Blog Archives

Jan 06 2015

Interview with Julia Piper — Service Member and Model

Julia Piper is a 22-year old model residing in New Haven, Connecticut.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Julia. I’m originally from a small shoreline town in CT. I studied history at Eastern Connecticut State University for several years but left to explore opportunities working with nonprofits in the New Haven area. Social justice is a passion of mine. I come from a very large, crazy, and supportive family where I have three brothers and three sisters and I felt like this was the right move for me.

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

I first got involved with modeling when I was sixteen. I was scouted by a Boston modeling agent at the Providence Mall and signed with them. I was pretty involved with sports in high school including: cheerleading, lacrosse and paintball so my schedule didn’t really allow for me to do much traveling. When I went to college I put modeling on hold. I recently had some life changes this past summer and decided that I wanted to get back into things, so I’ve only been back working for about eight months now. I just love making art.

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

I would like to continue my work in the nonprofit sector. Modeling is also something that I am very passionate about and maybe somewhere down the line I’ll be able to find a happy harmony.

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

This past summer I was booking between one to two jobs a week. It’s a little harder now because I work 50 to 60 hours a week. My schedule will change again in June so I’d like to spend as much time as I can modeling then. I’ve done video and commercial, but my main passion lies in crazy high fashion type shoots. I love doing the crazy hair and make-up and just playing pretend for a little while. I like feeling like I’m helping to create art when I model. I love art, and I love being able to be a part of it.

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

You always get a few strange requests from people. My advice to young women would be to know what your boundaries are when going into a job and don’t be afraid to just say “no”. Always bring a chaperon with you and if a photographer pulls underwear out of their trunk you do not need to wear them -even if it is a paid shoot-! Haha, that was probably one of the weirdest things that’s happened to me. I have no problems saying “no” though. I respect myself, and I respect modeling as an art form, and sketchy trunk underwear are just a NO.

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

There was one time a photographer was upset because I wasn’t being “sexy Heidi Klum” enough. I was like; that woman is gorgeous and has a killer body and wayyyyyy more experience than me. He kept saying “sexy Heidi Klum” and it was freezing and I was slipping off a rock and it was so awkward. I don’t do sexy. It’s just not my look and he had seen my portfolio. I brought a friend as a chaperon and she just kept laughing. He was a little over the top.

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

I think the industry is making some great strides right now all on its own. I just think that it’s very important for young people to realize that there is a lot of work that goes into these pictures and unlike Beyonce I think that most of us do not wake-up like this. There are hours of hair, make-up and editing that go into most of these photos. At my 9 thru 5 job I’m lucky if I have time to remember the mascara.

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 terrible at this. I try to eat healthy but since I work so much I found that I had been ordering food out way too much. I recently got back in to my old routine though. I do a shake for breakfast, salad for lunch, and I mix up dinner. I throw in some vitamin enhanced water throughout the day. I don’t punish myself though. Wings are my favorite food, any of my friend will tell you that. If I slip up it’s not the end of the world. Life is short and should be enjoyed. As long as there’s balance it’s okay. I also walk 30 minutes to and from work a day. I hardly ever drive and I even walk to the grocery store. I used to spend a lot of time in the gym, but my schedule is kind of crazy right now. I try to eat right and walk when I can and so far I’ve been able to maintain myself. I try to jog a few miles every now and then, too.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am absolutely terrified of birds that can fly. Most people wouldn’t think this because I volunteer at an aquarium working with penguins. It’s only the ones that fly that freak me out. If there are birds on the side walk I will cross the street. Especially crows!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I have a gap between my two front teeth. All throughout my childhood I would try to think of ways to close it. I would take the rubber bands that my friends used on their braces and try to get my gap to close together. I begged my parents for braces and got made fun of from time to time. I wouldn’t smile with my mouth open. I was told that when I got my wisdom teeth it would close… I waited and waited for that day. Turns out I only have one wisdom tooth and that did nothing. My junior year of college I had the opportunity to get Invisalign to close it. I almost went through with it. Even the dental assistant told me how pretty it would look. How dumb is that? I have younger sisters though and I am always preaching about self-acceptance and confidence. How could I even think about doing something like that? How hypocritical would that be? Young people need to stop focusing on potential physical “flaws” and see the big picture. These things are what make us individuals. Today, I am so happy that I didn’t close my gap, I always smile with my mouth open now when my friends point a camera at me now.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I really really wish that I knew how to sing. Sometimes when I’m drinking with friends I think that I can. I can’t. On rare occasions we’ll wander over to our local karaoke bar. It’s bad. I’ve seen the videos. It’d be way cooler if I could belt it out like Mariah.

Dec 23 2014

Interview with Roxey Mcloo — Jack of all trades master of some?

Roxey Mcloo is a 24-year old model residing in Blanquillo, Durazno, Uruguay.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a native Colorado pup born in Boulder Colorado, I’m half mutt, a 1/4 Slovak, and got some french and chitimatcha in me. I always wanted to be knowledgeable about something the way my big bro knows all about cars and mechanics. My dad is an amazing nobody from Kansas, who never graduated college and lived life as an artist and VW mechanic, my mom is a High School dropout from Fairview high who carved her way in the world despite accidentally becoming my mom when she was 19. She’s got huge saggy boobs and grows a dark mustache under nose naturally, which are two traits I’ve always been proud of and loved her for, because they make her uniquely her. My dad ended up becoming a dental assistant in the military and became very sick from Mercury poisoning, he’s been challenged by his health and ongoing shooting pains as long as I can remember, and therefore doesn’t get out much. He used to be an artist in Boulder until I came around.

I grew up dirt poor in a trailer with an outhouse and no running water in Cotopaxi, Co. I would totally do it again too! I had the great privilege of having my mom and father available to me, we couldn’t afford stuff, or food very well either, but generally always got by. I played Soccer for 8 years, became lazy and paunchy and soo friggin inflexible after I quit due to some chronic knee pain from an underdevelopment of my quads and lack of development in my Sartorious. I started to have really bad knee pain and quit soccer but not the athletic diet I had. I started dancing Argentine Tango when I was 15 about to be 16, I have a BS, I know ASL -American Sign Language- Spanish and some German; I teach Pole fitness, I have my cosmetology license, and I’ve always struggled with reading and comprehension, but I love math and am a totally movie buff, star trek geek, and I love to play video games!

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

A friend of a friend was modeling, back when I was 11 and had me go with her on a shoot, the photographer actually thought I was a total dud at first, then he took us back to the studio and became impressed with my expression of self as we got to raid his modeling closet of clothing. From there I always enjoyed being in front of the lens and slowly built my confidence in myself. I really had no concept of self image and was regularly surprised when any boy would take interest in me. I was used to being called a slut for having cartridge piercings in my ears, I wore boxers, baggy jeans and loose t-shirts, growing up. I’ve always had a knack for body language, and have always been involved in the arts, I am more of a drawer and a sketcher at heart and have found the new confidence in myself to peruse tattooing.

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

After trying to have children for three-ish years, I’ve shifted my focus and bought a puppydog for the 1st time and plan to continue my work with health and well being and inspire confidence in one’s own image and beauty, my husband and I are hoping to open a gym or life fitness center that shares our love and passion for life and well being. I’m an aspiring tattoo artist so I imagine that should pick up in 5 years as well. My newest endeavor is my work as a model and a hair make up artist for Nika P Photography. I plan to continue connecting with people and inspiring them to be their best. So performing for pole dancing, aerial silks, Argentine Tango, traveling, dancing, eating and meeting other fun loving quality of life enthusiasts.

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

As far as the modeling world goes I’m still a nobody, I mostly enjoy creating beauty, My husband is a photographer so I get spoiled with the opportunity to model for him, I haven’t done anything too main stream, thus far but am making my way athletically and do modeling more on the side, most the time it consists of studio creativity or on-site city walking around and using unique backgrounds, I love doing funky and old things as well.

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

Yeah, I’ve found there are a lot of egos in any of the Art worlds, and if I had the magical power of granting wishes, I would hope people would treat each other more respectfully, and not just to conclusion and be so attached to their assumptions of people, but I usually keep that to myself.

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 health and nutrition! It’s been an intellectual pursuit as well as an ongoing lifestyle. I don’t believe in quick fixes or dieting, I believe in healthy and thoughtful living, I do my best to be well and respect my food and the sources it comes from. I personally avoid cigarettes, and believe in feeling out what feels good for me to eat in the right moment, it’s always been a matter of common sense and forth coming effort to treating my body good. I regularly practice Bikram Yoga, I teach pole fitness and dance, as well as Argentine Tango and recently have connected with Awaken Gymnastics, I love dancing and moving and stretching.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have never been shit faced drunk. and I often enjoy awkward moments, umm also most people fail to notice I have freckle on my lip, like the pink part, not the ‘skin’ part, oh, and I love blueberries. Like Hard core.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Nothing really, and I say nothing simply because I believe in loving and accepting myself for where I’m at in life, and I fail miserably a lot of the time, but such is life right? just gotta keep trying and keep on keeping on, I always say expect the worst and hope for the best and be happy either way or do something about it rather then waste energy on complaining.

Have you ever gone without wearing underwear all day? Why & what did you do?

I did it yesterday, the breeze was great, I just might do it again.

Dec 14 2014

Interview with Model Max — From nothing to something

Model Max is a 24-year old model residing in Chicago, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

When I was four years old I was adopted from Russia because my parents were abusive and alcoholics. That was one of the best times of my life but it had led to one of the most heartbreaking goodbyes when I had decided to pursue my own choices and dreams of being a model. My family hadn’t agreed with my life and they hadn’t changed much because I had to watch my brother walk out of the door to live on the streets when he was 17. I was taught to always follow the rules and follow the family tree so for years I didn’t have a voice but once I realized how hard it was to have nothing I worked ten times harder to be somebody. I worked out day in and day out to lose weight and still I had felt that no one noticed, so I had an idea of becoming a model. Did I know what a model was or even did? No. But when I had stepped in front of the camera I had found myself. My own voice and my personality had come out. I felt as if that’s all I had and even have.

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

It’s been a year and a half since I started to model but I started on Craigslist and I had called professional photography places to ask and get a better understanding of what it takes to be a model and I still always felt as if something was missing. I never got answers there but then I started to join online contests and networking with others on social media. I met some great people along the way and have gotten to understand people. I fell in love with finding myself and the more I did it I lost and gained many relationships. I found out who was there and who wasn’t there for me. It’s an industry that will truly mold you into who you are.

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

My personal goal is to be the best person I can be by staying true to others. I will never lose my head or myself because of all the heartbreak. To this day I fight it and I plan on taking my humbleness the entire way. I’ve met people on the top and bottom and I must say that I had learned something from everybody including myself. These are personal but my professional goal is to become a fashion designer. I was blessed to have a second chance by being accepted into the Art Institute in Chicago so ten years from now I can see myself giving great opportunities to the misfortunate and all the people who deserve a chance to be someone.

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

Lately I’ve slowed down to focus on school. I shoot from time to time and I still workout but modeling is very spontaneous and you have to be patient so I’ve found a passion to only shoot for fashion and underwear modeling. If other opportunities came up I would still shoot but I love to shoot for a purpose.

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

My best experience in modeling was to be chosen as top 20 out of 400 nationwide for an international modeling calendar. Yes that sounds typical but my number one experience was to look back and see how far I’ve come physically and mentally because a year ago I did have my worst experience that had led me into almost giving up. I had an entire portfolio done by a famous designer in Chicago and in the end I hadn’t received a single photo. I was talked up and built up to only crash and burn in the end. I knew it was coming but I found the strength to get up and keep going. I never gave up and it had only led to me being stronger today.

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

Yes, I fell in love. I had met a very talented makeup artist and bodypainter that has completely changed my life around. She’s my strength that keeps me going daily. She had seen how far I’ve come and she’s done the same but I will say that among everything I’ve gained in my entire career, love is the best thing that I had gotten from it. A blessing that had come after my decision of not joining the military.

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

Yes. The stereotype of only having to be good looking and confident. It is a major plus but it takes away from all the people that truly don’t believe in themselves.

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

Greens, rice, and chicken is the ultimate diet. Bread is a no no and it’s crazy to know that most of this world has some of the worst foods for you. Fast food is a complete lie and if it could be changed so that everyone knows and understands that your health is the most important thing for you. It gives you a better mood and energy as well. Also my sport of choice is running. It’s not something you should do but it’s something that you should want to do because running is a mental sport that gives you the time to reminisce about you, your life, your gains and your struggles. It’s truly saved me to keep going and better, yet I’m staying healthy while I’m growing physically and mentally.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a writer. I love to write ️poetry; drawing and art has been a huge part of my childhood.

Would you change anything about yourself?

None of us are perfect but I wouldn’t change a thing about me. I am who I am today because I don’t put myself first and I accept myself to who I am.

What is a trait that everyone should have

Is to never give up on someone. We all make mistakes and forgiveness is one of the best qualities to have. We aren’t perfect people but we can teach each other to be better by standing for someone.

Dec 13 2014

Interview with Chrissy Neptune

Chrissy Neptune is a 25-year old model residing in Boulder, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Although I was both in Carlisle, PA, I was raised with my brother and sister in South Carolina by my -amazing- single mother. Any time…

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

I wanted to model at a young age, and had the benefit of a supportive mother. When I was in my pre-teens, I was able to participate in workshops and seminars in order to educate myself on “the business.” I ended up taking a break to work on theatre and music, and stumbled back into modeling by a happenstance when I was 22. I had a friend mention an opportunity to model for a local clothing company named Luna Claire, and after that shoot, I knew I would continue the journey.

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

My goal personally, is to create magic and beauty. I think the process of taking ideas and turning them into reality is pure magic, and I believe beauty is essential to a joyous life. I should clarify that I believe beauty is anything that carries sensation and engages the soul in the moment, so it is all defined individually, and not confined to visuals.
Professionally, I would like to focus on music more. Singing will always be my favorite thing in the world. In five years, I hope to have a full album recorded and on Spotify.

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

On average, I model once a week. This usually consists of photo-shoots for clothing catalogs and website promotions on a commercial level. I also love fashion and art photo-shoots, though those happen less frequently.

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

If I could change anything about the modeling industry, I would make things more organized overall. Last-minute cancellations, tardiness, or having little-to-no communication with your creative director can be fatiguing. You always want to be on the same page in order to get the best shots possible.

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

Every morning I stretch for 20 minutes, and try to be sure to do body-resistance exercises for at least 15 minutes per day. Otherwise, I walk and bike everywhere I go, weather and distance permitting.

When it comes to my diet, I am a grazer. Throughout the day, I will munch on trail mixes, veggies and hummus, or graham crackers and peanut butter if I am feeling sweet. Lunch usually consists of a veggie sandwich, and dinner almost always has a meat, mixed veggies, and rice or potatoes. My weakness is cheese though, especially sharp cheddar.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I was a janitor for college dorms for 4 months. It was surprisingly fun, albeit quite disgusting at times.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would change my feet. They aren’t bad looking, they just hurt all the time because of heel-spurs. I would love to be able to run without a grimace on my face. Internally, I would like to remove my insecurities. This is a process that I actively work on.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

If I could have any superpower, I would have a green thumb. The ability to heal and grow plants instantly would be the best I think. I could grow food or flowers, and heal trees and crops. I have a hard time finding a “downside” with this ability!

Visit Chrissy Neptune’s website for more photos and information

Dec 09 2014

Interview with Logan Westbrook — Petite Model:Think Tall, Dream Big

Logan Westbrook is a 19-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am the exact mix of my Puerto Rican father and Southern blonde hair blue eyed mother, born and raised in Denver, Colorado. As an only child I have been incredibly blessed with support from parents who have sacrificed almost everything time and time again to let me dream big and strive towards my goals. Learning to live with the alcoholism, depression, and bankrupcy that has plagued my parent’s marriage and at times our whole family, I put my passions and stresses into sports, music, horses, and eventually modeling as I grew up. I have grown up riding and training my own horse who is my forever companion through good times and bad, and singing all kinds of music.This has lead me to be able to sing for various charities, sports games, and events across the state and in other states as well.

When I was 7 I traded in my tae-kwon-do belts for a pair of figure skates and have been skating competitively ever since. To my parent’s dismay I discovered yet another expensive hobby when I was 12 – pageantry. Pageantry lead me from state title to state title and national competitions across the country that provided scholarships and opportunities I never could have dreamed of. As of late, I have taken up college as a pretty much poor first generation student with dreams of going into the medical field. None of this has been without my having always had a part or full time job since I was 14 years old, and I have been grateful for every second of every blessing and opportunity that has come my way.

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

Once “America’s Next Top Model” came out when I was still in elementary school I was hooked. I have always had a naturally slender build with lots of leg but was fully aware that 5’8″ is the typical minimum height requirement for runway models. It wasn’t until the petite season of ANTM came out on television that I realized there was hope for an aspiring 5’6″ girl like me. Starting from the ground up in 2007, I worked with various freelance photographers and a small local talent agency to build my print portfolio and add to my skills and experience. I took any job that I could, bending over backwards for projects and photographers to earn my way up the ladder of diversity and experience. Slowly but surely, after years of working without pay and dedicating lots of time to the modeling world my confidence and skill grew to the point where I was ready to pursue modeling more intensely than ever before.

My sophomore year of high school I was suddenly on the rise of what would begin my more professional modeling career. After having been asked to be a senior model and spokesmodel for a local photography company, and winning my first state title at a pageant in the same year, I was picked up by Barbizon Southwest. For years I had been selected for massive scouting opportunities overseas that my family and I simply could not afford, and never seemed to be able to find work in Colorado. Here, finally, was the training and the exposure that I needed to kick start my professional career, and kick start it did. Since then I have been so grateful and blessed to be the cover for local ad campaigns, featured in editorial and catalog magazines across the state and a few nationally published magazines, walk various runways for hair and fashion shows at the local and state-wide level, judge modeling and pageant competitions, work on award winning photography projects, and am continually requested to audition for large company commercials like Hyundai.

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

My goals for modeling from this point forward in my life are to begin moving to more diverse work across the country, perhaps even out of the country if the opportunities should arise. I have lots of print and runway experience now at the state level and have tasted work in other parts of the country. I can’t get enough, and want to experience other runways, meet more designers, and one day be featured in an international magazine. Given this is all hopes and dreams of a petite model living in a tall world, all the while struggling through college. I figure if I made it this far I certainly can make it farther, it will just depend on the connections I continue to make and the opportunities that arise.

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

For the past few years working for Barbizon Southwest I have worked for a paid job in modeling at least once a month every month. During busier seasons I have worked and continue to receive work several times a month and often several times in a week. Most of this work is couture print work for regional magazines followed by local runway shows. I also do a lot of commerical, catalog type work from voice-overs to clothing brand advertisement.

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

The best experience I have had so far with modeling has been working on a project called “The Diver” by photographer Paul Miller. This incredible shoot was almost a 12 hour shoot that feautured massive elaborate sets and wardrobe changes. This year it was awarded for it’s amazing finished photos and artistry by the Art Directors Club of Denver at their annual show. The greatest part of this project was that, once it was published I began receiving calls for work like never before.

When it comes to my worst experiences modeling, it is difficult to really say because what many people would consider the worst are still things that I am grateful for in the big picture. I have sat for hours on a freezing cold location set while they do hair and makeup, or been practically naked on the runway while my poor father looked on in horror but understanding that being model means you don’t always get to choose your wardrobe. I’ve been jostled around back stage or been told time and time again that I’m not tall enough or I don’t have perfect model features. The reality is that sometimes the behind the scenes stuff isn’t all that glamorous, and yes they are correct, but I have learned that fashion and modeling isn’t at all about perfection or what’s “the right size”, and those standards have not kept me from enjoying pursuing this dream.

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

I was asked to model a dress with an incredible high slit that showed a little too much if the dress flew behind my legs on the runway…Of course, it did… as the designer sort of expected, but much to the joy of my onlooking boyfriend and his pals who continue to taunt me about it to this day. I didn’t think twice about it while I was on the runway, but giggled hysterically when I saw my mom’s face in the audience as I was walking off. My poor sweet parents have never said anything about my modeling work but good things, even when it rubs their parental side the wrong way.

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

I would absolutely change the height standards for runway models, not just because I myself am petite but also because I know so many other incredibly talented models who would do anything for this industry but cannot change their height. It is a sad loss of talent in my opinion.

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

I enjoy running because that was my sport in high school -track-, but most recently I have fallen in love with this workout called “Body Barre” which is basically a workout spin on ballet moves. It is very challenging but makes for really well toned muscles, good posture, and flexibilty. The coolest part is that we do the workouts in out sock and it’s all about isolation so there is no running around like a cardio workout, while still making you work incredibly hard. I tend to stick to gluten free foods because that seems to be a trigger for face breakouts for me. I also love a well made protein shake and keep up on daily vitamins and at least one serving of vegetables a day plus tons of water.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

People typically don’t know that, although my work and my hobbies usually put me in a dress and heels and wearing lots of makeup, I am very much so a tomboy. My favorite outfits behind the scenes are anything that isn’t a skirt: I adore pants, baseball caps and boots.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Honestly if I could be 5’8″ of course I would love to have more modeling opportunities. Otherwise I am happy and grateful to be myself and have the life that I have been given, even if I never make it to the pages of an international magazine.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

I have a strange phobia of dark water and big fish. I have never experienced trauma in these areas so my family has no idea where this comes from. I won’t even jump into a dark pool.

Dec 08 2014

Interview with Briana Aureate — Full time student and model

Briana Aureate is a 19-year old model residing in Grand Junction, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello loves, my name is Briana Aureate and I was born and raised in Denver, CO. I love fitness and sports. Some particular favorites of mine being softball and soccer. I also love painting and art. However, right now I am a full time student at Colorado Mesa University studying to be a chemist.

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

Ever since my freshman year of high school I’ve been really interested in modeling. I’ve always liked photography and also have always wanted to model. I started taking classes my freshman year then began pursuing my modeling career my senior year with model mayhem. Later I began contacting photographers through facebook and now it’s becoming a reality for me. I love all of the art there is in modeling. The connections you make with the photographer and how you collaborate to create a piece of art together.

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

One of my biggest dreams involving my modeling career is to one day become a Hollister model. Until I can build a strong enough portfolio and strong enough skills for my modeling career I’m going to continue planning shoots in Denver until I become well known to the modeling community. I would also love to travel or shoot with professional photographers in other areas across the U.S. such as Las Vegas, LA, and New York.

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

I model more often when I’m in the Denver area. I try to find work where I can in the Grand Junction area but it depends what’s out there. I typically shoot either in studio or outdoors fashion shoots mostly and sometimes more artsy themed shoots or fitness. Either way I like a diverse portfolio. I’d also be interested in doing video modeling.

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

I’ve had great experiences getting to know photographers as good friends! I’ve also learned a lot about my body and how to move it, and which angles work best for me. I learned tips with hair and makeup and color. It’s all very creative and exciting to me.

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

I’ve had guys around Denver ask to take pictures of and with me while shooting and I’ll take them with them. It’s fun to hear them say they’re taking them because I’ll be famous one day. I fancy the thought!

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

I would like there to be less nude photography out there and more art and fashion. I respect a model if they choose to model nude and I respect photographers who shoot it but I personally don’t like photographers who are pushy about it.

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

I work out several times throughout the week at our gym at my university. I’d love to get more involved in my favorite sports again. I also enjoy training with my friend who is a physique competitor.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

It’s interesting that I was the first girl in my high school’s history to make the boys baseball team! I played baseball all throughout middle school then fought my way for a tryout my freshman year in high school. Fortunately for me I beat out some boys and made the JV team!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would like to have longer hair, maybe a smaller nose, and to be taller. But when it comes down to it I’m more grateful for what I do have than I focus on what I could have.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I love watching bad girls club. I’ve seen every season and would go on the show in a heartbeat.

Dec 01 2014

Interview with Taylor Tran — Model and Highly Trained Hip Hop Dancer

Taylor Tran is a 20-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, but my life now is all mainly Denver based. I’m a full time licensed hair and makeup artist and in my free time I’m either working out, modeling, at church or dancing with my hip hop crew – Academy of Raw/Hype 303 -check us out on YouTube!!- we perform, travel, and compete in various competitions around the US. My greatest priority is to love God and love people!

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

I was actually always told I should model since I was super young. I never really looked in to it much. I was in school to be a cosmetologist at the Aveda Institute of Denver and I quickly learned it was a pretty diverse industry, we have access to collaborate with some of Colorado’s best photographers and stylists and more. I saw a flyer for a model call in the institute for the NAHA competition and decided to go and was chosen. Through that, I was asked to model for fellow makeup artists and hairstylists and even photographers that came in to take photos of our work. I started building up a portfolio and just really networked a ton. The idea of being signed to an agency always kind of freaked me out but one of the photographers I worked with really encouraged me to submit to Donna Baldwin Agency and I got signed right away!

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

Honestly, there’s a lot I want to do. I feel really blessed because it seems to me like my heart and mind have lined up with what God has planned out for me as far as my passions and careers go. I’m not aiming it super far out right now, I’m focusing on the beginning of my career as a hair and makeup artist because I just started 3 weeks ago, building up a stable clientele and making enough to travel and open up opportunities for myself. Do I hope to go further in modeling? Absolutely. That dream also scares the crap out of me because I also know though that it’s a very competitive industry, but I don’t think it’s something I can’t achieve. I hope to move to Cali in the near future.

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

It all just kind of depends, the past two months have been super busy for me as a model with Denver Fashion week and shoots and such but it’s all just mainly random. My agent will email me when a client is interested, I also keep contact with many different photographers and love collaborating artistic vision. For me, modeling consists of getting to sleep in and waking up and heading out on location looking like a scrub because they’re going to do your hair and makeup for you – which is one of the best parts. I do mainly print work and photoshoots and also runway, but not as much since I’m shorter than your standard runway model. I’ve done fashion, editorial, glamour, art, commercial, sports and others for portfolio work, magazines, a book cover, and more.

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

Best experience was when a photographer and stylist found me on my agency’s site and flew out from South Carolina to work with me, I thought I’d just be traveling around my state shooting with them but I really had an intense spiritual connection with these people. We woke up as early as 4am and road tripped to Georgetown, St. Mary’s Glacier, and Garden of the Gods just shooting, eating good food and exchanging good music and having some really deep talks. It was amazing and I made some incredible friendships. I don’t really think I’ve had a worst experience, my very first photo shoot was for a hair competition and they dyed my hair neon orange which I thought was going to be awful, but it faded really pretty and I actually kept it for a long time.

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

Probably just the photo shoot I talked about with the people that traveled from South Carolina, totally out of the ordinary. Loved it though. I don’t think I’ve had anything embarrassing happen… Yet!

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

I noticed that it’s more common now so I guess it is changing a little! I would change the majority of the height requirements for top agencies to 5’7″… Mainly because I’m 5’7″ hehe.

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

I do! Dance is probably one of my very greatest passions above most. I’m a hip hop dancer with one of Colorado’s finest hip hop crews called Academy of Raw, formerly Hype 303. We practice 4 days a week and do various performances, battles, competitions, an more. We also travel and compete around the US and have dance fam in places like LA, Hawaii, Vegas, even the UK. We do a lot of intense training and working out. I also try to workout on my own as often as possible, mainly cardio and strength training, I’m a fan of HIIT and I also run a lot. Nutrition has recently become a lot more important to me and I mainly eat clean. I drink a lot of smoothies and try to avoid chicken nuggets which is actually the hardest thing in the world. Just saying.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m actually a very passionate writer. I write poetry, I write what inspires me, I write about my daily life, where I’m going, what I’m experiencing, and more. I have kept consistent journals from the moment I’ve been able to write when I was young and I know for a fact my life wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t. I don’t know why but I’ve always had a strong instinct to document and express absolutely everything in that way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I want an inch! Just one more inch! I always say that. Haha.

Have you ever gone without wearing underwear all day? Why & what did you do?

Let’s be real here, I’m a very spacey person, always have been. When I was in kindergarten, I wore a really pretty and flowy light blue dress with blue and green flowers all over and and a blue cardigan to daycare one day, and as I was outside on the playground I noticed a breeze that I didn’t notice before. I panicked and sat down and cried and refused to tell the teacher or anyone why for hours because who forgets their underwear? Me, that’s who. I can remember exactly what I was wearing years ago on the specific day but I can’t remember my own underwear. That’s talent.

Visit Taylor Tran’s website for more photos and information

Nov 29 2014

Interview with Corinne Victoria — Model and Performer

Corinne Victoria is a 21-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Corinne Victoria and I’m a full time model based out of Denver, Colorado. I was born in Park Ridge, Illinois and lived there as a small child. After which I lived in Arizona for 10 years , both in Phoenix and Surprise. I’ve been located in Colorado now for about 6 years.

My biggest hobby is dancing. I love to dance and perform both on and off the stage. Other interests of mine include anything Alice in Wonderland. Dressing up in elaborate outfits and going to numerous kinds of events. As well as fetishes and the BDSM community.

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

Well fun fact I did modeling when I was a baby. I modeled in diapers and did things like JCPenny ads for example. I however did not do any modeling as a child or young teen. Growing up I didn’t think too much about modeling. Modeling always seemed to me like one of those dream jobs you never actually get to have. When I was a teenager though I thought to myself why not model? What’s really holding me back? In honesty there was only myself holding me back and no reason I should not or could not model. So I did my research on getting involved and had my first shoot I’ll be able to remember at the age of 17!

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

I do hope to continue modeling for as long as I possibly can. Modeling is very important to me and it’s something I rather enjoy doing. My goal is to be able to still be involved in the industry even as I age. Other than that though I look to be a mother in the years to come. I have found a wonderful partner who’s great and there is no doubt of children in our future. I hope to be able to take care of my home and family. Daydreams about being a housewife!

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

I work all the time. I most often do photo shoots but, I have also done video work as well as helping out with various classes. I’ve modeled for art classes and have helped teach modeling classes. I model in a multitude of genres including – glamour, fashion, art, cosplay, editorial, fetish, lifestyle, and others. The summer months are definitely the busiest for me. Can definitely be a bit hectic at times! The winter months are considerably slower, but not completely dead. I am a freelance model which means I work independently rather than through an agency. There are pros and cons to both and I happen to prefer working independently. That being said the workload on myself is much higher. When I’m not out at a photo shoot I’m at home responding to e-mails and messages. Constantly organizing and looking for more work.

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

I’m not sure about the best or worst experience I’ve had but I’m going to talk about my traveling experiences with modeling. Traveling is great! I’ve gotten to travel around to many different places. It’s a great opportunity for any model and I’m privileged to have been able to travel a number of times. I love traveling, you get to see a new place you not have been able to see otherwise. You get to have completely new and different experience from what you see as the norm. At the same time however traveling, especially for work, can be exhausting. Waking up at crazy early hours, staying up particularly late can be taxing on one’s body. A lot of the time you go from spending a fair amount of time in the airport and on the airplane. Then you go directly into working long days.

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

I definitely have an embarrassing story that comes to mind. I was at a photo shoot once and everything was going well. About an hour or so into the shoot the photographer pointed something out to me. He pointed out that well… I had started my period. I hadn’t even noticed myself until he pointed it out. I was completely mortified and embarrassed!

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

I would definitely change the reliability and certainty. The industry can be a little inconsistent at times. Sometimes shoots get moved, sometimes they get canceled. You can’t always count on something to happen when it’s supposed to because things get moved and changed around.

Not just shoots but models. There are a number of ‘models’ out there that bring a bad representation to the industry. There are models that are late, there are models that flake on shoots, models that give a no call no show. These people bring a bad name to those that work hard in what we do and behave in a professional manner when it comes to shoots.

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

Nutrition and exercise play an important role in my life. Being a full time model I have to stay conscious in my eating and exercise habits. Maintaining a healthy figure is important. Personally I eat an all vegetarian diet. I generally eat healthy foods, lots of colors and vegetables but, that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy a good brownie here and there. As for exercise being a performer I do a lot of exercise. I’ve been a dancer all my life and was a swimmer for most my life. I currently dance as a gogo dancer as well as other performances such as contortion. I have to stretch everyday in order to stay limber and perhaps push my limits. I also dance on the regular to keep up my dance moves, plus there is always room for improvement! Not to mention dancing is a great, enjoyable form of cardio.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Interesting fact, I have an affinity for the Japanese culture. Both ancient and modern. I love the rich history of Japan. I also love modern fashion and technologies. I could type an entire list of the things I appreciate or love on Japanese culture. I’ll keep this simple though. I plan to make a trip to Japan at least once before I die.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would change my hair. My whole life I’ve always wanted really long pretty hair. My hair always seems to stop at a certain point though and just not grow any further.

I’ve been working hard to take good care of my hair and keep it healthy. I’m avoiding putting in damaging and costly extensions. Simply promoting hair growth as naturally as possible.

What is the kinkiest thing you’ve ever done?

I’m unsure about the kinkiest thing I’ve done. Being an active member in the BDSM community I’ve partook in a numerous amount of kinky things. I’m in a 24/7 Dominant and submissive relationship. I frequent fetish parties and dungeons. I’ve done things like rope suspension and bondage, wax play, fire play. I’ve been flogged, whipped, caned, you name it!

Visit Corinne Victoria’s website for more photos and information

Nov 28 2014

Interview with Danielle Graves — College Student, world traveler & Model

Danielle Graves is a 19-year old model residing in Boulder, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m a Colorado girl, born and raised. My passion is traveling and experiencing life from a different culture’s perspective through immersion. My heritage probably ignited my interest because my father visited Colombia to find a wife and that’s how I came to being. I also have a passion for psychology and understanding what makes us human, so I’m currently finishing up my B.A. in Psychology. I’m torn between going to graduate school right away or completely immersing myself in top modeling industries but I’m a spur of the moment kind of girl so that decision will come in time.

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

I have numerous photographers in my family who encouraged me to start modeling and even helped start out my portfolio when I was younger. Between the ages 13-17 I didn’t do much modeling until I won a contest that allowed me to model for a local shop and take two free photoshoots. From there I discovered model mayhem, joined an agency and started collaborating with amazing photographers. Modeling feels very natural to me and it’s an art form that I’m intrigued by that allows me to express myself.

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

In five years I see myself sitting on a beach in Indonesia working off my laptop as a virtual counselor and encouraging people to follow their bliss. That’s just one goal. I also want to pursue acting and modeling and encourage women and girls that beauty and brains can coexist if you believe in yourself.

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

I always have an event or gig lined up from fashion shoots, runway, promotion, art concepts, commercial, short film… I like to be versatile and challenge myself in many areas.

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

Referring back to trying multiple modeling industries, I signed up for a metal undergarment runway show. I didn’t know what the costumes looked like before agreeing to do the show, I just knew it was an 18+ event. I was told to wear panties and a thong and then was fitted into a metal corset. Corsets aren’t comfortable to begin with, much less when it is made entirely of scrap metal. I also wore a metal thong with razor blades in the crotch region in representation of a medieval chastity belt. My attire looked modest compared to what the men had to wear. They wore a thong with a metal dick attachment that, with the push of a button, could shoot out flames. This show was very erotic but also very entertaining because the other models turned it into a joke and had fun with it.

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

I would change the height requirements. It is so unfortunate that an entire industry is narrowed down to the same look. I understand that the designers like to have their clothing fit the majority of the models but surely exceptions could be made for all the gorgeous girls that aren’t 5’8+. Maybe it would be wiser to include girls that fit the height and weight criteria of the average female not only in the United States but worldwide.

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

I’ve tried multiple sports as a girl and soccer was my favorite. I haven’t participated in sports since high school but I make sure to workout with weight at least 5 days a week and eat nutrient rich foods. A typical meal would include grains, protein and vegetables. If I can see and pronounce all the ingredients then I consider it good for me. Without exercise I feel depressed, tired and unmotivated. I encourage everyone who feels this way to get at least 30 minutes of exercise in a day.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would change my height. If I was 3 inches taller I would have the confidence and opportunity to model for my favorite designers and travel the world as a model. I know I should appreciate the way I was made but I wouldn’t be human if there wasn’t something that I wanted to change about myself.

How do you think you are most likely to die?

I’ve asked myself this numerous times and although it’s not something I’d like to plan or look forward to, it’s inevitable. I hope it is a beautiful tragedy and I die for a great cause or rescue someone that needs more time on earth than I do. I don’t fear death because I look at it as a new beginning to a great ending.

Nov 23 2014

Interview with Sofia Novakova — Chameleon model/ Nerdy athlete

Sofia Novakova is a 24-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

You are what you do and think every day. I am naturally curious about many things and the era that would describe me best would be Renaissance- universal man, whose day can span from inventing a parachute in the morning to as far as observing stars at night. I was born in a little spa town in Slovakia, but immediately relocated to the capital city Bratislava. My roots are deeply encraved in me, which I feel intensely while travelling. This is one my biggest hobbies and I found that out when I was 18 years old taking up on Camino de Santiago. This pilgrimage has opened my eyes and awaken an adventurer in me, that is ever hungry for new experiences.

My family is my life. I love every one of them, my mom is a strong and intelligent woman but most importantly she is kind, which gave me a lot to look up to growing up. My sister is a little devil with a good heart and challenges me every day. I used to love summers going to my grandparents’ house lost in the mountains of Slovak paradise. Being able to kind of “grow up in the nature” gave me the sense of true meaning of what is important in life and firmly set my priorities to focus on.

I think it’s great to combine knowledge and sports, like Greeks used to. I’m an athletic artist, I love to paint using duck-tape and sprays, box, run in the forest and do yoga in the morning listening to Maori songs by Kiri Te Kanawa or Nahko Bear. James Franco is similar- he is crazily witty, almost like an intellectual nerd but at the same time he makes this face and says “You’re peanut butter and jelly!” Most of my life I’ve done things that had something to do with art, theatre, film-making and education.

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

It started as an idea in high school, when by best friend Klara got a Canon camera for birthday. She wanted to do a photoshoot and since we both loved fashion, we decided that we would be first-timers for each other- her as a photographer and me as a model. Which made sense really because she was more introverted and I was an exhibitionist, who would dance Hip-Hop all the time.

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

What you make of your days now, creates series of consequential moments, that will form your future life. I have finished directing my first promotional sports video for my exercising group MITS -military training simulation- which I founded in order to get together a community of women who would like to just go in the forest and have a helluva good work-out. Seeing positive feedback makes it meaningful to me. Myself in ten years may be blurred, but my goal is quite clear. I want to be of contribution and leave a mark for future generation- kids of today will one day be the young adults dealing with the same issues as we are now, and to make it just a little nicer or easier for them would be a good way to go. I would like to make films and art that would articulate my observations and be of positive influence. I will do what it takes to incorporate exploring the world and having a peaceful home and a family. That’s what I need in personal life. And book. I wanna write a book. I love books.

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

I model every now and then, depends on the project. I need to find the person behind it smart and stimulating, someone who knows what he is doing and to whom I can relate to. I do videos and short movies too, because it is more organic and uses mediums such as movement, spoken word or music. It touches different areas like sport, lifestyle, enviroment, love and others. The possibilities are endless.

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

Everyone I worked with was amazing. My latest shooting was with Stefan Merriweather, LA based photographer and we went to work in this remote beach called the Wedge in Newport and it was awesome. It was all surfers and big waves and empty beaches. Reminded me of Hawaii.

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

I had to put on an alien costume and dance with it.

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

Just put more honesty to it.

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 this question.

Yes. Nutrition and sports- very big role in my life. I definitely put a lot of effort and thought into my every day diet and the way I schedule exercise. I wake up quite early in the morning, do my yoga for 30 to 40 minutes, eat breakfast which is oatmeal poured with hot water with cinnamon, bit of butter and honey. Usually I eat a lot of soups, tomato, cabbage or curcuma. I also like buckwheat that I put in pan along with lot of vegetables. I don’t eat that much meat, but I use onions, olive oil and lemon a lot for cooking. I additionally use vitamins if I work out a lot, magnesium, B6 and C will do. I go running three times a week at least and then there’s boxing…my grandma hates it, says it makes my shoulders wide, but I have just naturally well developed upper body.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

When I get cold feet I warm them up using hot water from the sink. It once happened in the kitchen too. I have repetitive dreams. I like to put salt on the bread that already has honey on it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am changing a little every day, I read a chapter per day from selected motivational books in the morning to set a good base-stone for my day. The more I read, the more I realize there is maybe not necessarily a lot to change, but definitely a lot to improve. My urge to speak when others do, for example, or be more patient, forgiving and you can always be more kind. That’s the best.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I put on earphones, get naked and dance like crazy to the remix of Party Up by DMX.

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