Lena interview
An interview with the beautiful Florida based model, Lena and this expressive black and white series captured by the talented Jose Gonzalez (instagram.com/jagzphotos– www.jagzphotos.com), enjoy!
Know more about Lena at instagram.com/lenalake21
How would you describe yourself in a few words?
I am often too honest for my own good, but I will always listen when a friend is in need.
How long have you been a model?
It’s been about a year since I began my portfolio.
How did you get into modelling?
My mother was a model internationally before I was born, and it was always a part of my life growing up. She would have me runway walk as a kid, telling me how when she lived in NYC the other models in her apartment would ask her for tips and she’d always tell me, “you can’t teach someone how to walk the runway, they either know or they don’t”. As I grew up, many of my friends pursued photography, and as they were looking for models, I offered my help and just kind of fell into it. I did not pursue modelling actively until I met Jose Gonzalez. He helped me to feel comfortable behind the camera.
How was your first shooting? Tell us a bit about that first experience.
While I had done many shoots with friends, they didn’t quite feel as real as my first shoot about a year ago. Jose told me that he likes to withhold the pictures from the model until the end of the shoot. Having always felt awkward behind the camera, this was great for me. It allowed me to open up and be myself.
What does modelling mean to you?
Modelling has helped me to see that imperfections are what make each moment beautiful. Sometimes the photographer captures such a funny moment, or an unusual one that isn’t often seen - and it can reveal a lot to see yourself in these moments. Modelling has helped me to find the confidence get to know myself.
A model you particularly admire?
Though Marilyn Monroe will always be a role model, her french contemporary, Brigitte Bardot, will always be closest to me. How fitting that today she turned 82! Happy birthday, beauty!
If you could choose, where would you like to shoot?
As a kid, my family and I traveled to Turkey. The hot springs in Pamukkale are so beautiful. I would love to be able to shoot there!
What is your dressing style in everyday life?
I’ve always been told I have an interesting sense of style. I like to think it’s entirely different almost every day, my closet is embarrassingly large with a little bit of everything inside! Depending on my mood I might be done up with a nice dress and heels or with my hair up in sneakers and a t-shirt.
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Turkey absolutely stole my heart. My mother spent some time modelling in Asia and we traveled throughout Europe when I was younger. Having been raised with both European and Asian traditions, Istanbul represents a nice balance between the two cultures. With tea lounges and large, sprawling open air markets - it seems impossible to run out of things to do!
What is happiness?
Happiness is acceptance. The acceptance of right and wrong and good and bad and that both are necessary for a life to be lived. I try to remind myself of this everyday.
Where can we find you on a Friday night?
I used to go out most weekends but lately I just curl up in bed with my two dogs and watch a movie or read - recently I’ve been on a graphic novel kick.
What’s your next goal?
I’m currently pursuing an Associate’s Degree in Baking and Pastry. I’m excited to see where this journey will take me, I have high hopes! I’d like to secure a plan for myself after graduating to work towards establishing myself in my field.