Natalie Vodianova at Harper's Bazaar Women of the Year 2011 Awards
Natalie looks so stunning in Tom Ford fall 2011. I'm a sucker for anything lace-up corset like but I'm pretty sure Natalie kills it in just about everything.
GR: Tell us a little bit about yourself & where you live.
MB: I was raised in Ohio and moved a few years ago to Los Angeles to pursue my photography career and enjoy the sunshine. :)
GR: How did you become interested in fashion photography?
MB: I have known since I was 16 that I wanted to be a photographer. I was always interested in art and being creative-- photography was the medium that just resonated with me. I studied commercial photography at Ohio University and then dabbled in photojournalism after graduation. I work in fashion now, but still have a documentary style. I'm lucky to do what I love...and I love to love what I do.
GR:Inspiration / influences?
MB: I have always been influenced by my family...growing up in the Midwest with inspiring parents has instilled values in me that carries in to my work--they always wanted me to be happy no matter what career path I chose. I'm inspired by the spirit and personality of every subject---it's an awesome thing to create beautiful images and to tell visual stories. I love capturing moments. As far as artists that inspire me...there are so many. Some of my faves include Peter Lindbergh, Paulo Roversi and Philippe Halsman.
GR: Favorite band(s) at the moment.
MB: The Civil Wars. And I have found that Empire of the Sun is a great Pandora station...
GR: What kind of camera(s) do you shoot with?
MB: I learned on Nikon and Mamiya, but in the last few years I have been using Canon as well. Right now on most shoots I would say the Canon 5D Mark II.
GR: Do you have any tips/tricks for someone who is just starting out in photography?
MB: There is so much I am still learning. First and foremost, shoot, shoot, shoot--- define your style and see what inspires you. I can't stress that enough. The more you photograph, the more you grow. Second, internships can only help you. I had an internship in NYC when I was still in college and that internship changed my life. I always tell anyone who wants to get in the industry that you need to intern with the people you really admire and people whose careers you aspire to attain. Interning is the best boot camp for experience in your field. Third, keep current with what is happening in the industry--conceptually and technically. Know the trends and research what is currently being shot internationally.
Lastly, go after what you want. In the end, you are fighting for you. Dream big!
GR: Favorite alcoholic beverage.
MB: A nice glass of red wine.
GR: 3 places to visit in LA.
MB: Bottega Louie (downtown) is my favorite restaurant! Such great food and ambiance. The Alcove Cafe & Bakery (Silver Lake) is a lovely place to grab coffee. The outdoor patio is magical-- so beautiful, but cool enough to be a bit hipster. I always love taking people to Malibu-- great beaches, great food (esp. Cafe Habana!) and a laid back vibe. It's like a quick vacation every time you go.