Delaina Marieinterview
An interview with the stunning Austin, Texas-based model, Delaina Marie and this selection of her fantastic work captured by the talented photographers Ainsley Joseph and Jordan Schiappa, enjoy!
Know more about Delaina at instagram.com/dliteizzle– facebook.com/delainamariemodel
How would you describe yourself in a few words?
intuitive, organized, dynamic,
How long have you been a model?
I casually shot a couple sets back in 2013 but didn’t energetically pursue modeling until Autumn 2014… so actively, from my point of view, a little over 3 years.
How did you get into modelling?
My older sister introduced me to a local photographer. She’s a professional entertainer- her creative spirit always inspires me and she’s always supported my dreams. I was going through a rough time we both thought it could serve as a wonderful confidence booster.
How was your first shooting? Tell us a bit about that first experience.
Hah! My first performance was very sub-par and clumsy. The photographer was great but I felt insecure. It was hard for me to relax and let the energy flow. I never felt like I was allowed to be sensual, and it clumsily translated as such. Practice makes perfect; it’s cliché but true! Confidence is learned and has to be inherently genuine. I’m thankful for every experience that teaches me to be a better performer. Nonetheless, it was a rush to be out of my comfort zone.
What does modelling mean to you?
It’s my outlet for creative expression. I graduated with a degree in Art History and always admired the live models we’d draw in class. I didn’t have much self-assurance back then, and their confidence was really inspiring. When I was treated for breast cancer back in 2013, I realized I was granted a second chance. Going forward, I didn’t want to live a life of fear. Scorched earth policy, per say- what did I have to lose? Out of the ashes, a phoenix can arise… I want to laugh at myself for that analogy but this is the most honest reflection I can give!
A model you particularly admire?
Not necessarily a model, but I deeply admire singer/ dancer FKA Twigs. Her talent is intoxicating. I could watch her dance all day and get chills when I hear her voice. I’m also absolutely in love with the provocative art direction of Nadia Lee Cohen. Her work is so eccentric, surreal and fresh. To say it’s stimulating would be an understatement.
If you could choose, where would you like to shoot?
Thailand! I will be going there next month, actually.
What is your dressing style in everyday life?
Chic, edgy and comfortable. I’m obsessed with quality shoes, slim shapes/angular lines, and designer denim. I default to wearing all black, though it can be overwhelming in the heat. I’m focused on accumulating jewelry at the moment and I want to wear more gold in life.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Tokyo
What is happiness?
Realizing you’re never actually done with growing/learning, by not being so hard on yourself and trying to not take everything so personally. It’s all a balancing act. We need to be more forgiving of our short-comings and not let them define us. Surround yourself with people who genuinely love, appreciate and unconditionally support your goals. Invest your time in nurturing, meaningful relationships. To be alive is a beautiful anomaly. Find people who want to appreciate that with you.
Where can we find you on a Friday night?
At an art gallery with my boyfriend or at home pampering myself. The occasional happy hour if I’m in the mood. I frequently see friends throughout the week so I usually like to have a mellow Friday night. Beauty sleep, especially if I have a gig the next day. I’ll indulge myself later in the weekend after I’ve accomplished some personal creative projects.
What’s your next goal?
I have an ongoing goal to not buy clothes for the rest of the year. I started this in April, going 6 months strong now! I’m finding more creative ways to style some of my shoots, but I’m really looking forward to buying some new trousers instead of trying to make them myself. Speaking of which, I should really try to finish that one pair I started months ago.
Credits:
Header, 1 to 4:
by Ainsley Joseph instagram.com/ainsleyj1974
MUA: Whitney Alexis instagram.com/whitneyalexxxis
Equipment: Camera: Mamiya Rz67 Proii / lens: Mamiya Sekor W 90mm F/3.5 / film: Ilford Delta 100 Pro / dev: Self Developed / Scanner: Epson V700
5 to 8:
by Jordan Schiappa instagram.com/jordanschiappa
Makeup Artist: Whitney Alexis instagram.com/whitneyalexxxis
Lingerie Designer: Feather Red instagram.com/featherred1
Equipment: Sony A7 / Lens: Zeiss 55mm F/1.8