Quinn Linden
Quinn is photo model. We talked about her reason to become a model, funny experiences with photographers and her own activities to create art. Given Quinns preference I used only black & white photos to illustrate the interview.
Thomas Berlin: Quinn, can you tell a little about yourself in a few words?
Quinn Linden: I am an artistic human. Free and powerful.
Are you a part time or full time model?
Modelling is my full time job, so far.
Is model your first job or did you have other jobs before?
I used to work in different areas, started from cleaning service, working as a waitress, an extra in cheap movies, later on, I turned into a “nude direction” using my body to perform as a webcam and soft-core model. These were my bunch of steps before I found photography perfect for me. The only offline experience in university I had was studying medicine right after high school, wasn't my cup of tea. Since then I prefer self-education that works better for me, especially in languages.
Did you do something creative before starting modeling?
I am currently practicing tattooing, trying to improve my skills so it can become my second job, it's been one of my biggest dreams.
What type of photo style do you do? Which one do you enjoy the most?
I shoot mostly all the genres such as nude, fashion, erotic. My favorite one is an art nude, analog in Black and White is the best combination for me so far. I also prefer less posing, natural look and location. Some lingerie would never be too much;) I think there's no style I would not like, some of them could not suit my personality, for instance, sometimes I find it difficult to do ”smiling pretty face”, glamorous styling or shallow pornish accent on cheese visions of some photographers which seem to be boring regarding posing.
Who inspired you to become a model?
My partner and my desire to travel and to be financially independent. No expectations. Later on, surprisingly I started enjoying posing and getting inspired by photography.
Please tell me about your first steps as a model .
It was summer 2017 when I registered on model networks with no expectations, I was just shooting TFP and having fun for a couple of months before me and my partner organized the first paid tour around Germany. It was fascinating! By the way, I met Thomas on those days!
You looks self confident. Was that always the case or did you develop self confidence because of modeling?
I am still not 100% confident, I am just artistic enough to pretend to be confident in front of the camera, you can always see this on the results. I am pretty sure nobody likes unconfident people, so I have been working on that problem and no doubt modeling has helped me a lot.
What inspires you?
I mostly get inspired by myself, nature, weather, music, culture.
What differentiates a good from a not so good photographer from a models perspective? / What is the photographer's behaviour you would like to receive always in shootings?
For me being a good photographer means being honest, respectful, curious and relaxed. These things are very important in any kind of relationship ;)
How do you handle different photographers and their mentalities? Is that a challenge or do you enjoy it?
I wouldn't say there is a big difference between the European countries, because people are very different everywhere. Although I experienced some local features, as a model, that the Swiss and the French kiss 3 times, The Dutch and the Belgians hug a lot, Germans shake hands only and the Italians tend to do all together. It's definitely fun for me to explore personalities during the shoot.
Is there a difference if the photographer is a male or female?
I can not compare since I've shot with 4 female photographers ever, however, the atmosphere is slightly different, I found girls more caring and tender.
How do you prepare for a shooting?
I have a coffee, I do my makeup for an hour, I do my hair for another hour, meditate while waiting for a photographer.
What are your limits in a photo shooting?
I have no limits in terms of creativity, my personal limit with a photographer is a hug. I prefer not to combine work, sex and alcohol.
What is your favorite outfit in shootings?
Depends on the style, location, and light, but I mostly choose something simple and minimalistic.
You are sometimes also a shibari model. Do you enjoy this style and what are your feelings during a shibari shooting?
I do love shibari visually, emotionally and physically. I enjoy the process as a deep meditation (if the person who ties me up is professional).
Do you prefer to be guided by the photographer or do you like posing independently more?
I prefer to pose as I like since I know my body perfectly, but I also have to adapt to the atmosphere and realize the individual wishes of a photographer. Thanks why I like having a cup of coffee before the shoot to understand the preferences and views.
How important is social media for your success or inspiration? Which media do you use?
Social media is a major success in the modeling business. Unfortunately, I am not a sociable person, so this part of my job takes more energy than shootings even. Among other medias I use Twitter and Onlyfans.
You are also shooting nudes. How accepted is nude art in Prag in general and especially regarding your family & friends?
I feel like the Czechs are sexually free and open-minded in general and most of the people are atheists, shooting nude in public shouldn't be offensive for anyone. My family is my partner and a few plants, all of them are satisfied with my job;)
Do you understand prudery, eg in social mecia, relegion and society?
I can understand it, but I do not think it is healthy.
What was the funniest experience in a shoot?
Masturbating together with a photographer keeping a 2m distance means no touching :)
In case your best friend wanted to become a model. What would be your advice?
Be confident, honest and professional. Know your limits and search for photographers carefully.
What is your best reason to be a model?
Traveling, creating art and making people happy.
Do you prefer black & white or color images?
Forever in love with B&W
Polaroid or Instax?
Polaroid
Do you take also photographs or do you draw, paint or so?
I draw and take photos of the streets and landscapes.
Will you model the whole life or do you have other plans for the future?
I do have a lot of plans for the future, but I am not gonna quit modeling for sure.
You are traveling a lot. Which countries or cities impressed you. Which places do you favor most?
Every single travel impresses me a lot, but the Netherlands takes second place in my heart after Czechia. I prefer to visit small towns, they have a truly local and unique vibe, rather than seeing popular places full of tourist traps.
Favorite food and Drink?
Greek salad, bread&cheese, red wine, coffee
What else are you doing outside of modelling?
Drawing tattoos, learning German and surviving are the 2020s goals.
Quinn, thanks a lot for this interview!
Feedback is welcome here.
All images: © Thomas Berlin