This week our
#Badgirlcrush
Read the interview below to find out more about Lanaya, her personal style, fashion tips, fashion photography, magazine publication and why we chose her to be our #Badgirlcrush of the week!
Q: Could you tell us a bit about yourself?
A: Thank you so much! That is really sweet. I'm a really artsy lady. It's important to me that I make a difference with my art in some way & I'm a big believer in beauty diversity. This past year I've been focusing hard on making photos of ladies who are strong, confident & good role models for other girls & women. I've been involved in a lot of body-positive projects and I also run a charity magazine on the side.
Q: We are a big fan of your Fashion Photography! What drew you to photography, especially fashion photography? Did you study and how long have you been a photographer?
A: I've been doing fashion photography as an official 'career' for about 4 years, but my interest in it was born a little earlier. I grew up drawing and playing music, and as a school art project I organized a big fashion shoot. Right away I realized how much I loved the creative process, and decided that's what I wanted to do. Of course, I would never show anyone those photos now (so bad!!), but that shoot was a really important milestone for me. After that, I started shooting with real models, makeup artists - when I was 14 or 15 I organized my first big shoot. There were probably 20 people there, I rented a location and a designer actually made the outfits specifically for that day. It was Old Hollywood theme! I got so busy with shooting that I felt like high school was getting in the way. So, I graduated a year early and started photography classes a few months later in college. I finally finished my course this Christmas :)
Q: Where has Fashion photography taken you, what kind of opportunities do you have being a photographer?
A: I'm really still at the beginning of my career, but I think the best thing that's come from my photography has been all of the incredible people I've met. I've made a lot of friends by doing what I love, and connected with so many kind, talented, inspiring people. Sometimes I'll get messages from girls saying that my photo gave them confidence, that's also a huge reward.
Q: Can you tell us more about your charity magazine Refashion Book? What is the idea behind the Magazine? Why did you start the Magazine and how can people get involved?
A: As a teenager I was really interested in philanthropy & activism; I wanted to figure out a way to give back with my creativity. I couldn't find any charity/fashion magazines to submit to, so I decided to start my own, and Refashion Book was born. Every issue donates proceeds to a different charity & the theme of the photos is based on that cause. If anyone wants to get involved, or for more info, check out the website! www.refashionbook.com
Q: Can you tell us a bit about your role within the ‘A Perfect 14’ movement?
A: A Perfect 14 is an upcoming documentary about plus-size models and the struggles they face in the fashion industry. Giovanna & James, the filmmakers, actually approached me in their early days of shooting and naturally I fell in love with their idea right away! I did their promo posters and an interview for the documentary. It is really great to see people taking a stand against size discrimination. The anticipation for this film is so high. I know it's going to be so inspiring and successful - I'm very honoured to have been a small part of it.
A: Thank you! I watch a ton of old movies and most of my inspiration comes from the film stars of that era. The outfits were so much more glamorous and beautiful back then. Dita Von Teese is my biggest modern-day inspiration. When I got older and started to pay for my own clothes I discovered the wonder that is thrift shopping. I LOVE THRIFT SHOPPING. Almost everything I own is second-hand, or bought online.
Q: Can you share with us one of your favourite vintage outfits?
A: Attached is a photo of my favourite dress (also known as my proudest eBay auction victory)! This one is actually 80's-does-50's vintage. It fits like a glove, has a boned bodice and a glorious winged bust, ahhhhh I love it. A corset is worn underneath in this particular photo.
Q: What is your go to lipstick?
A: Unfortunately I'm currently mourning the death of my all-time-favourite lipstick, Covergirl Lip Perfection (in #305 Hot Passion). I was told it's been discontinued, so now I'm looking for a replacement red! Haha that's so funny! that's what I use, I will have to send you some from Aus, we still have it here!
Q: Can you share with us any Hair or make up tips?
A: Be good to your skin. I am super particular about always wearing sunscreen year-round, moisturizing my face and always taking my makeup off before bed. Eyebrows are important too. Anastasia Dipbrow is really awesome for making perfect brows. I use it with an angled brush and clean up the edges with concealer. For hair, I just pin curl it with an iron. I leave the pins in until the hair is cooled down. It's way more convenient (and idiot-proof) than doing a wet set, and the key to vintage hair - or just longer lasting curls in general! It works best if your hair hasn't been washed for a day or two.
Q: We see you wear a corset from time to time can you share some details?
A: It's a newfound love of mine! I bought my first corset last year for fun just to wear under a few dresses, and after a few months I was able to close my waist almost 5 inches. It actually helps me with my posture after long hours of editing, too. Right now I'm saving up for a custom corset so I can waist train properly.
Q: What are some of the things you love to do when you’re not behind the camera?
A: Dressing up! When I'm shooting it's more about whatever's comfortable, so on days off I like getting dressed up. I love going on adventures (especially if there's food involved), & hunting for treasure in thrift stores / antique malls. I also really love being lazy, watching old movies, having bubble baths & listening to old radio shows etc...Who's guilty of being a princess? Me.
Q: It’s the start of the New Year and everything is new and fresh, what does 2015 hold for you?
A: I'm actually going back to school, this time on the health/sciences path. I know that probably sounds random! It's not easy making a steady income as an artist, so I'm going to get my diploma and start working part-time while I follow my photography dreams.
Aside from that, I have a ton of secret projects coming up. 2015 is a new chapter :)
Thank you again for taking the time to chat with us, once again we love what you do and please keep doing it!
Thank you so much! xo
Find Lanaya here:
Website
Refashionbook
Instagram: LANAYAF
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