Interview with Miao Premier

Born and raised in Tokyo, Japan, Miao Premier is half Japanese, half Korean. As a child she was very fond of poetry as a child and, at age 13, was widely acclaimed as a prodigy in the arts of poetry.

She first ventured into modelling in 2004 and became an instant hit, appearing in numerous Japanese magazines and TV shows. However, she stopped modelling within a year to pursue her studies.

Shortly after in 2005, she went abroad to Singapore to further her education in an International School. In May 2011, after years of relentless urging and encouragement from her Singaporean friends, she kickstarted her modelling career in Singapore.

Since then, she has grown to become a versatile model adept at various genres of photography as well as video shoots and has now begun to garner much positive attention and feedback in the local scene. Miao is often complimented for her elegance and poise in front of the camera and has often been lauded for her passionate attitude and professionalism towards her work.

Miao’s personal motto is reflected well in her portfolio and onsite attitude.

“Stay true to yourself and give it all you’ve got.”

 

Miao, it is a pleasure to meet you. What was it like when you first arrived in Singapore?

I came to Singapore when I was 15 and studied in an International School. I learned English while i was enrolled there. A funny fact is that I used to speak British-accented English but then I found out that Singaporeans felt uncomfortable with it so I started to pick up Singlish ( Singaporean English). After I started using Singlish, I feel most Singaporeans start to be wamer and more familiar with me. They start treating me like one of their own. (laughs)

When did you first begin modelling?

I did some modelling in Japan for a short period when I was 14 but I got quite busy with my studies so I didnt really persue it.

I start my modelling career locally near the end of May 2011, so it is almost going to be a year. I really happy for the fact that I picked it up so quickly and appreciative of the numerous supporters around me. I also learnt alot from photographers and other models in the industry; they gave me a lot of advice and I always keep my eyes open to see if I can pick up anything new.

What is it you enjoy about modelling and what styles of modelling do you prefer?

I really enjoy trying on new clothes, new styles. Of course, one of the biggest perks is that I get to meet and know a lot of people through modelling. I have friends and supporters in many countries now, and I am proud to be somewhat international.

For my own preference, I lean towards a more gothic style. I have always adored gothic fashion since I was young. I would often go to Harajuku with my gothic clothes on. I am quite good at portraying the “lost doll”, “darkness” concept, and I feel there are alot of looks that make it unique too.

Have you been on any particularly difficult shoots?

Yes. I am not really amazing at those bubbly cute styled shoot. I think my eyes and attitude are too strong and too piercing. I can’t really immerse myself in those situations too, so it’s hard for me to do those. I seldom smile at the camera.

What do you think are some of your strongest features?

I think I have a really unique look, there are not many short haired models in Singapore and I have very strong piercing eyes. In most of my photos it seems i exude a very “attitude” elegance and every time I shoot, I would imagine the scene. I believe it is not necessary for photos to have movement but they must have “feel” and that feel always comes from the eyes first. Eyes usually give life to a photo, otherwise if your eyes are not focusing, the picture just looks dull and dead, lacking in spirit.

So from my portfolio you can see, they are actually all different looks and poses but my eyes always stand out.

What do you look for in a photograph or in a photographer?

I am extremely picky. I do not necessarily have to work with very famous professional photographers. I would rather work with anyone who has talent, professional or amateur, regardless. What kind of gadget they use also does not matter but when I work I prefer those that have passion and have good communication skills with their models. Of course, having photography skill is important too.

I never really learned photography but at least I am able to seeif a picture turns out good or otherwise. I tend to critique a lot due to my research online about different photography styles and how editorials should look.

What is the modelling industry like in Singapore?

I feel that the industry is too saturated in Singapore. It’s not easy to gain fame unless you have the X factor and really stand out.

What advice would you have for someone just starting out as a model?

Be yourself and show them your X-factor!

What would you say is your attitude or the way you approach your work?

I am a perfectionist at heart. If i feel that a pose or a picture is not well taken or does not portray the feel it is meant to, I will keep doing retakes until everyone is satisfied. That is my basic attitude. Modelling is a passion to me, and I will not feel comfortable if it isnt done right or if the client is not happy with my work.

I understand you have been cast in an upcoming commercial. Can you tell us anything about it?

One is for a reknowned skincare company, and another one is a large player in the Health product industry. There are few more upcoming but I am still negotiating.

Is acting something you would like to do in the future?

I would love to try acting, but I need to learn how to speak Mandarin first. It seems that every casting I go to requires me to speak Mandarin. (laughs)

What do you hope to be doing in the future?

I expect to push myself harder and further, and I really want to see how far I can go in this industry. On a more whimsical note, I would love to run a megaclub in Singapore

What do you like to do when you are not working?

I am quite a religious person. You will tend to find that i spend most of my free time at a Chinese temple, praying for my family and for my work. I seldom hang out for drinks or club. If I am home I am usually researching online for new concepts for upcoming shoots and getting inspiration from various editorials and models like Coco Rocha.

Where can we go to find out more about you and your work?

My FB page http://www.facebook.com/miaopremier

All my photos and recent activities are there!

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