Monique Lester and the Work Behind Every Picture
What goes into a great photo? Monique Lester, the Australian model behind a 2025 Magnifiqué cover, explains the teamwork behind every image she makes.
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Every photo in a magazine looks effortless. Monique Lester knows exactly how much effort that takes. The Australian model, whose work has appeared in Playboy and on the 2025 cover of Magnifiqué, has spent her career on set. Her view of the job goes a long way to explaining why her images work.
A Photograph Is a Team Effort
Monique Lester is clear that no image is made by the model alone. Behind every finished photograph is a creative process involving:
- The model, who brings presence, expression and posing
- The photographer, who sets light, angle and mood
- Styling, from wardrobe to hair and makeup
- The production team, who handle locations, schedules and logistics
Her ability to work within that team while still bringing her own personality to the frame is a big part of her reputation.
The Five Skills She Says the Job Needs
Lester describes professional modeling as a mix of:
- Preparation before the shoot starts
- Confidence in front of the camera
- Resilience through long days and changing briefs
- Communication with photographers and stylists
- Collaboration with everyone on set
Where It Started
Monique Lester began photographic modeling at around 12 years old, drawn to fashion, creativity and visual expression. Over the years, that interest built into an international career of magazine appearances, fashion photography and creative collaborations.
The Highlights
Her work has appeared in international publications including Playboy. In 2025 she appeared on the cover of Magnifiqué, photographed by Richard Lancaster, which she treats as an important milestone.
Across that work, one thing has stayed the same: she refuses to copy whatever look is fashionable. Lester believes models should develop their own identity, and she has built her image on confidence, individuality and authenticity.
From the Set to Her Own Label
Years on set have taught Monique Lester how clothing is styled, lit and presented. She is now putting that knowledge into a business of her own: Crystal Rose Intimates, a lingerie brand she is preparing to launch.
The name is in place, and she has ordered product samples from a prospective new supplier. She is keeping the rest private for now. For the first time, she will be designing the brief rather than just bringing it to life.
Off Camera
Away from the camera, Lester’s children and family remain at the center of her life. She has worked as a disability support worker, which she has called meaningful and rewarding. She also plans to try for her final child in the near future and, if she becomes pregnant, to model as long as she comfortably can before taking time away and returning gradually.
Follow Monique Lester on Instagram for updates on Crystal Rose Intimates.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Monique Lester say makes a good photoshoot?
She says every image comes from a team of model, photographer, stylists and production crew, and depends on preparation, confidence, resilience, communication and collaboration.
Who shot Monique Lester’s Magnifiqué cover?
Photographer Richard Lancaster shot her 2025 Magnifiqué cover.
Is Monique Lester launching a brand?
Yes. She is preparing to launch Crystal Rose Intimates, a lingerie brand.
