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Nutrition, Modeling and Sports

Interview with Ms Amanda Tea — Model, Entrepreneur and Photographer

Ms Amanda Tea is a 26-year old model residing in Chicago, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I grew up in Chicago. Art has always been a huge part of my life. Growing up I was surrounded by drawings, painting, music, photography and film. I got exposed to a lot of great things through family and close friends. I also feel very lucky that they have been supportive of all my crazy projects.

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

I was nineteen years old and working at an internet cafe when a photographer who was a frequent customer was interested in the hair pieces that I make. I always had an interest in modeling since I was a fan of a lot of artists and models out there doing that kind of work. If it weren’t for meeting that photographer my portfolio wouldn’t have started.

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

I would love to have some of the hair-pieces and wigs from my line sold in stores! I have a lot of goals that seem really daunting right now. Like working on a short film, and creating music. I’ve always had this fantasy of being kind of like John Carpenter or Robert Rodriguez. If I was able to raise the funds I would definitely work on my ideas.

Ms Amanda Tea on rooftopsHow often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I sadly do not model as much as I used to. When I do it’s usually for my store Pennywigs.com or if a friend asks me. I would love to be a part of more fashion and acting projects. I have to actively look for those kind of gigs and apply for them though and finding jobs looking for an actress or model that fits my description is hard to find.

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

Well the best experiences for me have been when it’s a group photo shoot and kind of like a party where I get to meet a lot of other artists while creating awesome images at the same time. I always walk away learning something new by being around other models and photographers.

The worst experiences for me, which I can only blame myself for, is just not being more careful about who I chose to work with and making sure I’d be safe.

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

I think modeling in a public place or where there is a possibility of anyone seeing you is always interesting. You just never know what people’s reactions are going to be and I’ve had a multitude of different things happen to me while shooting but luckily most were pretty amusing.

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

I find the whole you have to be 5 feet 8 inch and slim to be an agency represented model to be a tad ridiculous. I think for photographs it really shouldn’t matter how tall or how slim you are. I realize that there are successful models out there who are on the shorter side and there are now successful plus size models too so I’ve felt things are getting better. Maybe for runway modeling it will always be the same but there are a lot of beautiful people out there who given the chance could bring something new and different to the table.

Ms Amanda Tea face closeupDo you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I used to practice Taekwondo and Hapkido. Right now I’m looking to get back into martial arts again and if not I might give dancing a more serious try so I can find something to do that is active. While exercise and nutrition are very important to your body and lifespan, I regret not treating my body as well lately. Because of what I do, I’m on the computer most of the day and get so caught up in work I always forget to take out that 30 minutes a day to exercise. No excuses though, don’t be like me! Work that bod.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I used to work at a funeral home. People don’t know how much of a movie buff I am. I’m usually pretty good with any trivia questions about film.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I’m sure everyone would like to change something about themselves. I definitely would change things if I had a magic wand. I actually appreciate body modification and though the idea of surgery sometimes scares me getting breast implants is definitely tempting.

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

Travel and find some place to go camping. Stare at the stars.

Visit Ms Amanda Tea’s website for more photos and information