How did you get into photography?
My husband, John Derek, was a great photographer. I met him while I was auditioning for a part in 1973, when I was 16, and I became his best assistant.

What is your camera of choice?
The Canon EOS 20D with a 70-200mm lens. But I also keep a little red Canon EOS Sure Shot in my purse at all times. I just love it and it’s gone all over the world with me.

What inspires you?
People. I’m working on a TV show now [Fashion House on My Network] and there are moments when I would just love to shoot photos: when the light is spectacular and the actors are totally unaware. As soon as someone says, “Action!” everything changes.

What was the last photo you took?
The last photo I had published was of my boyfriend, John Corbett, for his album cover. We went outside in a pasture and he started playing his guitar. I was trying to find his real spirit, that moment when he wasn’t looking at the camera or posing. I was shocked when the label chose the picture for the cover because it wasn’t the most obvious choice. It’s a very unconventional photo, but I adore it.

What is your most cherished non-photography item in your photo bag?
A piece of chamois that my husband used to wrap his camera in. It’s probably 40 years old, but I still have it.