IN CONVERSATION WITH MOUNA MODELS
For The Collective, photographer Rogier Alexander captured 30 models from Mouna Models entirely without styling, hair, or makeup. Plain at the office – just as they are.
The result is raw, powerful, and honest. Shot on analog film the images individually encapsulate the unmasked beauty of authenticity, but together they reveal unity. And it is precisely in this uniformity that something greater than the individual emerges: a collective image of beauty. This approach carefully balances both individual uniqueness and the beauty of a community that encourages our differences. By gathering in individuality we create The Collective.
The Collective is an ode to returning. To observe without altering. To the strength and integrity of being our true selves in the face of the world. It is a testament to the community whose strength is borne from its diversity. Because sometimes, when everything else is stripped away, what truly matters remains.
“What sets Mouna apart is the personal, warm touch, unlike the harshness I’ve felt elsewhere in the fashion industry, Mouna makes you feel seen, supported, and valued on a deeper level.
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What inspired you to create The Collective, and why now?
Zekja (Founder of Mouna Models) This idea had been living in my mind for quite some time. I knew I wanted to create something that stripped away all the noise, something honest, raw, and powerful. But the concept was complex, and it took time to find the right person to help bring it to life. When I met Rogier, he understood the vision immediately, and together we created something even more meaningful than I had imagined.
How does The Collective reflect the core values of Mouna Models?
Mouna Models stands for equality, diversity, and empowerment. That’s the feeling we want to share with everyone who looks at these images. We believe our models are at their best when they stand in their own power, in whatever identity, background, or form that may come. The Collective is a reflection of that belief.
In what ways does Mouna Models challenge traditional beauty standards?
At Mouna Models, we focus on realness, on who someone truly is, their presence, and the story they carry. We look for authenticity, and we celebrate the uniqueness that each person brings.
What does it mean to you, personally, to see your models represented like this, raw, united, and unfiltered?
Honestly, it feels like a dream. I get emotional every time I look at them. There’s such a deep strength, softness, and power in their eyes. It’s more than just a portrait, it’s a reflection of who they are. And that’s what we try to offer from the very first moment they walk through our doors.
What makes working with Mouna Models different from other agencies or collectives, and how did their vision influence the way you approached this project?
Rogier (Photographer) Working with Mouna Models really felt different. The agency has a boutique vibe where talents are nurtured closely and personally, not just added to a long list like in bigger agencies. You could feel that right away when the models walked in to have their pictures taken. There was a sense of ease, trust, and genuine connection.
That vision influenced the way I approached this project. It wasn’t about creating a polished or styled image, but about capturing something honest and personal.
Zekja has a sharp eye for detail and a clear creative vision, which made the whole collaboration with Mouna very smooth. She had been developing this project idea for quite a while, so I’m really glad I got to be part of bringing her vision to life. Her connection with agent Bente also added to the flow. Their dynamic worked really well and made the process feel grounded and well thought out.
What did you learn about the models by photographing them without any constructed image and without styling and makeup?
Photographing the models without styling or makeup made everything feel more real. Without a constructed image, their personalities came through in small, honest ways in how they moved, looked at the camera, or simply stood still. Some of the models I had worked with before like Roos and Comfort, so I already had a sense of how they’d come across best on camera. With others, I was genuinely surprised. Certain expressions or moments I didn’t expect really stood out. It reminded me how strong individuality is on its own and how unique everyone truly is.
How did using a Polaroid camera influence the process or outcome of the project?
Using a vintage Polaroid camera really changed the way I worked on this project. It slowed things down and made me think carefully about each shot. There was only one chance to get it right, especially knowing the film has been out of production for nine years and every pack is expensive and limited.
That sense of immediacy and having the physical photo in hand created a different kind of connection with the models, something more real and direct. Everyone was really surprised and a bit nervous to see the results. From a photographer’s point of view, it added a raw and honest vibe to the images. The imperfections and unique qualities of film gave the pictures a timeless feel you just don’t get with digital anymore. It made the whole process much more thoughtful and personal.
