirations when you were younger?
SABRINA MAREE: I always wanted some kind of limelight... Modeling, acting. I grew up doing vaulting, gymnastics/dance on horseback, where I first learned how playing this other person could be so satisfying and freeing. I like having a back up plan in my education, but my heart is in entertainment.

AVIVA: What excites you the most about modeling?
SM: I like playing dress up, sitting in the MUA chair, creating something I see concrete results in. Growing and challenging myself. Proving people wrong about what my limitations are.

Photo by Tammy Sands; Model: Sabrina Maree

AVIVA: What career achievements are you most proud of?
SM: Penthouse Pet is my favorite achievement and has resulted in the most regular dependable work. I love the company and the girls, especially working the events.

AVIVA: What piece of advice would you give to aspiring models who would like to get published work?
SM: Go slow, have a back up method of income so you don't have to do anything you don't want to. Don't depend on agents, seek out the specific things you want to accomplish and meet the people that can make it happen. If it doesn't happen the first time keep trying.

AVIVA: Besides your look, what else do you believe is crucial for success as a model?
SM: I think adaptability, personality, who you know and a strong sense of who you are will make or break you.

AVIVA: What is your favorite type of photoshoot to do?
SM: I like to work with my favorite photographers, more than anything. More than a specific style.

Photo by Suze Randall; Model: Sabrina Maree

AVIVA: Do you have any crazy/exciting/weird shoot story that you would like to briefly share?
SM: I moved in with a male model I worked with on a lingerie catalogue shoot (for two weeks). On a music video shoot I ended up staying up all night with one of the musicians having one of the best conversations of my life, drinking Jack. I love the people modeling brings me in contact with. Emotional, intense, real artists. I stayed up for 12 hours shooting random stuff with one of the most prolific shock rockers of all time, on antique cameras, after meeting him through an MM member on a random Hollywood night out

AVIVA: What do you look for in a photographer before shooting with him/her?
SM: I am pretty open-minded about who I shoot with. I prefer people who are going to result in some publication or tear sheet. I don't ever trade for tear sheets. If they make money, I make money.

AVIVA: Do you have any additional comments?
SM: Go slow!!! Don't jump into things. 
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I would like to thank Sabrina for her time during this interview. If you wan to see more of her work, check out her portfolio on Model Mayhem and follow her on TWITTER.

Interview with Fashion Model Christie Gabriel

Christie Gabriel is an established model who has over 12 years experience in runway, commercial, editorial, music video, fine art, and spokesmodeling. In every photo, she exudes beauty, confidence, elegance and sheer talent.

Her most notable gigs include the following: Cartier Diamonds campaign, Vogue Espana, two years in a row of New York and Chicago Fashion Weeks, face of Opera Swimwear, Several covers for Suburban Nitelife Magazine, Face of James D'Colon Designs, Maquillage Magazine, Simply Vera by Vera Wang, Teen Vogue, 2 P Diddy videos, Ricky Martin video, Roy jones Jr video, Nair Commercial, Skittles commercial, Aveda campeign and several hair shows, Skin Inc Magazine spread, several David's Bridal runway shows, Home Shopping Network, Lifetime Fitness, three separate editorial spreads in a row for 4pm Magazine, and Graftobian 2011/2012 Catalog, Bella Morte, and Coup Magazine.

Below: Fashion tear for 4PM Magazine SEPT/OCT 2010. Photo by TH Taylor.

In addition to being a successful model herself, she takes great pride in mentoring new models to help them succeed as well. She is a firm believer in the fact that a model does not need agency representation in order to be successful, which is what her new book, The Self-Made Model - Success Without Agencies, is about. From what I have heard, it is a FANTASTIC book for aspiring models who would like to learn how to get started as a model, how to pose, how to book jobs, and how to market themselves.

I am honoured to have been able to interview Christie for this feature, and I hope that you too will enjoy it.

Above: Photo-Nadirah Bahar. You can grab Christie's book HERE

AVIVA: Have you always wanted to be a model, or did you have other career aspirations when you were younger?
CHRISTIE GABRIEL: I wanted to be an architect actually. Since I was in first grade I'd spend hours drawing up floor plans. As I grew up I realized there was way too much math and college involved in it which took out a lot of the fun.

AVIVA: What did your parents/friends first think when you told them you were going to start modeling, before you succeeded at it?
CG: My mom was 100% all for it, as were most of my friends, although some of them did try to convince me that it was a bad idea to chase a pipe dream. My dad on the other hand….12 years later and I'm still not sure he's completely warmed up to the idea; we just don't talk much about work.


Above: Photo by TH Taylor

AVIVA: What achievements are you most proud of? (list publications, big gigs, etc).
CG: Sure I've worked for a few famous brands/people but honestly, I am most proud of my work educating and encouraging aspiring models. It's so rewarding to see these girls go from self-conscious beginners to confident world traveling professionals.

AVIVA: What excites you the most about being a model?
CG: I love the idea of bringing a creative vision to life. Whether it be a client's/photographer's or my own, helping to create something that didn't previously exist is an awesome feeling.


Above: Photo by David Hickey, MakeUp by Gia Deo.

AVIVA: What inspired you to write "The Self-Made Model - Success Without Agencies"?
CG: There is so much outdated and inaccurate information out there regarding modeling agencies. Most aspiring models still think that the agency route is the only way to truly become a successful model. That is just not true anymore.

In the last 6 years, I have booked far more work freelancing than I have through agencies in the same time frame. So, I wrote a book that would help others do the same.

The Self-Made Model - Success Without Agencies is part how-to guide and part behind the scenes journal that encourages models to take control of their careers and become their own bosses.

AVIVA: What do you believe was the key to your success as a model, other than your look?
CG: I have an insane amount of ambition and perseverance. From the beginning of my career I decided that whatever I set out to accomplish, I would. Every year I'd set another seemingly impossible career goal and be sure to make it happen.
It is also important to always be professional, always. Word spreads like wildfire in this industry and one slip up can burn your reputation to the ground.

Above: Photo by TH Taylor.

AVIVA: What piece of advice would you give to aspiring models (who are reading this)?
CG: There are a lot of people and things that will try to stand in your way and/or take advantage of you in this industry. Arm yourself with as much information as you can from experienced professionals.

AVIVA: What are some of your other passions/interests?
CG: I'm an artistic person so of course I love modeling as well as painting and making strange wardrobe pieces for shoots.

AVIVA: Do you have any additional comments?
CG: Quick shameless plug: For nearly 200 pages of inside information that will help guide you to career success, grab a copy of my book on amazon .

I would like to thank Christie for her time and this interview. I wish her continued success for years to come. :)
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If you would like to learn more about Christie, check out SELF-MADE MODEL, like her page on FACEBOOK, and PICK UP HER BOOK !

Urban Lingerie's February 2012 Sale!

Hey Ladies and Gentlemen,

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Urban Lingerie is having a great sale. Everything in the store is 20-50% off until the end of February, and if you spend more than $70, then you also get FREE shipping.

Why not treat yourself or your favorite lady with some fantastic, sexy lingerie?

Just so you know, I have got a lot of stuff from Urban Lingerie, and I like the company, and the people who run it are very nice. They are a Victoria, BC based company which is another reason why I like to work with them. Urban Lingerie is one of my advertisers, and I am thrilled to be able to collaborate with them.

Above: Yes, that's me wearing a corset from Urban Lingerie. Shot by Ian Simpson of IMS Photographic. I loved that corset. There's more of where that came from. :)

Click HERE to check out what Urban Lingerie has in store for you! I know that you will find something within your budget that you will LOVE. :)

Cheers!! :)