Beauty Notes – Interview with Zanita

Zanita and I met backstage at a Tiffany & Co. event last year. Whilst doing her makeup we got onto the topic of blogging. I had just started my beauty blog and was very keen to get tips from a seasoned blogger (she’s been blogging since 2008). She happily answered all of my questions and shared with me that not only was her blog there to document her model-life, but is a platform to experiment with styling (one of her all-time passions) and to practice her photography and gain feedback.

If you have a glance over the history of her blog, you can see her terrific advancement in photography. Fortunate enough to have the best photographers standing right in front of her, she has asked many questions and honed her visual, post-production and photographic skills to the point that she’s now doing her own shoots with up-and-coming models.

A super talented girl, being surrounded by beautiful people, gorgeous clothes and countless fashion spreads, I am keen to see how all of these factors have influenced and shaped her idea of beauty.

What comes to mind when you think of the term ‘beauty’?

Probably any one of my closest friends and family, they are the most beautiful people I know. I know many models who are utterly beautiful in appearance…. but some are a little bit ugly on the inside, which detracts from their beauty. When it comes to beautiful faces my favourites are actresses – Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, Tilda Swinton, Marion Cotillard, Diane Kruger. Their intelligence also makes them extraordinarily beautiful.

How has your modeling career influenced your approach to photography?

My photography is all about working with the models strengths and working to get the best from them. I feel that my forte is knowing how to direct a model to get exactly the image I’m looking for. I’ve gained all my photography experience from my six years working full time as a model.

Some recent tests shot by Zanita:

Brittany:

Issabelle:

Who are your favourite photographers?

David Bellemere, Peter Lindbergh, Alistair McClellan, Darren McDonald, Solve Sunsbo , Ellen Von Unwerth, Mert and Marcus, Inez and Vinoodh, Craig McDean, Greg Kadel, Camilla Akrans.

Do you have any all-time favourite editorials?

This one with Eniko is one of my favourites. I love the mood and the simplicity and the gorgeous light.

How would you describe your personal style?

My style is very casual, I love to wear oversized and mens clothing and lately I’ve been into hats of all kinds. I love the minimalist and military trends.

What is your number one beauty product?

It’s not really a product but my favourite beauty treatment is using the steam room. It makes my skin so soft and clear.

And finally, who is your muse?

My favourite model is my friend Katie Ball. My two friends Rachel Zeilic and Sue-ann San who are behind the label Stylestalker keep me inspired with fashion, they’re passionate enthusiasts for style.

Thanks so much Zanita! We can’t wait to see what’s in store for you!

Tags: Beauty, Interview, Photography, Zanita