Interview with Amanda Whipple — Professional Dancer
Amanda Whipple is a 24-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I’m a Bay Area, California Native dancing my way through this crazy thing called life. Being an artist has been a struggle, but I consider it a blessing to follow my passion. When I started dancing, I was just 3 years old, and I have never wanted to stop. After getting my BA in Dance, I started focusing on teaching, choreographing and performing.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
Opportunities to model found me through my qualities as a dancer. Photographers were intrigued with working specifically with a trained ballerina. Majority of my shoots and videos are all dance related, so I love the fact that I can fuse dancing and modeling together.
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
This past year has really brought me to a place in my life, where everything is right where it needs to be, and I’m so grateful. I just finished filming a new show airing this Fall and I stay busy teaching and modeling. In the next couple years, I want to travel worldwide to teach and perform. Ultimately, I plan on starting my own company and a studio that provides education in all forms of dance and health.
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
90% of my modeling has something to do with movement. I choose projects based on their relevance to dance. I’m definitely not limited to dance projects, and I love shooting for events that benefit charitable causes. If I’m approached with an amazing theme or idea I’m all for it! I prefer performance jobs, but I take on pretty much anything that comes my way, either print, runway, commercials, films, and more.
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
So far, I’ve only had positive experiences when it comes to modeling. I’m pretty selective when it comes to who I’m working with, so I think that has a lot to do with it.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
There’s been a few instances during a shoot, when a pedestrian walks up and asks to take a picture with you, or is interested in where they can see the photos and video. It gives you that boost of confidence as a model, that you’re actually saying something through your work.
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I’m in the studio dancing abut 5 days a week. The other 2 days I’m at the gym either strength training or taking a yoga class. As most people know, nutrition is key to a dancer’s career. To me, it’s not about how many pounds you weigh, it’s about how you feel. I’m a Vegetarian, so I’m always aware of what I’m feeding my body. I typically eat veggies, fruits, and fish for protein. Oh yeah, and coffee, lots of it.
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I used to choreograph and write songs when I was little. I would teach the neighbor kids and then set up a talent show for the whole complex to watch us perform.
Would you change anything about yourself?
Everyone has their flaws, and yes I’ve had thoughts about what I would change about myself. I’ve always wanted to be taller, but at the same time I love the fact that I’m petite. I am who I am, and at the end of the day I wouldn’t change a thing.
What superpower do you wish you had? Why?
Teleporting! In my busy and hectic life, I would love to avoid traffic in any way possible, not to mention, you could literally travel anywhere, anytime…freakin’ awesome.
Visit Amanda Whipple’s website for more photos and information