Having photographed our recent Occasion Dressing Guide in the Sunday Times as well as our RED Magazine shoot, Elisabeth Hoff is a fashion, celebrity and beauty photographer with an overflowing portfolio that has us in awe.
Based in London, Elisabeth’s story is quite remarkable. She spent her childhood sailing the world in her family’s own built yacht, picking up her education in various locations as well as being home-taught in Norway. What she says she lacked in formal education, she made up for in her adventures – from snorkelling with seals in the Galapagos Islands to sailing up the treacherous Amazon River.
After completing her degree in Marine Biology at the University of Glasgow, Elisabeth decided she wanted to be the first solo female to row across the Atlantic Ocean. It was this adventure that led her to where she is today. We catch up with this totally inspiring fashion photographer to hear all about her incredible journey and to find out a few of her favourite things. Green smoothie with vodka anyone?
How did you start out in photography?
Randomly, I tried to become the first woman to row solo across the Atlantic. I capsized on day 11 of this attempt, due to a freak wave. Luckily, I was rescued after 11 hours adrift. During that intense time I remember making my mind up to become a photographer if I survived.
How would you describe your photography style?
Glossy – I make people look good.
When was the first pinch-me moment of your career?
When I shot Naomi Campbell.
Where and how do you find your inspiration when conceptualising a shoot?
Everything around me – other artists – photographers – and I love film too. I think it all goes into my own big brain pot – and then out pop ideas. I try to realise those ideas.
What do you look for when sourcing a team to shoot with?
I look for creativity, but also problem solvers, grafters – and people who are nice to other people. I can’t stand a bad vibe on set.
What’s the best piece of advice anyone has ever given you?
Never give up.
As well as fashion and celebrities, your work portfolio has a big focus on campaigns and editorials in beauty. Was that intentional?
To me beauty is not just what you look like – it’s a feeling. Everyone deserves to feel beautiful – and with a bit of make-up and positive thinking, that is possible. I started my site www.MINMAXBeauty.com with that in mind. As women, we need to reclaim our power and go out into the world, head held high, feeling good about who we are – whatever we look like and whatever our age.
Maybe this passion for beauty, and that is should belong to everyone, has pushed a lot of my work in that direction.
What’s next for you and what are you most excited about for the future?
My next shoot! And my holiday in Norway in July with my 2 sons and extended family.
Here we go with our Quick Fire Round, what is your favourite:
Model of the moment: Carmen dell’Orefice
Artist: I don’t know – there is so much talent out there in so many forms.
Colour: Blue
Food: Avocado
Book: Charlotte’s Web by E. B White
City: New York
Personal Style: Sporty classic
Drink: Green smoothie – with a splash of vodka
Essential comforts: An eye mask for sleeping in.
See more of Elisabeth’s work on her website here and stay updated with her daily musings on her Instagram @elisabethhoffphoto
