7 Photos From Montenegro That Earned Katie Austin Co-Rookie of the Year
Katie Austin was photographed by James Macari in Montenegro.
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
When Katie Austin took to the set of her rookie SI Swimsuit photoshoot in 2022, she wasn’t completely unfamiliar with the process. The year before, she was named co-winner of the 2021 SI Swim Search, the annual open casting call. And while that photoshoot in Atlantic City was, of course, incredible, her rookie appearance in Montenegro alongside photographer James Macari was quite possibly even better.
The former Division I athlete couldn’t quite contain her excitement at the prospect of her European photoshoot. “We woke up bright and early this morning and you cannot beat this view in Montenegro,” she gushed while on set. “It is absolutely stunning.”
Austin was beyond thrilled to be working in such a beautiful location. “I’m trying to do a little more serious face for the camera, but I can’t stop smiling,” she added.
The fitness influencer attributed some of that joy and excitement to the brand itself, which “made [her] feel like the most confident model,” she said. “I feel so special today. I feel like this is a day dedicated to me here in Montenegro, which is crazy.”
After all, the day really was for her, and she treated it as such, giving her all to the photoshoot and posing for the most incredible photos. It was an experience that earned her the Rookie of the Year title alongside fellow brand star Christen Harper.
While it's hard to choose favorites from the incredible series of photos, here are a few of the ones we just can’t stop thinking about.
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated
James Macari/Sports Illustrated