Interview with Corinne
Corinne is a 22-year old model residing in New York, New York.
How would you introduce yourself to our readers?
I was born and raised in a very small town in the middle of New York State. I have always loved the idea of modeling, acting and preforming, and with the support of my mom, I began modeling at 14 years old. It has been my “side hustle” for almost a decade, I can’t imagine what my life would be like if I didn’t do it.
When, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?
When I was in kindergarten, my teacher wanted to cast me as an elf – one of the lead roles – in the school’s Christmas play, but I turned down her offer, even though she insisted. I lied and told her I was too shy to sing in front of the school, but really I just didn’t want to wear the funny ears. When it came time for the play, I watched the elves sing and perform and make everyone smile. I was so jealous! I regretted not taking the role, then my mom asks me why I wasn’t an elf and I told her what happened. She explained to me that I need to take every opportunity that is given to me, and to never shut any doors. I know it’s a silly story, but ever since I’ve given my all at every opportunity that comes my way. As time went on and I became more experienced, I get to be more selective, but in the beginning I did it all, and I think my good attitude played a big role in my success.
What are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?
Modeling and performing has given some so much true confidence and social skills. I am able to make connections and communicate with people in such an honest and meaningful way, that I want to continue to help communicate messages, whether it’s in front of or behind the camera. There are stories to be told, I love finding ways to tell them, and as I get older, I see myself doing more television segments and leaving my photo and print work behind me, but as I said before, I’m not one to turn down opportunities – so it’s all up in the air.
How often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?
During my freshman year of college, I had a full class schedule, worked at a clothing store and modeled. This is where promo events saved me! My class schedule conflicted majorly with photo and video work, but I could go and work the launch parties and late night fashion events. I’d work until 3 or 4 in the morning and wake up the next day for a 9:00 am class! Now that I am working full time in the cosmetics industry, my modeling has become more of a hobby than my main source of income and I like it like this! I like collaborating with friends and new photographers to create something, and since I’m only shooting a few times a month, I am able to give 150% to these jobs and I’m not as burnt out!
Please tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.
My best experience is working the Today show with Lilliana Vazquez and her assistant and stylist, Lauren Dougherty. These shoots were high energy! Live television goes fast, so you need to be on your toes. These women are so great to work with because they have fun with each other and laugh together but are still so professional and take their jobs very seriously. I’ve had some crummy experiences where the photographer and I just aren’t flowing, or the makeup artist makes me look crazy… but I just count these as lessons and move on.. no use harping on a bad experience.
Have you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?
I tell people the time I got hit by a taxi while I was dressed as a cheetah in a body suit and body paint for a jungle themed runway. Hair and makeup was across the street for the venue… mine took such a long time because they were painting on every spot. So I’m late… I run out of the building and am darting through cars and a taxi just does not care and nudges me… not to hurt me just to prove a point: I know I shouldn’t of been running in traffic. I made it to the runway on time… missing a few spots that rubbed off on the taxi… but on time!
Is there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?
I would like to see a better respect for the models. For example, if I go to a print shop, I need to have a release to print a photo of my face, this protects the photographers’ rights and I understand that… but the photographer can go to the same print shop and print the same photo of my face and no one asks for a release from them. There aren’t many practices in place to protect the models’ rights, and this leads to models being disrespected and taken advantage of.
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 a cardio junkie. There’s this fear when you’re a short model -I’m 5’5″- that if get too toned and muscular you get defined as a fitness model and won’t get as many fashion and art jobs, so I never got into that kind of training. I do yoga, but that’s mainly for my mental well being. I have also been taking Pilates classes which I feel like keep everything toned and tight without bulk. As for my diet, I believe in balance, so I eat as organically and unprocessed as possible, but I’m not perfect. Food effects more than your weight, it also affects your attitude and energy; not eating or going on a strict diet might make you skinny, but if you’re tired and grumpy and your skin looks sallow no one will want to work with you, no matter how skinny you are. My body fluctuates very easily, so the day of a shoot that will be body focused I alter my diet to make sure I look my best.
Please share something people don’t know about you.
I really am an open book, I guess maybe that’s what people don’t know, that if they ever want to know something they can just ask!
Would you change anything about yourself?
Physically I would love to be taller! There’s more work out there for tall models, and sample clothing fits better. All in all, I’m pretty happy with myself and the decisions I’ve made to get to where I’m at now.
Have you ever stolen anything?
I was working a promotion for a new vodka brand with a group of models I’ve never worked with before. As the team was packing up, the other models began snatching the vodka used for display! Bottles and bottles of vodka right in their purse. I was too young to drink at the time, but I wanted to take something too… so I took a shot glass. I know I know… I’m such a rebel.
Visit Corinne’s website for more photos and information