Paris-based fashion photographer and stylist Vivienne Mok was born in New York and grew-up in Hong Kong and Paris. At the age of 24, she has discovered photography as a way to develop her own intimate and romantic world…
As far as we know, you were stylist for Anne Valerie Hash and you turned out to be a photographer. Why is that?
I studied Fashion Design and after I graduated, I looked for a placement in a Fashion House and i started to work as a designer for Anne Valerie Hash. I randomly started developing an interest for photography on the side. Self-taught, I saw that I could develop my very own universe in photography while integrating all the elements I like in styling. It was first a hobby but I enjoy it so much that I decided to make it my profession.
What techniques do you use in your photography that gives this romantic and nostalgic feeling?
I make use of natural light only and I experiment with different filters applied directly onto the lens. But it is mainly the feelings that I put into it as well as the models’ poses, the vintage oriented styling and the decor that convey this mood. I am not at all a “technical” person, so I work my own way, to develop the mood that is very important to me.
You are both stylist and photographer . Why do you produce everything on your own?
Being a stylist, I have a very clear idea of what I want to show in my photographs. I like to take care of all the elements that will be part of the images, from the hairstyle to the outfits etc… And styling my own photographs is also a logic continuation of my designing background.
Describe your photography in 3 adjectives:
Dreamy, feminine, romantic
3 songs that inspire your working process:
I don’t have 3 songs in particular, I often work without music, although I like listening to soft nostalgic music.
What has been your greatest influence in your life?
A certain person
What inspires you in your works?
Many things can inspire me, old Victorian paintings ,flea markets, things I see on the street, beautiful scenery, things from the past, people, etc…
What makes you different?
Being myself and not trying to fit into a certain box.
What is more important for you in your work: the process or the final piece?
Every element is important, it’s also about enjoying your work, it is important to have a good atmosphere when working to obtain good shots. The final images is the result of all this.
What’s next for you?
For now I will continue to work on my photography projects, travel a bit, and see what will happen then!
For more information visit: www.vivienne.book.fr
