Model: Tatiana Tayeh
INTERVIEW, 2017
TATIANA TAYEH
FEMALE MODEL, NEW YORK CITY AND LOS ANGELES
9 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE
Q: Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?
I was born in Ukraine, and grew up in Russia. But I have a mixed blood (Europian, Asian, Middle Eastern), what makes my look versatile and allows me to portrait eastern Europe woman, Middle Eastern woman, Asian, Hispanic, Indian or Native American woman.
For the past few years, I’ve been bicoastal, traveling between New York City and Los Angeles, but I travel for work all over the country, and abroad if needed.
Q: Who or what inspired you to become a model?
When I lived in Russia, I worked in a bank and did photoshoots just for fun as a hobby with my girlfriend who had a camera, but I never thought it could be a career for me. I thought to be a model is something not serious enough to be a profession, at least this what I was told, but everything turned upside down in my mind when I moved to NYC. There are so many creative, open-minded and talented people here, it’s a Mecca of fashion and beauty! After arriving, my new American friends would ask me, “Why don’t you model? You have that look, shape, and personality!” Initially, I was doubtful, but then, having remembered my dream to be a supermodel, I said “Yes” to my inner voice.
Q: How and when did you start modeling?
I started modeling professionally about five years ago. I was doing TF shoots to build my portfolio, and I remember the first photographer asked how long I had been modeling, and when I said that first shoot he was very surprised, as I moved very naturally and knew how to pose and express myself.
Q: What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?
Everything. I like fashion and editorial because you can create very interesting looks, and I like lingerie and boudoir because I can express my feminine sexuality. In lifestyle shoots, I can show my real everyday personality.
Q: What do you look for when deciding to work with a photographer?
Well, my list of requirements is not too long… I guess I’m not a super picky model, but I like to work with personalities, and a good friendly attitude is perhaps the most important for me, whether the photographer is experienced or not.
Q: Which models or other artists currently inspire you?
Natalia Vodyanova is my favorite! I admire her as a woman and as a model.
Q: What would be your dream shoot?
To shoot with David LaChapelle.
Q: How important is social media in your success?
It’s not really important. I’m not a very active user. I need someone to manage social media for me! I try to regularly upload photos and show a private part of my life. I do receive good modeling offers through it, but it’s not my main source for getting jobs.
Q: What else do you like to do outside of modeling?
Psychology! That’s what I’m planning to do when I’m old and gray. It’s my hobby. I’m interested in life coaching, quantum construction of the universe, modern quantum psychology, and energy practices. I also like to paint.
Q: What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?
Follow your dream and never compare yourself with anybody! Enjoy your body and your look – reality is the mirror of what you think about yourself. You are a unique creature and only you can determine how your life and career will look, there are no external obstacles.