Today we’d like to introduce you to Claudia Salinas
Hi Claudia, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I moved from Mexico to New York City at 18 to study acting, but before that, dance—especially ballet—was everything. The discipline, precision, and storytelling through movement shaped the way I see the world and how I express myself visually and creatively.
Shortly after moving to NYC, I started modeling, which eventually led me to Los Angeles, where I continued acting in commercials and films. But as technology and social media rapidly evolved, I realized I had an eye for visual storytelling and could create much faster than traditional production teams. That realization led me to self-portraiture and directing my own content, which evolved into my #mebyme concept—a creative approach where I took complete control of the creative process, both in front of and behind the camera. This shift positioned me not just as a model or content creator but as a visual director and creative force.
I built @misssalinas organically—at first, just posting my daily fits. Over time, it became something much bigger. I started working with some of the world’s biggest fashion and beauty brands, like Revolve, L’Oréal, and Tom Ford Beauty. Eventually, I began integrating my love for the outdoors—hiking, climbing, and running—into my work, and that’s when everything truly aligned. Now, I get to do what I love—travel, create, and train—while collaborating with brands in that space that I admire, like The North Face.
Looking back, everything unfolded in a way I never could have planned. As Rumi said, “As you start to walk on the way, the way appears.” I followed what inspired me—whether it was ballet, visual arts, or adventure—and the path revealed itself. My journey is proof that when you trust your instincts, embrace change, and take the first step, the road will always appear.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I appreciate the question as much as I appreciate the feet that carry me through this rugged, sometimes relentless landscape we call life. My path has been anything but linear, with challenges that test me, shape me, and make the journey worthwhile.
Like a tough climb, the road ahead often looks one way but feels entirely different once you’re in it. And when things do feel easy? That’s its own kind of miracle. The mission is always worth the challenge. Whether it’s scaling a mountain, crafting a story, or perfecting something down to its finest details, I’ve learned that contrast is the greatest teacher. Difficulty isn’t an obstacle—it’s what makes the journey feel alive.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am a creative director, visual storyteller, and mountaineer who has built a career at the intersection of fashion, adventure, and self-expression. Through @misssalinas, I’ve blended aesthetics with movement—whether it’s styling a look, capturing a mountain ascent, or producing content that tells a deeper story. My work is rooted in both artistic vision and a deep reverence for nature.
I specialize in visual direction and brand storytelling, working with brands like The North Face and Revolve. What sets me apart is my ability to create cinematic yet personal visuals—whether in a remote wilderness or an urban setting. The landscapes I explore aren’t just backdrops; they’re an essential part of the story I tell about this extraordinary home we call Earth. I’m driven by an overwhelming sense of awe and gratitude for what we get to witness while we’re here, breathing.
I understand the responsibility of my journey is to embody making it happen. From acting alongside some of my favorite actors to collaborating with top creative teams, I’ve realized that creation isn’t just about visuals—it’s about capturing a feeling, a story, and a sense of freedom.
My mission is to inspire others to step into their own power—to move past fear and hesitation and do it with style. Creativity, adventure, and courage are how I move through life—and how humanity moves forward. For me, the next step leads higher than ever—toward summiting the world’s highest peaks. Now, I’m preparing for my biggest challenge yet—climbing the world’s 8,000-meter peaks, including Mount Everest. This pursuit is about pushing limits, embracing the unknown, trusting God, using every gift I’ve been given, and inspiring others to dream bigger.
At the same time, I’m taking on another milestone: running my first marathon. The LA Marathon isn’t just a race—it’s my love letter to the city that has shaped so much of my journey. I’ll be running as part of the Together LA Wildfire Relief Program, merging endurance with purpose, honoring the land we run on, and proving that movement—whether on the trail, the road, or the highest mountains—is one of the most powerful ways to create change.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
I was a vivacious, creative, little big dreamer—an unapologetic nerd who loved to learn but also had a deep passion for artistic expression. I was always immersed in the arts, starting ballet at four, followed by classical piano and music. Performing for my family was one of my favorite things—completely lost in the joy of movement and storytelling. My dad’s vinyl records and classic films opened up new worlds for me, sparking my imagination and shaping my artistic eye.
I grew up in Monterrey, Mexico—the city of mountains—so a love for the outdoors was inevitable. On weekends, my dad took us hiking, always reminding us to respect the land and stay connected to nature. Meanwhile, my mom made sure I had every opportunity to explore the arts, from ballet to music, always encouraging me to express myself fully. That balance—between movement and creativity, structure and freedom—became the foundation of who I am today, blending adventure with artistry, storytelling with exploration.
A perfectionist at heart, I found joy in the smallest details, endlessly fascinated by stories and the way they unfold. Looking back, I was always a mix of intensity and curiosity—when something inspired me, I went all in. That same relentless passion still drives me today, whether I’m creating, climbing, or telling stories. When I love something, I give it everything.
Contact Info:
- Website: http://www.claudiasalinas.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/misssalinas/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/claudiasalinas
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@misssalinas
