If a picture is worth a thousand words, Colette de Barros is worth one million and one! Her interest in photography began in her mother's darkroom and Colette hasn't been able to put down a camera since. Her magic ability to capture elegant moments in time has launched her into a unstoppable career. Not only is she a globe trotting photography sensation, she is an amazing mom, and passionate environmentalist. We are so lucky to have had the opportunity to learn more about this inspiring fashion photographer.

Tell us about your art and how you got involved in photography?

I oddly got involved in photography after a car accident I had. I was home for quite a while and we had a very nice dark room in the house no one used. My mother at one point was very interested in photography. I would have to say my first real passion was printing and the darkroom! Taking pictures was just means to allow me to work on something in the darkroom and then of course it eventually evolved in to the whole process from beginning to end that I fell in love with.

What was a pivotal moment for your photography career?

Probably when I shot my first major editorial for Surface Magazine, the Avant Guardian Issue. This was pre-internet and magazines were our only resource for exposure and they were a powerful tool for photographers. It was the only real way to get clients or other magazines to see your name and work.

What has been your favorite set to work on? Why?

I love a small intimate set where everyone is so relaxed that it stops feeling like work and everything just flows naturally. That is when you get those really natural and unexpected moments form the shoot. I think I have been pretty lucky across the board with my clients and jobs that I do...so most of my sets are.

What is one of your proudest moments in your career?

I think I have a lot of guilt about traveling so much but, my proudest moments are when my kids tell me they are proud of me and understand how important my job is to me. I love having them come by set when the opportunity presents itself.

What are some things you enjoy when you aren't shooting?

I love traveling with my family and having adventures or just being at home and having quality time there.

What is your favorite part about being on set?

I love the process and then seeing the finished product. Everyday I go to work is a challenge and I think problem solving and those challenges that we encounter though out the day make it that much more rewarding as well. That always make me so happy to see how we accomplished so much through out a day!

What is one thing your fans may not know about you?

I used to be a pre-olympic synchronize swimmer.. obviously not something I discuss much..

What advice can you provide for future photographers?

Shoot a lot, all the time. I have always shot a ton, even when I have a down moment I am shooting something personal. Especially now days with digital it has become so much more competitive.