Blog Archives

Apr 10 2015

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.

When, 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!

How 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.

Have 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.

Please 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

Apr 04 2015

Interview with Elizabeth Arey — College student, waitress, model

Elizabeth Arey is a 22-year old model residing in Kennesaw, Georgia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Alabama, to a military family. I grew up in Belgium and traveled a lot while I was a kid, which I really enjoyed. I was a competitive equestrian for 16 years, horse riding is definitely my greatest passion. I love to draw and design, very creative. I am currently a waitress and I go to school full time for Public Relations.

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

I started on Model Mayhem, which I would NOT recommend to any young girl. It worked out for me, but Model Mayhem is not a place for young girls. It can be very sketchy. But then my old agent found me on Facebook!

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

I want to be successful, in whatever I choose to do and I want to have a family at some point. The ultimate goal is to just have a full and interesting life.

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

I usually try to have a few photoshoots a month, as long as it coincides with my work and school schedule. I typically do photoshoots, but I do runway as well.

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

I have had some wonderful experiences, but some bad ones as well. The bad consisting of photographers trying to inappropriately trying to touch me – which I won’t go into detail about. The best consisting of doing a runway show for Banana Republic, and getting to go to Vegas with the team I worked for with a suit designer.

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

I honestly don’t think so, other than me breaking out into random dance in the model of a photoshoot

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

The way they view women, with the weight issue. We should think all women are beautiful, no matter what. Stick skinny is not what everyone looks like, and while I am tiny, I do not starve myself and I do not try to be something I’m not.

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

I was a horse rider for a long time, and I still ride every now and then when I have time. I walk about 25000 steps in one evening shift alone as a waitress, and I run and workout as often as I can to stay healthy. Typically I stick to healthy foods, my boyfriend is a personal trainer so he helps me a lot with nutrition.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

That I LOVE cars! Especially old ones, and I drive a 6 speed manual transmission!

Would you change anything about yourself?

No. The way that I look makes me who I am. And anything that I would want to change is easily fixable by running or working out.

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

I am currently in a relationship, he is a model as well. He is my best friend, the most special person I’ve ever come across in my life and I’ve been privileged enough to meet tons of people. He is smart, hardworking and dedicated to everything he does.

Mar 11 2015

Interview with Kyla — Top-Ranked Junior Athlete turned Model

Kyla is a 17-year old model residing in Sarasota, Florida.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Kyla. I am currently 17 years of age. I was born in New Jersey, but moved to Florida at the age of 10 to pursue my passion for tennis. After a few years of training, I was able to compete internationally in junior tournaments around the world. Some of my hobbies include dance, yoga, and, of course, modeling.

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

I found my interest for modeling at age 13, after repeatedly being told that I should try it out. At 14, I was asked to model for various small companies and decided to put together a decent portfolio with the help of some wonderful photographers. Within a few months, I was able to find an agency.

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

I have decided to attend a University next year, to pursue my Masters of Business Administration. In ten years, I see myself, hopefully, being successful in my endeavors and holding a steady job in Finance.

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

I have taken it easy this year, in regards to modeling. It is my last year in High School and I did not make modeling a priority in my busy schedule. Although, I still model during my spare time and work as a background actress in the film industry.

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

The best experiences I have had in modeling would probably be the glamorous side. It is truly an experience, being able to go to exotic locations, fancy hotels, and having a hair and makeup team by your side. Also, when random people come over to compliment you, before asking to take a picture with you, it makes you feel like some sort of celebrity. It makes you feel valued and special. The worst experiences would have to be the competitive castings. I never expected the castings to be like they actually are. It is brutal. You stand in lines, next to hundreds of gorgeous women, as casting directors poke at your face and body pointing out all of your pros and cons. They treat you like some sort of emotionless doll that is replaceable and invaluable. If you have not figured it out, it is not a great feeling.

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

There was only one partially embarrassing thing to happen to me during my modeling career. I was wearing this really nice gown and stilettos and had to walk through this jungle-like terrain. After I almost ate it three times, they told me to stop where I was. They had to send a man to hold on to me and steady me as I walked to my position. I am pretty sure I accidentally ripped the dress too. Opps, I am sorry.

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

Yes, I would definitely change the industry’s retouching and photoshopping obsession. Editors will pinch and tweak photos until they have reached some unrealistic standard of perfection. Young girls are wearing tons of makeup, getting plastic surgery, dieting, and striving for this unattainable idea of perfection that the industry has implanted into their minds. The truth is that this perfection does not and will never exist. Why try to edit these already beautiful girls into this alien image that society has been trained to obsess over?

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 obsess over my strict diet and exercise regimen to the point where it became very unhealthy. As of now, I follow a vegetarian or vegan diet which is much more relaxed. I no longer have to count calories or carbs. I eat 5 to 6 meals a day which consist of legumes, grains, fruits, nuts, and vegetables. I play tennis 5 to 6 days a week and go to the gym around 3 times a week. I also dance and enjoy yoga and barre classes. I feel that a balanced nutrition and an exercise regimen is essential for a healthy and happy life.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

People are often confused about my ethnicity. Most people think I am either a mix of Hispanic-American or Asian-American. My whole family, including my sister, was born in the Philippines, except for me. I am the first generation to be born in America.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Everyone has their insecurities or things that they would love to change about themselves. I know I have many insecurities. However, in the end, I would not change anything about myself. I have learned to love who I am and accept that perfection does not exist. My flaws are what make me special and unique. My features are a product from the loving parents who have raised me to become the young woman I am today. Every single human is special and beautiful in their own ways. Do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

What features do you look for in a partner?

I get this question quite often. Haha. Well this is more of a quality, rather than a feature, but, one word: Respect. Respect is very important to me in all areas of my life.

Visit Kyla’s website for more photos and information

Jan 05 2015

Interview with Joey D — Model & Student

Joey D is a 35-year old model residing in Chicago, Illinois.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Indiana and lived with my family until 1997, when I moved to Chicago for college. I’ve lived here ever since. I enjoy working out and inspiring others to reach their health goals. I incorporate a psychological aspect to my training and advice. I believe in a holistic approach to complete health stemming from over 20 years in the gym and my MA in psychology. In my spare time I enjoy video games and reading. I run a couple websites, dance at events, and do other odd jobs to keep my life interesting.

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

I’ve been modeling off and on for 15 years. Not until 2014 did I start to focus on modeling. Since then, it’s been non-stop and I love it. I decided to focus on it since I was in graduate school and needed some extra income.

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

I’ve achieved so much in life that I’m at the point that everything is just icing on the cake. I never live to work and only believe in working to live so that I enjoy everything I do. If I’m still inspiring and helping people in some way for the rest of my life, I’ll be happy. There is no limit to the possibilities of what life can offer. I embrace every experience and look forward to each one.

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

I average about a shoot a month. I generally only do photo shoots focused on fitness and health modeling.

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

Every experience was awesome. There’s nothing I could classify as a worst experience. Since each one is different, it created a memory that will last forever.

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

Yes, I was shooting in TX and went with the photographer to pick up food after the shoot. The people at the restaurant recognized me. Then, we stopped at a drug store and the woman behind me bought my products for me for no reason other than she wanted to. It was so crazy and awesome. I was speechless.

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 not participate in any sports, but I eat like a bodybuilder. Bulking and cutting nutrition plans are my life. I’m constantly adjusting my food intake and tweaking things to create my body how I want it to look.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a classically trained singer. I’m actually working on getting a demo out in the future. Possibly on my YouTube channel or somewhere. I’ll keep you posted.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I regret nothing. Everything about me exists because of an experience I had. I love having lived my life and look forward to every future moment to see how it shapes my personality.

What is the longest you have gone without taking a bath?

I’ve gone 5 days without bathing. Instead of going on vacation, I stayed home and did nothing but played video games. It was amazing, but by the end I realized I really needed to shower and get out of the house. It made me appreciate human contact. haha!

Visit Joey D’s website for more photos and information

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 22 2014

Interview with Jay Sharice — Confused happy mistake maker

Jay Sharice is a 23-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello readers,
I was born in Nevada but spent my elementary years on the Santee reservation so I guess you could say that’s where I grew up but I never stayed anywhere for long. My family currently resides in Nebraska. My mother is a stay at home mom and my father is retired. My hobbies include but are not limited to, longboarding, aerial dancing, creative writing, singing, acting, modeling, and learning acoustic guitar.

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

I was 16 and living in Yakima WA, my best friend’s father wanted to become a photographer and we became his practice models. His picture to this day still gets the most praise out of all my work. After the shoot my friend and I were infatuated with the idea and began chasing the dream.

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

My personal goals are in 5 years to put a down payment on my first house and be certified in ASL -American sign language- so I can work with kids. Professionally as a model I plan to work my behind off until I sell one book and continue to model until my time is up in the industry.

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

Not as often as I’d like. Being short limits me to print, although I have done the catwalk for charity shows. My strength is in acting so I’m more vigilant about pursuing those jobs.

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

The best experience I’ve had so far is with my new photographer here in Colorado. We have similar ideas to how we want our portfolios to look and he helps promote me. It’s amazing to vibe that way with someone you’re working with on a shoot. I believe good energy shows in the photo.

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

Yes someone contacted me for a shoot but had no work to show. When I declined he begged me for pictures of my feet which gave me the heebie jeebies. I think liking feet is fine as long as you don’t get too close to mine.

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

If I could change anything it would be the measurement standards. People are constantly arguing over curvy or thin. Personally I believe it should be both curvy and thin. Beautiful woman shouldn’t be limited to one size option, we are thick, thin, short, tall, curvy, athletic, dark, light and lovely. Instead of creating a new standard I vote we eliminate the standard.

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

I don’t consider myself to be very sporty but I longboard and do aerial dance. I run occasionally but that’s only for the health benefits. I really eat whatever I like as long as it isn’t in the junk food category. I don’t have meal times I only eat when I’m hungry and until I feel comfortably full, unless there’s cheese involved.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a very open and honest person so people know pretty much everything about me. I’m very chatty so if I had to guess people probably don’t know I spend hours a day dead silent in the middle of town just watching people and listening to their daily lives.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Small things but over all probably no. Small flaws make us unique.

Have you ever been fired from a job?

Yes, I was fired for sexual harassment. I was working at a skin care store when a young man walked in with bright blue hair. I whistled and said “That’s a great hair color. Can I help you find anything today?” He told me no so I returned to stocking. He called my company and filed an official complaint… So as you can see I can’t be trusted with compliments.

Dec 06 2014

Interview with Viscous Sally — Eccentrically Awesome

Viscous Sally is a 22-year old model residing in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am from Denison, Texas a tiny little town north of Dallas. I honestly don’t have much family that I associate with. I was brought up in cruel circumstances around crueler people but honestly it made me who I am today. I am fun, loving and quirky to say the least. I am not afraid to be me which usually includes breaking out into random songs and dances. I want to enjoy life and explore what the world has to give. I am in love with music; it honestly soothes my soul and without it I feel the world would be very bleak.

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

I first got involved through a dance group I was in. It gave me the fuel to fire my passion for becoming a model. I think it is a breath of fresh air to see girls who aren’t a size 0r show that they are proud and love themselves and honestly that is my goal. To help get past the misconceptions of real beauty.

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

My goal is to be a suicide girl on Inked magazine or really any other tattoo one. I want to be a house hold name.

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

I am fairly new to modeling so I haven’t ventured far from my comfort zone but would honestly love to. I have done mostly boudoir but would love to get into artsy or controversial photography.

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

My best experience was my first group shooting for my old dance group. Getting to take photos with lovely girls all dressed up in lingerie and watching people stare confused to what we were doing there. It was awesome to get to collaborate with all the girls.

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

Modeling can get crazy but I would say I haven’t experienced anything too crazy for me yet.

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

I would change the misconceptions on what really is beautiful. I would want to stray away from girls who are all bones being the only beauty.

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

My sport is dancing, I love to put on some Jessie J or Katie Perry and jam out. I eat pretty clean and workout regularly. I think exercise gives you a release of stress and anxiety and allows you to keep your body physically fit which is very important.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a disney and pixar freak and a rabid hello kitty fan. I love watching Finding Nemo on repeat something about never giving up just makes my heart warm.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would say I would want to change having my guard up all the time. It would be good to learn to let the world in more.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I would love to be a necromancer. Being able to go between the worlds of death and life and bring a soul to the light would be very cool.

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 25 2014

Interview with Chantel Heinen — Small Town Girl Turned Big City Model

Chantel Heinen is a 20-year old model residing in Oakland, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Chantel, also know as Chanteezy. I grew up in Avon Minnesota, a small town of roughly 1,500 people. Coming from a small town I always had this feeling of boredom. I enjoyed spending my free time dancing on my own, or taking classes, but when I wasn’t dancing I always felt like I was missing out on something. I always knew there were bigger cities, bigger states, and bigger things out there for me. I long awaited the day I could leave little Avon and move forward in life. As a junior in High School I went to a Performing Arts school for dance in the Minneapolis area where I lived on campus. Living away from home at 16 was such a blessing! Although I love my family, it really pushed me to find myself and take risks, and I truly believe if I hadn’t left Avon I would still be stuck in Minnesota now.

After graduation I promptly moved to San Francisco. I knew I wanted to be in California and after doing research San Francisco seemed like the best place to start. I have been here 2 years and I am loving it! My modeling career is taking off, I am networking my butt off and just enjoying life!

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

As cliche as it sounds I first knew I wanted to be a model when ‘America’s Next Top Model’ first aired. I was really young, but I knew that was the career for me. The models always looked like they were having so much fun, and I always dreamed of being on the cover of a magazine for the world to see and appreciate. For a long time I kept pushing to the back of my head and telling myself it was impossible, that I didn’t have what it took. Recently within the last year or so I have really decided to push myself. I am coming to peace with who I am and how I look.

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

I would love to be a full time, professional model in five years. My dream is to model, and only model! I hate working 9-5 jobs, I wasn’t built to sit at a desk all day, I need adventure and challenge.

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

Right now I have a full-time desk job, so I don’t have as much time as I would like to dedicate to bookings. I do at least one photoshoot a week, and more if my schedule allows. At this point in my career I am focusing mainly on print work. I am still building a portfolio but I find what I am being booked for most often is catalog, and commercial, although I am open to all and am eager to start doing more high fashion!

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

It is difficult to narrow down experiences I have had to best and worst. I have yet to have a bad experience at a shoot or on a job. I suppose the worst experience would be fighting myself on the days I have a shoot but don’t feel my prettiest, it is tough sometimes to break out of my own head and just perform whether I feel good or not.

The best experiences I have had are really just meeting clients, hearing their vision and knowing that I am helping them with it. It is also a great feeling to see the end result and be amazed at my own photo!

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

No.

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

Like many others I would say I wish the industry wasn’t so strict about size. I feel like models can be very hard on themselves. We compare ourselves to each other and sometimes go to drastic measures to look the way we think we should. I feel like the industry would be much healthier if there wasn’t such an emphasis on specific measurements.

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

I don’t practice any sports other than dance, but I do enjoy a good gym sesh! I hate cardio so I spend most of my time in the gym lifting weights; any cardio time is typically spent on the stair master!
I eat fairly clean throughout the week,everything in moderation is my motto. I do indulge in sweets here and there, but I like to make smart choices for breakfast lunch and dinner. It’s extremely important to keep my body in tip top condition, my body is my instrument and I need to keep it clean, because I use it all day everyday and I don’t have enough time in my life to be getting sick!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a kickbutt baker.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I can be very shy when around groups of people or new faces. I sometimes wish I could be more outgoing in that sense.

How do you think you are most likely to die?

Well I have had several dreams of myself or a friend driving on a highway when suddenly we turn too fast on a bridge or end up flying overboard, so I am starting to think that is how I’m going to die!

Visit Chantel Heinen’s website for more photos and information

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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