Photoshoot + Interview: 'Doll' by Jacqueline Roche
You may have heard of the saying, 'life imitates art', but today's featured photographer's work can be said to do the same thing.
Based out of Tampa, FL, Jacqueline Roche is certainly one talented creative. From dreamy dolls (like the one we're honoured to showcase today) and picture-perfect portraits among the most stunning of natural backdrops - there's just no stopping this inspirational photographer.
Keep reading for an exclusive interview between Jacqueline and Whim's Editorial Assistant Cecile!
Q: Who are some photographers or artists you admire?
A: My admiration board is forever changing! I admire anyone who is passionate and humble. I don't think it matters how much experience, or equipment a photographer/artist has. It's all about heart, and vision. I admire anyone who can create art that either slows down or speeds up my heart.
Q: This shoot is a bit darker and more dramatic than your other work – what inspired this decision?
A: I have been leaning towards darker and more dramatic work lately. The colors and the tones and depth of emotion is so expressive to me.
Gypsy Freeman, who is an incredible wardrobe magician definitely had a lot to do with the dramatization here. When we do work as a team, she's the one that adds color and that perfect "pop". The plot to this shoot was a grunge style doll. Jordan DiMatteo played the role beautifully. I wanted to create something beautiful and frightening.
Q: Where do you get your inspiration from as a photographer?
A: Most of the time my work is reflective of whatever is going on in my life at that given moment. I think it's important to embed emotions into photographs. I recently found inspiration in Kerby Rosanes, "Sketchy Stories". His sketches really speak to me. That is where the mood inspiration for this particular set was formed.
Aside from that, I find inspiration and everything around me whether it's a song, a quote, a person, or just a really intimate feeling. My goal is always to make sure that whoever views my photographs feels something. That's probably the best compliment that I ever get, that one of my photographs moved someone. And so I definitely make sure that I incorporate emotion and still movement into all of my work.
Q: How much direction do you like to give your models on a shoot? Do you always have a clear idea of what you want or do you give them a fair bit of creative freedom?
A: I always go into a shoot with a particular image in mind that I want to create. With that being said I do try to get that one shot, but it's also interesting to give the model space to really get into character. I find that a lot of my favorite photographs from each set are the ones in between poses where the model is feeling more comfortable and really letting her own emotions leak into our concept.
Q: What are you working on next?
A: I'm eager to try some personal projects and conceptual self-portraits. I feel where I am right now emotionally I have a lot to express and photography has always been that form of expression for me.
Gypsy Freeman, the magician behind wardrobe, hair, and make up for this shoot is amazing. We have some incredible concepts and ideas we are also conjuring up that veer more into high fashion and story-telling. I am definitely excited!
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We encourage you to check out more ethereal work by Jacqueline by visiting her website and following along on Instagram (@alterednirvana). Enjoy!
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Full credits: Photographer: Jacqueline Roche @alterednirvana | Model: Jordan DiMatteo @viajordandimatteo | Wardrobe / Hair / Make-up: Gypsy Freeman @facesofgypsy
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Cecile Blackmore is a writer from Brisbane, Australia. She writes and edits at The Creative Issue and hoards vintage clothing – follow her adventures on Instagram at @saintcecile.