Blog Archives

Interview with WhineyFu Cosplay — Model, Geek, Whiner, knows little kung fu

WhineyFu Cosplay is a 27-year old model residing in New Baltimore, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Workaholic born in and living with my family in southeast Michigan, I am a full time doctoral student in the mental health field, and currently work full time in an office, part time as a mental health professional, all while going to school. I work on school work, model, and cosplay on the weekends, as well as write, draw, and sing terribly. Cosplaying has become a passionate hobby for me as it combines the fashion and photography that I love and the pop culture I feed on. Life is good when I can attend a convention once a month.

WhineyFu Cosplay lying on a wallWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I have wanted to do something with fashion and modeling since high school but I was not mentally or physically in a healthy place for anything like that at the time. I have been cosplaying for over 5 years now and have been doing photoshoots of my costumes during that time, but it was only recently that I branched out into fashion and boudoir shoots after I won a photoshoot session with Bontisha Rose photography in February 2015. I had never thought I could do anything of just me for modeling as I do think I am tall or thin. I am mentally and physically healthy enough for this now at this time of my life. Modeling channels my creativity and I hope this creativity can inspire others and affect others how it has positively affected me.

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

Hopefully, I will be Dr. WhineyFu Cosplay in 5 years, since I am a second year doctoral student. I hope to be employed full time doing something I love, and would like to be able to incorporate modeling and my cosplay into my educational career too. Cosplay takes a certain level of self-esteem, confidence, and worth. Cosplay for your mental health, anyone?

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

I do the majority of my modeling work on the weekend as that is the only time I have availability. I am either doing a photoshoot, walking around a convention, or working on my costumes. As of right now, I photoshoot cosplay, fashion, art, and glamour, but I would love to do more, especially catwalks and acting, but just no nudity.

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

I haven’t really had a “worst” experience so far in modeling. Each photographer I have worked with has been great and has given me more experience in my modeling. I really do like it though when a photographer is just as geeked about a photo as I am. I do notice a lot of nude requests for photoshoots now, in general, and although I have no problem personally with nudity, I do not want that for my modeling photoshoots.

WhineyFu Cosplay at a lakeHave you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

I love interacting with people while I am in cosplay at conventions, or outside of conventions. Some of the most memorable interactions I have had are with kids who think I am that actually character I am dressed up as. As for embarrassing, I have certainly tripped and face-planted a few times while in cosplay. No pain and gain, right?

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

More body types advertised for women and men. Models sell products and an image, then why not meet the consumers’ needs? I love clothes and fashion, but every time I see an ad selling me something, it is on a model who is either smaller or bigger than me. You want to sell me something? Show me how it looks on someone like me.

Do 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 participate in sports when I was younger, and I played soccer for over 10 years. I exercise almost everyday early in the morning on my elliptical and then also add a little bit of weight lifting on the weekends. I also walk my dog almost ever day when I have the chance to do so. I keep track of just about everything I eat to keep aware of what I am putting in my body and what I am putting out. However, I do not stress too much about what I am eating or if I am “bad” for a day.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love the movies and collect movie ticket stubs. And the most times I have seen a movie in theaters is 21 times.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would like to say no but that’s not true. I can only imagine the chaos I could cause if I were taller; people always say I look taller than I actually am, but I would like to actually be taller. Maybe that’s why I am always in heels?

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I am usually never alone because of my dog but when it is just the 2 of us, we like to sit on the couch and marathon TV shows or watch a new movie we have heard about but never seen before. All of this while working on a costume and yelling or arguing with the TV. I talk to myself and the dog when I am alone. Good company.

Visit WhineyFu Cosplay’s website for more photos and information

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Interview with Anashi — Cosplay enthusiast and model

Anashi is a 24-year old model residing in Salem, Massachusetts.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in the states, New Jersey to be specific but I didn’t really live there. My family traveled all around and maybe that’s why I have such wanderlust and a restless spirit. I’m Czech but unfortunately I don’t know much about my family’s background. I’m also a super big nerd who loves comics, anime, video games, manga, cosplay, you name it, and I also draw and would love to work in the comic or movie industry.

Anashi modeling red hairWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

My mom had me in beauty pageants and things when I was really little but I started a few years ago just as a hobby cause a lot of people were telling me I have a good look for it. I just basically posted a profile on Model Mayhem and immediately starting booking shoots and shows.

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

If modeling could get me into the movie industry that’d be amazing but other than that I’m really hoping to get my foot in the door with my art. Maybe do character designs for Disney and Pixar or work on comics or video games. Being a paid professional cosplayer who regularly attends conventions would be pretty amazing also!

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

My modeling varies from infrequently to booking shoots and events several times a week. I mainly do photo-shoots but I get called for local fashion shows and video shoots. I’ve done some fashion, art, glamour, editorial, and a lot of the shoots I’ve been to are the kind of “supply your own stuff” so I supply the clothes and I usually do my own hair and makeup also.

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

I haven’t had a lot of really bad experiences to be honest. I did work with a really amazing photographer from New York who ended up never giving me pictures from our shoot. I was very heartbroken about it because we basically spent all day on this shoot and we were both so excited about the outcome of the shots.

Anashi behind the scenes PCIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

You know, some of the most insecure people I know are models and I don’t think it’s a coincidence. There’s this image that we have to look a certain way, be a certain weight and it’s not healthy and so many of the people that I’ve met and worked with are so beautiful and they still are pouring over their flaws and obsessing over how they could fix them. It’s always good to strive to be better and be the best that you can be but you should never do it to an unhealthy extent…

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 not much of a sport person, never have been but I’ve always been very active. I try to go to the gym 4 to 6 days a week and while I’m there I always do weight lifting and at least some cardio. I always change it up though. As for what I eat, I don’t eat much meat but I do indulge in sushi, mainly raw salmon and I do eat eggs. Other than that it’s a lot of veggies and rice, quinoa, basically I try to eat as healthy as I can but I do drink loads of coffee haha.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think there’s things all of us don’t like about ourselves and honestly sure I could say I wish I had a smaller nose or a less round face but these things make me a unique looking person. As far as personality goes I’m a bit of a procrastinator and I do get moody from time to time… I’ve always wanted to be one of those girls that people say “she’s so sweet” but I’m stuck with my resting bitch face and my sarcastic humor.

How do you think you are most likely to die?

I’d really love to say that if I die I’d like to die doing something exciting but I think in all actuality, when I die it’ll be something really stupid and my last thought will be “wow, I can’t believe this is happening” or “well that didn’t work out as planned” haha.

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Interview with Kim Stephenson — Mom, supervisor, and part-time model

Kim Stephenson is a 24-year old model residing in Moline, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Portales, New Mexico in 1990. I have lived all across the United States and have finally settled in the Quad Cities, Illinois.

I am a Module Leader, or production supervisor, at John Deere Harvester Works, which takes up a great deal of my time. I am also a full time single mother to an almost 3-year old named Keegan. He is absolutely wonderful and the most important thing in my life.

I also have a boyfriend, Rodney, who is an amazing father figure to my son. My son loves him every bit as much as me and for good reason.

In my spare time, I love to crochet, ride 4 wheelers, garden, camp -specifically old fashioned tent camping, sleeping on the ground-, and do landscaping on my house. I’d consider myself more of a tomboy with a girlish exterior and I wouldn’t have it any other way, I prefer the small town living where families are close and know all of their neighbors.

Kim Stephenson modeling a dotted dressWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling in 2010. I had always been interested in the modeling industry, but as someone who lives in a small town with not much exposure, I never knew how to get involved.

One day, a photographer that had worked with a friend of mine sent me a message on social media and loved my simple, yet intriguing, look; he wanted to have a shoot with me to add to his portfolio. I shot with him one time and got some fantastic shots, despite being very nervous with it being my first time. I then began networking online and that is when I was able to branch out, rather quickly: I got much more comfortable in shoots with more practice and developed a wide range of photos for my portfolio.

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

First and foremost, I would like to be the best mother possible for my son. He is the biggest blessing I could ever imagine and I want to give him the same happy, fun-filled life that he gives me every day.

I am very proud of where I have come in my full-time job. I am, to my knowledge, the youngest person to become a production supervisor where I work. It is definitely not an easy job and requires a great deal of overtime. However, despite my accomplishment there, I secretly wish I could get more exposure and support my family with a modeling career. I thoroughly enjoy modeling and wish I had the ability to do it more often.

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

I used to model very often, but it has become a little more difficult with my work schedule. I have primarily done photo-shoots, although I have done some catwalks and acting. Most of what I have done is commercial modeling, but I have also done fashion, art with a lot of shadow play, and promotional.

Kim Stephenson modeling a white miniskirtPlease tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Thankfully, I haven’t had too many bad modeling experiences so I can’t necessarily name a “worst” experience. My best modeling experiences were definitely live performances I did for promotional reasons. I was hired to model for GoDaddy.com where myself and three other models dressed up as show girls and took photos with the guests at their Christmas party and got to walk around socializing with everyone. We then walked the president of the company out on a throne and introduced him to the crowd before he performed a speech for the employees. That event was featured in the Cedar Rapids Gazette.

Another great experience I had was modeling at a New Year’s party in Bettendorf, Iowa, where three other girls and myself dressed up as “disco ninjas” and interacted with the guests at the party. We could not speak, but we were required to move in cat-like movements and the costumes covered everything except our eyes. We were able to let loose and just enjoy ourselves dancing with the guests and rang in the new year with everyone there. It was a blast.

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

One experience I remember was a photo-shoot in St. Louis where a group of us stopped traffic in The Loop doing a catwalk on the side walk. The drivers all stopped traffic and let us use the middle of the road to showcase a new designer’s clothing; I never expected to be walking down the middle of a busy road in St. Louis, stopping traffic.

Kim Stephenson face closeup on a streetIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I wish the industry was more accepting to the small town “girl next door”, since it is so much more difficult to become as successful as a glamour or fashion model than someone of average height who doesn’t exude the high fashion look with every step. I create just as many great images as someone five inches taller and have just as much, if not considerably more, fun in the process.

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 big runner, I always have been and always will be; I love to take long runs listening to music and just escape reality, and I do eat healthy during the day, however I do have a tendency to cook southern comfort meals for dinner which are a little less healthy.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Most people, unless they interact with me on a daily basis, do not know that I am extremely obsessive compulsive. I am a perfectionist, but I also have odd habits that I have never been able to break: I cannot fall asleep at night if the clock on my night stand is not on a multiple of five when I close my eyes, my brain won’t allow it. I also cannot have the radio volume in my car on an odd number, it has to be even.

Would you change anything about yourself?

My calf muscles, because they have always been larger than what I would consider average because of my running background and also my experience in high school participating in marching band. I think they’re the first muscle to start getting larger with physical exercise for me and I have always been self conscious of them.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Most people find it weird, but I am extremely afraid of nutcrackers, the standing ones you see in stores around Christmas; I cannot walk down an aisle in a store if it has nutcrackers in it. My parents were unaware of this fear and bought a 3ft tall one to set out at Christmas time and my sister terrorized me almost daily once she found out until my parents finally got rid of it.

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Interview with Miranda Wright — Fine art nude model

Miranda Wright is a 24-year old model residing in Chicago, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Weirdo with a hot mind. Born in Chicago on the south side of the city…

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

I have been involved with modeling ever since I was a child. When my parents were still together we used to live in a basement apartment across the street from Washington Park. I barely remember going outside but I do remember the times in that tiny apartment where I would walk back and forth across the floor, twirling and twisting. Every now and then, I would ask my mom could I take ballet classes. She would say “if I had the money I would.” I would go on and continue walking until my feet got tired or she yelled at me to “sit down and stop all that walking!”

Miranda Wright on a paintingWhat are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

Currently I am working on my first figure drawing art book for artists. I would also like to make that cross over into doing fine art nudes similar to Volo Magazine. It is my goal to establish myself as a fine art model here in Chicago and move to California where I believe my look is more attractive to photographers and artists. From there I would like to join an agency where they can help me perfect my craft as a visual artist and model.

In the next five years, I see myself in California working with art and being around artists who are taking their careers seriously because they have a true passion for what they do.

If I could meet someone who understands fine art and doesn’t mind me posing nude, we would be very good companions because I am open minded and a very good listener. I just hope that who ever he is he helps me feel less weird and comfortable enough to show him who I really am.

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

I model on a monthly basis but I am always shooting because I have a blog of my own that I use to help other models find affordable clothing and give them tips on modeling. My focus is on fine art so I mainly pose nude for artists throughout Chicago and its suburbs. I get booked for drawing classes, open studio, costumed sessions as well as artists who are working on specific projects.

Every year, I work as a freelance visual merchandisor where I am asked to help set-up on one day and then model the garments the next. The convention takes place at the Merchandise Mart and gives me another modeling job for the year.

Miranda Wright face closeupPlease tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

I had the absolute worst experiences as a fashion model. Before I made the cross-over into fine art, I made an attempt to be a fashion model without doing the proper research; starting out at 19, I still struggled with self-esteem issues that aided in me getting taking advantage of. When people know you’re good they will find a way to get near you but a good person and bad people do not mix no matter how sweet you want to be.

I don’t want to name the people because they’re too many, I just want to mention that there are lots of women in Chicago who are doing local fashion shows and have to promote the fashion show and sell tickets as compensation. I remember doing more than one photo shoot and fashion show and not receiving a photo. Just thinking about all the time I wasted modeling for people at some show where there are only 3 designers and not enough clothes for the models or they ask you to bring the clothes!

Yes, people would clap for me as I twirled down the runway and give me confidence to keep going but I was not going anywhere professionally in my modeling career and I literally had to cut ties with those people.

Everything changed when I started researching jobs that I could do: Posing always came natural to me but it was hard to show that to a photographer when you’re still struggling with self-identity issues. Working with a local photographer aided in helping build my confidence. One day I came to shoot and said I am ready to do nudes! The photographer describes the experience as watching a butterfly leave its cocoon.

After submitting my info to one of the oldest fine art organizations in Chicago, I received an email from a monitor 2 weeks later! I had my first session as a fine art model in November of 2013, I do not know where I would be if I wasn’t posing nude.

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

One time, when I got up from sitting in a pose, an artist joked and asked “Did you blink, Miranda.” I laughed and said yeah.

Miranda Wright nudeIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

Like every other industry, I do not like that we have to constantly compare ourselves; I do not a have a problem knowing that I may never grace the cover of Vogue because I have accepted what I can do. Yet, I do not like seeing models who are really reality characters get picked over models who are professional and deserve it more. Modeling is a hard job that gets glorified but people do not realize the discipline it takes to be a “subject” and have to transform yourself constantly yet remain true to yourself. I understand that celebrities are great for advertising but models are models because they know how to model.

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

Kickboxing OnDemand, pilates and plenty of squats and green tea; the only thing I do consistently is drink green tea every morning. I watch my portion sizes and stay away from pork because it is hard for me to digest.

If I did not exercise on a regular basis, artists would not pick me because I am not strong enough to hold the poses. I also eat fruit and vegetables every week and get plenty of sleep.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I can rap.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could fast forward to see how things turn out then yes. Otherwise, no I am who I am supposed to be

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

Writing has always been a passion of mine, and few people know that I can rap. If I only had 24 hours left, I would create a mix tape of my experiences thus far and leave behind an album of my life to share.

Visit Miranda Wright’s website for more photos and information

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Interview with Kiri Ann Fischer

Kiri Ann Fischer is a 21-year old model residing in Saint Charles, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I grew in up in Illinois, I’ve moved twice in my life, but have always called home the Chicagoland suburbs. My family is very tight-knit, and they are the most important thing in the world to me. My hobbies include running, going to the gym, listening to music, going to concerts, spending time with my family and boyfriend, driving, writing, and reading. As far as modeling goes, I would love to continue to branch out and shoot new things, as well as get new viewers and collaborators. Outside of modeling, I do work a full time job and live a pretty normal life.

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

I first got involved in the modeling industry when I was 16 years old, and I immediately fell in love with it. When I was younger, I loved ballet and ice skating and just getting dolled up, in general; It is something that has carried with me throughout my life, and having the outlet to model and express myself in various ways is therapeutic, as well as a huge part of who I am. I started with doing photoshoots with friends who wanted to do photography, as well as establishing a few photographers as my go-to’s, that I would shoot with on a monthly basis. From there, it branched out to collaborating with various talented photographers, makeup artists, wardrobe designers and stylists, and companies.

Kiri Ann Fischer modeling a black mini skirtWhat are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

The goal is to keep growing, on a personal and a professional basis, with myself, with my personal goals, as well as with my career and career goals. I will probably model throughout the rest of my life, in some aspect; I want to see new places, shoot with more people, and be a part of many different projects. I would ultimately love to be involved in more pin up and tattoo-oriented magazines, publications, and clothing lines, as it is what I take the most personal interest in, as far as genres go.

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

It depends on what else is going on in my life at that time, I was modeling about 2 to 3 gigs per week my first year of college, but it had a negative impact on my grades so I began to lay low until summer. After I graduated, I did gigs here and there, but became very selective; now, I typically do one to two gigs, including shoot, audition, and others, per week, and I am looking to increase my work load, as my day job is much more stable and offers more freedom. I love to do it all- runway, promo, pin up, fashion, art, alt, commercial, glamour, beauty, and sports- I do not box myself in at all.

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

The best experiences would include doing Playboy events. They were so much fun, I met a lot of cool people, and even made good friends throughout it. They also spoiled us so generously; runway shows are great because having my family come out and support me is one of the greatest feelings in the world, plus I love the theatrics of it.

The worst experiences would include creepy stuff, like some girls taking my bio or resume and trying to claim it as their own, or someone impersonating me online. Stalking and inappropriate propositioning are on the worst list, as well.

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

I’ve gotten some awesome stuff over the years, like a company who offered to create a comic book after me. It was really, really flattering and I have a couple prints of it at home.

Kiri Ann Fischer in a garden wearing jeansIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

I would change the negative aspects of it- both interior and exterior, for example, the sickness it could cause from the pressure to achieve a certain image. Beauty standards only exist if you chose to follow them, for me personally, I like who I am and what I stand for too much to allow myself to go down that path anymore. I also wish there was a way to eliminate non-legitimate people in the industry.

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

Yes, I love sports! I workout about 5 days per week: I love to run, and I do a lot of cardio, although I do strength train here and there. Skating, yoga, and any sort physical activity I can possibly pack into my week, I’m always game for. As far as nutrition, I’ve been a vegetarian for eight years and I try to incorporate lots of fresh fruits and vegetables into my day. I drink a lot of water. If I splurge, it’s on pizza or whiskey. Health and wellness is incredibly important to me, as a whole however.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Some interesting things that people probably do not know about me is that I have generalized anxiety disorder, I want to travel a lot, I’ve probably worked every job you could imagine at some point, and Tim Beidron is my dream tattoo artist, maybe he will see this and hook me up with some nice ink?.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would not change a thing about who I am, because it has brought me to the point in my life where I am today, and I am very content with that. I am incredibly lucky to be where I am at this point in my life, with the people I have, and all of the beautiful experiences I have. I am extremely thankful for that, and I am more excited for the future now, than I have ever been in my whole life.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

Exercise, I’m generally pretty introverted so I prefer solo workouts. Other than that, probably sing and nerd out to music in my car.

Visit Kiri Ann Fischer’s website for more photos and information

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Interview with Brittany Mason — Visionary Model Creative Director Writer

Brittany Mason is a model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Brittany Mason, I was born in Detroit, MI but raised in a small farm town by the name of Anderson, IN. I am an artist at the core, I enjoy painting, writing, traveling, photography, among many other things and I have luckily been able to allow some of those interests in to influencing my career as a model and creative brand consultant. I do everything from writing product reviews on my blog www.brittanymason.com, come up with the concept, direct, and shoot short viral videos for products and causes, for example this Prostate Cancer Awareness video, run my anti bullying charity iampossible.us, oh and I also model and act… you can find some of my acting work at IMDB.

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

At the age of 16 my life changed within a matter of months. I signed with my first modeling agency and moved to NYC from Indiana to pursue my dream career as a fashion model. Shortly after signing my first modeling contract as a teen, I entered a local beauty competition that led me to capture the national title of Teen Model of the USA, for the World Beauty Organization. At the internationally televised competition Teen Model of the World, I competed against top models from around the globe, and out of 52 countries vying to be named the most beautiful woman in the world, I placed 2nd. In 2008 I was crowned Miss Indiana USA, for Donald Trump’s Miss Universe Organization placing 7th at Miss USA.

Brittany Mason showing her bellyWhat are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

5 to 10 years from now I see my charity iampossible.us growing tremendously, the merchandise that I am designing for it right now, BMOXIE also growing into it’s own brand, my acting and modeling career becoming more mainstream, and I also hope by this time I will be juggling my career and a family.

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

It’s funny, the modeling industry has changed tremendously in the last 10 years, and I have been doing it for a long time!; how I have still stayed in the game is by evolving with the industry, models are no longer just models anymore. You can see that social media has changed the world entirely; you have to be more of a personality, clients are cutting out the agencies and going directly to models on social media, everyone in the industry is sort of trying to find their place again as things are changing so quickly. This is why I have become more of a brand consultant: I come up with creative concepts for brands to help them promote their products, I write reviews about these products, I have the ability to create several different types of content for those brands, and I can still model for those brands as well; I am much more than just a “face” for brands, I can help them develop catchy creative concepts to help them truly be memorable to consumers.

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

This is really a tough question to answer… modeling has allowed me to create an incredible life for myself, a life where I have been able to travel the world, work with some very influential people that I have always admired, and I have had some amazing and unique experiences that I otherwise would have never been exposed to. It has truly opened my eyes and my mind to other people and cultures, and I am eternally grateful for the opportunities I have had, but with that said, I have also seen the ugly side to the industry: modeling is unfortunately one of the most unregulated industries out there, and so many young people want to be part of it.

We live in a culture where everyone wants to be famous and will do anything to get there, but unfortunately there are people in the industry or even fakes for that matter that prey on young people and their dreams; I absolutely encountered this early on, but I encourage anyone considering to be part of this industry to look up The Model Alliance Organization, they work diligently for better working rights for models and can connect models with resources and help for various issues in the industry.

Brittany Mason wearing mini skirt and jean topIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

Improved labor rights, more financial transparency, and for everyone to realize that there must be a line drawn between “art” and sexual abuse. Please visit Model Alliance’s website to see the efforts that are being made to improve the industry.

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

I love being active! You can check out my workout routine on my blog http://brittanymason.com/blog. I love hot yoga, kickboxing, and hiking, and I try to eat clean, organic, and fresh food.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

At the core I am an artist: This comes out in many different areas of my life, from photography, painting, sketching, designing… I love to tell beautiful stories and express them in different ways. Even if it is not your typical “beauty” standard, to me self expression is what is most beautiful to me, I love helping others achieve their dreams; I always root for the underdog, there is something about watching a person dig deep within themselves to find strength to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams. I relate to this and so iampossible.us means a lot to me!

Would you change anything about yourself?

Maybe be more efficient with time, I juggle a lot but I always feel like I am not getting enough done! I try to be superwoman! Other than that… nothing. I feel it is important to embrace your imperfections and love yourself; you must love yourself first, everything else flows through you and it will influence how effective you are with what you do. If you love yourself and take care of yourself, everything else will align.

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

Oh my… that is tough! I would try to reflect and spend as much time with the people that I love! I would record my last 24 hours and try to complete everything I have left on my life list… I would try to share with the world what I have learned about life. Enjoying the little things and moments with the people I love, those little things in the end are what is really important. Those are what makes life worth living.

Visit Brittany Mason’s website for more photos and information

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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

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Interview with Karishma — I am not perfect but I feel perfect

Karishma is a 24-year old model residing in Des Plaines, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Chicago Illinois, moved to Texas for 13 years, and came back to the place I always felt had my heart. My family means the world to me, parents are the only ones that devote as much unconditional love as anyone possibly can and that is the thing I am most grateful for. I am a part time student studying Business as well as working at a hotel on Tuesdays, where I get paid to do homework as well as a Limo driver. I also work as a promotional model and traveling brand ambassador. Traveling is my life and if I get paid to travel, that is perfect. I utilize my time very wisely, trying to make money while doing what I love as well as weaving a safety net, in other words, school.

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

In high school I struggled through bullying, leading to extreme self consciousness and self criticizing thoughts which lead to awkward relationships with people, resulting in the further decomposition of my confidence and my life. Although I was not confident, there was one place I felt confident, and that was in front of the camera.

Although I was told repeatedly I would never be good enough by my peers, I did it, and this persistence is now making me great side income.

Through years of finding who I am, rebuilding my confidence, and realizing that the series of unfortunate events made me stronger as a person and more compassionate towards others, I am who I am today, and I am so thankful for it. Modeling has given me the ability to have a little bit of confidence, which I used and grew throughout my life, helping me succeed in other aspects of my journey in life. I believe confidence is attractive, ego is not.

Karishma next to a water fountainWhat are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My personal goals include being able to sharpen my skill sets to not just work, but to live life how I want while making money to support my love for traveling.
Within the next 5 to ten years I see myself traveling the world, making interpersonal connections, making money and investments to fulfill the first four needs on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, eventually being able to fulfill that equilibrium in life, complete Self actualization. I am not just trying to be a model, but a role model.

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

I do modeling whenever my schedule permits and it consists of getting paid to do what I love. I couldn’t ask for more. I do photo shoots, video, working on acting, catwalks -If they allow for models under 5’7- and all sorts of modeling including Art, Editorial, Fashion, Fitness, Glamour, Hair and Makeup, Lifestyle, Parts Modeling, Pinup, Promotional Modeling, Runway, Spokesperson and Host, Sports, Stunt, Underwater.

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

Best: Being able to travel for work as a promotional model as well as being able to work for a good cause -Breast cancer awareness calendar for Harley Davidson for the 3rd year-.
Worst: Creepy and borderline unprofessional photographers when I first started modeling. But I can pretty much weed them out right about now.

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

Lots of things. Every gig has a story, not just mine, but the brands as well, which I like learning about when I do model for them. Networking is key.

Karishma modeling a necklace and black blouseIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

Yes, I would promote models of all different shapes and sizes and encourage women to love themselves more and not have unrealistic expectations for themselves.

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

I like to work out as well as yoga and meditation. I personally have been very thin all my life naturally and I’ve always wanted to gain weight. But eating healthy and working out the right way according to my body’s goals, which is strength training in my case- I can improve my physical appearance and wellness. The mind, body, and soul is all important to me, resulting in that perfect equilibrium in my life.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m pretty much an open book, I love learning about myself and have people learn from my experiences.

One thing some people may not know is I think very deeply. I used to think it was a curse to think too much and feel so deeply about things. But I take it as a curse and a blessing. With yin there’s yang and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

24 and still trying to better myself. 74 and I’ll be doing the same. Accept what you can’t change. But be willing to take constructive criticism to change what you can. Self improvement is the name of the game

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

On the rocks… at the beach.

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Interview with K. Reed — Business Yogi Model Wildwoman

K. Reed is a 25-year old model residing in Atlanta, Georgia

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

As a childhood dancer, Kelsey Reed has always felt best when in tune with her body and mind. After a few failed high school attempts with yoga, Reed found her love for the practice in college during her parents divorce, heartbreak, and family addiction. Since 2009, Reed has been an active yoga practitioner and in 2012, she received her RYT-250 hour training from Asheville Community Yoga Center.

Yoga has taught her to be aware of her breath in any situation, for it is her compass home. When breathing through life, she can accept and activate all Infinite awareness that is channeled through her. Since earning her degree in Health and Wellness Promotion from UNC Asheville, she has dedicated her life to sharing this practice with the world to improve and motivate the health and growth of others. In finding yoga, she has found a shared bliss that transcends the unconscious to consciousness.

K. Reed next to a treeWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I first started modeling in 2012 in Asheville, North Carolina. I knew a local photographer there and after our first photo shoot she told me that I should really try and get into the industry, so that’s what I did – connected with other local photographers and began to build my portfolio. Eventually, people started contacting me to shoot! Now, I also incorporate my yoga business into my photos as well.

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

* Owning my own yoga studio
* Professional yoga model
* Traveling the world for retreats
* Innercise Yoga, LLC, the name of my business, is internationally recognized as a new branch of Yoga

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

I mostly am experienced in photoshoot – of all kinds. I model every few weeks.

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

The worst is when a male photographer is creepy, or asks you to take nude photos when you have already let them know that is not part of the deal. The best is when I can laugh, have fun, and make real collaborative art with a photographer.

K. Reed face closeupHave you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Not really.

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

The body type! I am very petite, and it’s silly that I can’t make a career from modeling just because of size. I don’t show short in photos if shot right at all, I am very proportional.

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

Yoga and a little running are my forms of exercise. I am a yoga teacher, so I practice almost every day. I eat mostly a plant-based diet and I am a total health-nut so diet and exercise are extremely important to me.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m an introvert, I just play a really good extrovert.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No. I’ve come a long way into accepting myself how I am, and I’m sticking with that!

What is your guilty pleasure?

A nice joint!

Visit K. Reed’s website for more photos and information

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Interview with Briana a.k.a. The Lady Nerd — Action Model and Sometimes Superhero

Briana a.k.a. The Lady Nerd is a 26-year old model residing in Atlanta, Georgia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Originally from Nashville, I decided to make the move a few years ago to the professed geek capitol of the USA – Atlanta, which also happens to be where the majority of Hollywood seems to be moving these days. My day job is drawing as a storyboard artist and costume illustrator for film, TV, and commercials. So the move has been a perfect fit for both my career and my hobbies.

Folks who know me around here know me as “The Lady Nerd”. I currently run a blog and Facebook page by that name which showcase my jobs and hobbies; those two overlap so it can be hard to tell which one is a job and which one is a hobby. But that list includes art, modeling, costuming, hooping, and blogging.

Briana face closeup with pink painted faceWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I came very quietly and innocently onto the scene. Taking the advice of friends and strangers that said due to my height and weight, I should check out modeling. It was a life-changing decision as, at the time, I was very much the scraggly tomboy. It seemed there wasn’t a feminine bone in my body, so the idea of putting on gowns was quite foreign to my teenage brain. But eventually, I came around. Modeling has helped shape who I am today with my love for fashion and all things couture.

But it was not an easy road. In fact, one could argue that I still haven’t “made it”. It took a few years to be signed with an agency and sadly, I wasn’t given much in the way of chances for auditions, castings, or jobs. Most of my work comes from working directly with photographers and the odd Model Mayhem casting. But I sincerely love what I do and the creativity that comes from direct collaborations.

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

Currently, I am working hard on developing “The Lady Nerd” into a personal brand, much like famed fashion bloggers or famous cosplayers, that would allow me to collaborate with designers, fashion houses, gaming companies, entertainment or production hubs, and other creatives while bridging the gap between the fashion world and geekdom.

When I started modeling, costuming wasn’t even on my mind. I would never have thought that I would’ve glided right into this wonderful world of cosplay. I’m relishing in it at the moment, as I’ve been a major geek my whole life. It’s fun, invigorating, and so creative to be able to bring the same level of quality that normally is reserved for fashion magazines to the geek world of costuming. I plan to do a lot more with it!

As far as where I see myself in the next 5 to 10 years, I prefer to keep that a blank page and enjoy what comes!

Briana modeling a long green dressHow often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I am primarily a photoshoot model, doing haute couture whenever possible. Sadly, I’m not modeling nearly as much as I would like, for various reasons. But I hope that will change soon. I’m taking matters into my own hands to build a name for myself rather than waiting for an agency to do it for me. But when I do work, I am known in Nashville and Atlanta as “the action model”. Due to my background in martial arts, fencing, and dance, I push past normal posing to incorporate a lot of movement. Whether that’s jumping for 8 hours straight on a trampoline or running up rocks or flinging myself into freezing river water to get “the shot”, I’ll do it!

I’m also a cosplayer and costumer and do quite a few shoots surrounding that. I tend to be one of the few model-to-cosplayer types, so I like being able to not only give local photographers something different to shoot, but also help teach other cosplayers how to pose to best flatter their body and show off their costume. I find it to be a much more encouraging community as unfortunately, my experience with modeling and fashion has been rather cutthroat.

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

Frustrations have abounded with this job, sadly. I’ve been signed to multiple agencies only to get passed over for work, rarely sent out on castings, or called for jobs. It’s been nigh impossible to get signed in Atlanta, despite my portfolio, due to being just outside the height extreme measurement range of modern modeling. Consider this: You’d think at 5’8″, size 0, and a 27 year-old who looks 18 wouldn’t be a problem…

Best Experience: Showing up as a normal attendee for New Zealand Fashion Week while I was living there only to be pulled aside by a local brand who loved my look and ended up hiring me to model for them for the entire Fashion Week!

Worst Experience: At a runway show, I overheard someone, either a designer or manager, scolding another model for not being the size she said on her comp card. He pointed to a model that was walking by, “You see that? Your hips need to be THAT size!” Only it was a male model he was pointing out….the poor model was crying and she ended up leaving the show. That plus years of being measured within a 1/2 inches of my body gave me quite a complex of bad self-image which I’ve only recently come to terms with.

Briana showing her scar from car accidentHave you had anything funny, embarrassing or completely out of the ordinary happen during your modeling career?

Oh man, I’ve done so many shoots, it’s hard to pick one thing….probably the most interesting thing I’ve done was a promotional costume and modeling shoot for the fantasy book series, Allon. The character that I was portraying has a wolf friend and I got the privilege of working with a real timber wolf for the shoot. Thankfully, due to my love of wolves and studying how to work with them when I was younger, I knew how to handle the wolf on set. We called her the “Kiss and Run” as the poor girl was skittish at first, as most wolves are, so she would come smell me for a second, lick my face and then run. This went on for about 30 minutes til she got to know me. Then once the shoot started, she’d jump all over me and let me roll around with her on the ground. Truly an amazing experience!

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

There’s quite a few things, but the main one I’ll focus on is the desire and push for extreme measurements. I’ve been told repeatedly over the last few years that at 5’8″, long waisted, and size 0, sometimes 00, and 27 years-old, I will never be a pro as many girls being hired are 5’10”, long legged, size 00, and 14; no joke! That was the mainstay of my last agency’s hires. It gives girls an almost impossible ideal to maintain. They’re only used for a season in the industry’s obsession with youth and then cast away for the next new thing. I know some brands are trying to change this, but it’s not happening enough. The ideal is still extremely tall, extremely thin, and extremely young.

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

Currently, my diet and exercise has taken a hard hit from a bad car accident I was in in August that shattered my pelvis in 3 places and landed me with a nasty concussion. So I’m working on trying to get back up to normal function. So far so good! I’m back up to light running.

Normally, my diet ranges from healthy, Asian-style dishes with lean proteins and rice to the unfortunate junk food garbage due to my on-the-go lifestyle with working in film.

Exercise-wise, I do a little bit of everything – from yoga to northern style shaolin kung fu to swing dancing to swimming: Mermaiding! Oh yes, I’m getting my own tail this year; to hula hooping, which is my favourite!. I’ve never been much of a gym-goer as I need something to distract my mind in order to exercise. So I exercise both my body and brain equally.

Briana modeling long dress and gothic makeupPlease share something people don’t know about you.

Most people don’t know that I was training and on course to be one of the few US female fighter pilots back in High School. Alas, the Air Force doesn’t really take half-deaf pilots… that’s another not-well-known fact, I’m completely deaf in my left ear.

Would you change anything about yourself?

While I could fill up a list on things I would like to be different, I’ve reached a place where I’m very much okay with the person I am. I fought to become her.

Besides that, it’s really just the typical, “need to be more disciplined in exercising daily” and “need to get my teeth fixed”. The rest is a new experience to grow every day.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I’ve always wanted to be able to fly. Whether that was as a fighter pilot or like a bird with my own body. I’m currently working on a harness design for a large pair of costume wings, so even if I can’t actually fly, I can still look the part!

Flying gives equal senses of excitement and peace. There is a calmness in being able to soar above the clouds, away from it all, overlooking the world below. But also a sense of power and adventure from the speed, the turns, the nosedives… and seriously, who wouldn’t want wings?! A rhetorical question, I know. But I certainly would!

Visit Briana (also known as The Lady Nerd)’s website for more photos and information

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