Blog Archives

Jul 26 2015

La Carmina, alternative model, Goth fashion blogger

Interview with La Carmina — Travel digital influencer, TV host

La Carmina is a 22-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I grew up in Vancouver, Canada but spent a lot of time in Asia with my family, and it led to my passion for alternative, Japanese and Gothic street styles. In 2007, I started my La Carmina blog to chronicle my obsessions for Jpop fashion and culture. The site caught on with readers, and it led to opportunities I never imagined including modeling for magazine covers, hosting travel TV shows around the world, and working as a digital influencer with travel and fashion partners. This year alone, I was in UK, Iceland, Singapore, Bali, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Spain, Portugal, Morocco, Vietnam – and it’s only the first half of 2015!

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

I didn’t start out with any intention of being a model. When I started out, fashion blogging was new, and it was fun to share my personal style and stories with readers who shared my passions. My signatures are kawaii-Gothic makeup, colorful dyed hair, and alternative clothing. As my blogging career grew, it led to magazines featuring me in modeling spreads, as well as covers. To date, I’ve done editorial shoots for the covers of Vanity UK, Dark Beauty, Alt Noir, Giuseppina Magazine and more. I’ve also been featured in Cosmopolitan, Vogue, and various Asia fashion magazines like China’s Ray Li.

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

My life and career are constantly evolving, and it’s impossible to predict where I’ll be in even a year. Blogging as a full-time job didn’t even exist 5 to 10 years ago, and neither did social networks like Facebook and Instagram. Right now, I’m enjoying doing creative work with my friends that involves travel, and opening people’s eyes to alternative lifestyles and culture around the world. I’m especially focusing on travel TV and videos, and hope to keep growing all this in the next years.

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

It depends on how you might define modeling. For example, in my upcoming journey to Europe and North Africa, I’ll be shooting almost every day with my film team. I’ll create a look of the day, and we’ll capture pro photos, videos and more all around the cities. This content will appear on my blog, in major media sites, and on my social networks. In terms of editorial modeling, with a team of makeup artists, hair stylists, and extensive photography equipment, I only do these types of shoots for magazine covers and spreads. Generally, I do a shoot like this once every two months.

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

I recently shot a cover for Love Japan magazine, on location in Iceland. It was amazing to shoot on the black sand beaches, surrounded by the stark landscape and icy waters. I wore a Game of Thrones inspired outfit and had my hair in braids, since the HBO show is shot here.

As for negative experiences, I fainted on two shoots… once from a too-tight corset, and once from being in a hot tub for too long! But it was worth it, for the resulting shots.

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

I like to shoot on-location, since it fits my street style and travel aesthetic. This has led to some bizarre situations, such as doing a hardcore Gothic shoot in the busy streets of Hong Kong… We got a lot of funny looks from passersby!

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

Health, exercise and nutrition are extremely important to me. I travel so much and have to be at the top of my game especially during travel TV shoots, which can involve 12 hour long shoots. I eat clean as best as I can, without being too strict. I focus on free-range, organic, grassfed proteins, vegetables, fruits and healthy dairy. Sugar and carbs are kept to a minimum, with an emphasis on gluten-free options, but I love my ice cream!. As for exercise, I go on long walks, and do bodyweight exercises and high intensity interval training exercises. Efficient and effective, that’s how I roll.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am obsessed with Miffy the bunny, and Italo Disco and Eurobeat music.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I try my best to keep in the moment, and not get worked up about the past or future, or get hung up on anxieties… Every day, I try to cultivate a bit more of this stability and wisdom. But it’s not always easy.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

It would be wonderful if I was fluent in many more languages… Traveling would be a breeze!

Visit La Carmina’s website for more photos and information

Feb 15 2015

Interview with Amy Fantasea — Cosplayer, Model and Mermaid

Amy Fantasea is a 22-year old model residing in Sarasota, Florida.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Born in Panama City FL, raised in the rain forests of Puerto Rico. My family is all in Puerto Rico, I lived there for 13 years and decided I wanted to explore The U.S, so I moved back to Florida 3 years ago with only 2 bags, $300.00 in my pocket and a heart full of dreams. Today I live in Portland Oregon and I’m beginning my bachelor’s degree in Fashion Design, I have a wonderful boyfriend, 2 beautiful cats, and a bright future.

My hobbies will hopefully become my career and that includes making swimable mermaid tails, cosplaying, modeling and photography.

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

I started Cosplaying in Puerto Rico when I was 15, I’ve always loved fantasy, video games and Japanese Pop Culture, so I fell in love with cosplay instantly.

I had a knack for making all my costumes and props by hand, with whatever I could use. I taught myself how to sew, do makeup, work with plastics and wigs. I began to draw a lot of attention because of my dedication to the characters I would portray and slowly began working with various photographers. When I turned 18 I tried nude modeling, alternative arts and body paint, my portfolio began to grow and so did my job opportunities. Today more than 50% of my income comes from nudes and cosplay modeling and I couldn’t be happier!

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

I want to finish my degree in Fashion Design and Bushiness so I can have the necessary tools to begin my own costuming and alternative clothing company. If that’s successful, then I would love to have my own studio where I can give costume making workshops, modeling, makeup and photography classes for teens who are looking for artistic ventilation and direction. It’s something I wish I could have had when I was young and I know there are tons of young people out there who are very interested in these art forms but don’t know where to look for learning.

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

I model at least 2 to 4 times a week, I manage my own hours, rates, who I choose to work with and most of the time I do my own wardrobe, makeup, hair.

Most of my shoots are artistic nudes, body painting, figure modeling, alternative, cosplay and my favorite, underwater.

When I’m not modeling I’m working at a retail store or selling my mermaid tails online.

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

I don’t really have very many bad experiences when it comes to modeling, I’ve been very wise with who I work with and I usually bring my boyfriend who is also my bodyguard… hahaha.

I can say that my worst was probably during a nude shoot, the photographer was still a rookie, pretty young and single. He awkwardly began getting a boner while we were shooting. I asked him if he needed to take a breather, he was pretty embarrassed.

Best experiences are definitely when I put on my mermaid tails for an underwater shoot. I make my own swimable mermaid tails by hand and underwater photography is just an art form of its own. Together it creates some very beautiful photos and nothing is ever the same once you try it.

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

Once when I was shooting at a coastal reef in Puerto Rico, I had one of my mermaid tails on, it was a perfect day, water was crystal clear. I don’t use a mask or goggles when I do underwater sets so my vision is pretty blurry, I suddenly see a large dark blob come towards me. I of course freak out a bit, this thing was at least 7 to 8 feet long, so I climb onto the reef and rip my tail a bit in the process. It turned out to be a manatee coming up to say hi…

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

Yes, discrimination. The human body is a beautiful work of art, no matter how big or small you are, old or young. I have met some amazing people during my journey and some that make me want to gag. And what has bothered me the most is that the closer you get to a modeling agency or to fashion modeling, the closer you get to some legitimately disgusting people. I’ve had the opportunity to do runway a few times and I was always the shortest one there -I’m 5’7- and the only “curvy girl”. The agency admins would always poke fun at all the girls, and all the girls would in return get very nasty with each other regarding weight, height, and even ethnicity. I decided that the nude modeling world was a much more realistic place, and it has been.

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

Nutrition has always been very important to me, my mother is a nutritionist and practices natural medicine. I eat a lot of dark green vegetables, spinach, kale, chard, lots of nuts, beans, root vegetables. Good quality lean red meat, turkey and fish. I don’t drink soda, don’t eat dairy and I hardly eat sweets or bread. I love wine and good dark chocolates and occasionally I’ll indulge in some good sheep’s milk cheeses. I also take classical ballet and have been doing yoga since I was 10.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am obsessed with looking different, not for others, but for myself. I get terribly bored easily so I’m constantly changing my hair color, I change it at least once a month to purples, blue, teal, pink, pastels, red and all over again! I also own over 20+ pairs of colored contact lenses, I’m a bit obsessed.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Yes, I wish I was better with money! Slowly I’m learning how to manage it, but it’s still one of my weakest traits. I also wish I was happier, I’m never content with what I have and always want a better version of it. It does fuel my goals, since I’m never satisfied with my work or with myself, I’m constantly improving. But, I just hope I’ll someday get to the top of my mountain and finally be happy and content with everything that I have accomplished.

Are you currently in a relationship? How would you describe your partner?

My partner is exactly that, my partner. He is my rock, my protector, my support, my accountant, my cheerleader and the one who always brings me back down to earth when my head is too far up in the clouds.

I’m very fortunate to have him, he’s very supportive of my modeling and career path, he even participates in my shoots sometimes! We have been together for almost 3 years and it feels like we have known each other for a lifetime. We are extremely cheesy…

Dec 05 2014

Interview with Miss Black Lagoon — A Colorado siren

Miss Black Lagoon is a 20-year old model residing in Longmont, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a published made alternative model based in Colorado. I am also a very proud mother of a little boy. I was raised in East L.A. with a somewhat normal upbringing. I went to Sunday school for 1 semester as a child but I was also very strong opinionated and I almost got in trouble one time when my teacher asked me if I thought I was as perfect as Jesus Christ and I said “yes” and she yelled at me and I was so confused as to why. I don’t really let others think for me. As a child I wrote a lot of poetry and that still follows me today. I still write and sometimes even write short novels. I have interests in almost anything; I can adopt to almost anything that intrigues me so it’s very hard for make to have dull moments. I grew up having a father as a tattoo artist so I was able to look through the magazines he would buy such as Tattoo, Ink, Flash and others… And when I would look through them I would always see all these beautiful models with tattoos and I knew that one day I would want to be just like them.

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

I first got involved in modeling when I was approached my a local photographer in my town. She saw that I was able to do victory rolls -a hair do- on myself and asked if I wanted to do a pinup photo shoot and I said yes. I was only 17 at the time and that was the first ever pinup photo shoot that I did and when I turned 18 I decided to post those pictures on Model Mayhem and that’s when my modeling career sort of snow balled into what it is now.

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

My goal is to just be very well known and let people know what I do or what I like to do and let my passion for modeling shine through to the point where I am taken as a serious alternative model. I would love to just get my name out there.

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

I mainly do a lot of alternative pinup photo shoots. Currently I’m in the process of starting a calendar. I would love to do more video work, I was involved in the music video “Karla the strange ” by Maddy Ellwanger. And I also have experience with competing in Pin Up contests.

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

Most of the shoots I have are always so great that it’s hard to pick the best and I’ve never really have had a “worst” experience yet.

I like to work with professional people who respect me as I will always respect them, so I am very picky at who I choose to work with and because of that I rarely get a bad experience.

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

I have had soo many that it is seriously so weird to even mention. This one time I wore such see through clear under wear that my private part was showing and I have no idea. It was seriously an embarrassing moment.

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

I would love for more alternative models to get more recognition in the high fashion industry.

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

Unforgivably I don’t play sports or eat healthy but I do make it a priority every night or at least 5 nights a week to work out.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am very obsessed with tarantulas and bats. I’ve always been as a child. I never really had a cat or a dog as a pet when I was younger but I always had a pet tarantula around.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would love more tattoos.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Dying without leaving an impact on someone scares me to death.

Nov 27 2014

Interview with Nikasaur — Walking Advertisement for BVB Model

Nikasaur is a 20-year old model residing in Castle Rock, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Born in Harvard, Illinois and raised in Elizabeth, Colorado. I have an older sister and a younger brother. I went to an alternative school called Frontier down in Elizabeth, which is where I actually met the love of my life. We’ve been through everything together and now my high school sweetheart is now my fiance. I never really had many friends growing up, I was the outcast in school, most of the friends I did have never really liked me. The one true friend that has stuck by my side lives in the UK and I can’t wait for us to actually meet up one day because he is such an amazing person.

I enjoy playing video games in my spare time and I love the internet so I’m always on there.! My fiance and friends like to think of me as a Walking Advertisement for my favorite band Black Veil Brides because I literally do not walk out the door without wearing something of BVB and not to mention that all of my tattoos consist of Black Veil Brides. They have definitely helped me a lot through out my teenage life with their music so they definitely mean a lot to me. I’m addicted to getting tattoos, and I highly believe that everyone needs an Olaf in their life.

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

I love getting all dolled up and taking photos. It’s one of my favorite things to do. As silly as it is I actually started site modeling online and from there is where I found that modeling is my passion. I ended up creating myself a MM account and was setting up shoots with photographers left and right.

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

There are so many haha. I’m not even sure if I exactly know what I want to do. There are so many different things I’d love to try and do, but so far my main focus is modeling.

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

I do modeling part-time, but I’m hoping to get at full-time. It only consists of photo shoots which I don’t mind at all, but I also wouldn’t mind trying something a little different.

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

I can’t say that I’ve had best experiences, but I have definitely had good ones.! The worst experience was shooting with a real creeper photographer. I’m pretty sure he just down right wanted to get me naked because he wanted me to wear real skimpy outfits and when I wore regular outfits he didn’t want bras or underwear on. So working with him was definitely a horrible experience!

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

I was booked for a lingerie shoot early in the morning and when I woke up I had actually started my period. I didn’t know what I was going to do, because I didn’t want to have to cancel my shoot, but I also did not want to do a shoot on my period especially a lingerie one. Sure enough I still ended up going to my lingerie shoot with bad cramps and a bag full of pads and tampons. I was extremely nervous the whole time hoping nothing bad would happen during the shoot. I was constantly running back and fourth from the bathroom and back making sure everything was good and that the photographer couldn’t see anything! Thankfully he never noticed.

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

Thinking about it more and more lately I actually would. I’ve seen and heard so many stories about unprofessional photographers and agencies pressuring models into doing something that they aren’t comfortable with. I myself have had the same problem with few photographers and it can get pretty scary sometimes. I think a lot of models now need to start doing some background checks on the photographer before they actually shoot with them. I now ask models the photographers have shot with to see how the photographer was and everything before I work with them.

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

As wonderful as healthy food is I can honestly say that I don’t always eat healthy. As a matter of fact I’m in love with junk food and going out to fast food places. Although I balance out both my healthy and junk food side, but if there’s one thing healthy food does for me that junk food doesn’t, it makes me and my body feel good and clean.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

My fiance and I actually believe that the zombie apocalypse is going to happen so we are set for that. Haha. We have the zombie survival guide, and we even have a notebook of places to go for shelter, food, and weapons like, we’re prepared and ready.

Would you change anything about yourself?

There are so many things that I would love to change about myself to be honest, but lately I have been learning to love myself and to take joy in who I am. So I wouldn’t change a thing about me.!

If you could make one fictional thing exist, what would it be?

I would love to make PokeMon real. They are so exotic and unique and the fact that you can catch these animal like things in a Pokeball is astonishing. It would just be one of the most amazing things to have these beautiful creatures exist. They’re just like regular animals, but are capable of all these incredible abilities and I believe that they would be very helpful to all humans around the world.

Oct 15 2014

Interview with Chanel Marie Koi — Beautiful Savage

Chanel Marie Koi is a 20-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Good vibes only here. I am a free spirit that knows exactly who she is and what she stands for. Very spiritual and kind. Positive and secure in the woman I’ve become. Mentally penetrating and idealistic. Trusting of myself and my emotions. Grateful and an obstinate over-analyzer; happy hearted and peaceful; an ironically gregarious introvert that is greatly appreciative of her restorative solitude. Occasionally aloof yet approachable.

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

In the short duration of my relatively fresh career, I have already graced the runways of LA Fashion week in addition to several runway events, presented with a feature for Sebastion Professional for the What’s Next Awards, many music videos as leading lady, featured as Gamer Girl of the Month for Gamersbliss and cover girl for Sxy Mag, been given a racy role in my first feature film “Hitchhiker Massacre”, in 2014, and supporting roles in other films as well as a role in MTV’s True Life as myself. I frequently center myself with meditation and free writing to further hone in on my innermost emotions that contribute to my creative process when creating music and finding my characters in film.

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

In 5 years from now, I will still be wild and free. Still dreaming, smiling, and praying; passionate and loving every second of my life. Creating beautiful things for people, promoting peace and love, in addition to continuing to give hugs to strangers. Still doing the things that make me feel alive and trusting my journey even when I do not understand it. No longer chasing what my mind wants and rather chasing what my soul needs.

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

I frequently center myself with meditation and free writing to further hone in on my innermost emotions that contribute to my creative process when creating music and finding my characters in film. My musical interests and influences are generally categorized as avant-garde electronic dance music, jazz fusion, ambient, glitch, and alternative. The most profound passions and sought out desires of my heart would be forms of artistic expression that are aesthetically pleasing visually and equally gratifying auditorily. As an intermediate photographer, I take great pleasure in capturing the art of existence which would emphasize my appreciation for life and humanity. My general focal points would include but never limited to intimate portraits, nature, macro, and scenic photography. Acknowledging my literary works, I have fully developed a mystery and thriller fiction novel entitled “Six Years: Mademoiselle Gweniveire” in which publication is pending. She intends to follow up with a second installment once publication is complete.

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

Being told pregnancy is a death sentence in the modeling industry. It was the most ignorant thing I’ve ever heard. I would say that being judged on my weight which constantly goes up and down is quite the bothersome thought as well.

I am a person with feelings and thoughts and sometimes I am being treated as if I am brainless and thoughtless which is farthest from the truth.

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

The most important moment of my life was when I was able to take a step back and realize that… I liked who I was becoming.

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

“I am not a hanger. I have a body. I am a soul.”

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

I am a pescatarian with vegan tendencies. I do not eat bread, rice, pasta, or anything of that nature. I tend to not consume any dairy products. I’m opposed to investing a great deal of money on a fancy handbag or dress. I would much rather invest in myself, my body, my mind, and my soul.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I truly enjoy writing as well as reading fine literature. From old school hip hop to jazz and EDM to country, beginning in the very early morning I yearn to hear music. You have to lose yourself in music, let all the pain go and let the music heal your soul. Gaming, whether it be PC gaming League of Legends, or gaming GTA or the MGS series on my ps4…it’s my greatest form of escapism. Being healthy and fit is extremely important to me which is why exercise and proper diet is the bee knees for me! Contemporary art and antique shopping. Comic books, manga, and superheroes oh my! Tattoos are art and I admire and appreciate the art form very much. Foreign films and cooking fine cuisine. Anything that causes the creative juices to flow, I’m without a doubt onboard.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No, I would not. I am happy with who I am.

What features do you look for in a partner?

I want a gentleman who can sit me down, shut me up, tell me ten things I don’t already know, and simply make me laugh. I don’t care what he looks like, as long as he can turn me on. And if he can do that, I will follow him into the dark…into the great unknown. I’d embrace his flaws and lick his wounds . I would love him without rationale or restrictions. I would care about his feelings. I just need him to have something in there….and if he is going to lay his lips onto mine, I suggest he kisses me like he wants to be loved.

Visit Chanel Marie Koi’s website for more photos and information

Oct 07 2014

Interview with Miss Pestilence — Small town girl, Big Dream

Miss Pestilence is a 18-year old model residing in Hesperia, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Well hello there everyone. I wanna introduce myself. I go by the name Miss Pestilence. I am a model from southern California and a go-go dancer. I was born in Orange County, lived in NorCo, CA, and then moved to Hesperia, CA from the age of 4 until present. I have two wonderful parents and a little sister who is really my big little sister as she grew much taller than me for being 5 years younger. I have a pet rat that is basically my child and also a very loving boyfriend with a crazy story behind our relationship.

I am passionate about body modifications and just standing out from the crowd. I’m passionate about music, art, photography, and modeling. I love to go-go dance and I love to attend music shows, raves, huge festivals, street fairs, and all the wonderful things like that. My professions include modeling and go-go dancing. For me these aren’t just a hobby, they aren’t just a job, but yet a lifestyle and I put 110% into them. I put my heart and soul and every ounce of my energy into these. If I wasn’t doing these professions I don’t know where I would be or who I would be but it’s not something I would want to imagine.

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

Well years ago I found out what the company Suicide Girls was because I was given a sticker with their logo on it. So I looked them up. What I found out was they were a company based on redefining the meaning of beauty. It really inspired me because at the time I was 12 years old and dealing with way too many self esteem issues and other things such as that. I looked up to them and the Suicide Girls became my inspiration. So after a couple years, finally at 17 I was friends with a girl who’s sister was a photographer and wanted to do a photoshoot with me just for fun. So we did the shoot and I could not believe the girl in the pictures was really me. I had spent so long being down on myself and letting my personal demons prevent me from seeing who I was and who I had the potential to be. Shortly after that shoot, I submitted my photos to a website called Model Mayhem. It took a lot of networking but finally shortly after my 18th birthday I found a photographer and we met up in a local Starbucks.

In March of 2014, I finally got to do another photoshoot. At first I was nervous, but I am really good at hiding my fears at the moment. It was an amazingly freeing feeling that shooting gave me. I finally was able to believe in myself to the fullest and be myself again. I no longer had things dragging me down. Currently it is August 22, 2014 and that first photographer has taken me so far. I went from being a nobody to now a Suicide Girl Hopeful, signed to Wish Model Magazine, and constantly have people asking to shoot with me. I never knew I could come this far but now that I’ve gotten to where I am, there is no stopping me.

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

My personal goals are to get to the point where I can start a charity for young girls who have been through violence, drug abuse, sexual abuse, self esteem issues, eating disorders, struggling with poverty and other issues as such. I dealt with a lot of those issues and I want to be able to stand tall and be a positive figure and an inspiration to the girls who want to give up. I want them to know there is a chance to turn your life around and to have hope. As far as my professional goals go, I want to be a model and promoter from clothing companies, bands, achieve well known status as a suicide girl, get many features in magazine, especially tattoo magazines, as well as become a go-go for the company insomniac and other large companies that throw Raves and other EDM events.

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

I am now modeling anywhere from once a week to four times a week. A good majority of my modeling is anywhere from fully clothed to nude. Almost all of my photoshoots have been alternative modeling with the exception of a few shoots. I am looking to broaden my horizon in modeling and do other things as well. I do a little bit of everything. I still have yet to do anything such as video and walking down a runway. Sure does seem like fun though.

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

Well obviously the best experience I’ve had was being able to find myself again. Modeling made me come out of my shell and was a remedy for a lot of things from my past. And I think the worst experience had to be at one photoshoot I was in a building and it was the middle of summer. It was so hot I was literally having to wipe the sweat off inbetween each shot. It was so gross.

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

I think the most extraordinary thing that has happened to me was some of my personal inspirations in modeling have actually contacted me and given me words of wisdom, advice, or just compliments. It really keeps me going. As well as all the people who messages me on a daily basis sending me messages about how I am their inspiration. Some of them literally bring me to tears because it is just so touching what they have to say.

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

Honestly I wish a lot of the higher up industry didn’t focus so much on being what is defined as “perfect for society”. A lot of the modeling industry doesn’t spread the message of loving the skin you’re in or being happy with who you are.

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

About the only thing I do is daily go-go practice at home or actual go-go dancing, and squats. And what I typically eat is usually dark green salads and lots of grilled chicken. My boyfriend is all into body building a being super healthy and whatnot so I kinda just eat whatever he makes. As cliche as it sounds, my favorite thing to eat is a salad of mostly crisp, fresh spinach and homemade ranch. Does not get better than that. I do have times where I eat the fast food and junk food but it’s all about moderation. You can still eat those chicken nuggets from McDonalds or that ice cream from Baskin Robbin’s as long as that’s not all you are eating. And exercise even if it is going on a daily walk. Being healthy doesn’t mean not getting to enjoy “tasty” food, it just means you are smart about what you eat and how much you eat of what. Don’t starve yourself either. It hurts your body more than it helps you.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I think one thing a lot of people don’t know about me is that ever since I was a little girl I wanted to do ballet and I’ve always had this weird obsession with ballet.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Well obviously add on to my body modifications -more tattoos, piercings, and others- as well as consider getting a boob job. I’ve always thought about it but never been sure. After I started cheerleading my sophomore year of high school I lost a lot of weight which meant I went down a few sizes so ever since then it’s been something I have kind of been uncomfortable with.

What is the kinkiest thing you’ve ever done?

I think it would have to be when I was working -go-going- and decided to give my boyfriend a lap dance. When I came out to give it to him, I was wearing a french maid cosplay outfit. Boy did he love that lap dance.

Visit Miss Pestilence’s website for more photos and information

Oct 05 2014

Interview with Lexy Lovestruck — Alternative Model

Lexy Lovestruck is a 17-year old model residing in Vacaville, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am Lexy. Born on July 1st 1997 in a small town in California. Alongside modeling I play guitar, sing, and write music, poetry, and stories. I enjoy painting and drawing, anything artsy and creative. I love being outdoors and in or near water. I live with my beautiful supportive mother who is the absolute best.

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

I got started on a more unprofessional side of modeling, having my friends take pictures of me and doing ”site-modeling” for a few years up until about two years ago. I really just did it because of all the people who said I wasn’t good enough or pretty enough to do anything useful. I was determined to prove them all wrong.

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

I would really just like to have modeling take me as far as it possibly can. I want to make a difference in people’s lives and show them that they shouldn’t let cruel words of others tear them down, that they should take those words and use them as motivation to prove those people wrong. In five to ten years I hope to be following my musical and modeling dreams.

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

Typically I do photo shoots, glamour and style is what it really consists of at the moment, in another year I will be doing much more.

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

I have had a lot of good experiences and am very lucky! I have worked with quite a few great photographers, each one gives me new ideas that I can use and work with in the future. Every one has been a teacher to me in their own way, each person is different and there is no lack of knowledge to be gained from each new photographer I work with. The worst experiences are some really rude photographers I ended up not working with, saying they were ”doing me a favor” or just seemed too full of themselves or that I ”wasn’t good enough to be getting paid.”

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

Learning to do motion type shots was a little awkward for me at first, I had to try and walk a certain way and probably had to walk back and forth about a hundred times before I got it right.

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

I wish that some photographers didn’t make such a big deal about bringing someone to a shoot. It really is a comfort and safety thing. I have heard too many stories of people getting hurt because they’ve gone to shoots alone.

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

I drink green tea extensively, do yoga every day, I eat a ton of fruits and veggies, drink smoothies, and eat lots of chicken. It is really important to me to stay healthy and to look good, it really helps with self confidence when you can look in the mirror and feel good about the way you look.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am extremely weird and quirky. I love reading, I enjoy collecting dead things, skulls and bones, oddities of any sort really. I have three dogs, a hamster, and two fish. I am Wiccan and am a little bit of a hippy. I love stones and crystals and am a very spiritual person.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Yes, I wish I was a bit taller than I am and that my hair was longer than it currently is. I am an extremely emotional person so I wish that I was a bit less sensitive.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

The power of flight. If I didn’t want to be in a certain place I could just fly away. Or if I wanted to do a photo shoot out of state imagine how much money I could save!

Visit Lexy Lovestruck’s website for more photos and information

Sep 28 2014

Interview with Madisse — Alternative Model and Lady Boss

Madisse is a 21-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Madison, I was born in Dallas, raised in Arizona. I have a huge, loud family, We could give the Kardashians a good run for their money. I have four amazing siblings who are my best friends and two parents that are still together! My mother is a teacher to autistic students and my father is a self-made entrepreneur. This makes for an interesting household. I am an alternative model as well as graphic designer and marketing coordinator for a contemporary restaurant. I believe in mind, body and soul. A clean, happy, enlightened lifestyle.

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

When I was in high school I entered a contest and won for Azteen Magazine. I grew up singing, acting and dancing so I thought, why not try modeling as well and I fell in love. I do it for me, I do it because I like lighting, I like the visual arts, and I like emotion. For me it is almost like a form of meditation.

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

I like a good challenge. I also appreciate the artistic process in any format. I hope to take part in artistic projects wether I’m behind or in front of the camera. I would like to travel and to push myself harder in alternative modeling. There is beauty in self-expression and that is something I would like to learn from other cultures, as well as sharing it.

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

My workload really depends on how I’m feeling that week. Sometimes I will be in work mode and want to nerd out so I switch my focus to Marketing. Sometimes I feel inspired and want to model so I plan accordingly. I like a good balance. The type of work I do varies, like I said, I like to adopt projects so it’s rather spontaneous!

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

The best experience I had was watching my younger sister do it for the first time. I love seeing the same fire in her eyes that resides in mine and I am excited to share that with her.

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

I went out with a bunch of friends and ended up nerding out over graphic design with one of the group. They had a little shoot set-up in the house. We were messing around and he shot a few snaps of me, next thing you know it’s on a billboard!

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

I would like to see more recognition for alternative models and models that work independently. There is alot to be learned from independent models and people tend to assume that they are less than they’re worth because they are not signed.

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

Yoga! I like classes where I can shake my booty to the good vibes -Zumba-. I recently found a new, crazy love for swimming and I am up for any sport, I always love to join in even if I am horrible. I try to eat clean and healthy. I pay attention to what I put in my body. I stick to veggies, fruit, grains and lean protein. But I do love thai food and chocolate, nobody will ever take them from me!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I actually have my AA from the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Absolutely incredible group of leaders, game-changers, entrepreneurs and designers.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I could always be a bit taller.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

A list of phobias for a hypochondriac? Never!

I am deathly afraid of heights. Im afraid of balloons, drills, seafood and staircases. I can pretty much convince myself that I’m dying at any given moment.

Visit Madisse’s website for more photos and information