WOTW often focuses on those who are behind the camera, but undoubtedly a huge ingredient of both photography and cinematography is from those who reside in front of the lens.

Lacey is a model & actor based in LA. Lacey speaks to us with such clarity about her creative process and what it feels like to be in front of the lens, we also get to hear about a new short film project “Demolition” that she is starring in.

What is something that you wish more people understood about your work as a model?

That its not as easy as it seems. It comes with a lot of mental challenges everyday. It trickles into almost every decision you make. I think a lot of people are quick to associate modeling with Vanity- which there is a level of that- but modelling is an art form of its own, just like music, acting, painting, singing, etc. You can be in a creative flow state.

How do you get comfortable in front of the lens?

Being in front of the lens feels very natural to me. However, the person behind the lens plays an important role in comfortability. There needs to be a connection, collaboration, flow. It doesn't need to be immediate, but when you're on the same page with the person you are creating with, magic can be made.

What's it like working with so many different photographers / cinematographers on a day to day basis?

Most of the time, you're making someone else's vision come to life. And that's an honor in itself. It's really fun becoming a different character and taking direction. I love being on set. I like being around passionate, motivated creatives. It's really inspiring.

There's a lot of moving pieces on big shoot days, how do you stay centred?

Well, I am currently writing these answers on a commercial set right now and I have been sitting around for 8 hours today waiting to shoot. Literally. There is a bunch of "hurry up and waiting." Patience is big. And also keeping things into perspective. Even though the hours can be long, the mornings are super early, you get off really late- this is what I love to do. And I am extremely lucky to even be on set right now. Gratitude for all of the opportunities that come, and for all of the people I get to meet along the way.

Still from Half Magic Beauty campaign - Director @lukewooden DP @hendersondp

How do you balance expressing yourself authentically but also aligning with the vision of the shoot?

When I am booked for a job- I am doing what you want me to do. Point, blank, period. However, there is a reason a client will specifically book you out of the hundreds of other people that auditioned for the same role- your essence. They want you to show up as your authentic self. YOU fit the vision. Some people might want your creative input, some, not at all. You just have to feel it out, read the room, and respect either enviroment.

What excites you most about a shoot day?

That depends on the client, who I am working with, what kind of job it is. But going to set always has an exciting energy to it. I feel lucky that I get to work in a creative field.

How do you choose which brands and projects to take on?

I honestly just love to work lol. So I am open to most. But I do want to know and consider who the client/brand is, who's working on it, who's shooting it, the pay, usage, and exclusivity. All of that factors into the decision of taking a job or not.

Your short film 'demolition' is currently in production, can you tell us about that?

Demolition is something that was initially written by my boyfriends brother, Carter. His script was loosely written off patterns happening in my life. I met the director, Megan Rainey Aarons, on a different shoot and she wanted to film a short film with me. I connected the two of them, she really loved the story, so she ended up buying the script and making it come to life. We are planning on taking it to film festivals, which that will be my first time attending, and I am more than excited.

What inspired you to make "demolition"?

The whole story came from Carter and Megan. Without them, there would be no Demolition. However, I think expressing to both of them separately, over a year ago, that I wanted to start shooting more film projects, and connecting them both, got things lifted off the ground. It's really been a team of creatives wanting to bring a vision to life.

Trailer for Demolition Short Film

Where do you see your creative expression heading in the next few years?

Acting for sure. That's where I would love to see my creativity and career live. I am still open to whatever life throws at me. Maybe a small business, move to Europe, who knows? But I feel so connected to acting, and I want to follow those impulses.

Follow the Artist @thelaceyclaire
Follow the film @demolition_shortmovie
Join the Community @waitingontheworld

Lacey Claire Rogers - Model / Actor

Nuno Serrão - Portrait & Landscape Photographer

Martina Matencio - Contemporary Nostalgia Photographer