Malissa Otting (interview)
An interview with the beautiful Malissa Otting, an Internationally Published Model who presents us this emotive and expressive series captured by the talented Laura Jean, enjoy it!
Know more about Malissa at instagram.com/__malissao– facebook.com/Malissa.Model
How would you describe yourself in a few words?
In a few words, I’d describe myself as: ambitious, quirky but stubborn. LIFE OF THE PARTY ! Haha! I always like to make sure everyone around me is having a good time.
How long have you been a model?
I have been modeling for 2 years on and off, it’s always hard to differentiate between it being a hobby/outlet or a career choice. I’ve been taking on more passion projects then other work these days.
How did you get into modelling?
I got into modelling after I had my son. Crazy right? I was always told I was photogenic but I was always too awkward and not the most confident to try it , now I find my awkwardness to be an advantage.
How was your first shoot? Tell us a bit about that first experience.
It was nerve racking. I wasn’t sure what to expect or how to pose, if only I knew what I know now , but we all got to start somewhere . Once I calmed my nerves and stepped out of my shell poses/expressions came natural. Modeling is a way of channeling art.
What does modelling mean to you?
Modeling to me is meeting creative and passionate artist who share the same drive and ride the same wave as you. There is always challenges and ways of stepping out of your comfort zone. I know I have done some shoots where I thought “AS IF, I’m going to be able to pull this off but then getting the photos back and being ecstatic .
Recently I shot a film where I had to have my hair drenched and no makeup on and to me that’s me at my worst. But when I received some of the stills I was glad I was apart of the film because in the end I felt more confident that I stepped outside my comfort zone. It’s being able to be versatile and remembering to always stay true to yourself, never lose yourself .
A model you particularly admire?
I really love Kate Moss and of course Cara Delevingne. They both are two bad ass babe’s that don’t let the people shape them to what they feel they should be. I love seeing Cara take a stand in interviews and not be afraid to tell it like it is or sugar coat things. I think a lot of models can agree that it’s easy to give in to what sells & what people want but it’s important for you to have boundaries and do things for you. I overall admire that we’re able to see more than just a model for Kate and Cara.
If you could choose, where would you like to shoot?
To just pick one….. I can’t. I want to go everywhere. But I would love to go to Paris. I admire the culture and history it’s truly beautiful.
What is your dressing style in everyday life?
I don’t believe I have a specific style to be honest, whatever is comfortable at the time, I feel the sexiest in a big t shirt.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
I’d love to live in Paris for a bit, NYC, Australia, Iceland, Japan. Everywhere, you never know if you have tomorrow so you got to live for today, cherish the little things, step outside your comfort zone, don’t make excuses, just do it.
What is happiness?
Happiness is being able to live in the moment and being happy with yourself . It’s great to have goals but learning to have patience with anything is key.
Where can we find you on a Friday night?
Working, dancing, watching movies/sports , shooting… always different!
What’s your next goal?
TRAVEL. TRAVEL. TRAVEL. I want to see the world and how different cultures live. I love music festivals and would love to attend them all over the world and work with more great teams.
Photographer : Laura Jean laurajeanphotographer.smugmug.com