SARA VILL’s unfair advantage - how modeling can make you a better photographer!
Sara Vill caught our eye when we came across her stunning and sensual modeling shots on her Instagram page. However, after having liked every single one of her posts, we noticed she had a link to another profile in her bio - her photography page. Turns out she doesn’t only know how to pose incredibly well, but she also specializes in capturing other models with her own camera! Since HEATWAVE is all about modeling and photography, we immediately knew we had to have a conversation with her. And so we did. Let’s go!
Wait. She does what?
Sara Vill, 32 years old, is from Málaga, a small city in the south of Spain. Though we know her for her work in modeling and photography, we were quite surprised to learn that she also has a day job in the legal field. "I studied Law at the University of Málaga and work in that sector," Sara shared with us. She laughed when we asked her more about this. “I prefer to keep that separate from my online presence as a model and photographer.” Understandably so, we thought while taking a mental note to call her if we ever have legal issues in the future!
Goth Teenage Model
Sara’s introduction to modeling came early in her life. "When I was like 15 or 16, some photographers in Málaga, which is such a small city that everyone knows each other, started looking for girls to model," she explained. And so her journey in front of the camera started. "I began to enjoy it and thought, 'I really like having my picture taken,' and that’s how it started." Looking back, she admits that those first modeling shots were pretty awful, but she does get nostalgic when she looks at them now. “I had a whole gothic thing going on, always completely dressed in black, and I had short hair. Madre mía, so awful!” she said while trying not to blush. I´m sure a lot of models can relate.
Finding her way as a photographer
It didn´t take very long for the curious Sara to become interested in that thing those photographers in Málaga had in their hands. When she was about 18 or 19 she got herself a camera and started taking photos herself.
As every photographer can confirm, finding your style is a process. Fifteen years later now, Sara's photography is characterized by a blend of sensuality and retro vibes. Her style is heavily inspired by Ellen von Unwerth, a renowned German photographer known for her playful and sensual aesthetic. "I’m a huge fan of Ellen von Unwerth’s work," Sara confessed. "Her retro, sexy style is something I admire and try to incorporate into my own work, although I know it’s impossible to replicate."
"I use a Nikon D700'“, which she lovingly called ‘quite vintage’, “along with a 50mm 1.4 and an 85mm lens," she detailed. For everyday and travel photography, she relies on a Fuji X-T20. "It's compact and versatile," she said.
We wanted to know what she would prefer - making it big as a model or as a photographer. She didn’t hesitate one second: “As a photographer! Of course!” We asked her why. “You get to be much more creative. That’s one of the reasons I really wanted to start taking photos. As a beginning model, I always had lots of ideas, but I couldn’t really implement them. You depend a lot on the creativity and talent of the photographer. When I’m taking the photos myself, I’m much more in control of the final outcome of the shoot.”
Sara then went on to tell us about her insecurities as a photographer. "Impostor syndrome is something I know very well," she admitted. "Sometimes, I feel insecure about my older camera compared to others with high-end equipment," she said. "But I remind myself that the camera doesn’t make the photographer; it’s the talent and vista that matter." We couldn’t have said it any better.
Sara’s ‘unfair advantage’
As both a model and photographer, Sara has quite an ‘unfair advantage’, a condition or factor that gives someone a disproportionate edge over others, often due to exclusive resources, knowledge, or circumstances not available to everyone. "When I’m photographing, I focus on making sure the model feels comfortable and confident," she said. "From my own experience as a model, I know that comfort is crucial; it reflects in the photos."
As a model, Sara seeks to work with photographers who can teach her something new. "I enjoy working with photographers who offer a different style from mine," she explained. "It’s a learning experience and helps me grow."
Such a unique advantage! It’s fascinating how being a model can actually make you a better photographer. We couldn’t help but notice the spark in her beautiful eyes while she was talking about all this.
Sensuality, OnlyFans and social stigmas
Sara’s photography often highlights sensuality and personal expression. "I feel comfortable and confident expressing my sensual side," she shared. "I enjoy looking sexy and projecting that through my photos." She believes that sensuality is an attitude, one that she embraces in both her modeling and photography.
While ‘model Sara’ is active on OnlyFans, she confessed that her engagement with the platform has been limited. "I started an OnlyFans account about eight or nine months ago, but I haven’t been very active," she said. "The idea was to see if I could earn money with light content similar to what I share on Instagram, but I should post more often, I guess."
The decision to join OnlyFans was not without its challenges. "It was difficult because my family and my legal colleagues have traditional views," Sara explained. "Even though I don’t share explicit content, people make assumptions based on the platform itself." Despite this, she remains focused on her own path and doesn’t let negativity affect her.
When we asked her what her boyfriend thinks of her being on OnlyFans, she was quick to reply. “Well, look. He’s my boyfriend because he’s awesome!” He plays a significant role in her confidence. "He’s very modern and supports me completely," she said. "He even considered starting an OnlyFans account with me, but we decided it might not be worth the effort since we don’t plan to post explicit content."
Advice for Aspiring Photographers
For those entering the photography world, especially women, Sara has valuable advice. "Women in photography have a unique advantage in building trust and creating a comfortable environment for models," she noted. “I know this because I have experienced it as a model myself. There are lots of very good and very friendly male photographers out there, but the feeling is never the same!”
To her 15-year-old self, she would say, "Stop posing and get a camera right away. Don’t wait years to start." She also emphasized the importance of patience and persistence in photography, encouraging newcomers to work with models who share their passion and to continually refine their craft.
Sara charmed us during the interview with her natural flair and extremely friendly personality. Her ability to navigate the worlds of law, modeling, and photography while staying true to her artistic and sensual vision is truly inspiring. But above all, she’s just a young woman trying to express herself in different ways and I think a lot of you can relate to that!
things to remember
1. Diversify Your Skills
Sara uses her experience as a model in her work as a photographer. This gives her a unique edge. Because she knows what it feels like to be in front of the camera, she knows how important it is to make her models feel comfortable and confident, which is crucial if you want to take great photos.
2. Creativity and Skill are more important than gear
Sara candidly shares her struggles with impostor syndrome and her insecurities about her equipment. Her emphasis on talent and vision over high-end gear is a crucial reminder that creativity and skill are more important than the tools you use.
3. use every opportunity to Learn from Others
As a model, Sara tries to work with photographers who can teach her something new or offer her a different point of view. Always put yourself in situations in which you can grow and improve.
4. Self-expression has no limits
Sara’s comfort with expressing her sensuality through her work highlights the importance of embracing one’s identity and personal expression. She remains true to herself despite potential societal stigmas, especially regarding platforms like OnlyFans.
5. surround yourself with supportive people
Having a supportive boyfriend who respects and encourages her choices is a significant factor in Sara’s confidence. It is extremely important to feel that the people in your life have your back, no matter what.
Sara, we wish you all the best! Thank you so much for having this conversation with us.
And to you reader, we love you for having made it to the end and if you liked the article, please consider leaving a comment on the Instagram post. It’s free! See you soon!
Lots of love,
Arnold
Founder of HEATWAVE Magazine