Lulus.com Fashion Blog

This week I wanted to spotlight a very talented young artist, Marla Verdugo! Marla, a stylist/makeup artist/hair stylist/photographer extraordinaire is basically a one-woman show! Creating beautiful images is like second nature to her. There is so much mood and emotion behind her photos, and I couldn't wait to share her work with you!

Recently, Marla photographed an event we attended in Los Angeles, and I was able to catch up with her to give you guys some background, fun FAQs, and even some tips on styling and photography! Take a look below for some of her beautiful work and an exclusive interview.

I love the pose and editing in this photo!

The heavy metal jewelry plays perfect off of her blunt bangs and dark eyes.

Interview with Marla Verdugo

Intro to yourself:

I'm a California girl who can't sit still. I've lived up and down the coast. Currently I live in Hollywood but miss the San Francisco life. Been doing makeup and pinup-vintage inspired photography for a few years. But I like to try things that intrigue me...like styling and fashion photography. You can also find me doing other things like; obsessing over Lindsay Lohan, thrifting, finding odd treasures on the street, stalking my friends, driving getaway cars, blogging, watching The Simpsons and making messes in the kitchen...and cracking jokes that only crickets respond to. ;)

How did you get into fashion photography?:

I first started with vintage/pinup-inspired photography...(my main love)...but after years of doing makeup on several fashion shoots, I decided to to test out my skills in shooting fashion. So I've been dabbling in it ever since--I love it! And I learn things everyday.

Tips for the photographer just starting out:

Seize the day. Go for your dream! Don't let anyone discourage you. Take a class at a community college. Ask friends to model for you.Find what genre appeals to you, research different photographers...but develop your own style. ;)

Favorite beauty products:

Lipbalm: love Kiehl's and Cherry Chapstick
Primers!!! They do wonders for your makeup.
Sunscreen: everyone should use it.
Kevin Murphy and Sunsilk: they're on totally different ends of the spectrum, but I find they are both carry amazing hair products.

What are your "go-to's" when styling?:

Honestly...I am very random.
1. I love textures...in dresses, pants...
2. But generally, I would have to say vintage. No matter if I'm styling for a different era or present day looks---I love to thrown in vintage. It keeps the world going and it keeps me going. Makes me happy.

Why is fashion important to you?:

Fashion is another way to express yourself, fashion is beautiful. We all have different styles...and we may not like them all and some may not like our style, but what it comes down to...is what makes us feel good. Fashion is like we are...changing, evolving, reinventing, and also going back to our roots.

*********************************************************************************************************************************

Make sure to keep up with Marla on her blog and her own personal website! Happy New Years! xoxo