Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Parquette.
Lauren, please kick things off for us by telling us about yourself and your journey so far.
I’ve always wanted to be a model ever since I was a small child. After going through a list of agencies and hearing I was too young to begin my career. I decided if they weren’t going to let me start, I’d begin on my own. I started taking self-portraits relentlessly. Experimenting with self-made studios made from household items and different photography styles. At 15 I was finally signed to a mother agency, FH models. There I met many friends and fellow models. I then started my first series of photos that were of other people, not just myself.
Can you give our readers some background on your art?
Every time I take a photo it’s a completely different experience. I never go into a shoot knowing exactly how it will turn out. There may be an overall plan but the specifics are decided in the moment. It’s all based on what visuals attract me right then and there. I never intended to have my work be for anyone other than myself. I take images that make me feel confident and happy. Now I want my subjects to feel the same. I try to make the entire process enjoyable for everyone involved. Recently I’ve begun sharing my work and the response has been extremely positive. It’s really humbled me. Now I’m beginning to see that maybe someday this is something I can do. After I’m done with my modeling career of course.
Artists rarely, if ever pursue art for the money. Nonetheless, we all have bills and responsibilities and many aspiring artists are discouraged from pursuing art due to financial reasons. Any advice or thoughts you’d like to share with prospective artists?
I wish I had a better response for this. Unfortunately, I’m still struggling with this balance. I’ve always found ways to create with what has been available to me. I don’t have the newest equipment or an expensive studio. What I can offer is my vision and my product. Hopefully that is enough to set me apart from the rest. I encourage those who are in similar situations to do the same and always strive for improvement in what you do have. If you want to support your local artists reach out to them. Support them on social media, respect their vision and time, and most importantly pay them for their services.
What’s the best way for someone to check out your work and provide support?
Right now the best way to see my work would be on my Instagram pages. My main account, laurenparquette, has my modeling portfolio as well as some of my self-portraits. I recently made an account for my other photography work, parquettephoto. The best way to support my work would be to like, follow, and comment. Social media plays such a huge role in exposure nowadays. It’s tightly linked to a lot of oppertunies in the fashion industry. I would love to be seen and have doors open to new experiences. My short term goal is to be seen my local Chicago agencies. Hopefully being contacted to work with them.
Contact Info:
- Email: laurenalisabethparquette@gmail.com
- Instagram: Laurenparquette. Parquettephoto
Image Credit:
Lauren Parquette
Laurel Badenell
Addie Adams
Mimi Vickey
Amanda DeVries
Rebecca Dunham
Pola Sikora
Getting in touch: VoyageChicago is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
