Interview with amazing Silvana Denker

Photographer: Oliver Denz

Will you tell us your measurements?
My measurements are 102-82-112, my size is 44 and I'm 1,77 meters tall.

How did you begin your career?

When I was younger (and thinner) I had done a few photoshoots as a hobby. Later, I went on to study photo design and never thought about being in front of the camera again. In 2010 one of my friends told me about the Ulla Popken model contest and I sent in two of my pictures, just for fun. I made it to the finals and even though I did not win, I was signed by my first agency shortly afterwards. That is how it all started. I never thought that I would end up being a professional model.

You may know her for her Carmakoma modelling. Photo from Carmakoma

What parts of your body, do you like the most?

I'm quite happy with the looks of my face

Photographer: Germinal Photography

There has been a lot of discussion about the fashion business and the models (health, size and BMI); do you think about being a part of this discussion? And how do you feel about the discussion in general?
I see lots of models whose health suffers for their jobs and I think it´s time to show and appreciate healthy role models. I think there should be a wider variety of models (all ages, sizes, etc.) so that everyone is able to identify with them.
What do you think about models should be like coat hangers, therefore without shape, because it represent the clothing best?
Some use this metaphor for an excuse for choosing very thin models without too much hip or breasts. I think few women can identify with the body type represented in the fashion industry. If models look like coat hangers then why do we need models anyway?

Photographer: Oliver Denz

If you were asked for one fashion/beauty/health tip, what would that be?
No alcohol, no cigarettes

Photographer: Christian Lauer

Do you have advice for new upcoming models or for girls wanting to become a model (plus size or not)?

They should be aware of the fact that being a model is a full time job and hard work. They need lots of discipline and have to take care of their bodies, because the bodies are their assets.

Photographer: Nadja Moutevelidis

How did you begin your photography career?
As I mentioned before I have been standing in front of the camera when I was younger. I often had my own ideas but most photographers’ weren't able to realize them the way, I had imagined them. Therefore, I bought my own camera in 2006 and began to take pictures of friends and my family. Due to a lucky coincidence I got the opportunity to take pictures of some famous German comedians and actors during their promotion tour across the country. That was when I became certain about my career aspiration and started studying photo design.

Photographer: Oliver Denz

How is it to be behind the camera instead of in front?

I can wear whatever I like and don´t need to get styled for two hours.
Does it help you that you yourself are a model? Yes, it definitely helps. My clients have more confidence in me because they know I'm able to put myself in their position. I know the most flattering poses, especially for curvy women. My other advantage is that I'm a woman and I think I have a different view than men have. Also, I work for my model agencies as a photographer.
Do plus size model need to pose differently than "normal" models, are there any difference? 

Everyone wants to look good in a photo - no matter what body shape. For that reason, I know different light settings and poses, that hide small problem areas and highlight one´s best features. Sadly, many photographers don´t want to work with plus size models because it´s too difficult, they say.

Photographer: Christian Lauer

Five words or less that describes your own personal style: simple, clean, elegant, feminine

Before I die I want to visit New York and San Francisco

Did you know this about me: I'm addicted to Subway sandwiches

My philosophy of life is that I don´t have any philosophies, I just live my life

One of my flaws is that I'm stubborn as a mule

Photographer: Oliver Denz