Photographer Yaron Berends and model Sanne Luykx — partners in life and in art — spent one of those wonderful afternoons on the raw coast of Gran Canaria. With the warm, dry light spilling over volcanic rock and the ocean stretching endlessly beyond, Sanne wore nothing but a simple bikini and the big boots she had just bought. We also asked her a few quick questions for our 5 Minutes interview series.
Sanne, what was going through your mind while shooting on the coast that day?
Well, for a fact. I’m an overthinker, but on that day I wasn’t thinking a lot. Even better, that day felt like I could just turn off my thoughts for a moment. I enjoyed the beach, the cold water, the sun touching my skin and the amazing food we ate afterwards. I was enjoying the company of my boyfriend Yaron and the beach in general.
What makes you feel most like yourself in front of the camera?
I love free shooting which means: no plan, free movement, no makeup, just taking photos that feel natural, not forced. Sometimes I do shoots with a lot of makeup, many outfits and a whole team. I love those projects as well, but sometimes I don’t recognise myself in those photos. I love to work with Yaron, he always makes photos that feel and look like me.
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Mediterranean, timeless, effortless.
What do you love most about being photographed by someone who knows you so well?
I just love shooting with Yaron, because of him I actually started my career as a model and every time we shoot together it reminds me of the love I have for simply making beautiful photos, catching memories instead of being a product. The model life can be quite difficult, and shooting with Yaron reminds me of how simple it can be to just shoot and get creative together.
A place that always brings you peace?
Two places actually. The beach and the mountains.
“People often judge ‘pretty’ girls, thinking we only care about our looks or that there isn’t a clever human being behind the beauty.”
What’s something about you that people often get wrong?
People often judge “pretty” girls. Thinking we only care about our looks or that there isn’t a clever human being behind the beauty. I’m actually a nurse, who used to work many, many shifts in the hospital. I’m actually hesitant on telling new people I work as a model, because of the negative reactions I get out of it. To me, and also many other models it’s just one of our passions. Not our life goal to be pretty and make money out of it.
What are you currently romanticizing in your everyday life?
Honestly, everything. Waking up, making breakfast, drinking my morning coffee, enjoying a walk outside, listening to music while doing all of this.. The moment I started romanticizing life things got a lot easier.
If this shoot had a soundtrack, what song would it be?
On Every Street, Dire Straits.
Photography by Yaron Berends @yaronberends – yaronberends.com
Model: Sanne @sanne.luykx
