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urvivor, that’s the perfect word to describe Crystal Renn, considering her life story and career trajectory in fashion. She has gone through a host of hardships and has battled a constant barrage of negative comments about her weight (resulting in a bout of anorexia at one point) and her infamous asymmetrical eyes. Despite all this, Renn has managed to add author, photographer, and spokesperson to her résumé, while still enjoying what she does best in front of the camera – and with major pizzazz, evidently. Armed with her own face tape and 15 years of modelling experience (like Kate Moss, she entered the industry at the tender age of 14), she came and charmed the entire BAZAAR photo crew with an unassuming demeanour to match her modest attire. Renn’s warmth shone through her retorts, which displayed her psychoanalytical side. On set, however, she transformed into a completely different being. She wriggled, writhed, swayed, and hissed like a woman possessed by a fashion deity, embodying a character that she created in her head; and only for that day. It was fascinating to witness the shoot in progress. The dynamic connection between the supermodel and our photographer Yu Tsai was almost palpable; they bonded with a mutual respect and love for fashion, as well as a united goal to create those magical moments. Here’s a glimpse into their post-shoot conversation. Crystal Renn: I noticed that you’re so … technical and versatile. Yu Tsai: I’ve been very blessed; I’m always surrounding myself with an amazing crew so that I can just direct. I have an incredible team and I empower them. Before anybody says that “you’re a great photographer,” people always say, “You have an amazing crew.” I come last and I’m okay with that. The photos are evidence of what I do. CR: You have people who support your vision and allow you the space to be yourself, to create, and that’s important. YT: You stifle creativity when you put a shackle on them. Today, I watched you from the moment you arrived on set and I thought, “Would Crystal give me the Crystal I heard from other people or is she going to be something different?” You asked me: “Do you like movement or do you like still poses?”And my answer was: “I want Crystal. Whatever Crystal feels at the moment.I want to capture your authenticity and it’s going to be beautiful.” CR: That’s what I like about being a model. If I don’t enter the world of my own imagination, then it becomes … YT: Boring.