The 'Sports Illustrated' project 'In Her Own Words' was shot by an all-female crew, a first for veteran models

Timing is everything, and Sports Illustrated nailed that notion. As part of its 2018 swimsuit issue, the renowned magazine produced a spread called “In Her Own Words,” which was created by a female crew and photographer. Stripping down for the camera (far more than they usually do), the handful of young and intrepid individuals showcased phrases, motivational terms, and emboldening words across their bodies.

You’ll recognize many faces in the moving display, including Olympian gymnast Aly Raisman, actress and model Olivia Culpo, and countless other fearless females.

Also featured in the project are models Sailor Brinkley Cook and Robyn Lawley. The two beauties stopped by The Morning Breath to share intimate details about the 18-month-long operation that is leaving so many women inspired to live their truth.

“It was such an incredible experience,” Brinkley Cook explained to TMB host Jackie Oshry. “I almost cried last night talking about it on the red carpet.”

The 19-year-old Brinkley Cook, who battled body image issues while growing up in the harsh public eye, took on the honorable job with an extra task to tackle. “It was a really long project that was really personal and very close to our hearts.” The rookie model was also the behind-the-scenes photographer on set while Robyn Lawley served as the videographer.

Lawley admitted that an all-female crew was practically unheard of until this SI project. “First time in my entire modeling career, which is 12 years,” clarified the mother of one.

The veteran model added, “It was cool and different for once.”