Between Lenses and Stories: Renata O’Donnell Reveals the Secrets to Shine in Fashion

With nearly three decades of experience, Brazilian photographer Renata O’Donnell has built a career defined by sensitivity, technical skill, and projects that celebrate individuality. Renata is also a modeling coach, has directed fashion shows in major shopping malls, and maintains a partnership with an agency in Brazil that supports emerging talents, many of whom have worked abroad and posed for major national brands.

Currently living in Maine, USA, Renata leads photographic series that inspire and transform, such as Women’s History Month, Fabulous Over 40, Personal Branding & Headshot, as well as fashion and senior portraits, maternity, and family sessions. She also runs Stiletto Models, where she shares valuable insights on behavior, posture, and resilience in the fashion world.

In this exclusive interview, she shares her vision of what makes a model memorable and how small actions can make a big difference both in front of the camera and on the runway.

Renata O'Donnell, photographer and modeling coach.

1. Renata, what catches your attention the most in a model at first contact?

"What stands out the most is the combination of posture, presence, and behavior. It’s not just about physical beauty, but about how the person presents themselves, walks, and interacts. A confident model conveys that assurance in every movement, and it immediately shows on camera."

2. What mistakes do you often see that could be easily avoided?

"Distractions on the runway or during a shoot are more common than people think. A wandering gaze toward the audience, touching the hair at the wrong moment, or being overly concerned with who is watching can break focus and weaken the connection with the camera or client. Concentration and being present in the moment make all the difference."

3. How can a model convey personality in photos without losing naturalness?

"Authenticity is the key word. Understanding who you are, what you want to communicate, and resisting the urge to copy other models. A genuine smile, a steady gaze, or even a more relaxed posture can be the detail that truly connects the image to the viewer."

4. How has the work of models changed with the rise of social media?

"Today, the reach is greater, but so is the competition. Models must build their digital presence with the same seriousness they bring to in-person work. An online portfolio, consistent image, and professional behavior on social media are differentiators that catch the eye of clients and agencies."

5. For those starting out, what would be the most important step after completing their first portfolio?

"Be present where opportunities happen. This means attending castings, maintaining contact with industry professionals, and updating your portfolio regularly. Networking and persistence are just as important as the photo session itself."

6. In your opinion, what qualities set a professional model apart from an amateur?

"Professionalism, punctuality, and adaptability. Models who understand the pace of a set, respect deadlines, and prepare before each job naturally stand out."

Between stories and images, Renata O’Donnell proves that success in the fashion world goes far beyond aesthetics. It’s about attitude, preparation, and authenticity. And, as she says, “Every session is a unique opportunity to tell a story that no one else could tell in the same way."

Read more articles like this on the: stilettomodels.com/blog

Follow us on social media: @stiletto.models

0 Comments

Previous Post Next Post

Between Lenses and Stories: Renata O’Donnell Reveals the Secrets to Shine in Fashion

1. Renata, what catches your attention the most in a model at first contact?

2. What mistakes do you often see that could be easily avoided?

3. How can a model convey personality in photos without losing naturalness?

4. How has the work of models changed with the rise of social media?

5. For those starting out, what would be the most important step after completing their first portfolio?

6. In your opinion, what qualities set a professional model apart from an amateur?

Leave a comment

Archive

CLASSES

COMPANY