MOST Magazine Fashion Oct'14 ISSUE NO.2 | Page 55

FMM: Did you get nervous for your first shoot and do you still get nervous before every shoot? MP: Yes. I was nervous during my first photo shoot and I still get nervous! I worry about what the photographer expects the final results to look like. My nerves kick in before and during the shoot sometimes! FMM: What advice would you give to young models wanting to get into the modeling/acting scene? MP: It is very important to set a goal, to achieve what’s desired. At the same time, be aware of all the difficulties along the way. Another useful professional tip - don’t bring your personal problems to work. Your private life should not interfere with the photo shoot, but it is not always easy. FMM: What are some of the must see places in St. Petersburg? MP: Saint Petersburg is one of the most beautiful cities in the world! I recommend planning enough vacation time to see our entire city center. It is a city of different moods. There are so many different aspects to the city like our European architecture, historical sights, Russian cathedrals and statues, to name a few. You will not regret visiting! FMM: If you could live anywhere in the world, where would you live? MP: I love my city and its mentality. It is special. I respect our traditions and history. But, like everyone in the world, I like to travel. I have been to most European countries but I always look forward to going home, as it is my favorite place in the world. I also dream of visiting Asia and the United States. FMM: What else can we expect from you in the future? MP: I am launching my own fashion and lifestyle brand, Your Choice Your Fashion- by Maria Popova (YCYF) set to debut in spring/ summer 2015 in St. Petersburg and later in Moscow and other cities. You will also see new publications and advertising campaigns, which will reflect and showcase my continued personal advancements. FMM: If you could change one thing about the world, regardless of guilt or politics, what would you do? MP: I would change the attitude towards charity and make sure that people do it out of sincerity and not fame or fortune. FMM: Secret yearnings/wants/must have’s? MP: My secret weakness is beautiful things. I can’t skip past beautiful clothes, dresses, or watches. FMM: Favorite food? MP: I live in the northern city and even though I play sports, live a healthy lifestyle, and eat healthy food, I love Russian national cuisine with its rich assortment and traditions. I like Borscht (beetroot and cabbage soup), pancakes, Okroshka (cold kvass soup with vegetables and cooked meat), and other meats and fish. www.MOST mag.com || F A S H I O N M A G A Z I N E || 55