Tahnee Pinches is the kind of woman who makes adventure look effortless.
Model, content creator, marine biology devotee and passionate ocean lover, her world moves between sun-soaked photoshoots, early-morning Pilates, waking up in far-flung destinations and time spent studying humpback whales.
Scouted by Billabong at just 14, Tahnee has since carved out a career that brings together fashion, creativity, science and a deep curiosity for the natural world. In this interview, she talks dream destinations, dream brands, the women who inspire her, and her vision for a life with more freedom, intention and adventure — offering a glimpse into a career and lifestyle as multifaceted as she is.
For those who might not follow you, what are you best known for?
I’d say for always being on a fun adventure somewhere. I share quite a lot of my life online, so my content is a little bit of everything I love, travel, modelling and photoshoots, content creation, mindset and personal growth, with the occasional marine biology fact thrown in for good measure.
What has your career journey looked like so far? And how did you end up in content creation and modelling?
I was scouted by Billabong when I was about 14 while at a surf camp, although it was a few years before I actually gave modelling a go. Since then, I’ve had the opportunity to work with some incredible brands and people in some pretty amazing places. Modelling naturally evolved into content creation as another creative outlet. I’ve always been someone with a lot of different passions, though, so those two things are really just a small part of a much bigger picture.
How does marine biology fit into your life and career?
I’ve always felt a deep connection to the ocean and a genuine love for the natural world, so studying marine biology felt like a natural extension of that. I wanted to find a way to nurture that passion while also contributing something positive to the world. Alongside modelling and content creation, I’ve spent a lot of time studying, researching and working with humpback whales during their migration. It’s given me the opportunity to combine my love of the ocean, science and adventure in a really meaningful way.
What does a typical working day look like for you?
It really depends on what I’m working on. If I’m on a shoot, it usually involves waking up before the sun, getting hair and makeup done, and then spending the day shooting. If I’m creating content for myself or working on a brand campaign, I’ll often start with an early morning Pilates class, come home for a nice breakfast and then get into shooting and editing. I try to get the bulk of my work done in the morning so I can spend the afternoon outside, ideally somewhere near the beach. Although, of course, that depends on how much I have on!
Who inspires you?
The list is very long. I’m lucky to be surrounded by incredibly talented and bold women in my own life who are constantly inspiring me, whether they’re building businesses, raising families, creating beautiful things or simply showing up as wonderful friends. When it comes to people I don’t know personally, I’m naturally drawn to those who are willing to step outside their comfort zone and reach for what once seemed impossible. People who choose adventure, curiosity and possibility; whether that’s exploring remote parts of the world, skiing in Antarctica or simply creating a life that looks completely different to the conventional path.. a few that come to mind are Malou Peterson, Brette Harrington, Hillaree Nelson and Rachel Pohl.
What’s the boldest thing you’re manifesting this year?
I’m manifesting the opportunity to work with some of my dream brands, particularly on a few upcoming trips to places I’ve been dreaming of visiting.
What’s the most underrated destination you’ve travelled to?
Oh gosh, I love every place I’ve been for completely different reasons, but I was lucky enough to spend some time in South Sumatra last year. It’s still relatively untouched by mass tourism, and I was struck by how much joy and warmth there was in the people I met.
Dead or alive, who is your dream coffee date with and why?
Jane Goodall and David Attenborough, the dream team. They’ve both inspired me beyond words throughout my life, particularly in the way they’ve dedicated their lives to understanding and protecting the natural world. And I imagine they’d have some seriously incredible stories to share over coffee.
What’s your star sign — and do you believe in it?
Virgo Sun, Aquarius Rising and Sagittarius Moon, and YES, 10,000%.
Advice for those looking to get into your industry?
Show up as yourself. Share what makes you you. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make mistakes and change direction, that’s how you learn what works and, more importantly, what feels authentic to you. And above all, make it fun. If you’re not enjoying what you’re creating, it’s worth asking yourself why you’re doing it in the first place.
What’s your big, scary, audacious goal for the next three years?
Let’s just say it involves a relocation, a passport filled with many stamps, and creating a life with a little more freedom, adventure and intention. I want to build a career that allows me to see the world while doing work I genuinely love, rather than feeling like I have to choose between the two.
