Interview with Amy Ellison — Quirky Kansas turned Model
Amy Ellison is a 21-year old model residing in San Diego, California.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Amy. I was born in Wichita, KS. I came to California little over a year ago, and I plan on staying here for a long time. I have a brother and a sister, both older than me, who also happen to look nothing like me! I got all of the unique, recessive genes of the family, so I’m an interesting mix. I love anything artistic, peaceful, or musical. I love animals, crafting, and driving. I’m currently a commercial model and actress. I have walked in seven fashion shows, I have two publications, two music videos, and two commercials. I am also the face of TylerCody Designs and apparel, and I have worked for 7 designers in total.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
I actually got into modeling by accident! I heard a friend mention she needed a model to test out an idea for a shoot, so I volunteered. The pictures turned out great, and she showed them to her mentor, who happens to shoot for Fox and Betsey Johnson. He told her that he wanted to work with me, and it took off from there. Once I learned how to find and make my own bookings, it has gone since there. I started modeling a about a year and a half ago, and I absolutely love what I do!
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
My personal goals at the moment are to find a good house, school, and peace. I work towards finding personal peace constantly. My professional goals are to be published as much as possible, to be agency represented, and to be successful in what I do. In ten years, I see myself starting to raise a family, and continuing my education.
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
I feel like I am constantly working, but in all honesty, it’s almost all computer work. Finding the jobs, researching the clients, applying, playing back and forth on booking jobs, and minute details…I will spend more time booking a job than I will at the actual job. I mainly do portfolio building, glamour, pin-up, beauty, lifestyle and select art nude work. I have about 1 to 3 shoots per week.
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
My best experience has to be with TylerCody Designs and Apparel. I absolutely love working with her, and I jump at the chance! Her clothes are up my aisle, she’s an awesome boss, and she is absolutely hilarious. I’m just lucky to have a really cool boss.
My worst experience in modeling was getting sick the first time I got my body painted. That was the most awkward thing.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
Absolutely! I have flashed a few freeways, had to hide in a closet, be covered in fake blood, and been wrapped up in tape. I have been anything from docile farm girl, all the way to portraying evil and lust in a music video!
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
I would change he height requirements for agencies. There are girls that just photograph taller than they are, and that agencies just need to look at what they look like in photograph as well. I’m 5’5″, and I photograph at least 5’7″.
Do you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.
I really just changed my habits. I eat smarter, in smaller, but more frequent portions. I park in the back of parking lots, and make multiple trips every time I can. I play the occasional volleyball game, I always wind up hiking about once a week for work or friends. I eat mostly vegetables and light meats, I use simple dressings and flavors (vinaigrette and just salt) and drink tea instead of soda. This is the only body I’m going to have. I need to take care of it, because I plan on living in it for a very long time.
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I can open and unlock most doors with my feet. I call it being “pediambidexterous”.
Would you change anything about yourself?
I would make my hair grow faster! It gets thick very easily, but it just won’t grow length-wise.
What superpower do you wish you had? Why?
I would love the ability to stop time. I just feel like time keeps speeding up. I want time to breath some days.