An interview by Altgirlbotherer, about me!
Kezia
altgirlbotherer:
Im always pleased when I get to interview someone who is both a model and a photographer. Its an interesting dual existence in two very creative and very demanding professions. The next interview to feature on my blog is with a lady by the name of Kezia, one such dual purpose alternative artist. I was first introduced to Kezias work through the magic of tumblr, and after feverishly perusing her involvement, she kindly agreed to be interviewed. So allow me to introduce my next subject in this exploration of the alternative. Kezia is a photography student, who showed promise behind the camera from an early age. Her work today shows a distinct fruition to those early signs, and her continued evolution is something I intend to follow closely. As a model shes produced some very interesting images, tapping into raw emotion and beauty in a plethora of incarnations. Shes a hopefully Suicide Girl, and a chameleon in front of the camera. I hope youll join me in my praise of Kezia, and enjoy what she had to share.
So Kezia. Photographer and alternative model. Which came first? Or is that a bit of a chicken and the egg question?
Actually not a chicken/egg thing at all, I was most definitely trying to be a photographer first, I started that about a year before I started modelling. It was in college, where my photography class couldnt find any models. Most of my first few months were spent shooting with one girl, Lens Vanity Photography.
Which discipline do you enjoy the most, and which would you say you have the most experience of?
I have learned more about photography in the past two months than I ever thought possible, Im hoping that with more practice my modelling will improve to the same standard. But modelling is so much more fun!
Having been in front and behind the camera, do you think you have a unique perspective on the process and relationship between the two art forms?
Yes! I can tell what angles a photographer shouldnt be shooting me from, so I can save a few dud shots here and there, I also know how hard it can be as a model not getting any feedback from a photographer while shooting, while I dont always need direction, I like to know what the tog is thinking. Id love to see more blends of models and photographers; I love being able to help out new photographers with lighting set-ups, just imagine if every girl you shot could help you set up, rather than just stand there looking pretty.
Has your time behind the camera influenced your performance and understanding as a model and visa versa?
Ive definitely learned more about modelling from being on the other side of it, I know how to make a pose go from 90% awesome to 1000000% awesome just by curving my back a slight bit more, or tilting my chin a fraction of an inch. As a model Ive learnt how to deal with other models, when shooting, its weird swapping roles!
Do you remember when you really started taking photographs? When you began thinking about the process rather than pointing and shooting as the rest of us do.
I was about 16, a late bloomer considering the age of some of the people in my class. But Ive been an artist since I was about 6, or at least thats when my first work was exhibited. Ive always had an eye for composition, I just didnt know the technical aspects of photography back then.
Growing up, do you remember an image or photograph that affected you the most? Was there a photographer that inspired you in your formative years?
Funnily enough Ive only recently started looking at photographers. What influenced me most as a younger person was Miss Mosh, I remember how badly I wanted to shoot with her, I wanted my very own images of her. I think I have a small girl crush on that woman!
What camera equipment do you use the most to capture your images?
Sorry Cannon fans, but Im a Nikon gal. I started off with a Nikon D40x, and just got myself a lovely D3100, which is basically the same camera. I work with Cannons in class though, and the EOS 5D Mark 2 is a lovely bit of kit, but I can never get my head around the set-up!
What are you looking for when working with a model?
Open minds, personality, and facial expression. When Im shooting a girl, she cant get shy, I WILL ask you to get at least semi-naked. Im not a pervert (well I am, but thats another story) I just have an aversion to clothes. I like people who can take the piss out of themselves.
Do you have a favourite subject matter to photograph?
Naked Ladies? No, portraits are my thing, as long as theres people in the shot Im happy. I recently shot a documentary project about Jolie Papillon, a burlesque performer in London. Ive never done documentary before, but it was absolutely incredible. I have to admit, Ive never shot a wedding or a band, but to be honest, theres enough photographers making a hash of those two subjects for me not to get in there just yet.
The female form is an exquisite muse. Do you enjoy photographing female models, and is there a particular situation/theme that you feel best exhibits all the wonders of women?
Good god I love the female form. As I mentioned earlier, I have a strong disliking for clothing when I shoot, a girl just looks so much better without anything on! I love mixing pin-up, nude and fashion together. I want my pictures to be pieces of art, something that can compliment the model and her body, rather than some gorgeous girl with a killer body being shot with built-in flash. It makes me sad seeing all these pretty girls being shot by GWCs. (Guys With Cameras).
Youve done some exquisite work to date in your career as a model. Your look is sublime, and very unique in my opinion. When youre being photographed, where does your inspiration come from? Is it a dramatic skill do you think, or instinct?
Why thank you! My look, although unique to me, changes regularly. I like that I can change my look on a whim, so when theme shoots arise, Im ready, whether you want me as a blonde bombshell pin-up or a dark-haired femme fatale. I have always loved dressing up. My early inspirations came from Dita Von Teese, I love her look, and shes the reason I started corset training! I think its more instinct, something deeper than acting, being a model I feel like a blank canvas, all I need is a photographer with an idea, and we can make something beautiful.
How do you come up with your photo sets when modelling? Does it depend on whose taking the pictures, or do you enter into a shoot with an outcome and final product in mind?
It really does depend on the photographer, some guys (not any Id recommend shooting with) have had every pose planned out for me. Poses from other peoples work that he just wanted to recreate. I prefer photographers who have a look in mind, but let ME do the posing! Photographers are normally the ones who have to do all the planning, the model is theirs to create with at the end of the day. Of course when you become known for a particular look you do end up influencing a set, but I dont want to do that. Not yet anyway!
Youve worked in a myriad of styles, which has been the most fun to shoot, and is there a shoot you remember most fondly?
My last shoot was actually the most fun Ive had in a long time. It was only shooting with a class mate from university, but it was so fun. It was taking inspiration from 50s pin-ups and coca cola ads. He was shooting on his DSLR and his wonderful new Hasselblad, which made me feel honoured, as those cameras are gorgeous! He was ridiculously enthusiastic about each shot, which is really nice for a model.
I miss the good old days of shooting with Lens Vanity Photography, she took me to some amazing locations, and shes a great friend which made the whole experience better. I cant wait to get back to the Midlands for Christmas so we can shoot again!
Your submissions to Suicide Girls are both varied and spectacular. You dabble in fetish and heavily narrative driven pictures. Is your association with Suicide Girls a fun experience, and what are you hoping comes from it?
Id like to think Suicide Girls will get me somewhere, so far I havent had a set bought, so Im still only a hopeful. One day Id like to earn some cash from the site, hopefully get slightly better known. I love the contacts Ive been in touch with because of that site. Youve reminded me I need to start looking for a photographer to shoot my next set!
You seem to have an on again off again relationship with modelling of late. Recently youve decided to give up the pursuit only to begin planning shoots again soon after. Why are you so undecided about your work in front of the lens?
Ive taken a break from professional modelling since the 19th of November, at the moment Im only doing shoots with classmates, which is why it still looks like Im going. The reason for my break is actually due to my own self-esteem and the fact that Ive been unhappy with my body for a long time. Im currently in the process of losing weight and toning up, as I feel guilty when photographers are paying for my body and I dont think its up to standard. Hopefully Ill be modelling again professionally by the end of the year.
What are your style preferences when youre away from the camera? What influences your everyday fashion choices?
I wouldnt call what I wear everyday fashion, I wear whatever the mood dictates. Sometimes Ill be girly and wear dresses and ballet pumps, sometimes I cant be bothered to dress properly and whatever happens to be comfy and clean is my outfit for the day. I wish I took more interest in what I wear, but I have so many different styles I like to be able to change between, ranging from sporty to gothic to preppy, sometimes all in one day!
Also away from the camera, what are you listening to and watching of late?
Im watching a lot of horror these days, I feel I was deprived as a teenager and am now getting my fix. One of the last films I watched was Suicide Club, a j-horror, it was wonderful, terrible graphics, but wonderful. My music tastes are like my style of clothing, mixed and awesome. I listen to so many different types these days I cant really say what my genre of choice is.
What are your thoughts on the industry at the moment? What is it like making your way in your profession?
As a model its tough, there are so many gorgeous people out there to compete with. Although most of them are lovely creatures there are a few whove got further than others and are just horrible. Hopefully one day Ill be up there with the big names, but for now Im happy being at the bottom! As a photographer, its slightly depressing knowing that after Ive finished my degree Ill probably end up an assistant to a photographer if Im lucky, or a proud owner of a crappy studio taking family portraits all day. Im hoping therell just be one big break for me, but Im not relying on it.
Who would be your two dream collaborators in the following circumstances? Firstly, who would be your perfect model to photograph? Secondly, who would you love to be photographed by?
Ive always been in love with Miss Mosh, but nowadays the girl I want to shoot the most is Amie Conradine, the recent Bizarre magazine Cover girl. Shes utterly gorgeous, a lovely girl, and I want her in my portfolio bad! If were speaking in real terms, knowing that Mert and Marcus will never know my name, the photographer I most want to shoot with is Dastardly Dave, he is fantastic at what he does, and his photos are always stunning.
What does the future hold for Kezia? What projects are you working on right now?
Im in the process of organising shoots for what I hope will become a photo book, Alternative girls in London, original right? But its something Ive wanted to do for a long time. It may or may not become Alt Girls in the UK. As for my modelling, although its on hold now, Im going to be taking bookings from everyone in the new year, maybe sooner. I encourage anyone and everyone to get in touch.
Can we please end with Bernard Pivots classic questionnaire?
What is your favourite word?
Antidisestablishmentarianism.
What is your least favourite word?
Essay.
What turns you on?
A good photograph, musical skill and dreadlocks!
What turns you off?
Bad grammar.
What sound or noise do you love?
A shutter.
What sound or noise do you hate?
Laughing children.
What is your favourite curse word?
Bugger!
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Pole dancer.
What profession would you not like to do?
Accountant.
If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?
Goddamn I did good with this one!
It was my pleasure to bring you the special talent that Kezia truly is. I am humbled to be involved with such a creative force so early in her career. Please check out tumblr for all Kezias sites and online profiles, and keep your eyes open for more of her stunning work behind and in front of the Nikon.
http://keziarai.tumblr.com
http://suicidegirls.com/members/KeziaRai
Massive thanks to Kezia for providing the images used, here is a run down of what I included in the piece:
1) Photo of Kezia by Lens Vanity Photography
2) Photo of Kezia by Aaron Storry
3) Photo of Kezia by Carl smith
4) Photo by Kezia of Jolie Papillon and Teresa Callan
5) Photo by Kezia of Tasha Doughty
Kezia
altgirlbotherer:
Im always pleased when I get to interview someone who is both a model and a photographer. Its an interesting dual existence in two very creative and very demanding professions. The next interview to feature on my blog is with a lady by the name of Kezia, one such dual purpose alternative artist. I was first introduced to Kezias work through the magic of tumblr, and after feverishly perusing her involvement, she kindly agreed to be interviewed. So allow me to introduce my next subject in this exploration of the alternative. Kezia is a photography student, who showed promise behind the camera from an early age. Her work today shows a distinct fruition to those early signs, and her continued evolution is something I intend to follow closely. As a model shes produced some very interesting images, tapping into raw emotion and beauty in a plethora of incarnations. Shes a hopefully Suicide Girl, and a chameleon in front of the camera. I hope youll join me in my praise of Kezia, and enjoy what she had to share.
So Kezia. Photographer and alternative model. Which came first? Or is that a bit of a chicken and the egg question?
Actually not a chicken/egg thing at all, I was most definitely trying to be a photographer first, I started that about a year before I started modelling. It was in college, where my photography class couldnt find any models. Most of my first few months were spent shooting with one girl, Lens Vanity Photography.
Which discipline do you enjoy the most, and which would you say you have the most experience of?
I have learned more about photography in the past two months than I ever thought possible, Im hoping that with more practice my modelling will improve to the same standard. But modelling is so much more fun!
Having been in front and behind the camera, do you think you have a unique perspective on the process and relationship between the two art forms?
Yes! I can tell what angles a photographer shouldnt be shooting me from, so I can save a few dud shots here and there, I also know how hard it can be as a model not getting any feedback from a photographer while shooting, while I dont always need direction, I like to know what the tog is thinking. Id love to see more blends of models and photographers; I love being able to help out new photographers with lighting set-ups, just imagine if every girl you shot could help you set up, rather than just stand there looking pretty.
Has your time behind the camera influenced your performance and understanding as a model and visa versa?
Ive definitely learned more about modelling from being on the other side of it, I know how to make a pose go from 90% awesome to 1000000% awesome just by curving my back a slight bit more, or tilting my chin a fraction of an inch. As a model Ive learnt how to deal with other models, when shooting, its weird swapping roles!
Do you remember when you really started taking photographs? When you began thinking about the process rather than pointing and shooting as the rest of us do.
I was about 16, a late bloomer considering the age of some of the people in my class. But Ive been an artist since I was about 6, or at least thats when my first work was exhibited. Ive always had an eye for composition, I just didnt know the technical aspects of photography back then.
Growing up, do you remember an image or photograph that affected you the most? Was there a photographer that inspired you in your formative years?
Funnily enough Ive only recently started looking at photographers. What influenced me most as a younger person was Miss Mosh, I remember how badly I wanted to shoot with her, I wanted my very own images of her. I think I have a small girl crush on that woman!
What camera equipment do you use the most to capture your images?
Sorry Cannon fans, but Im a Nikon gal. I started off with a Nikon D40x, and just got myself a lovely D3100, which is basically the same camera. I work with Cannons in class though, and the EOS 5D Mark 2 is a lovely bit of kit, but I can never get my head around the set-up!
What are you looking for when working with a model?
Open minds, personality, and facial expression. When Im shooting a girl, she cant get shy, I WILL ask you to get at least semi-naked. Im not a pervert (well I am, but thats another story) I just have an aversion to clothes. I like people who can take the piss out of themselves.
Do you have a favourite subject matter to photograph?
Naked Ladies? No, portraits are my thing, as long as theres people in the shot Im happy. I recently shot a documentary project about Jolie Papillon, a burlesque performer in London. Ive never done documentary before, but it was absolutely incredible. I have to admit, Ive never shot a wedding or a band, but to be honest, theres enough photographers making a hash of those two subjects for me not to get in there just yet.
The female form is an exquisite muse. Do you enjoy photographing female models, and is there a particular situation/theme that you feel best exhibits all the wonders of women?
Good god I love the female form. As I mentioned earlier, I have a strong disliking for clothing when I shoot, a girl just looks so much better without anything on! I love mixing pin-up, nude and fashion together. I want my pictures to be pieces of art, something that can compliment the model and her body, rather than some gorgeous girl with a killer body being shot with built-in flash. It makes me sad seeing all these pretty girls being shot by GWCs. (Guys With Cameras).
Youve done some exquisite work to date in your career as a model. Your look is sublime, and very unique in my opinion. When youre being photographed, where does your inspiration come from? Is it a dramatic skill do you think, or instinct?
Why thank you! My look, although unique to me, changes regularly. I like that I can change my look on a whim, so when theme shoots arise, Im ready, whether you want me as a blonde bombshell pin-up or a dark-haired femme fatale. I have always loved dressing up. My early inspirations came from Dita Von Teese, I love her look, and shes the reason I started corset training! I think its more instinct, something deeper than acting, being a model I feel like a blank canvas, all I need is a photographer with an idea, and we can make something beautiful.
How do you come up with your photo sets when modelling? Does it depend on whose taking the pictures, or do you enter into a shoot with an outcome and final product in mind?
It really does depend on the photographer, some guys (not any Id recommend shooting with) have had every pose planned out for me. Poses from other peoples work that he just wanted to recreate. I prefer photographers who have a look in mind, but let ME do the posing! Photographers are normally the ones who have to do all the planning, the model is theirs to create with at the end of the day. Of course when you become known for a particular look you do end up influencing a set, but I dont want to do that. Not yet anyway!
Youve worked in a myriad of styles, which has been the most fun to shoot, and is there a shoot you remember most fondly?
My last shoot was actually the most fun Ive had in a long time. It was only shooting with a class mate from university, but it was so fun. It was taking inspiration from 50s pin-ups and coca cola ads. He was shooting on his DSLR and his wonderful new Hasselblad, which made me feel honoured, as those cameras are gorgeous! He was ridiculously enthusiastic about each shot, which is really nice for a model.
I miss the good old days of shooting with Lens Vanity Photography, she took me to some amazing locations, and shes a great friend which made the whole experience better. I cant wait to get back to the Midlands for Christmas so we can shoot again!
Your submissions to Suicide Girls are both varied and spectacular. You dabble in fetish and heavily narrative driven pictures. Is your association with Suicide Girls a fun experience, and what are you hoping comes from it?
Id like to think Suicide Girls will get me somewhere, so far I havent had a set bought, so Im still only a hopeful. One day Id like to earn some cash from the site, hopefully get slightly better known. I love the contacts Ive been in touch with because of that site. Youve reminded me I need to start looking for a photographer to shoot my next set!
You seem to have an on again off again relationship with modelling of late. Recently youve decided to give up the pursuit only to begin planning shoots again soon after. Why are you so undecided about your work in front of the lens?
Ive taken a break from professional modelling since the 19th of November, at the moment Im only doing shoots with classmates, which is why it still looks like Im going. The reason for my break is actually due to my own self-esteem and the fact that Ive been unhappy with my body for a long time. Im currently in the process of losing weight and toning up, as I feel guilty when photographers are paying for my body and I dont think its up to standard. Hopefully Ill be modelling again professionally by the end of the year.
What are your style preferences when youre away from the camera? What influences your everyday fashion choices?
I wouldnt call what I wear everyday fashion, I wear whatever the mood dictates. Sometimes Ill be girly and wear dresses and ballet pumps, sometimes I cant be bothered to dress properly and whatever happens to be comfy and clean is my outfit for the day. I wish I took more interest in what I wear, but I have so many different styles I like to be able to change between, ranging from sporty to gothic to preppy, sometimes all in one day!
Also away from the camera, what are you listening to and watching of late?
Im watching a lot of horror these days, I feel I was deprived as a teenager and am now getting my fix. One of the last films I watched was Suicide Club, a j-horror, it was wonderful, terrible graphics, but wonderful. My music tastes are like my style of clothing, mixed and awesome. I listen to so many different types these days I cant really say what my genre of choice is.
What are your thoughts on the industry at the moment? What is it like making your way in your profession?
As a model its tough, there are so many gorgeous people out there to compete with. Although most of them are lovely creatures there are a few whove got further than others and are just horrible. Hopefully one day Ill be up there with the big names, but for now Im happy being at the bottom! As a photographer, its slightly depressing knowing that after Ive finished my degree Ill probably end up an assistant to a photographer if Im lucky, or a proud owner of a crappy studio taking family portraits all day. Im hoping therell just be one big break for me, but Im not relying on it.
Who would be your two dream collaborators in the following circumstances? Firstly, who would be your perfect model to photograph? Secondly, who would you love to be photographed by?
Ive always been in love with Miss Mosh, but nowadays the girl I want to shoot the most is Amie Conradine, the recent Bizarre magazine Cover girl. Shes utterly gorgeous, a lovely girl, and I want her in my portfolio bad! If were speaking in real terms, knowing that Mert and Marcus will never know my name, the photographer I most want to shoot with is Dastardly Dave, he is fantastic at what he does, and his photos are always stunning.
What does the future hold for Kezia? What projects are you working on right now?
Im in the process of organising shoots for what I hope will become a photo book, Alternative girls in London, original right? But its something Ive wanted to do for a long time. It may or may not become Alt Girls in the UK. As for my modelling, although its on hold now, Im going to be taking bookings from everyone in the new year, maybe sooner. I encourage anyone and everyone to get in touch.
Can we please end with Bernard Pivots classic questionnaire?
What is your favourite word?
Antidisestablishmentarianism.
What is your least favourite word?
Essay.
What turns you on?
A good photograph, musical skill and dreadlocks!
What turns you off?
Bad grammar.
What sound or noise do you love?
A shutter.
What sound or noise do you hate?
Laughing children.
What is your favourite curse word?
Bugger!
What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?
Pole dancer.
What profession would you not like to do?
Accountant.
If heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the pearly gates?
Goddamn I did good with this one!
It was my pleasure to bring you the special talent that Kezia truly is. I am humbled to be involved with such a creative force so early in her career. Please check out tumblr for all Kezias sites and online profiles, and keep your eyes open for more of her stunning work behind and in front of the Nikon.
http://keziarai.tumblr.com
http://suicidegirls.com/members/KeziaRai
Massive thanks to Kezia for providing the images used, here is a run down of what I included in the piece:
1) Photo of Kezia by Lens Vanity Photography
2) Photo of Kezia by Aaron Storry
3) Photo of Kezia by Carl smith
4) Photo by Kezia of Jolie Papillon and Teresa Callan
5) Photo by Kezia of Tasha Doughty
littlejohn22:
great tumblr account... you are smoking in those red heels