“In art there are no mistakes, just new discoveries.”
—Jai Mayhew
How do you approach the sexuality of women, particularly in your ‘Noir’ set?
I love that sexuality is so flexible! [The Noir set is] a sensual, grainy celebration of women with emotions ranging from soft to playful to strong.
What inspires you?
Strong concepts, emotive models—pretty may catch your attention but a compelling image draws you in.
What do you wear when you shoot?
I’m known for rolling on the ground and climbing fences/rocks while shooting so I keep my outfit comfortable, that’s also why there are no post-shoots pictures of me. I’m quite dirty by then!
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Do you have a favorite color?
Black.
Do you like the ocean?
Absolutely, I’m known for sticking models in water every chance I get.
Speaking of, tell us about the Ariel series—your latest.
Ariel is a fairy tale art set with a vintage twist. I grew up in Germany with the original story of the Little Mermaid, the gritty/no happy ending version. I wanted to create a mermaid influenced set with dark overtones and Devin portrayed that perfectly.
Wardrobe Styling – Edith Henry
Makeup – Kelsey James
Hair – Nancy Rankin
Model – Devin Willow
Can you speak on your modeling days and how they have affected your photography?
My modeling experience really is the corner stone of my photography. It’s been invaluable! From understanding how a model’s pose relates to the camera angle, to lighting to create a mood—having been on the other side of the camera is part of what, I think, sets me a part as a photographer.
.
.
.
.
What is the best advice you can give a model? Fellow photographers?
For models – Be professional. This industry is crazy small and there are no secrets. Treat people with respect, show up on time and don’t hound a photographer if they don’t cast you. What attracts a photographer to a model is a complex thing, you’re not going to get every booking.
For photographers – There is so much talent out there, be humble. And don’t be afraid to fail, every shoot isn’t going to be your best, but it’s never a loss if you learn something from each experience. My portfolio was built one mistake at a time, and sometimes those mistakes turn into discoveries, new tricks and new opportunities.
Do you have a passion for fashion aside from your fashion photography?
This question made me smile! I do enjoy edgy fashion, but I’m known for wearing various shades of black. Fortunately I work with amazing wardrobe stylists who force me to branch out sometimes.
Do you enjoy photographing subjects other than models?
Female models are my passion, but I also enjoy city/life photography and I love taking behind the scenes pictures at fashion shows!
.
.
.
.
Are you interested in self portraits at all?
For someone who has been on both sides of the camera, I am comically untalented at taking self portraits. Thank God for iPhones.
.
.
.
.
What is your favorite facial feature to look for in others? On yourself?
EYES!! The eyes are what make shots for me; everything else in a picture can work but if the model’s eyes are dead the shot will fall flat. The ability to convey emotion (strength, vulnerability, sensuality) is vital.
.
.
.
.
You’re from Germany. What part? How does this affect your photography? / What do your parents do?
My father served in the Army for 30 years, so I grew up a military child. I got to live all over the world, travel constantly and appreciate the unique beauty of many different cultures. It’s an experience I wouldn’t trade for anything! I absolutely believe that the European acceptance of nudity (nude beaches, old world art, etc) has helped to shape my love of fine art and the female form—I’ve been in love with the Birth of Venus by Bouguereau since I was 5!
Sometimes when I’m conceptualizing a shoot, I’m inspired not only by a thing (a mermaid, an emotion, etc) but by an experience. Traveling, interacting with different cultures can give you flashes of inspiration to draw on later. I grew up in Mannheim, Germany and finished university in Salzburg, Austria, but I left my heart in Vienna, the culture and the beauty of the city was enchanting.
Is Europe better at fashion than the US?
I believe so when it comes to fashion editorials. I’m most drawn to publications like Vogue Italia and Vogue Paris because there are no rules. Nudity isn’t shied away from, the stories are bold and the overall attitude is unapologetic.
.
.
.
Do you plan to spend the rest of your days in Austin?
I moved to Austin from Washington DC a few years ago, I’ve acclimated to everything except the heat! I love the laid back vibe of Austin, the people are so genuine and friendly and the artistic community is amazing. I am used to moving every few years so it’s hard to say how long I’ll be an Austin-ite, but I’m definitely enjoying the experience.
.
.
.
+
Interview by Taylor Anne Prewitt
See more of Jai Mayhew’s work here.
