From being the contestant in reality TV show Britain’s Next Top Model to trekking around the world’s most exotic places following the call of her entrepreneurial soul, Nina Malone seems to lead a life so vibrant and inspiring. I first got to know Nina when her PR agency introduced me to her latest business venture Shooting Beauty Abroad, which is a project that connects aspiring fashion photographers, stylists and hair & makeup artists at amazing seaside villas in exotic destinations, where they will be shooting fashion editorials with the advice from some of the best and the biggest name of the industry. The three-day trip in a secluded Spanish villa filled with fashion, sun and champagne does sounds like my kind of holiday!
I spent a few moments with Nina to find out about this exciting project and get her share with you all her travel and beauty tales.
Hello Nina, could you tell us about the concept behind starting Shooting Beauty Abroad?
Sure, I grew creatively when I worked outside the UK. When you’re overseas you learn things about your craft and work ethic that you can’t learn or explore in your normal environment. I thought this would be a good experience to share for all professionals, semi professionals and enthusiasts! The images I created abroad were a great icebreaker in interviews and casting, and I’m positive that I received more work with these new images in my portfolio.
What do you find the most rewarding so far working on SBA projects?
Learning that you can do things that you didn’t know were possible.
Five most exotic places for shooting fashion editorial?
Mauritius, New Zealand, Sitio de Calahonda, The Baleraric Island and Salina (Sicily, Italy).
Favourite destinations from previous SBA trips?
Sitio de Calahonda.
Most awkward location for fashion shoots?
It has to be India in Delhi and Goa. These places are amazingly stunning, but all the models got Delhi belly, complained about weak electric current and got sun burnt!
What are your must-have items for a day of fashion shoots?
Water spray, silk scarf, pashmina, slippers and a good book.
Five best weekend hangout spots in your hometown London?
Paradise – Kensal Rise, The Nest – Dalston, Ottolenghi – Islington, RichMix – Brick Lane, W Hotel – Leicester Square.
Five words to describe your fashion style?
The 5 C’s: Casual, comfortable, colourful, curvy and chic!
Your dream wedding dress?
This Hayworth dress by UK bridal designer Stephanie Allin.
Best advice for models to prepare for a big day of fashion shoot?
Research the client you are working for, dress appropriately for the location, have good seamless nude intimates and a good selection of back up heels!
Must-have travel essentials to stay fit and healthy?
Runner trainers, ipod, water bottle, vitamin c and iron tablets.
What’s in your travel carry-on beauty kit?
Toner, cleanser, exfoliator, aloe vera and lots of moisturiser for the face and body.
If you weren’t a model what do you think you will do?
I’ve always wanted to be a director and/or producer.
So tell me Dear Readers, how does your ultimate fashion trip experience look like? Which destination will it be? Or do you have anything else you want to know about Nina? Leave your comments here!
Until next time x
Juliet