s u b t e r f u g e

Photography runs in Paris Helena’s (@parishelena) genes. “I grew up sitting as a lighting test subject for my mom, who’s been a photographer for 20+ years,” the 21-year-old says. And though that wasn’t her last time in front of the camera (she was scouted by@NextModels when she was 14), she followed in her mother’s footsteps and found her place behind the lens. But that doesn’t mean she hasn’t blazed her own path. After studying photography at her arts-focused high school, at the age of 18, Paris moved alone to Manhattan to apprentice for legendary photographer Mark Seliger. 

The now-L.A.-based photog is something of a triple threat, as well. “I’ve been a singer on and off since I was a kid,” she says. “I’m branching out from solely being a shower singer to a studio singer.” If you’re interested in the voice behind the vision, you can hear her featured vocals on a few songs by@StrangersYouKnow. 

To Paris, #GirlGaze is about reclaiming space for women. "Working within an industry that more often than not relies on a female presence but is dominated by men, #GirlGaze gives us a chance to take hold and share our vision through our eyes, behind and before the lens.” And she’s hoping to spread some of that to some biggest names in the business. “My dream is to bring some girl power to the extraordinary cast of Tim Walker, Mert & Marcus, Steven Klein, and Mario Sorrenti.” - words by@hannamariehoward.