1.) Tell us a little bit about yourself.

I am a photographer and a trained dancer, so I spend my days rehearsing, performing, and doing shoots. I am a full-time member of The Can Can Castaways in the Pike Place Market, and we perform in a dinner theatre called The Can Can. It is the hub for Seattle circus artists, burlesque performers, and basically the entire vaudeville community. There I have the pleasure of working with many wonderful actors, dancers, and musical artists which serve as inspiration for my photography. I feel very lucky to work in such a creative and dynamic environment.

2.) Where is home?

I was born and raised in Seattle so I definitely consider the city as my home. However, my mom is originally from Ireland and we used to live there every summer as I was growing up. Also my dad’s family is from southern Italy, so between the two my entire extended family lives in Europe and I feel a very strong connection to that part of the world.

3.) How long have you been a photographer?

I had a very basic digital camera in high school and used to talk my friends into modeling for me, so I guess that’s where I started. Since then my interest in photography grew and I was able to have more creative control as I upgraded to a nicer camera and new equipment. I have always had a huge interest in fashion and I love doing all the styling for my photography.

4.)How would you describe your style?

I would describe my style as high fashion merged with some theatrical elements. I try to create images that look “larger than life” either through the styling or the location. I always aim to add something to the concept of the shoot that is unexpected in order to make it interesting and unique.

5.) In general, during a session, how many pictures would you say you take to find "the right one"?

I would say this depends largely on the experience of the model. Lighting always takes experimentation and adjustment, but after that a model who knows how to move their body and the best angles for their face make the whole process much faster and more efficient. I have worked with some very professional people who leave me with more good shots than I know what to do with!

6.) Are you a self taught photographer or did you have a mentor that showed you the ropes?

I am almost entirely self-taught, though I have learned a lot from modeling myself and from friends who do photography.

7.) How do you decide on locations & subjects?

I keep a notebook in my car on the passenger seat so that if I am out and about I can jot down any ideas that spring in my head. I am always on the lookout as I run errands, drive to work, or go out with friends. I usually have a long list of locations and when a shoot is coming up I choose the one that would best suite the model and the whole style and concept of the shoot. I also like to choose locations that offer an interesting contrast when paired with the model. So far most of my locations have been urban settings.

8.) What ambition have you not yet achieved?

There are so many things I want to do! Looking ahead to this year I am planning on working with some local fashion designers and I also want to photograph more male models and experiment with some creative styling for guys. Really looking forward to what this year will bring.

9.) Something you’re still learning?

I am still learning about different lighting techniques and have been experimenting with new equipment. I always learn so much on every shoot, which makes it a really fun and interesting process.

10.) And the last question, if you had one wish…

If I had one wish it would be to have the freedom to travel while creating great art and meeting interesting people. In my opinion, traveling is the best way to keep your creativity at its peak and evolve in your art form.

Fiona Minx Photography