In the world of fashion and artistry, few stories captivate like that of Jonathan Kranebitter. Born and raised in the breathtaking Tirolian Alps, Jonathan’s path from a close-knit Austrian family to international modelling success is as inspiring as it is unexpected. With a background rooted in creativity, a love for travel, and a spirit of adventure, Jonathan has carved out a unique space for himself in an industry that celebrates individuality. In this candid interview for Yummy 10, he reflects on his upbringing, the serendipitous start of his modelling career, and his ambitions to leave a lasting impact, both in front of the camera and beyond.
PHoto story by SASHA OLSEN. interview by Adrian Gomis Exposito
The images are cropped/made safe for online purposes, full images available inside Yummy Issue 10
ADRIAN GOMIS EXPOSITO. Hi Jonathan! It’s a pleasure to speak with you. Before we dive into your modelling journey, let’s talk about your life back in Austria. What was your upbringing like?
JONATHAN KRANEBITTER. I had the privilege of growing up in one of the most beautiful and serene places in the world—the Tirolian Alps. The landscape was always a part of my everyday life, with towering peaks and lush valleys surrounding us. From a young age, my life revolved around family and sports. My parents always encouraged us to explore the outdoors, and we spent a lot of time hiking, skiing, and simply enjoying the beauty of the mountains. Living in such an active environment naturally shaped my character. Being the youngest of four brothers wasn't always easy, but it taught me the value of hard work, determination, and finding my own voice in a busy household. These early experiences laid the foundation for the person I am today—someone who appreciates nature, values close-knit relationships, and embraces challenges head-on.
AGE. Growing up, did you ever imagine yourself as a model, or did you have other aspirations?
JK. To be completely honest, the idea of becoming a model never even crossed my mind. I’ve always had a deep interest in creativity, but my passion back then was more focused on interior design. I loved the process of creating spaces that felt both functional and beautiful, and I pursued it with a lot of enthusiasm. Many of my friends, and even people I met while out and about, would tell me I should consider modelling, but I never took their comments seriously. To me, they were just casual compliments—something that was nice to hear but not something that would lead to a career. I was much more focused on exploring creative avenues like design, which felt more aligned with my interests at the time. Little did I know that life would surprise me with an entirely different path!
AGE. Who or what inspired you to take the leap into modelling? Was there a particular moment when you thought, ‘This is what I want to do’?
JK. My entry into modelling happened almost by chance, and it all started when I was finishing my schooling and training as a paramedic. I had this deep desire to travel and explore the world, and after I completed my studies, I finally set off on a solo trip to Southeast Asia. I was so excited to experience new cultures and push myself outside of my comfort zone. One night, while I was at a club saying my goodbyes to friends before heading off, a woman approached me and asked for my Instagram. The next day, I learned that she was a model scout who saw something in me that I hadn’t even noticed myself. She explained the possibility of modelling and travelling the world with it. At first, it felt surreal—almost like a dream. But after thinking it over, I realised this could be an amazing opportunity to combine my love for adventure with something creative. The idea of travelling the world while doing something I had never imagined really spoke to me, and that was the moment I thought, "This could be the next chapter of my life."
AGE. Besides modelling, is there anything you’re really passionate about or love doing? Can you tell us more about it?
JK. Beyond modelling, my passion for creating remains at the core of everything I do. Whether it’s through my background in interior design, capturing moments with photography, or even producing content for social media, there’s something so satisfying about bringing ideas to life. Lately, though, I’ve discovered a deep passion for travel. Travelling has opened my eyes to the incredible diversity of cultures and landscapes around the world, and it has become one of my greatest sources of inspiration. Each new country I visit teaches me more than I could ever imagine, not just about the world, but also about myself. It has pushed me to grow in ways I never thought possible, helping me to better understand my own values, desires, and dreams. Through my travels, I've met countless incredible people who have shaped my perspective, and the connections I’ve made have led to unexpected opportunities, including modelling work in places I never thought I would go. The beauty of travel is that it never stops teaching you, and it continues to enrich my life in ways I never anticipated.
AGE. What were your biggest hopes and fears when you first started modelling?
JK. I had a lot of excitement and high hopes when I first started. I was eager to work with some of the most talented photographers, stylists, and brands, and I couldn’t wait to travel the world, experiencing new cultures while making a living from doing something I loved. My dream was to create art, to be part of something that inspired others, and to collaborate with incredible people in the fashion and creative industries. There were so many possibilities, and that was incredibly thrilling. However, alongside that excitement, there were fears too—mainly around staying grounded. As much as I was excited to experience new places and meet new people, I was also worried about losing the connection to my roots. I come from a close-knit family, and I have a strong circle of friends in Austria, and the idea of being far from them for long periods of time was daunting. Travel and the modelling lifestyle can be isolating at times, especially when you meet so many wonderful people in different places, but know you might never see them again. And, of course, the nomadic lifestyle itself can make you feel like you don't have a "home" in the traditional sense. It’s a constant balancing act—living for the adventure while staying connected to your personal life and foundation back home.
AGE. You’ve already had the chance to start your career in Bali and spend some months there working, a place that’s so vibrant and unique. How has the experience shaped you so far?
JK. Living and working in Bali has been a transformative experience. The island’s vibrant culture and stunning landscapes have not only inspired me professionally but have also deepened my love for travel. Professionally, it’s been amazing to collaborate with creative people from around the world, while personally, it’s allowed me to grow and embrace new perspectives. It’s an adventure that has shaped me both as a model and as an individual, fueling my passion for exploration and self-discovery.
AGE. Every model brings something unique to the table. What do you think sets you apart as a new face in this industry?
JK. I think what sets me apart is the energy I bring to each set. From the feedback I’ve received from those I’ve worked with so far, it’s clear that my ability to channel emotions and truly bring my character to life in the final stages has played a significant role in my early success. I’m not afraid to step outside my comfort zone and embrace new challenges. For example, working with brands like Yummy has pushed me to explore uncharted territory, and I’ve found that being open to experimentation and trying something completely new has helped me stand out. I believe this adaptability, combined with a genuine passion for creating, has allowed me to make an impact in the industry early on.
AGE. What do you hope to achieve in this industry? Do you see modelling as a stepping stone to other creative pursuits?
JK. My main goal is to continue growing as a model while pushing the boundaries of my creativity. I want to work with visionary photographers, artists, and brands that inspire me, creating images that are not only beautiful but also tell a story. Modelling is an incredible platform for self-expression, and I hope to use it as a stepping stone to explore other creative pursuits as well. Whether it’s venturing further into photography, fashion design, or even launching my own projects, I see modelling as a gateway to many different opportunities. Ultimately, I want to build a diverse career that allows me to blend my passion for creativity with meaningful collaborations, all while continuing to challenge myself and evolve in the process.
AGE. Your appearance is obviously a big part of your career. How do you approach fitness and diet to maintain your body? Is it something you’re strict about, or do you try to find a balance that works with your lifestyle?
JK. Being fit is important, but I believe in finding a healthy balance that aligns with my lifestyle rather than being overly strict. Fitness is something I genuinely enjoy—whether it’s hiking in the mountains, swimming, or hitting the gym. I don’t follow a rigid routine, but I focus on staying active and feeling good in my body. When it comes to diet, I try to eat nourishing, whole foods, but I also believe in enjoying life and treating myself every once in a while. It’s all about staying in tune with what my body needs and finding a rhythm that works for both my career and my well-being. Balance is the key.
AGE. If you could model for any designer or brand in the world, who would it be and why?
JK. It would probably be for brands like Giorgio Armani or Dolce & Gabbana. Both have a timeless elegance and sophistication that I admire, and their work embodies a perfect balance between classic style and modern artistry. Modelling for a brand like Giorgio Armani, in particular, would be an incredible opportunity to represent their iconic legacy while showcasing my own ability to bring a sense of character and emotion to their designs. It’s the kind of collaboration that feels both inspiring and aligned with my creative vision.
AGE. What’s been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a new model in the industry?
JK. The biggest challenge I’ve faced as a new model in the industry is finding balance—both personally and professionally. On one hand, there’s the fast-paced, ever-changing nature of the modelling world, which can be overwhelming at times. Adjusting to the demands of travel, long hours, and constantly being in new environments has been a learning experience. On the other hand, there’s the emotional aspect of being away from family and my close-knit circle back home in Austria. Staying grounded and maintaining my sense of self while navigating this exciting yet unpredictable industry has been a challenge, but it’s also been an opportunity for growth. Each experience, whether tough or rewarding, has taught me resilience and adaptability, and that’s something I carry with me in every aspect of my life.
AGE. The story you shot with Sasha Olsen for the cover of Yummy 10 is absolutely stunning—so artistic and beautifully executed. How did you feel about collaborating with Sasha on such a bold project, and what does it mean to you to be the cover star for this issue?
JK. Collaborating with Sasha Olsen on this project was an incredible experience. His artistic vision and ability to create a comfortable and creative atmosphere made it easy to embrace such a broad concept. Being the cover star for Yummy 10 feels like a significant milestone in my career. It’s a moment of stepping into uncharted territory and truly challenging myself as a model. It means a lot to be part of something that celebrates creativity and individuality, and I’m proud to contribute to a project that’s both artistic and impactful. It's probably a once-in-a-lifetime project that’s why I chose to work with the best, for the best doing a project of this nature.
AGE. How did you prepare for this shoot, both mentally and physically?
JK. Physically, I maintained my usual routine of staying active through hiking and working out, while ensuring I was well-rested and hydrated leading up to the shoot. Mentally, I focused on embracing the concept with an open mind and trusting the creative process. I spent time reflecting on what the shoot represented and how I could bring my best energy to it, which helped me feel more confident and at ease on set.
AGE. Was there anything that surprised you about the process of shooting nude for the first time? Did you feel comfortable being naked in front of the camera, and how did you approach it with an open mind?
JK. What surprised me most was how quickly I became comfortable with the shoot. Sasha created such a safe and supportive environment that it allowed me to focus on the art rather than any discomfort. I was initially nervous, but I reminded myself to approach the experience with an open mind and to trust Sasha’s vision. By doing so, I was able to embrace the vulnerability and channel it into something expressive.
AGE. The magazine has a very distinctive style. How do you feel your look fits into the Yummy aesthetic?
JK. I think my look fits into the Yummy aesthetic because it reflects both authenticity and versatility. Yummy celebrates individuality and raw expression, and I’ve always strived to bring that energy to my work. Whether it’s through my natural features or my ability to embody different emotions, I feel I can complement the magazine’s distinctive and artistic approach while adding my own personal touch.
AGE. How do you feel about nudity?
JK. I believe nudity is a natural and powerful form of self-expression. When approached respectfully and thoughtfully, it can convey vulnerability, confidence, and artistry all at once. For me, nudity in this context isn’t just about being exposed physically.
AGE. This is the golden trademark question that we love to ask many of our models: what does the word ‘Yummy’ mean to you?
JK. To me, the word ‘Yummy’ symbolizes something that’s deeply satisfying and irresistible, whether it’s a visual, an experience, or a feeling.
AGE. Now for a bit of fun—we have a quick-fire round of personal and lighthearted questions to get to know you on a different level. Ready? Boxers or briefs—or maybe neither?
JK. Boxers for sure.
AGE. What’s your guilty pleasure snack when no one’s watching?
JK. A scoop of Nutella.
AGE. Do you sleep naked?
JK. No. Usually, I wear just boxers.
AGE. Are you more of a night owl or an early bird?
JK. Night owl. Except for sunrise hikes or trying to be the first out in the brake to catch waves.
AGE. What’s the weirdest or funniest DM you’ve ever received?
JK. Probably some complete stranger telling me I appeared in their dreams.
AGE. What’s one thing you can’t leave the house without?
JK. I would say my bag, where I carry all my essentials.
AGE. What do you find the most attractive in another person?
JK. Besides the obvious physical appearance, I think their approach to life and having big goals is something super important and attractive. When she knows what she wants.
AGE. Finally, let’s look to the future and what’s next for you. What excites you most about the future of your career as a model?
JK. The opportunity to keep growing, meet amazing people, and work on creative projects around the world. I look forward to pushing my boundaries and seeing where this journey takes me. Uncertainty and coming out of my comfort zone excite me.
AGE. Do you have any long-term goals outside of modelling?
JK. Yes. A lot but one of my main ones is starting my own fashion brand. But what will always be part of my goals is continuing to get out of my comfort zone.
AGE. If you could leave a message for your future self, five years from now, what would it be?
JK. Take a moment to reflect on everything you’ve achieved and how far you’ve come. Let that progress inspire and motivate you to keep moving forward, chasing your dreams with passion and determination. Remember, there’s always more to explore, learn, and accomplish—keep pushing your limits and striving for greatness.
Model: Jonathan Kranebitter @john_kbt. Photographer Sahsa Olsen @sashaxolsen.
Yummy Magazine ISSUE TEN WILL BE SHIPPING IN WINTER/SPRING 2025
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Model List
- Jonathan Kranebitter by Sasha Olsen
- Emmanuel Buchele by Sasha Olsen
- Lukas Küchen by Sasha Olsen
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