Check Out Michaela Duerson’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Michaela Duerson.

Hi Michaela, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I started photography after becoming a signed international model. I was signed with TWENTY Model Management at the time in Capetown South Africa and I purchased a camera to take photos of my travels. While I was there, I fell in love with taking photos of my model friends. One thing led to another and after posting my work on Facebook, the owner of one of my agencies I was signed with reached out and asked if I’d like to be one of their preferred photographers. IN LOSANGELES I AM SIGNED WITH JL MODEL MANAGEMENT.

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
It hasn’t been a completely smooth road but it’s definitely been worth it. The beginning of my journey started with a lot of uncertainty and fear. It took a lot of words of encouragement from many people. Notably, another actress/model named Kim Dickerson encouraged me and said, “ You’re anointed to be a photographer, take it serious”. From that moment, I did.

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am an international plus size model and photographer and talent scout. I have a unique eye for talent and have scouted kids and adults that have ended up on Disney, in Nike, Savage X Fenty, Macys and many other ads and brands.

I am most proud of my ability to ignite others careers.

I am set apart as a photographer because I’ve been the model with a Times Square Billboard, Ulta Beauty Campaign, Macys, Forbes, FinishLine, Olay, Aussie and so many more. So I get what clients look for and can help talent translate that into images that get the agent with those clients, or even the exact image and pose that will lead to that dream booking.

Are there any books, apps, podcasts or blogs that help you do your best?
My favorite book is The Bible. Every answer I need for any problem I’ve ever had is in it. Beauty secrets? Read Esther. Wisdom in business? Read Proverbs. Getting over fear of moving or being bold? Read about Elijah.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://theorangeportrait.wixsite.com/mysite
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.orange.portrait
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaela-duerson-33915066
• Other: https://www.jlmodelmanagement.com/women/michaela-duerson-1

Image Credits
All photos taken by me. @The.Orange.Portrait on Instagram and Facebook.

Pictured

1. Randy Weston of Judah Band
2. International model Dwight Richardson
3. International model Wilke Mari
4. Model & Mindfulness Coach Raymond Achille
5. My mom & Signed Model Erma Cushenberry
6. & 7. The legendary, Patti La Belle