This week, we present an interview with our favorite pinup photographer herself: Ms. Marilee Caruso! She shares her experiences, favorite memories, goals, and advice!

When did you know you were/wanted to be an artist?

I think I always knew. Art, music and dance have been a big part of my life since I was small. From ballet class and gymnastic to art class with the locale hippy when I was a kid.

How did you get into photography? Pinup? Were you always interested, or was there a catalyst?

Once I was out of High School and attending Solano Junior College I was able to explore my love for creating, from classes in pottery, choir and drawing. I always felt like a “jack of all trades master of none”. Until I found my very first black and white film photography class in 2004.

What do you love most about the work?

Creating is always necessary for me, but what I love the most is how it makes my clients feel about themselves. I get to show them how beautiful they are and how to feel more comfortable in expressing different parts of them selves.

What have been your greatest challenges as an artist and/or businesswoman? Your greatest accomplishments?

Balancing being an artist and being a business. As well as balancing life with my work.

Tell me about some of your favorite experiences as an artist…

Meeting and exploring other artist’s and inspiring young artists.

Do you have favorite images or shoots? Any particularly memorable experiences shooting?

Meeting Bud Gaugh from Sublime on a shoot. And coincidentally my sister who introduced me to the band in high school was there with me.

Which was your first cover? Do you have any favorite covers?

Retro Lovely No. 9!

(This was back when Retro Lovely was a single monthly publication, printed traditionally and available via subscription and at select newstands! Marilee's cover featured model Aly Loren posing by the seaside. )

Which set/theme/prop is your favorite? Favorite shooting location? What new themes or locales are on the horizon?

The Green room!!! Old town Sacramento. Moonshine & Co nail Bar is a great new business that just opened up near the studio on Franklin Blvd...

How often do you do photography (or other art) just for yourself? Any personal art planned in the near future?

Not as often as I would like. I love to draw, paint, and sew. I actually was just able to create an art room at my home where the old dressing room used to be. The perfect place to make new props, wardrobe and accessories.

Of all the styles of photography you do, which is the most fun for you?

I really love shooting cosplay, horror and sci-fi images. They are playful, spooky and just plain fun!

You make a great model. Do you see yourself posing for yourself or someone else again in the future?

I really need to. It’s been way too long. I had such a great experience shooting with Shannon Brooke way back in 2016. We had a wonderful day put at Yolanda ranch my wedding venue and got to take turns shooting each other.

What are your professional plans/goals for the future?

I’d like to purchase a mid century home to turn into the perfect studio studio space!

Any advice for aspiring photographers, models, pinups?

Always learn the business side of things!