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Nutrition, Modeling and Sports

Jun 15 2016

Interview with Emily Dodson

Emily Dodson is a 25-year old model residing in South West Missouri.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Emily Dodson, I’m 25 and I’ve been modeling for nearly 9 years now. I was born in Miami, OK, moved around a lot as a child, and finally ended up in Joplin, MO. I have two older brothers, both of my parents, and a fiance who fully support my modeling, and encourage me to strive to be better. There is also a pretty large network of models and photographers in the Joplin, MO area that are very lovely and supportive of each other. I am truly impressed and inspired by these people; so many of them break their backs just to help another photographer or model in need. I’ve never seen a community work this hard together so that everybody involved can succeed.

If there’s anything my family and friends know about me, it’s that I am mildly obsessed with foxes and I love to model. I work as a cashier in a small town, with small town problems, but the people are genuine. Some customers there would never guess that I could take such shots, but some ask me on a regular basis when my next shoot is so they can check out the photos.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling at 16 years old. I saw a calling for a promotional shoot, sent in my information and was invited to participate. After that my self confidence was majorly boosted and I started reaching out to photographers myself. I had a main photographer when I lived in Springfield, MO which allowed me to express my “Jim Morrison and Rock N Roll” side, and I began branching out to different photography styles. In 2012, I moved back to Joplin, where I was able to book shoots with Brian DeMint of Eyeworks, which is when my modeling bookings skyrocketed; I was even featured in a 3 page spread in BeautyLook Magazine in 2013.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My goals are to branch out even more with different photographers and different styles, and to limit myself less because of confidence issues. Although I’ve been modeling for 9 years, I haven’t been putting myself out there as much as I would like. However, in the long run, my goal is to have an animal sanctuary for misplaced and rescued wild life, and if I can raise awareness through modeling… my life would officially be perfect.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I don’t model as much as I used to due to my conflicting work schedule and personal life, but I want to start doing it more than one shoot every few months. My portfolio mainly consists of Art, Nature, and Glamour, but isn’t limited to these categories.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

The worst experience I ever had modeling was when I went to Shutterfest in 2015. I was asked to be a make up model for an MUA who was supposed to be one of the best, so as you can imagine, I was very excited. When I reported to the requested room at the requested time, I was informed that they were pulling and replacing me, I was never told an exact reason why. But, as if that wasn’t bad enough, they told me they were taking me to get hair and make up done so they could immediately get me into a shoot with a photographer who was waiting; that got my spirits slightly up.

I was put in an Asian style dress, where my hair and make up were executed very poorly. And now, the icing on the cake! When I met with the photographer, I was already in a bad mood, but I was still trying to make the best of the situation. We found a spot to shoot, when she then informed me I was her first human subject, and that she was a dog photographer. She asked me how models should pose, and how or where she should take her shots. I wasn’t angry or anything, I was just disappointed. I went from feeling on top of the world, to thinking, “I’m so bad, they won’t even put me with a photographer who even works with people.”

My best experience is so hard to pin point, but I suppose, ironically, it was also at Shutterfest 2015. First of all, I wouldn’t have even had the opportunity to go if it wasn’t for the support of my mom and the network of models and photographers I previously mentioned. We all worked together to make sure everyone had transportation, rooming, wardrobe, and a great time. I was invited to be in a closed conceptual event created and hosted by Kendra Paige. All of the models invited where extremely pampered while we all waited for hair and make up. We felt amazing walking through the sea of people, trying our best to hide our make up and outfit through Grand Station Hotel; people trying to stop us for photos, yelling how amazing we looked.

It was an after hours event so it was already somewhat late when we started. We had many photographers participate in the event, and were able to create many different amazing photos and settings. Walking back to my hotel room at 1 in the morning, I have never been so exhausting and adrenaline pumped at the same time.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Once I was invited to be a model in a “Recyclable Fashion” runway show. I figured it’d be a great way to get into the runway business, seeing as how I’m fairly short and have always been told it’s for models 5’7″ and taller. In my head, when I pictured it all going down, I was thinking a news paper dress with a soda can purse, or something like that. When I got there, I was dressed in an XL blue fleece pullover and given a thermos. But I looked so silly, I wasn’t even disappointed. I definitely had fun and a good story to tell by the end of the day.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I haven’t heard of many issues in our area, and I myself haven’t had many, but I have heard about individual’s who’ve had horrible issues with photographer’s boundaries. That’s the scariest thing to hear about. You expect to go make art, and return feeling degraded and dirty. I am thankful every day I have not had any real issues with this.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

In all honesty, my main exercise comes from disc golfing. There’s a lot of walking and movement so it really gets your heart pumping and keeps it that way; getting a sun bath in the process is also a plus! When it comes to nutrition, I make sure I get my daily dose of the food groups, but I also eat a lot of fatty foods because I have always had an issue with my weight. Ever since I was 16 I’ve been a skinny gal, so I try to gain healthy weight every chance I get.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

When I was around 5 or 6 years old, I pulled a “monkey see, monkey do,” with throwing trash into a fire. I put my sucker wrapper into a candle, which then wrapped around my right thumb and was engulfed in flames. The doctors tried everything to make the burn heal, but nothing was working. They told my mom and dad their last resort was Silver sulfadiazine, and if it didn’t work they would have to remove my thumb because the burns were just too bad. A week or so after using the cream, they said it was healing, and faster than expected! My thumb, thankfully, healed so well you can’t even tell; there is absolutely no scarring!

Would you change anything about yourself?

There’s not much I would change about myself, I don’t look like anyone else and I like it that way. I guess if there is one thing I’d have to pick, it’d be that I wouldn’t mind being a few inches taller. Runways and catwalks have always seemed to be out of my reach being 5’4″, and it’s something I’ve always wanted to do as a model.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

I am absolutely terrified of birds! When I was young, I was playing at my grandma’s house, and walked in on Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds, when it shows all the birds flying away from the old man and his eyes are gone. I to this day can’t be around a bird for the fear of it pecking my eyes out!

Jun 13 2016

Interview with Cassidy Lee — Glamour Model with an Edge

Cassidy Lee is a 21-year old model residing in Detroit, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Cassidy Lee, a 21 years young from Detroit, Michigan. I have dark hair and green eyes, and besides modeling, I manage a beauty salon and also own my own interior decorating business. Independence and not caring too much about what others think of me is what I am all about.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling at ten years old, and being so young with working parents, I did not have anyone to travel to photo-shoots with me, so as soon as I was able to do things on my own, that’s just what I did. The minute I turned eighteen I started getting back into the industry, and do a photo-shoot a week typically. I love this industry.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

In five to ten years, I see myself signed with an agency, as well as a centerfold in Maxim, Playboy, or Sports Illustrated. I want to get my face out there as much as possible, make a difference, and push some limits, mostly modeling glamour, sexy, and edgy, that is what I put all my energy into.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

Photo-shoots typically are scheduled at least once a week for me. They usually consist of getting my hair and make-up done, and then shooting for a few hours, depending on the job. Although I have done acting before, most of my work consists of glamour, edge, and playboy-like work.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Every shoot is the best to me, whether it’s working with someone new, or a team I work with regularly, I always learn something new or get to do something fun and creative. Since every photographer shoots differently, I always learn a new tip from them, and it’s the same thing with make-up artists. I love having these connections and people I can always go to with questions or ideas to bring to life.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Some of the craziest experiences in my life have been on photo-shoots. In California, I did a photo-shoot with a python that weighed more than I did. There was one time I did a lingerie shoot in the snow, next to a snow hill where there were tons of people sledding. There’s never a down moment being a model, that is for sure! I love it.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

If I could change one thing about the modeling industry, it would be height requirements. Being only 5’6, it limits me and so many agencies to work together. I do not want to do runway work, but print work is where I am supposed to be, and I wish it was easier to get signed being my height.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I will admit, I am lucky with a good metabolism. Before photo-shoots, I typically try to eat as healthy as possible though, and splurge on pizza and burgers as soon as I am done haha!. I also try to do some at home workouts and walk regularly too.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I was meant to be in the 80’s era. Total 80’s girl all the way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No, I would not change anything about myself. That’s a problem with images and influences with girls especially nowadays. You are YOU, no one else can be you. So EMBRACE your flaws! Love yourself.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

My favorite thing to do alone, well there are a lot of things. I am a very independent person, so I do need my alone time. I read and write a lot, I love reading things that are true or could happen. I love writing about things that are going on in my life, songs, poems, anything on my mind.

Visit Cassidy Lee’s website for more photos and information

Jun 07 2016

Interview with Barbara — Athlete turned model

Barbara is a 25-year old model residing in New York, New York.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Russia, started traveling at 18 years old, and for the last 5 years I have lived between France, Greece, the U.K. and the United States. I love to meet new people, new cultures, taste food, love cooking any kind of food. I’m a very active person, in addition, graduated as a lawyer and love modeling.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

About 6 years ago, a photographer at a company I used to work for as a lawyer, told me that he practiced photography and would like to work with me. In a few days we had an art and comercial shoot, I was very happy with it. Since then , I’m always ready for the camera.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Well, as I said before, I’m a lawyer, which was a dream from childhood. But appearance and the way I look is still important as well. So modeling is a motivation and inspiration for me. In the future, as every woman, I see myself as a mom of a few kids, but still in a perfect shape and doing modeling.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I feel free in front of the camera. In particular, I prefer doing sports, glamour, acting, and commercial shoots. Definitely, sports is always my favorite; since I practice sport from childhood, sport is my second language, it’s enjoyable to express myself in it.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

All experiences have a place to be, you just keep on practicing. My best so far was an advert shoot for Yoga clothes shop in Miami. On the sunrise I had to show all possible flexibility and give expressions a photographer asked me for; it was something new to me to work from 3 am.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Well, since I have a very small feet as size 5 to 6, every time I work for advertising I am getting at least size 9, and once I fell in the ocean because of that.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I’m pretty happy as it is.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I don’t eat meat, mostly raw and vegan, love wine, running and do gym everyday for 2 hours, from time to time I go swimming, practicing tennis, and mountain ski.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Passionate about traveling and discovering new things.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Never.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

I’m afraid of heights, somebody told me that if I get as highly as possible I’m gonna kill my fear. So, I jumped with parachute from 4000 meters for the first time, and it seemed it didn’t work out. Now I do jumping in different countries at different heights just to prove an extra time to myself that I’m not afraid of anything. As Julius Caesar said “Faster, higher, stronger”.

Jun 05 2016

EMS: El regreso del “Ejercítese mientras mira TV sentado” o un invento revolucionario?

Desde no hace poco tiempo hemos podido notar el auge de un nuevo sistema de entrenamiento en muchos gimnasios y hogares: la electroestimulación muscular, también conocido comercialmente como EMS, que promete resultados inmediatos y sorprendentes al mejorar el tono y fuerza musculares. La tecnología EMS consiste en aplicar pequeñas descargas eléctricas superficiales sobre la piel en las zonas musculares que se desea entrenar, dando como resultado contracciones musculares muy similares a las que se llevan a cabo cuando se contrae dicho grupo muscular de manera voluntaria, al moverse.

Aunque éstos sistemas no son realmente nuevos, debido a que a finales de los 90’s ya se promocionaban -mediante infomerciales nocturnos- cinturones que prometían tonificar y fortalecer los músculos abdominales mientras el usuario permanecía sentado en el trabajo o miraba TV sin mover un sólo músculo ni esforzarse en lo más mínimo, lo cierto es que ya se había experimentado con la tecnología EMS pocos años después de finalizada la Segunda Guerra Mundial, y se utiliza desde hace mucho tiempo como una parte integral de las terapias de rehabilitación en personas con lesiones principalmente a la médula espinal.

No obstante, los fabricantes y gimnasios presentan dichos sistemas con un toque innovador, ofreciendo al público sesiones de entrenamiento grupales, con equipos inalámbricos, trajes de entrenamiento para el cuerpo completo y dispositivos portátiles, entre otras novedades, razón por la cual en años recientes se ha notado un incremento en la oferta y demanda de éste tipo de servicios y dispositivos.

Como si de cualquier otra innovación se tratase, también ésta se ha tenido que enfrentar al gran dilema: ¿Realmente funciona el EMS? La respuesta no es tan fácil, y de hecho aún no es posible señalar con claridad si el X-Fit, BodyTec, BodyExpress, Slendertone, Compex, SpeedCoach o otras marcas EMS similares son tan efectivos como lo promete.

Athlete squatting with four-channel electrical muscle stimulation machine

La FDA creó dos categorías para los productos EMS: La primera para aquellos que son prescritos por un médico, para fines terapéuticos, y que únicamente se pueden obtener con una prescripción médica, y la segunda para dispositivos de venta libre (OTC) para tonificación muscular únicamente. Ambas categorías deben estar debidamente certificadas por dicho organismo. Todos los dispositivos disponibles en gimnasios o en venta al público para su uso en el hogar pertenecen a ésta última categoría.

Si bien todos los gimnasios y dispositivos presentan algunos artículos de investigación realizados por profesionales de la salud como evidencia de su efectividad -como naturalmente podría esperarse-, también existen investigaciones independientes realizadas por instituciones ajenas al ambiente empresarial que de igual manera nos proveen de información útil respecto a la utilidad del EMS de acceso al público en general.

Una de ellas es la realizada por la Universidad de Wisconsin-La Crosse, publicada en la revista Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, misma en la que se estudió el efecto de 8 semanas de entrenamiento con un dispositivo EMS de venta libre en un grupo de personas jóvenes frente a otro grupo en el cual se utilizo un falso dispositivo EMS, equivalente al efecto placebo. Los resultados son sorprendentes, ya que al finalizar las 8 semanas de entrenamiento, no hubo ningún efecto benéfico objetivo -es decir, medible- ni subjetivo -es decir, notado o sentido por la persona-. Las conclusiones de la investigación sugieren que la pobre calidad e ingeniería de los dispositivos de venta libre podrían ser algunas de las causas de su aparentemente nula efectividad en sujetos sanos jóvenes.

Y es que los sistemas EMS son más complicados de lo que parecen: No se trata de una simple descarga eléctrica aplicada sobre la piel, sino de un complejo mecanismo de descargas eléctricas controladas, con un voltaje, intensidad, frecuencia, reposos e incluso contraindicaciones muy específicos, mismos que de no aplicarse correctamente, pueden ser incluso contraproducentes y provocar fatiga.

Quizás lo más sensato, ante la falta de mayor evidencia contundente sobre la efectividad de los sistemas EMS, sea continuar con nuestras rutinas de resistencia y aeróbicas, con nuestras fieles y efectivas mancuernas.

Jun 02 2016

Apply for Barceló shoot

Would you like to participate in a promotional video for Barceló? The Barceló Group, established in Palma de Mallorca (Spain) almost 85 years ago, is one of the leading hotel & resort brands internationally. The company has more than 100 hotels in 19 countries and 685 travel agencies in 22 countries. The group property is owned by the Barceló family for 3 generations.

When, why and where?

The shoot will take place from June 20 to June 30. It will take up to 10 days to shoot the video. Exact dates and times are yet to be established. Compensation includes full expenditure (transport, accommodation and meals) as well as $2,300 MXN per day of shooting.

Who can apply?

We are looking for the following roles to be filled. Ideally the adult male/female would be the actual parents of the young boy/girl;

Young Boy – Between 6-14 years old
Young Girl – Between 6-14 years old
Young Adult Male – Approximately 25 years old
Young Adult Female – Approximately 25 years old
Adult Male – Between 30-45 years old
Adult Female – Between 30-45 years old

Submit your application

If you are available for the dates specified, please by email me with the following information and photos (these do not need to be professional photos).

PHOTOS

close-up of the face serious
close-up of the face smiling
full body in bathing suit
right or left profile

INFORMATION

Per person:
First name:
Age:
Gender:

Per family:
Last name:
Phone number:

May 23 2016

Interview with Karrin Rachelle — Karrin Rachelle is a professional model

Karrin Rachelle is a 24-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, I am Karrin Rachelle, born in Seattle, Washington, but mostly grew up in Bellingham, Washington and am currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I’ve been modeling since age 7, but I’ve been more seriously modeling for about 7 years now really.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

From age 7, I was in a couple of children’s advertisements and such for my school mostly, after which I mostly went on a break really for a few years and picked it back up years later. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the country doing photo shoots, fashion shows, appearances and more.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My main goal in life right now is to continue with my modeling, acting, social media, magazine contributor careers, among, others, and continue building my brand. My goal has always been to take my work as far as possible though really. Aside from all that, I love inspiring others as well.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I pretty much work whenever I feel like it mostly. My workload usually just depends on how much I’m willing to take on really, and sometimes I may hit as many as 2 or 3 photo shoots in one day; thankfully, it’s usually only just one. I regularly work on my social media and the social media of a couple other brands as well.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

I really loved one of the summers I spent almost a month shooting all over Hawaii especially. Being able to just island hop a bit more, having one of my best friends documenting again most of the adventures and shooting all over a few of the majestic islands of Hawaii is just the best pretty much.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Haven’t we all? When you model professionally you’re pretty much just asking for some extra interesting experiences sometimes, both really good and some pretty bad I guess too filled with drama… I really love how I get to meet even more interesting and amazing people though always.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I don’t play sports near as much as I used to and would like to seems like, though I am an avid football watcher. Sushi, cheeses and drinking all kinds of cool teas I especially love. My juicer and protein powders are some of my best friends though hehe.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could make myself an inch taller that would be cool.

Have you ever gone without wearing underwear all day? Why & what did you do?

Pretty often actually really. There are times when it is just way way more comfortable, practical, fun and flirty like that really. And my boyfriend really kind of digs it too a lot hehe. Generally very easy access tends to often be a very good thing.

Visit Karrin Rachelle’s website for more photos and information

May 19 2016

Interview with Leslie Green — Sweet smartass with the heart ass

Leslie Green is a 22-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am originally from California and just moved to Vegas from San Diego. I love to dance and be adventuresome, I love meeting new people, fashion, art and music. I’m interested in becoming a photographer and an apparel designer sometime within the next 5 years, and would love to ultimately end my career as a criminal psychiatrist.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I suffered a horrible breakup with this guy I was with for years, who had always tried to keep me in a box and stifle my shine, so to speak. As soon as I broke up with him I got back into the gym and started receiving attention for my looks and I guess my progress in the gym. Maybe it had always been there and I hadn’t noticed by my creative side lends to photography and being a ‘muse’. With the new found freedom I had to express myself I enjoyed being clay as much as I enjoy playing with it.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Oops I think I already answered that! Lol in 5 years I’d like to have a creative business started in editing and creative photography. I’d also like to have my own line of apparel to be sold in higher end department stores. In 10 years I’d like to be working on a doctorate degree in psychology.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I work as often as I can because I have a full time position in fashion sales but my schedule is pretty flexible and I haven’t ran into any hiccups because of it. I mainly do photo shoots but I love the runway, fashion, glamour and anything eccentric, I’m pretty much open and game to anything I can put my spark on.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Best shoot? Shooting half naked in the rain and then off roading in a lifted truck through the mud to go trespass in an abandoned building. Worst? Shooting for 8 hours straight while the photographer figures out his lighting and orchestrates all of my poses.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

In California the photographer and I smoked a bowl before his body painting project. I hadn’t eaten that much that day and I guess from standing for literally hours while he did his thing I lost circulation in my legs and almost passed out. I had to be seated for about ten minutes but then we successfully completed the job.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I wish some photographers were more respectful of a models boundaries and didn’t try to push them beyond what they’re comfortable with. Makes for an awkward vibe and an unusable series of photos.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

No sports but I do try to stay active. I love to dance so it serves as my cardio but I do try to be very cautious about what I eat. Health and appearance are very important to me and I’d like to maintain this shape for the rest of my life if I can.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m double jointed in the hips and elbows

Would you change anything about yourself?

Physically I wish my head wasn’t so oval and long and I wish I had smaller feet, as they’re average sized, but aside from that, I wouldn’t.

Have you ever been fired from a job?

Yes, when I was 18, for literally no reason, and that same company that fired me hired me back two months later in a different location after the manager that fired me gave me a great recommendation? I was so confused but at least I got my position back.

Visit Leslie Green ‘s website for more photos and information

May 16 2016

Interview with Lydia Mae — Curve Full-Figure Model

Lydia Mae is a 25-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, my name is Lydia Mae, I am a curve model in Minneapolis, Minnesota, born and raised here, then moved to Chicago and Los Angeles to work in larger modeling scenes. After time, my sister’s wedding brought me back to Minneapolis when I was in my early twenties, were I reside currently.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I first got into the modeling industry because a friend of mine wanted to try his hand at photography, when he asked me to model for him as a test. He then showed those photos to his agent, and his agent asked me to sign with his agency when I was seventeen years old. I highly enjoyed meeting new people and being creative through modeling, and as a result I stayed in Minneapolis until I was 19, then started working in Chicago and Los Angeles.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My personal and professional goals are the same: I want to help make a change for the standard of beauty in the modeling industry to bring back full figured and confident women. Beauty comes in all shapes, colors, and sizes and it’s time to be accepting of all beauty.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

Currently, I have just begun to start modeling again, as a few years back, I was fighting with myself to stay ‘thin’ to the sizes I was expected to be in order to book work. My body naturally wanted to hold more weight then I would allow it too. I was constantly forcing myself to work out and stay thin, that it stressed my body out, and I became since and was constantly nervous to gain weight to the point that I counted every calorie I ate. After I moved back home to Minneapolis, I had to accept my body was changing, that I could not force it to be a size it did not want to be. I took a break from modeling and now a few years later, the industry is more accepting of full figured women, and thankfully, I currently have agencies interested and have started to update my portfolio.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Every opportunity I have experienced with modeling has been one to form and mold me into the person I am today. Whether that’s landing the cover of a magazine or living paycheck to paycheck in LA, everything I have experienced has been one of personal growth.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I would have to say the most embarrassing moment in my career was when I tried out for America’s Next Top Model, and I was so nervous that while filming my audition tape, I spoke in a British accent the whole time! You’re probably wondering why I had an accent, and it’s because my mom is British. I do not have an accent in my everyday life, but evidently when I am extremely nervous, it will pop out!

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I would help push the change of acceptance of all shapes, sizes, and colors. We live in such a beautiful world, it’s time to show how individually is beautiful.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I come from a family who loves their daily wheatgrass shots, fish oil pills, kale smoothies, and free range chicken. I like to say that I eat healthy when I cook at home and eat on the run, but every now and then I am tempted by a carb loaded juicy burger! My daily exercise of choice is Orange Theory Fitness, and love high intensity workouts. If I’m not constantly moving, I will loose my interest.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a dual citizen, since my mother was born in England, she was able to pass on the opportunity to be a citizen. I have been a dual citizen for two years and absolutely love it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

To be in the modeling industry, it can be a harsh reality check that not everyone is going to find you beautiful. It’s very easy to start judging yourself, loosing self confidence and questioning yourself. The reality is you are not going to be every client’s ‘dream girl.’ With making yourself are the ‘product’ you are selling, I believe you must first and foremost must be confident in yourself. Once you love who and what you are, you will be more successful in your work as a model. The beautiful thing is there is only one you in this world, so show that world how beautiful you are.

If you were the opposite sex for one day, what would you do?

Tell every girl I saw that they are beautiful. It’s rare that strangers compliment strangers, as we have become a society that is afraid to speak to other people. I love chatting it up with people I don’t know, but many people are hesitant to even make eye contact with you. Random acts of kindness, such as a quick ‘you have a beautiful smile’ can brighten anyone’s day. We only have one life, so make it a good one.

Visit Lydia Mae’s website for more photos and information

May 14 2016

Interview with Chelsie Coleman — 21-year old model residing in Minnesota

Chelsie Coleman is a 21-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am currently living in the St.Paul, Minnesota area and was born and raised in a small town in Forest Lake, Minnesota. I love to travel, meet new people, do spontaneous things, and appreciate the small things in life; my sense of style is very glam chic but behind the photos I spend 99% of my time in yoga pants with no makeup. I love spending time with family, friends and my two cats, and meanwhile I am currently graduating from Century College this month with an Associate’s Degree in Merchandise Marketing Management.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I first got involved in the modeling industry at the age of 12, when I signed with my first agency called Arquette and Associates at the age of 13. My first modeling debut was for Maurice’s, where I walked for a cause in their Rescue and Runway show when I was 14 and ever since I fell in love with the industry. Ever since I was young I loved watching America’s Next Top Model and always dreamed about being a model so when I was old enough I started applying for agencies and shoots on my own at age 12. I am so excited and blessed that my dreams are now becoming a reality.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My personal goals are to live a positive and healthy life and to live in the moment. In five to ten years I see myself living in Los Angeles as a successful fashion blogger for a magazine or something in the lines of fashion marketing. I would also like to be a prominent model in the industry by then as well, and hope to have an amazing husband by then, and beautiful children that are healthy and happy.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

Living in a state where modeling and fashion isn’t as common as in other places, it really depends on how often I model. Sometimes it’s a couple times a week and others it’s once a month or every couple of months. I have been a college student and also worked full time on and off making it difficult to balance modeling into that, for example, this month now that I am done with school I have a lot of photoshoots shoots, interviews, and extras lined up for the months to come. I mostly do photoshoots anything that is high-fashion, glamour, and life style.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

One of my best experiences in the industry that I have had was meeting Janice Dickinson and attending one of her modeling seminars through Privilege Model Management. She was so nice and gave me a huge hug and answered a lot of questions that I had about how to be a successful model. One of my worst experiences I have had in modeling was when I auditioned for Wilhelmina and was rejected because I was an inch away from the sizing requirements.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

One of my most embarrassing moments as a model was when I landed my first audition with Disney Channel when I was 13, I read a monologue from Hannah Montana and nailed it on the first round. I was then invited back to meet with the producers and acted out the monologue on camera the second time around and completely forgot all the words and froze up. I was so nervous sitting in front of five producers… Let’s just say I didn’t land my first audition.

Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

If I could change one thing about the modeling industry it would be the stamina of body image in the industry. I think models can be all shapes and sizes and be beautiful and considered for any job, not just the girls who are 5’8 and meet the industry standards.

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I love to workout about 3 to 4 times a week doing cardio, crunches, and weights. As of right now I’m trying to get my eating habits fixed, as I would only eat a couple meals a day or would completely forget to eat when I was overwhelmed and busy and it was very unhealthy. I now am working with a nutritionist who is helping me with my eating habits making them normal again, and my goal is to eat 3 meals a day and a couple small healthy snacks. Nutrition and exercise is very important to me because both of those is what helps you get through your day.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

An interesting fact that people don’t know about me is that I went sky diving last summer and completely fell in love with it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I have already spent a lot of my life changing my looks cosmetically and physically and it made me look better but it didn’t fix how I felt inside. I wouldn’t change anything about myself and if I did it would be to live a more positive lifestyle.

If you had only 24 hours left to live, what would you do?

If I only had 24 hours left to live I would tell all the important people in my life how much they mean to me and how much I love them, then I would book a one way ticket to Europe because I have never been there before and go to as many places in Europe as I can before those 24 hours run out.

Visit Chelsie Coleman’s website for more photos and information

May 12 2016

Interview with Genevieve Burnesse — Full-time Model, Actress & Designer

Genevieve Burnesse is a 19-year old model residing in West Hollywood, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Depending on where you met me, you may know me by a different name; most of my friends know me as “Jen”, my family calls me “Jenny”, but most of the world knows me as “Genevieve”. I am originally from Atlanta and currently based in West Hollywood, CA. The first dress I ever designed was a red velvet evening gown at age 7.

When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

From around age 7 to 10, I was in a couple of children’s fashion shows for Nordstrom in North Georgia, after which I quit for a few years and picked it back up around age 16. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the country doing photo shoot and fashion shows, festivals and red carpets.

What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My main goal is to continue my design work, build my new brand, BLVCK CVT, and to encourage others to follow their dreams, no matter how distant they may seem. For the longest time, my dreams seemed so far out and I want to spread a little hope; everyday, I strive to create wild new art and enjoy sharing it with our world.

How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

My workload entirely depends on where I’m at. When I’m in Los Angeles, sometimes I may hit as many as 3 photo shoots in one day! Thankfully, it’s usually only one, and when I’m in my hometown, Atlanta, I work less but I get to dive into more interesting projects, like designing costumes for music videos.

Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Last Summer, I was in O’ahu, Hawaii with one of my best friends for over a month doing “suicide shoots” all over the island. That means we drove all over the island changing outfits and taking pictures in all sorts of terrain. The island magic was magnificent.

Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Who Hasn’t? Just last week, I accidentally posted a beautiful photo on instagram from a recent photo shoot that was a bit more revealing than I would have liked to have on the internet! But don’t get your hopes up, I’ve taken it down now… Only a few thousand people saw it…

Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

Sushi is probably the base of my food pyramid. I love fruit, cheese, vegetables and drinking hot tea religiously.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I got my scuba diving license when I was 14, as I love to be under the sea.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could make myself a few inches taller and immortal or cyborg, I’d probably go for that first chance I got.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I was more musically talented. Although I can sort of play a bunch of instruments, write music and sing, it’s kind of… whatever. Even if I wanted to go that direction, I don’t think I have the time. Perhaps I should start composing for someone else, haha.

Visit Genevieve Burnesse’s website for more photos and information

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