Australian-born beauty queen Melody Mai de la Fe (@melodydelafe) takes her work far beyond the scope of glamour as she discovers that her true passion lies behind the camera. A creative soul at heart, de la Fe has gracefully evolved from an international model into a savvy photographer while capturing moments that are aesthetic, passionate and undeniably fabulous. Appreciating the craft from both center stage and behind the scenes, we chat with the creative as she touches on her career, her commitment to simple beauty and everything in between.

PHOTOS BY VIVIAN ARTHUR

What is one of your most prized possessions?

Being a model-turned-photographer, my camera is undeniably my most prized possession. Whether it be for a professional shoot or to capture candid moments, I pretty much have my camera with me at all times.

What is something most people don’t know about you?

I am half Vietnamese. My father is Vietnamese and my mother is Australian. However, my complexion takes after my mother. Especially now living in Miami, people never really know or expect my ethnicity.

What is one beauty ritual you follow every day?

No matter how tired I am, I always make sure to cleanse my skin before bedtime. I’ve been using an oil cleanser by Fig. 1 that works wonders. I find the process quite soothing and therapeutic.

What is your favorite exercise? A long walk with my dog! Incorporating organic movement into my days starts with a morning walk to our local coffee shop.

Do you have any advice you’d give to your teenage self? I would tell my teenage self to live every day with intent, to practice patience and to always remember to be kind to others.