SOFIA DENECKEN TALKS MODELING

Interviewed by Culture Coast Talks editor Daniel John. Interview transcripts might have been edited for length and clarity.

What got you into modeling?

It was a dream since I was very little. I always liked the cameras, but I was very shy, when I started to grow up I gained more confidence in myself and I dared to start with theater that although you may not believe it is closely linked to modeling. For me every outfit and every makeup is like a new character in my life, that fills me. I love to vary in characters the way only a photoshoot can give me. I started in this world very young at seven years old, doing commercials for super markets and when I was fifteen years old, they talked to me to make an exchange, which consisted in that I was the model and I could keep the photos, for me it was very exciting. I think that was a before and after in me because after that I gained more confidence in myself. I however did not continue because my mother wanted to make sure it was my choice. Obviously when I had the chance at eighteen years old I started studying and working in what fascinated me again.

What fascinated you that much?

Fashion started to interest me from the moment I knew it could manifest something. It is shocking how a photo can speak for itself and that every detail has a meaning, it's not just there because it looks pretty.

What's the most recent collection you modeled for?

The last collection I modeled was for a Chilean designer Juan Ignacio Ormeño, and we did a whole session featuring his fall collection. It was very entertaining because they were spectacular dresses which I was allowed to personify.

How would you describe your own personal style?

I don't have just one style, I like to vary it all depends on my mood, the weather and the moment of my life I'm going through.

Have you been able to work a lot this last year?

Yes, very much, it was an enriching year in all aspects, more in the work, I have had good experiences and I have also learned to deal with frustrations.

What agencies are you signed with right now?

With the agencies New Models in Chile and Gustavo Granados Management in Miami. They gave me the security and professionalism that I wanted to achieve.

Where did you grow up?

I'm from Santiago de Chile, born and raised here.

Is there anywhere in the world you would like to go and shoot at?

The truth is that there is no specific place, I know it sounds very fantasy but I want to eat the world. I love the diverse cultures that you can meet and learn something new.

What is the most beautiful location you have been photographed?

In a nursery. It was an intimate space where we could contemplate the true beauty of nature in its maximum splendor.

What has been your favourite shoot this far?

The one I liked the most was one where we were girls of different ethnicities, it was fun to be able to exchange our cultures, and that we were joining together for a photoshoot.

Is there anyone you would like to work with?

I would love to be in Vogue Magazine, every artist that is in that editorial is because they deserves to be there. It would be an honor for me, to be able to participate in a photoshoot for them.

Where do you see yourself in just a few years?

I see myself being a model and an actress recognized throughout the world but not for being cute, but the way I do my characters. The way I invent each of them. That they see what is really going through the model.

Are you always able to see what others see in you, or do you think their perception is shaped more by what they want than by who you are?

A job is not always going to represent you, but that is the beauty of it to be able to represent others, I think I'm able to see what others see, that's the grace of having a broad perspective and not close yourself. Sometimes it's difficult because you have a fixed idea but there is always the possibility of opening up. Yes I can see my beauty but I like more that they see the way I take on and get to create these characters. For me it's always been a performance and getting involved with what they want you to express. It also depend on the team's approach to what they want to achieve, I consider myself very creative in this sense.

Are you positive about the impact of social media?

Of course yes, Instagram and TikTok have helped artists of all kinds so that they can showcase their talents and abilities.

Do you have a life motto?

"If you don't like something, change it. If you don't make it, change your attitude".