Interviews / Stories
Interview: Model Sara Jahan (Denmark)
Can you tell us a little about you?
I am 29 years old and living in Denmark, but originally from Iran. I work as a health care assistant for elders and disabled people.
I am interested in fashion and recently took up photography myself and consider making some of a career out of taking pictures.
If you could change anything about yourself, what would it be?
This might sound arrogant, but I wouldn’t want to change anything about myself. We all have our small flaunts, but I think people should learn to love themselves and focus on the good things. Everyone is beautiful, but the main difference between a model and a non-model, is that the model has learned to emphasize on his or her strong points.
How did you start modeling?
I had had a few pictures taken, but nothing serious until I met my boyfriend, who is also a photographer. Together we started making some pictures that helped other photographers open their eyes to me and I started getting some real jobs. He’s been really helpful with strengthening my network and optimizing my social media profile. In return, I help him when he’s out taking pictures.
What do you think of the work as a model?
I really like the work, but it is not an easy business. The modeling world is constantly changing and so are the photographers. As a model, you have to be really careful with whom you work with, as you a never any better than your last shoot. You could compare it with being an athlete, as it is always your last result that counts in peoples mind.
The best part is that I get to meet a lot of really nice and helpful people and I get to dress up. I guess all women like to have their hair and makeup done, getting dressed up and being told they are pretty.
What is your beauty regimen?
It is awful to admit and people always hate me when I say it, but I do absolutely nothing. No work out, no special skin treatment or secret diet. I am actually really lazy when it comes to taking care of myself, but I guess I have been blessed with good genes, as it is a struggle if I need to gain a little weight. I eat what I want and have no problem with spending an evening on the sofa with a bag of chips and a nice movie.
What are your personal qualities which distinguish you from others?
I am a perfectionist in a way that is borderline crazy. I have spent hours and hours working with my poses, from how I place my hips to the way I turn my hands and bend my fingers. I am never fully satisfied with my hair or makeup and actually prefer to not have a series published, rather than publishing something that is just ok. This is something general with my approach in life. I never do something half.
What are your plans for the future?
I want to continue with my modeling jobs and also shoot more music videos as they are a lot of fun. I also want to take more pictures and I hope these two things combined can be the way I make a living. At some point, I also want to start a family as I just love kids.
What are some of your favorite experiences so far?
I haven’t got any favorite moments, as I have been lucky to work with really nice people most of the time, and I see every job as an opportunity to learn something new.
Do you have any advice for those who want to start modeling?
Start with having some really good pictures taken – be careful with whom you work with. Not everyone with an expensive camera is a good photographer. Check out the photographers portfolios and compare them with each other. Keep your clothes on unless it is absolutely necessary to do otherwise and remember yourself and your principles. Remember those who help you and be grateful and humble at all times. Good deeds never go unnoticed.