Interview: Model Serra Ornella (France)

Can you tell us a little about you?

I've always continued my studies while modelling, for me it was impossible to neglect them despite the fact that modelling is my passion.

I have a Bachelor of Law and have continued with a Human Resources Master’s degree.

Why Human Resources? Simply because I think that human aspects are important but also

because the vocation of this profession is recruiting, contacting and finding the right person for a vacancy … like a booker placing a model for a shoot/casting!! I find part of my passion in my studies and that motivates me.

If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?

My lack of self-confidence when I started. Back then modelling was frowned upon, Instagram

didn't have the same impact as today and work as an influencer did not exist so it was difficult to make some of the people that I love understand what I do and that it doesn't change me in any way.

How did you start modelling?

I'm a real altruist. When I'm on a shoot, for me it’s group work. I have no problem adapting to the surrounding climate so I stay motivated and don't complain during shoots.

What do you think of the work as a model?

When I was 16, I was spotted in a shopping mall by a couple of head-hunters. I started to do

fashion shows essentially in St Tropez. I then did a casting for a jewelry shop that allowed me to do my first photo shoot with a professional photographer.

What is your beauty regimen?

When I was 19, I had a chance to travel to Asia through a scouting agency to develop my book. This experience allowed me to confirm my passion, gain confidence and professionalism. When I returned to France, I felt a difference in the way that I apprehended shoots and posed. At the moment, I travel all over France but also to Morocco for fashion editorials.

What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?

I really like what I do. I love being able to embody a feeling, an attitude, an expression and leave my comfort zone to transmit an emotion on an image. It's not necessarily evident but remaining concentrated for several hours while giving your best takes a lot of energy and causes fatigue. I think that the hardest thing in this environment is having to be constantly operational, in great shape and never look tired.

What are your plans for the future?

I love imperfect beauty such as scars or stretch marks that make the body more human while

representing reality. I’m less a fan of « perfect » photos of smooth beauty which don’t reflect any emotions to me.

What are some of your favorite experiences so far?

Once I've finished my studies, I like to be organized so that I can continue my passion for as

long as possible. When I'm no longer of the required age, I like to use my experience to advise

future models.

Do you have any advice for those who want to start modelling?

Don't put yourself under pressure, and be faithful to yourself. Don't ever hesitate to contact

photographers and brands on the networks yourself! Don't wait for the agencies to do it for you. In this environment you have to be passionate, ambitious and determined to succeed, but be careful that you don't accept everything and anything that could hurt you.

Especially, be careful! you never know who you can meet so I advise you to always check on the net, social media or ask other models what they think of a photographer.

What do you think of the magazine?

I find the concept quite innovating and interesting. It's great to interview lesser known models and give them international visibility.

Website https://ornella-serra.kabook.fr

Instagram: Ornella_Sr