Loulou D´vil, Queen of Burlesque

Picture by Travis Haight Photography

Minulla oli mahdollisuus haastatella ihanaa Loulou D´viliä tänä vuonna. Burleskin kuningatar on tunnettu ympäri maailman, ajaton kauneus ja huoleton huumorintaju saa meidät kaikki rakastumaan häneen. Hänen suosionsa kasvettua yhtäkkiä isoksi Loulou on säilynyt vaatimattoman maanläheisenä ja elämän suurin rakkaus, The Baron, tukee häntä viimeiseen asti. Mitä maita hän viettelee seuraavaksi ja mitä Loulou ajattelee tämän hetken kauneusihanteista?

I had a chance to interview lovely Loulou D´vil this year. This beautiful Queen of burlesque is known all over the globe, her timeless beauty and casual sense of humor will make you fall in love with her. Being such well known, she is quite down to earth with her husband The Baron. Which countries will she seduce next and what she thinks about beauty standards these days?

-Ensinnäkin voisit kertoa millainen tyyli sinulla on tänään ja yleiset fiiliksetkin, eli miltä nyt tuntuu? 

Tänään minulla on rento tyyli sillä joudun istumaan koko päivän tietokoneen ääressä. 

 -First you could tell what kind of style you have today, and the general mood you are in, how do you feel now?

Today I have a casual style since I have to sit all day at the computer.

-Suosiosi on kasvanut kovaa vauhtia ja esiinnyt jo ympäri maailmaa. Missä maissa olet käynyt ja miten se on eronnut Suomessa esiintymisestä? 

Olen esiintynyt ympäri Eurooppaa, Thaimaassa, Yhdysvalloissa, Australiassa, Kanadassa, Afrikassa ja Pohjoismaissa. Aika paljon on siis tullut nähtyä! Suomeen verrattuna esiintymiset eivät välttämättä eroa paljoa. Ehkä isoimmissa maissa on ollut isompia lavoja / yleisöä, mutta fiiliksiltään tunnelma on yleensä aina hyvä riippumatta missä esiinnyn.

-Your popularity has grown rapidly around the world. In which countries you have visited and how it is different from the presence in Finland? 

I have performed all over Europe, Thailand, the United States, Australia, Canada, Africa and the Nordic countries. So there has been many countries already! Compared to Finland, appearances do not necessarily differ much. Perhaps the bigger countries have had bigger stages / audience, but I feel comfortable, regardless of where I perform.

Picture by Haunted Cathouse Pin-up

-Sanoit viime kuussa aloittavasi veitsien heittelyn, miten se sujuu? Tapahtuuko haavereita usein vai oletko synnynnäinen heitteilijä? 

Aloitin veitsien heittelyn puolisoni The Baronin innoittamana ja pari kuukautta ehdin treenailla ennen kuin omat kiireet veivät taas aikaa pois harrastukselta. Yllätyin siitä kuinka tekninen laji on kyseessä, mutta hauskaa se on! Aion palata harrastukseni pariin jälleen kun saan extra-aikaa itselleni.  

 -You said you started throwing knives, how is it going? Does accidents happen or are you a natural talent?

I started with knives when my husband The Baron's inspired me and I had time to practice a couple of months, and then I got too busy again to do that. I was surprised at how technical this is, but is so fun! I'm going to start again when I get extra time to myself.

Picture from Loulou´s Facebook page

-Elämäsi vaikuttaa hurjan hektiseltä ja suorastaan seikkailulliselta. Mikä siinä on kaikkein parasta? 

Parasta on uusien ihmisten tapaaminen ja eri maiden kulttuurien kokeminen. 

 -Your life seems wildly hectic and downright adventurous. What's best of all?

The best part is meeting new people and experiencing the cultures of different countries.

Picture by Harri Sirola

-Upeat esiintymisasut ovat vahvasti osana burleskia. Miten valitset asusi jokaiseen esitykseen? Löytyykö sinulta jotain tiettyä suosikkia kaapistasi? 

Suunnittelen ja osaksi myöskin toteutan kaikki asuni. Jokainen asu on käsityötä ja niiden työstämiseen on mennyt hurjasti aikaa. Yksi suosikeistani on ehdottomasti uusin Cowgirl asu, josta ei kimallusta puutu!  

-Stunning costumes and outfits are an important part of burlesque. How do you choose your outfits for each of your shows? Do you have a particular favourite in your wardrobe?

I design all of my costumes and even make some of them myself. Every outfit is handmade and making them is very time-consuming. One of my absolute favourites is my newest cowgirl costume; it is so sparkly!

-Miten suosio on vaikuttanut sinuun? 

Se on vaikuttanut vahvimmin keikkarintamalla ja näkyvyyden saamisessa. Tänä päivänä minulla on jo varata valita millaisia keikkoja teen. 

-How has fame affected you?

Gig schedule has seen the biggest effect and also coverage in the media. Nowadays I can choose what type of gigs I take.

Picture by Atelieri O. Haapala

-Mitä teet niinä hetkinä, kun et tunne olevasi kaikkein parhaimmillasi? 

Yritän muistella kuinka paljon olen jo saanut aikaiseksi. 

-What do you do when you feel you're not at your best?

I try to remind myself of all the things I have already achieved.

-Koska olet usein hyvinkin vähissä vaatteissa ja selkeästi sinut itsesi kanssa, mitä mieltä olet tällä hetkellä vallitsevista kauneusihanteista? Mitä kauneus on sinulle? 

Kauneus on hyvin mielenkiintoinen käsite. Mielestäni jokaisen tulisi yrittää löytää omat hyvät puolet, sillä siitä hyvästä itsetunnosta on kyse. Persoonallisuus, hyvä itsetunto, avoimuus ja se miten kohtelet muita, on kaunista. Jokainen myöskin päättäköön mitä muutoksia haluaa tehdä itselleen, jos siltä tuntuu ja se tekee onnelliseksi. 

-You are often in very revealing outfits, and clearly comfortable in your own skin. What do you think of today's beauty ideals and standards? What is 'being beautiful' to you?

Beauty is such an interesting concept. I think everyone should try and find what is good in them, what strong features and skills they have, because that is what having a strong self-esteem is about. Personality, self-confidence, being open and the way you treat others is beautiful. Also, everyone has their own right to decide what they want to change about themselves, if they feel like it and it makes them happy.

Picture by Steve Prue

-Miten bäädyit burleskitaiteilijaksi ja mikä siinä on parasta? 

Kaikki lähti ensin harrastuspohjalta. Parasta on ehdottomasti luova työ, esiintyminen ja uudet ihmiset joita tapaan jatkuvasti. 

-How did you become a burlesque artist? What is best about being one?

It started off as a hobby. The best thing about it is definitely having a creative job, being on stage, and meeting new people.

-Jos et esiintyisi burleskitaiteilijana, mikä olisi toinen vaihtoehto? 

Jaa'a. Varmaan olisin jatkanut mainosalan hommissa tai tekisin ainakin jotain luovaa tai eläinten parissa tehtävää työtä. 

-If you weren't a burlesque artist, what would be your second-best option?

I probably would've continued in advertisement or at least work in some sort of creative field, or with animals.

Picture by Neil Kengall of Chester

-Mitä haasteita olet kohdannut elämässäsi ja miten olet ne voittanut? 

Haasteita tulee eteen vähät väliä, mutta yleensä kaikesta on mahdollista selvitä. Minun urani on jatkuvasti haasteita täynnä, mutta toisaaltaan nehän tekevät työstä mielenkiintoisen ja elävän! 

-What challenges have you encountered and how have you overcome them?

I face challenges all the time but usually they're all something I can work through. My career is filled with challenges but on the other hand, that is what makes it worthwhile and interesting!

-Mitkä ovat parhaimmat vinkkisi niille jotka haluavat aloittaa burleskin tai tanssimisen? 

Kaikenlainen tanssiminen on hyväksi sillä se antaa keinon heittäytyä musiikin vietäväksi. Silloin kaikki muu unohtuu ja ainakin itselleni tulee vapaa olo. Itseilmaisun kannalta tanssiminen on tärkeä väline myös burleskitaiteilijoille ja siksi kannustankin aina kokeilemaan erilaisia tyylilajeja. 

-What is your best tip to those who want to start doing burlesque or dance?

Dance in all its forms is good for you, because it provides an outlet through music. You forget everything, and it makes you feel free, at least I can say so for myself. Dance is an important form of self-expression and a good tool for burlesque artists as well. Which is why I encourage to try different styles.

Picture by Robert Alvarado

-Mitä projekteja tai suunnitelmia sulla on lähitulevaisuudelle? 

Minulla on käsillä useampikin projekti, mutta joista en voi vielä mainita. Mutta jos yksi isoimmista suunnitelmista tulisi mainita niin seuraavaksi olen lähdössä Uuteen-Seelantiin kiertueelle puolisoni The Baronin kanssa. 

-What new projects and plans you have for the future?

I have many projects in progress, in fact, but I can say any more about them, yet. One big plan worth mentioning is my upcoming tour in New Zealand with my partner, The Baron.

Loulou´s Official pages:

Official home page

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Twitter

Instagram

Gh3tto Bla5ter- Only sky is the limit

 

Picture by Richard Briseño

-How did you became a model and how long have you been doing this? 
I've been modeling since 2009 and I started off my first shoot with a first time photographer. It was a perfect match.
 
-I could not but love your style. How would you describe your style yourself and where do you find your inspiration? We want to know all about your awesome closet! 
I really get my inspiration from my roots which have always lied in metal, goth, and punk subcultures and that's where I draw everything from and just kind of mix it all together to create my own style. My closet consists of some bigger brand items but mostly a lot of it is from small name artists and designers.

Picture by Richard Briseño

-What is the one thing that you are the most proud of? 
What I'm most proud of is what modeling has done for myself as an individual. I've always had anxiety issues and modeling has helped push me out of comfort zone and pursue my dreams.

-Do you have some sort of exercise routine, do you watch how you eat or do you just go with the wind? 
Ideally I like to go to the gym 3x a week where I focus on cardio and weight training. I love food though so it's hard for me to stick to a particular diet. I try to eat light and healthy during the weekdays and then have cheat meals on the weekends.

Picture by Noize Faktory

-What do you do besides modeling? 
For the most part I'm a home-body and I like to read, play XBOX, and watch movies. But I occasionally go out and go-go dance at industrial clubs in LA. I also have gotten into altering and making clothing which I do off-and-on and sell on my etsy shop. https://www.etsy.com/shop/Gh3ttoBla5terDesigns

-When did you start doing gogo dancing and what do you love the most about it? 
I don't really recall a time or place where I started. I think at one point a promoter had mentioned for me to get on the go-go box and that's what basically started it. I really just go-go dance for fun, the part I love the most is definitely the extra space on the go-go boxes or stage to move and dance without bumping into people.

Picture by Richard Briseño at Linda Vista Hospital

-What photoshoot has been your favorite so far? 
That is so hard to say because every photoshoot has something special about it and the amazing photographers I've worked with all deserve credit. If I had to pick one though it would probably be the shoot I did in 2013 with Richard Briseño at the infamous Linda Vista Hospital in Los Angeles. I've always wanted to visit that abandoned hospital and I was so fortunate he was able to get us in.

-Who is the person you would love to be working with? 
There are a lot of great photographers I follow on facebook that I would love to work with, too many to name, but some of whom I hope to work with in the future.

-What are the most important things in life? 
My family. I live with my amazing boyfriend, our little French Bulldog, and our black cat. They mean everything to me.

-Tattoo time! Tattoos can tell a lot about the person who is carries them. How many tattoos do you have and do they have stories behind them? 
I feel like I have just one large tattoo that just isn't fully connected yet. My tattoos do have significant meaning that would really only make sense to myself. They have a lot to do with my family, upbringing, and just things I personally adore.

Photographer: Dave G.

-What do you think about beauty, what things define it? Do you have something to say to those people who still fight to discovering themselves? 
Beauty is always in the eye of the beholder. It can not be defined and it's up to each individual to define and create themselves. If you feel lost, you're not the only one. We all start somewhere and eventually evolve.

-What kind of dreams do you have? 
I've modeled for clothing companies before and I'd love to work with some of my favorite brands. I also just got my first publication in a magazine and my next step is to work towards being on covers. Honestly the sky's the limit!

Photo by Rico J C Photography
Dress by Violaceous Latex

-Tell us your 5 best beauty/style tips you use: 
1) Perfecting makeup takes a lot of trial and error, there is no top secret miracle, you just have to keep trying and find what works best for you. 2
) You don't have to buy expensive clothes to stand out. A lot of my outfits are fairly simple but I accessorize the hell out of them and it turns into a whole new look.
3) Never be afraid of trying something new and different, it's what'll make you stand out from the crowd.
4) Don't always go for big brands, support independent artists because that's where the hidden treasures are.
5) Be yourself. The term is cliché for a reason, it's true. You should always feel comfortable with what you're doing and express what makes you happy.

-Is there any future plans/photoshoots you are waiting for? 
Yes, there are a few photographers I've been talking with recently and we're in the works for some upcoming shoots so stay tuned!

Official pages:

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ModelMayhem
Vampirefreaks
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Unwilting Lady Amaranth

  Photo is by Taya Uddin

Immortal amarant, a flower which once

In paradise, fast by the tree of life,

Began to bloom; but soon for man's offence

To heaven removed, where first it grew, there grows,

And flowers aloft, shading the fount of life,

And where the river of bliss through midst of heaven

Rolls o'er elysian flowers her amber stream:

With these that never fade the spirits elect

Bind their resplendent locks. (III, 353)

      From John Milton's epic Paradise Lost (1667).

 The word amaranth comes from the Greek word amaranton, meaning "unwilting" (from the verb marainesthai, meaning "wilt"). The word was applied to amaranth because it did not soon fade and so symbolized immortality. "Amarant" is a more correct, albeit archaic form, chiefly used in poetry (you may also  called it chrysanthemum or helichrysum). The current spelling, amaranth, seems to have come from folk etymology that assumed the final syllable derived from the Greek word anthos ("flower"), common in botanical names.  It was sacred to Ephesian Artemis in ancient Greece. It was supposed to have special healing properties. As a symbol of immortality, it was used to decorate images of the gods and tombs.  It was also widely used by the Chinese for its healing chemicals, curing illnesses such as infections, rashes, and migraines.

Thing about THIS amaranth is, that she is beautiful like any flower and just as timeless. Lady Amaranth has been inspiration to the whole gothic culture for years and years now. You can find her all over the internet, trough magazines, covers and ads. This 34-years old model lives in London, England and her style is mostly traditional goth but you can find medievel and fantasy elements in it too. Why I love her, is the way she always do things with style and confidence and she had stayed modest. Modesty is really a virtue in media world and I am so happy that she had the time for the interview and I am also glad how accessible she is. I think that Lady Amaranth is truly unwilting and she is an icon to remember.

 Article from Alt Fashion issue 20

You are one the great names in gothic and alternative culture. Many look up to you as an idol, style icon and dream be just like you. How does being famous affect you?

 

!You know, when I was a young goth in the scene, I would look up to the elder goths too. I think it’s natural to appreciate those who you aspire to be like. Knowing how I felt back then – shy and insecure in the presence of these beautiful fully fledged goths – I endeavour all I can to try and be as approachable and kind as possible. However sometimes I’m not the most sociable person and I do like to spend time alone – even in crowds… and being known does make this particular personality trait a little difficult. But it’s all swings and round-abouts. I appreciate my fans so much that I have actually learnt over the years to break through some of my misanthropic tendencies and tame my awkward nature to a degree. I do ask people to remember though – I’m not really “famous” or a “celebrity”, and even those that are, have their faults. People can be too quick to put others on pedestals and then equally as quick to tear them down when they don’t live up to the standards they themselves created. Simply appreciate the parts of me you like – take those and make them your own and be your own style icon", she says smiling and continue "I never mind people mimicking my style and indeed love helping people to bring to life the beautiful goth they see inside them – believe me, wielding an eyeliner is an art… and one that took me a while to master! I do also like to try and be a good portrayal of all the wonderful things about goth (where the mass media and general opinion sometimes only see the bad) and hope that is one thing that others can take from me – so we all represent the scene and its culture in the best light."

How did you became a model, is there certain story behind it?

"I always liked to take photos before I headed out to a club. My mother made a lot of my clothes and she liked having pictures of me in my outfits. I also liked to keep mementoes of the me that I created – rather than the me I had to be in school uniform etc. But I never really thought I could “model” as such. It was Nadya Lev – a brilliant American photographer – who first saw some pictures of me and asked me to do a professional shoot. Following on from that some designer friends asked me if I could take photos in their clothing. It kinda snowballed from there and I fell in love with creating the photos – especially the more fairy-tale and fantastic kinds. I always lived in my head as a child, and being able to be that witch/vampire/princess even if just for a moment was a great deal of fun and a beautiful escape from reality. However my proportions aren’t really “model material” and I’ve just become known as one through luck really."

 Photography by Kestrel

How would you describe your style and where do you find your inspiration?

"It varies from a classic 90s goth with an 80s twist, to a feminine fae-goth and a few shades in-between. I find my inspiration mainly from movies and stories, and also my fellow goths, watching the beautiful creatures at festivals such as WGT always makes me feel so inspired when I return. But a single piece of jewellery or a beautiful location can spawn a whole outfit. And these days I’m lucky to work with some amazing designers, many of whom allow me input into their designs – and between us some beautiful art is borne!"

What things has been difficult during your modelling career and how did you kept your head above the water?

"I think the strangest thing for me is coping with the attention. I was never one of the “popular” crowd growing up, it was only when I got into the goth scene I started coming into my own – and then later to be hailed as an icon… it was a huge ego boost and one which I didn’t always manage gracefully. On the flip side I also got a lot of negative attention from people who wanted to drag me down. I had to learn to take all opinions with a piece of salt and keep true to myself and continually thankful for all the wonderful opportunities I have gotten as a result."

 Left: Photography by Kestrel

Right: Photography & MUA: Iroltha Photography

There has been so many great artists that you have been working with, we would like to know who is the person you would love to be working with in the future?

"Gosh there are so many talent artists and designers I would love to work with still! I think the one main thing I would love to do which I haven’t yet – is work with a graphic artist who can create some Lady Amaranth caricatures or comic strips."

 We all have bad days some times. Do you have any tricks to make you feel better when you feel sad or not as confident as normal?

"During those times I like to spend time alone and retreat into myself. I’m quite an analytical person so when I encounter a real wall of sadness I like to try and figure out what is the root cause and see how I can go about life to try and make things better in future. When general nameless malaise washes over me – which it does from time to time, I just like to take time out from the world, listen to music, watch movies and sleep… recovering my soul for the next onslaught of reality."

 By Viona-Art

What do you think about the beauty standards these days?

"Beauty is really difficult thing to define. For example in many walks of life I may not be considered beautiful yet in the goth scene I am. It’s very much a personal preference thing and essentially we all create that definition ourselves whether we like it or not. I am very much into creating beauty and having beauty around me as I define it… it’s especially why I adore the goth scene... because I think almost anything and anyone can be beautiful no matter what they were born with - there’s an art to it which you can make your own. But it is an art and takes practise and talent – which is kinda nicer to admire than simply how well someone fared in the lottery of genetics."

You always seem to look your best, how do you keep yourself in good shape?

"Well that’s certainly not true, it’s only that the best pictures end up online of course. And generally those are pictures which have been staged with great lighting, angles and outfits. As for being in good shape, I’m afraid that’s also not true – especially as I get older! However as I age I become better at putting together outfits which accentuate my best features and improving in the artistry of flawless makeup – so I think that’s what’s helping me negate the signs of aging", she say this with little with sparkle in her eyes.

Tell us something about your childhood and how you were like growing up.

"I grew up in a wonderful little under-developed town in Richards Bay, South Africa. There weren’t many houses there at the time, and loads of Veld to play in. I was a bit of a solitary wild child and loved climbing trees and exploring the bush with my black German Sheppard (who I was not much taller than!). When I did play with others, we would spend much of the time in swimming pools pretending to be mermaids". She smiles and I can see the little mermaids in my mind.

You seem to have achieved many things already. Now we need to know what dreams do you have?

"I’d like to have a house and a garden… we currently own a flat in London, but I do long for more space and an outside."

Tell us your 5 best beauty/style tips you use

1.      Use moisturising cream daily, all over the body and especially the face and neck.

2.      Make sure you know your body and your best/worst bits and choose your clothes accordingly.

3.      Put outfits together with thought, if you’re bringing in colour in an item, make sure you echo it somewhere else too and use accessories wisely. Also make sure your make-up and hair carries through and is not an afterthought.

4.      Invest in a good foundation and a quality brush and learn how best to apply it.

5.      Use lots of blending and shades with eyeshadows.

Official links:
Official home page 
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ModelMayhem
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Blog and more pictures

Laura Dark - Beauty in Darkness

 Model and Photography: Laura Dark
MUA: Deanna Roberts
Hair: Beth Gray

Laura Dark is a conceptual portrait and fashion and beauty photographer from Columbus, Ohio. It has been said that, “what Laura can do in a half a dozen frames would make grown men cry.” She is best known for her dark portrait and beauty work which has been described as, “beautiful and creative to the max….the images are so realistic and haunting…it’s insane.”

Laura is well known for her many publications, magazine covers, and her 2 years as Senior Fashion and Beauty Editor with the avant garde fashion magazine, Dark Beauty. She has been published in Gothic Beauty Magazine, Bizarre Magazine, and Auxiliary Magazine just to name a few.

The reason why I wanted to interview her, is the fact how beautiful her pictures are, how talented she is in so many ways and how she had inspired me trough the years I have been trying to find myself. When I found out that there is gothic subculture, I have always came across her pictures in the internet. They made me feel I can try something new and be me. During the interview I realized that even the persons who we look up to, have had problems when it comes to their lives.

"I have always had eating issues myself and have gained and lost hundreds of pounds. My only goal is to make people feel good about themselves, even if for only a brief period of time. So few women ever get that", Laura said and really means what she says.

"Ever since I was a teenager I have been fascinated by the beauty that can only be found within the darkness of loss. What starts out as sorrow soon becomes a beautiful mess, tangled, and struggling; leaving the viewer with only a sense of chaos and the inevitability of a new beginning," She describes her work and we all can see the results.

Model: Odette Despairr MUA: Laura Dark Wardrobe: Darkspectre

How long have you been doing photographing and why did you started it? 

I had started my art career as a portrait sketch artist, but decided that field was so very limited that I couldn't make a living from it. I had picked up some photography skills in high school when I was the yearbook staff photographer. I went to college for Graphic Design, but I hated the school and was burnt out by my second year and dropped out. I went back to my hometown and apprenticed under a local photographer for two years before breaking off on my own. I started taking images of families and wedding and then in late 1999 I started shooting bands. In 2000 I started shooting alternative models for their portfolio updates and alternative websites and fashion designers. Since then, I have been making a living from my photography in the alternative scene with bands, models, magazines, and websites.

Your style is very gothic and dark, is there any specific reason for that?

I knew I saw things differently than other people when I was in high school. I came from a very small community of people and I guess if we would have known what "goth" was back then, my friends and I would have been the "goth" kids. We dyed our hair black, we wore black clothes, black eyeliner and the boys wore makeup too. I think I was the first girl in my school with a nose ring and a tattoo. It wasn't just a phase for me, it became a way of life, the music, the fashion, the alternative culture. I was highly influenced by music, specifically industrial and metal. I found a lot of girls my age were dressing in alt fashions and makeup but were making themselves look harsh instead of pretty and I thought, "why can't we be dark AND beautiful creatures?". So I started striving for that look in my images. Beauty in Darkness.

Left: Were you invited to the "Monster's Ball"?
Sweeney Todd and Mrs. Lovett were.
Models: Manzin and Odettedespairr
MUA: Makeup Vamp
Hair: Synthetic Rebellion and Gray Artistry
Wardrobe: Darkspectre Custom Couture and Props
Shot for: Auxiliary Magazine — henkilöiden Beth Gray, Nez Wilburn, Manzin Dammet, Jackie Steinert, Deanna Roberts ja Scott Tater Lynd kanssa.

Right:  Model: Bri | MUA: Rahela Akasha | Wardrobe: Darkspectre Custom Couture and Props

Where do you get all of your great ideas? 

"My number one influence is Tim Burton. His films and art have driven me to find beauty in the decay of things. His heroes and heroines are tragic beauties and there is a sadness captured by him that so few other artists can reveal in a story. Lydia Deets from Beetlejuice was one of the first true "goth" girls I remember seeing when I was young and I instantly fell in love with her. Even now I find his leading ladies in his new creations to be fabulous dark beauties that inspire me; The Corpse Bride, Sally, and Mrs. Lovett.

In photography I have been influenced by so many artists, but I would say if I had to pick one it would be Michael Rosen. His images are a mix of photography and digital artistry that is just amazing! Mr. Rosen creates a world of fantasy sometimes glamourous and sometimes scary. He takes you to this magical place and holds you there. I hope one day to reach that point in my art, to hold a viewer completely captive in my images.

Left: Model: Xlcr Moon MUA: Makeup Vamp Hair: Odette Despairr Wardrobe: Too Fast

Middle: Cover of Vain Girl Magazine
Model: Odette Despairr
MUA and Photography: Laura Dark
Wardrobe: DarkSpectre Custom Couture 

 Right: Gothic Noir: Model: Odette Despairr MUA: Makeup Vamp Wardrobe: Romantic Threads

How does it feel to see your pictures in magazines, specially in the covers? 

Amazing. I always enjoy seeing my work appreciated in print.

Do you have any tips for starting photographers/models? 

Networking is a HUGE part of business, at least is for me. It's more about WHO you know these days. I network my ass off. I contact magazines looking for submissions, I hit up wardrobe designers to shoot their new lines, have lunch with other photographers, etc. I'd say 75% of my business is networking. I tell new photographers to skip all the photography classes and take business classes. If you have the talent for being a photographer, you can pick up the technical stuff by apprenticing, but business is tough. You have to know accounting, have customer service skills, be able to sell yourself and your images. Without that, it doesn't matter how talented you are.

This is Laura in Barnes & Noble holding the current issue of Gothic Beauty Magazine. She shot this editorial of Wednesday Mourning with Atelier Gothique jewelry, Kinky Kitty Wardrobe, Makeup Vamp, Makeup Artistry, Crane Conception Hair, and Darkspectre Custom Couture and Props wardrobe.

What beauty means to you? 

Beauty is everywhere. Not all people can see it. Everyone is beautiful in their own unique way. I see beautiful people who hate themselves because the world has beat them down. "You're too fat." "You're too thin." "Your skin is bad." "Your boobs are too small." I hear it when they are in my studio. "Can you fix this, it's always bothered me." Some don't have to say anything because I hear it in their voice or see it as they try to cover it up.

Everyone should feel beautiful. Everyone has that right. Everyone should be able to hold an image of themselves in their hands and look at it and smile.

Is there any memorable stories that had happen in behind the scenes? 

Ha! So many behind the scenes stories. I work with some of my very best friends in my studio, so we are always making new memories.

Left:

Back cover of Tenebrous Magazine
Model: Odette Despairr
MUA: Makeup Vamp
Wardrobe: Darkspectre  

Middle:

 Little Miss Perfect
Model: Bre
MUA: Mascaraid and Gray Artistry
Photography: Laura Dark

Right:

 Model: MsPoisoness
Makeup, Wardrobe, photography: Laura Dark

What is the best thing in your job? 

I really love everything about photography. I love drawing up a concept and coming up with the hair and makeup designs, picking out the wardrobe, building the set (real life or digital), setting the lights, shooting, and retouching. The process is pretty amazing. So many people think being a photographer is just setting up lights and pushing a trigger. There is so much more that happens behind the scenes, people just don't realize the art behind really great photographs.

Who is the person you would love to be working with? 

 I really don't have a specific person I'd like to work with, but rather I'd like to get my work into more mainstream fashion magazines. I'm really trying to get into Z!NK and runway Magazines.

 Left: Model: Brianne Jeanette MUA: Rahela Akasha Hair: Synthetic Rebellion Wardrobe: Aaron James 

Middle: Model: MsPoisoness MUA: Mascaraid Wardrobe: Laura Dark 

 Right: Model: Odette Despairr MUA: Makeup Vamp Head Dress: Bubbles and Frown

If you weren´t a photographer, what is the other option for you? 

I would probably be a makeup artist or work in marketing. Those are my two other favorite pass times.

What is the one thing that you are the most proud of? 

 Ugh, that's a tough one. Lol. I'm a self hater and horribly ocd so I'm not really proud of anything I do, but I guess it's got to be juggling a marriage, a owning and running a full time business, and raising two beautiful children at the same time.

So, last, what is your next project, is there any future plans you are waiting for? 

My goals this year are pretty straight forward. I'm trying to book out my year with paid work and behind the scenes gathering up images for fashion editorial submission. Really hoping for a couple of larger magazine covers as well.

Thank you for the interview!

 Model: Odette Despairr MUA: Laura Dark

 Awards and Honors

Modelmayhem.com 2011 – Photographer of the Year – Runner Up
MODEL MAYHEM 2009 PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE YEAR!
Model Mayhem Photographer of the Week - 11 time winner
Model Mayhem Picture of the Day - 62 time winner
Model Mayhem Concept of the Day - 30 time winner
Deviantart.com Daily Deviation - 6 time winner
Deviantart.com Featured News – 28 times

More pictures and official pages:

Laura Dark in Facebook

lauradark.net

Model Mayhem

Twitter

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Violet Morphine - Life is an adventure

Photography and editing: Gas Oven Photography
Model and makeup artist: Violet Morphine
Hair stylist: Conception 451

Rosie Wilson, you may think her just another girl from Los Angeles, but she is something more than you thought. This 20 years old make up artist has seen the world as it is, an adventure. Violet Morphine takes opportunities seriously, grabs  them in her hands and go live in the moment.  Even when  Tokyo stays silent and sleep, she walks around and explore by her own and just talk to people who are awake like her. She is the one who says, don´t be afraid of living or doing what you love, just live it!

-First you could tell the readers what kind of your style you have today and how is your day?

Well... there is no real normal day for me, it really depends on what I'm doing! Today I'm just gonna walk my dogs, go to the gym and pack for Hong Kong and Australia!

Model: MoxiSuicide
Makeup and hair by Laney Chantal , Michelle Miller and myself.
Photo and edits by Andre Mercier for Dapper Cadaver on set of Carolina Parakeet

-Being a make up artist clearly your thing. When did you started doing it and what certain things keep you doing it?

I started because of a makeup artist I met when I was 14 called Dazz. She was already working on shoots, and from the moment she showed me her portfolio I wanted to do makeup too - so I started assisting her on set. I keep doing it because I love doing makeup. It's kind of like art.. getting to paint someone's face! Although as much as I like making people pretty I do love character and fx makeup too. 

-You ended up being even other side of the scenery. How does being a model is different from being behind the scenes?

I mean, I was never a serious model, I'm definitely not built like a model! Haha.. it was just fun for me at the time... I like being behind the scenes much more, you get to watch videos and movies come together right in front of you! 

Left:  From Nelly Recchia's Wicked Royals layout in Make-up Artist Magazine!
Makeup Body art/ Hair/props, Photography all by the incredible Nelly Recchia!
Model : Rosie Wilson (Violet Morphine)

Right:  ©Julie Phillips

MAKEUP BY NELLY RECCHIA

Left: Photography and editing by Laura Reagan Photography
Model/makeup/hair - Violet Morphine

Right:  Photography and editing: DW KIM
Model and makeup artist: Violet Morphine

-Who is the person you would love to be working with?

I'd love to do makeup on someone like Lady GaGa because you could be creative! Although for just beauty makeup I'd love to work with Miranda Kerr! 

 -How would you describe your style and where do you find your inspiration?

My style... well clothing would de All black everything? Haha. I don't know. Unless you mean make up style then it depends what the makeup is for! 

Setting up on set of a commercial 2013
Photo by Claudia Giner

-And what kind of make ups or fx things you do the most?

I do beauty makeups' most!
 

-Where have you traveled and which place has been the most memorable?

 I'm honestly not sure which one is most memorable! My favorite places are Munich, Berlin, Paris, England, Scotland, Ireland, Melbourne, Brisbane, LA and Tokyo. I can't even shortlist that - I love ALL those places.

Left: Photography/editing by D.W. Kim Photography and Design
Model: Zonneoutt Zhnavere
Makeup/fx: Violet Morphine

Middle: Make up artist - Violet Morphine
Hair Stylist - Paige Badenoch
Model - Nikki
Photography - Fleur

Right: Chilled Magazine cover of the 'Vanderpump Rules' cast that she worked on doing makeup and hair.

-What is the one thing that you are the most proud of?

I'm proud of following through with being a makeup artist because I know so many people who do makeup school and never end up working as an artist... and I'm proud of getting to travel the world doing what I love! 

Violet in Brisbane Zombie Walk 2010

-How have you changed in, let´s say, past 5 years?

5 years ago I was 15... so I would say I have changed ALOT! I mean in that time I'd just moved from England to Australia, I finished high school, I did beauty school and 2 makeup schools, moved to LA! So much has changed that's just a few things! 

Violet´s make up station

-Tell us your 5 best beauty/style tips you use

5 best beauty tips.. okay.. 

1) Sometimes less is more... you don't always need to wear heavy makeup if you're just sitting at home! Let your skin breathe and do a face mask if you're at home! 

2) Stay hydrated and drink lots of water.. it makes your skin look awesome! 

3) Know yourself! Know what looks good on you and accentuates your good features and assets. 

 4) SUNSCREEN! That one's so important! Aside from the fact that you don't want skin cancer, over exposure to the sun causes an array of damage to your skin.. and it doesn't always show until your older! 

Also: Hats and for any goths reading this parasols! 

5) This one is going to sound weird and corny but be happy! It's so true that when you're happy it shines through and everyone can see it, almost like a special little glow that makeup can't give you! 

-Is there any future plans you are waiting for? Thank you for the interview!

YES! I fly to Hong Kong tomorrow for a music video shoot, then onto Australia! Then back to LA for more shoots... then I think off to Sweden or back to Australia for another shoot! 2014 is going to be awesome and this is just the start!

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