Two Campaigns, One Journey: Leroy Moritz Aiyanyo Reflects on Guttridge And Carrera Campaigns

Leroy Moritz Aiyanyo is a model whose career has been marked by a commitment to authenticity and artistry in the fashion world. Known for his ability to bring depth and genuine emotion to each project, Leroy has captivated audiences and collaborators alike.

His journey, highlighted by recent work with iconic brands like Guttridge and Carrera, showcases his talent for embracing new challenges and making meaningful connections on set. Through his storytelling approach, Leroy is redefining what it means to be a model, embodying vulnerability and strength in a way that resonates beyond the camera.

In this interview, he shares the transformative experiences behind these campaigns, offering an inside look at the creative process that shapes his work.

IMAGE: LEROY MORITZ AIYANYO

Thank you for joining us, Leroy! Let’s start with the Guttridge Campaign. Can you tell us what it was like stepping onto the set?

Leroy Moritz Aiyanyo: Absolutely! I remember feeling a mix of excitement and nerves stepping onto the Guttridge set. Guttridge is known for setting the bar high in fashion campaigns, so I knew expectations would be intense.

The set was bustling with some of the most talented creatives I’ve ever worked with—stylists who had a clear vision and assistants ensuring every detail was perfect. It was a masterclass in collaboration and pushing creative boundaries.

It sounds intense! Was there a specific moment from the shoot that stood out?

Leroy: Definitely. Guttridge’s approach was all about storytelling. One shoot even involved no props, just freestyle stories about real-life experiences, like how we spent Christmas at home.

It challenged me to dig deeper into my own experiences and step up as a model. That level of storytelling really pushed me to be more versatile and confident. By the end, I felt the experience boosted my credibility, even opening up international opportunities.

Incredible! And I heard the campaign was set in quite a unique location?

Leroy: Yes! For one of the shoots, Guttridge wanted to capture a rugged, natural feel, so we shot in a remote mountain setting. We started hiking to the location at sunrise, and when we reached the top, there was this golden light across the peaks—it was breathtaking. Standing there gave me a sense of clarity I hadn’t felt in years.

It was more than just a shoot; it was an experience. Guttridge encouraged me to explore the space and simply take it all in. I wasn’t just posing; I was connecting with the environment.

That sounds transformative. How did you feel after the shoot?

Leroy: I felt grounded. It reminded me that true beauty isn’t always about perfection or glamor; it’s about authenticity. Since then, I’ve been drawn to projects that allow for that kind of realness and purpose. Guttridge taught me that sometimes the most powerful images come from moments of simplicity and depth.

Let’s talk about the Carrera Campaign. How did you feel when you got the call?

Leroy: Getting the call was surreal. Carrera has such a rugged, authentic aesthetic, which was new for me. Walking onto the set in Milan felt like stepping onto a Hollywood set—huge screens, spotlights, designers everywhere. For a moment, I felt out of my league, but as soon as I saw my reflection in that first outfit, I knew I was ready to prove myself.

What was the most challenging part of that shoot?

Leroy: The intensity. The photographer wanted “vulnerability but with strength,” so I had to dig deep. At one point, he asked me to imagine being alone in the world, stripped of any façade. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath, and really felt it. When I opened my eyes, there was silence on set, and I could sense something had shifted. It was a powerful moment where I realized modeling goes beyond just appearance.

It sounds like a breakthrough. How did the team react after that?

Leroy: The energy changed. The team saw a new side of me, and the creative director even came over, shook my hand, and said, “You’ve got something rare.” That moment validated everything I’d been working toward in my career.

And the campaign launch? How did that impact your career?

Leroy: It was a whirlwind. The campaign made waves internationally, and suddenly I was getting calls from Barcelona, Milan, New York—it was unbelievable. Carrera showed me that I’m more than just a model; I’m an artist. That experience reignited my passion for modeling and gave me the confidence to chase even bigger dreams.