Blog Archives

Nov 02 2016

Interview with Kati Lubek — Dancer turning into model

Kati Lubek is a 28-year old model residing in New York, New York.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Moscow, Russia. As a young child I loved dancing, that’s why my mother brought me to the ballet school, so I grew up as a “creative” kid. Self expression was always important to me and modeling is one of the ways how I can express myself. Besides modeling and dancing, I’ve also studied Philosophy and Graphic Design.

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

I was discovered at the age of 16 by my friend’s cousin who was a professional photographer. Back then I didn’t think about it seriously but I definitely liked to be in front of the camera. Since then I started to get more photoshoots, meeting different photographers and agents and started working in this industry.

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

For the past ten years I’ve researched a lot of pictures of good photographers and famous models. I think that helped me to develop “my eye”, so I’d love to become a photographer, although I don’t think I love it that much to give it all of my effort. However, I’ve gotten into a graphic design, and I’d love to do more of graphic design, to work with the images, lines and colors. In the future, I also want to create my own dance show, maybe it would be a musical about a young model in a big city, who knows…

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

I model pretty often but sometimes there are slow seasons. I’m signed with the commercial agency FFTmodels, therefore most of my work is commercial modeling. I also do artsy stuff for dancing photo projects as a ballerina, and still, once in a while I have offers for video, fashion and other types of modeling. It all depends, but I’d say that I’m a commercial model.

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

My best experiences are working with established brands like “Bloomberg Business week magazine”, “Wella” hair salon, “GNC”. It is so inspiring to see all of the professionals coming together to make one picture happen. Unfortunately, there were bad experiences as well, as a lot of photographers aren’t professional at all. With this type of job you just have to learn how to deal with it.

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

To be honest, I cannot recall anything extraordinary funny:) It is just fun all the time.

© NayMarie Photography | Model: Kati Lubek | Hair: Egypt Buck of Haiir Artistri | Makeup: Magali Alia | Bridal Accessories: Bridal Styles Boutique

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

I’d be more persistent in my younger years. I had many opportunities, but I missed some of them just because I was too young and careless.

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

I did many types of exercise but I found that ballet classes are the best for me. Besides, I eat healthy three times a day and trying to avoid alcohol and sweets.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love flowers and gardening.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I wish my chest would be more voluptuous.

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

If I had only 24 hours to live I’d just start going somewhere. I wouldn’t want to spend time commuting somewhere, but I’ll try to enjoy this world, its weather, nature and people. I’d spend some time with my family. I will definitely take a ballet class. I’d go to eat some amazing food with amazing wine.

Visit Kati Lubek’s website for more photos and information

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

Oct 19 2014

Interview with Amanda Whipple — Professional Dancer

Amanda Whipple is a 24-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m a Bay Area, California Native dancing my way through this crazy thing called life. Being an artist has been a struggle, but I consider it a blessing to follow my passion. When I started dancing, I was just 3 years old, and I have never wanted to stop. After getting my BA in Dance, I started focusing on teaching, choreographing and performing.

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

Opportunities to model found me through my qualities as a dancer. Photographers were intrigued with working specifically with a trained ballerina. Majority of my shoots and videos are all dance related, so I love the fact that I can fuse dancing and modeling together.

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

This past year has really brought me to a place in my life, where everything is right where it needs to be, and I’m so grateful. I just finished filming a new show airing this Fall and I stay busy teaching and modeling. In the next couple years, I want to travel worldwide to teach and perform. Ultimately, I plan on starting my own company and a studio that provides education in all forms of dance and health.

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

90% of my modeling has something to do with movement. I choose projects based on their relevance to dance. I’m definitely not limited to dance projects, and I love shooting for events that benefit charitable causes. If I’m approached with an amazing theme or idea I’m all for it! I prefer performance jobs, but I take on pretty much anything that comes my way, either print, runway, commercials, films, and more.

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

So far, I’ve only had positive experiences when it comes to modeling. I’m pretty selective when it comes to who I’m working with, so I think that has a lot to do with it.

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

There’s been a few instances during a shoot, when a pedestrian walks up and asks to take a picture with you, or is interested in where they can see the photos and video. It gives you that boost of confidence as a model, that you’re actually saying something through your work.

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 in the studio dancing abut 5 days a week. The other 2 days I’m at the gym either strength training or taking a yoga class. As most people know, nutrition is key to a dancer’s career. To me, it’s not about how many pounds you weigh, it’s about how you feel. I’m a Vegetarian, so I’m always aware of what I’m feeding my body. I typically eat veggies, fruits, and fish for protein. Oh yeah, and coffee, lots of it.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I used to choreograph and write songs when I was little. I would teach the neighbor kids and then set up a talent show for the whole complex to watch us perform.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Everyone has their flaws, and yes I’ve had thoughts about what I would change about myself. I’ve always wanted to be taller, but at the same time I love the fact that I’m petite. I am who I am, and at the end of the day I wouldn’t change a thing.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

Teleporting! In my busy and hectic life, I would love to avoid traffic in any way possible, not to mention, you could literally travel anywhere, anytime…freakin’ awesome.

Visit Amanda Whipple’s website for more photos and information

Oct 04 2014

Interview with Maria Breese — Girl next door actress and model

Maria Breese is a 25-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m a southern girl from the small town of Vienna, VA, right outside Washington DC. I began dancing, modeling, singing and acting at a very young age. Both my parents worked in the industry and have always been very supportive of my love of the arts. While I no longer professionally dance, I still love doing hip-hop and jamming out to country music! Currently, modeling and acting are my main focus…can’t wait to see what new adventures lay ahead.

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

I started modeling as a child doing catalogue shoots. I kept dabbling in it throughout highschool, but really found some success in college while I was in Tampa! Since then I’ve had the privilege of showing up in several major ads and campaigns.

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

In five to ten years I really see myself continuing to work on my career and hopefully having a family to support.

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

Recently I’ve been focusing mostly on commercial, print and acting.

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

To be honest, I’ve been very lucky and fortunate in my experiences in the industry. The best experience I’ve had so far was during a shoot for iStock photography. It was on the beach and the photographers and models were just very fun and inspiring to work with!

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

Once during a commercial shoot for Checkers, I got to eat icecream and chicken sandwiches all day…does that count? It was awesome

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

Just how critical everyone is. It’s important to have standards, of course, but sometimes it comes with consequences.

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 been a dancer since the age of 3 and continue to dance now for fun and exercise. I love running and being outside. I’m also an avid yogi…it’s so relaxing!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I often get parking tickets…I have probably had over 200 so far.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think everyone wants to change something about themselves…but it’s important in life to just always be the best you that you can be. If you don’t feel healthy, you have the power to change that!

What is your guilty pleasure?

I have a ravenous sweet tooth. Regardless of how I feel, I always have room for dessert.

Visit Maria Breese ‘s website for more photos and information

Sep 30 2014

Interview with Cynthia Aileen — A Dancefloor Enabler

Cynthia Aileen is a 24-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi, how do you do!

Let me start off by saying I was born a male. Just kidding. Now that I have your attention…

I was born in the up-and-coming city of Oakland and have lived all around the Bay Area -The Yay to be politically correct-. Please don’t be the ignorant type that automatically cringes with you hear the word “Oakland.” It’s a bustling place with a true urban feel and all types of vivacious characters. Oh, and with a Whole Foods!

Mamasan and Papasan are divorced, but ironically working symbiotically together in the same workplace. My dad is actually half Chinese and my mother is Scottish. My mom is currently at Burning Man without moi. My sis just had a baby boy named Brady who is actually not so disturbing looking, and my brother owns his own bar… and no I don’t get a plethora of free drinks.

Furthermore, I have a grown up job in the Financial District of San Francisco by day, and DJ at night, and model or act somewhere in between. Kinda that jack of all trades type, ya dig?

I love DJing, manipulating music, and witnessing the enjoyment from people when they hear a good beat. It gives me chills. I’ll dance anywhere, without music, on the spot. Dare me?

I see as many concerts and shows as my wallet allows me, I have 3 tattoos with more in the works, I love sour candy, and I have a German Shepherd who is the love of my life, along with my boyfriend, yes babe. I love vintage anything and play zombie video games quite often. Essential oils are the bees knees.

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

I really wanted to eat cotton balls for the rest of my life.

No, just kidding again. I stumbled upon Model Mayhem when I was about 22. On the docket was always that want for a chance to model or act for fun. So I signed up and starting getting some hits right away, I don’t know how. I remember my first photographer. He was Vietnamese, hilarious, and made me feel super comfortable. I didn’t tell him it was my first time. Nonetheless, he couldn’t tell. He fed me chips. Spicy ones. Score.

Then, a friend, and still one, Dominic was casting for a short film. He found me on Model Mayhem, chose me without meeting me, interviewing me, knowing me whatsoever and said you need to be my leading actress in this film. The character was a bad ass Ryan Gosling in Drive and Rooney Mara in Girl with the Dragon Tattoo type. I was on board. I was amazed he could read me from my profile like that. He gave me the script, we filmed in a week, got to slap my co-star, and it ended up playing in the Castro Theatre in San Francisco. From then on I have been on the website SF Casting for Commercials, Print, Film and TV. Among popular names, I just recently filmed Wives with Knives on Discovery ID, and Murder in the First on TNT.

There is something about the kinetic motion of acting that has a fulfillment for me modeling doesn’t necessarily not have, but feels like a total different animal.

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

I am a constantly on the road towards spiritual nirvana. I lost my best friend 2 years ago in a school shooting at 24 years old, and actually saw my own life flash before my eyes, believe it or not. So, really, all I want is to be able to live life in the most poetic manner for you, Grace.

If I impress someone with my work, great. But all that matters at the end of the day is how you feel about yourself because no one will love you if you don’t love you. I do what I do because it feels good. I make way for any type of adventure and run far with it. When I have the chance to partake in something whether it be DJ’ing, modeling, acting, or dancing in the street, I put my absolute all into it. Then see where it goes. With that being said, I have no idea what my goals are. Haha! Actually, to live in another country for a year or more has been something that has been on my mind. Sorry, am I just ranting?

Rather than having the end result in mind, I’d rather have the journey and the process to be thoroughly excited about. I think many people forget that. In 5 to 10 years I could be on the streets, or in my own private jet. Who the hell knows.

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

I don’t model as much anymore, but if an intriguing project comes along that sparks my quirky and edgy nature, I do it. I am pretty picky. I mostly do auditions and filming now. I audition for things a couple times a week and film maybe once every 2 weeks. As I said before, I DJ and have a full time job so I don’t know how I am still alive. What is sleep?

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

Best experience – Meeting James Franco. I was actually on break for a modeling gig and went to a quick dinner in Palo Alto and ended up sitting next to James Franco. So for some reason, I associate the two together. hehe.

Worst experience – Not running away with James Franco; I repeat, I left the restaurant without James Franco.

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

I was doing this intimate scene in a short film, not sexually intimate, just really mentally demanding, and… farted. It wasn’t the audible type of fart, but the smelly one. I had to watch the face of my co-star twinge a little. hahaha. I am lol’ing just writing it.

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

I want girls to give the address, name, and phone number of wherever they are going so if something goes horribly wrong, their boyfriend can fuck up that mother fucking twat.

The industry will never change their expectations of girls and “what is pretty” so I won’t even ask for that…it’s a vicious cycle unfortunately. I just hope girls have the confidence and right mental capacity to deal with it and feel good about themselves no matter what, or be able to tell them to fuck off.

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

Hahaha! No one ever talks about those things to me because they know I don’t do either. I did band in high school and was raised a vegetarian. Which means no sports and a boring, yet nutritional diet. I make sure I eat healthy and make up for my lack of protein but that’s about it.

I take my dog to the dog park to make sure she gets some exercise and I live vicariously through her. I snack a lot and have an unyielding sweet tooth. My favorite food is vegetable chow mein with fried tofu. Yes.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

A nap can not be any less than 3 hours for me. I also suck at calculating percentages on the spot.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Negative. Love yourself ladies. Growing up the only thing I hated about myself was my skin color, which is on the pale side. In elementary school I was called Casper. haha. I used to sit in my backyard and try to get at least a wee bit of colour but I would only burn.

Now, I have come to embrace it. I feel extremely lucky I have no insecurities about my looks because that can be utterly poisonous. It’s a truly rewarding and freeing feeling. Please try it.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

Need I explain? wink wink.

Watch youtube videos of Beyonce and mimic her every move, right? yeah, duh.

Visit Cynthia Aileen’s website for more photos and information

Sep 23 2014

Interview with Melody Jordan — The XXX Ballerina

Melody Jordan is a 22-year old model residing in Martinsburg, West Virginia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Melody Jordan and I have been modeling for a little bit over 2 years. I originally come from WV but have gotten my fame when I moved out to Los Angeles. I am best known for my talent in dance and also my talent in singing. I enjoy writing music as well. I currently live back home with my parents and sister, and plan to restart my career in Los Angeles very soon!

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

I was always on stage or in front of a camera, so modeling wasn’t anything “new” to me. My father is also a photographer, so I spent lots of days posing for him. I started my erotic career when I was 20 years old when I made my MM and an agent contacted me. I never regretted it and I got so many cool opportunities from it!

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

I would love to be a penthouse pet or a playboy bunny one day. But when it comes down to it, I would love to have my own dance school and finish college. I dream of having a family as well.

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

I do mostly lingerie and erotic modeling as most of you may know. I also do video and acting and any sort of dance performance I can get my hands on. I usually work full time but currently I am on a break.

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

My best experience would be when I got to fly to Hawaii. I got an enjoy all expense paid trip while getting paid good $$ to shoot. I will never forget that trip.

My worse experience is anytime a photographer tries to touch me inappropriately …. that’s a no go.

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

I think the most embarrassing thing was when -this may get graphic- I was doing a scene and I had a girl spit in my asshole and I was supposed to squeeze it out and the #2 came out instead….

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

I think photographers need to understand that there is an art to photography and that not anyone with a camera can take photos. I have seen so many request for someone to get their “private collection” and I think it’s disrespectful…especially when there are paid sites, who keep us erotic models working.
I also think MM needs to get over the fact that there is porn.

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…ballet modern and jazz. I have done kickboxing and I love pilates. Lately I have been picking up weights as well.

I am sorta bad when it comes to eating but when I do eat healthy, I follow a strict 4 to 5 times a day meal plan with plenty of protein and organic food. We have to look our best especially if your butt naked!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have a guilty please of playing the Sims.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I wish I didn’t gain weight fast!!!!!!

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Yes I have a fear of being alone. I grew up with wanting to find my true love and I hope it happens sooner than later.

Visit Melody Jordan’s website for more photos and information

Sep 20 2014

Interview with Marissa Jacobus

Marissa Jacobus is a 21-year old model residing in Garden Grove, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in the OC. I love the artsy things in life and love how modeling allows one to create and mold themselves. I really enjoy meeting new people, and yes I am that weird person that will come up and talk to you for no reason. I really find joy in learning about new people and connecting with them. Besides modeling I enjoy ballet, art, and human anatomy is also fascinating to me as well.

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

Modeling has always been an interest to me. Not just because you get to look pretty, but because you can take and idea and make it into your own interpretation. I first got involved in the modeling industry, when a hair and makeup company wanted me to model for them. After that experience I decided I loved it and that it was a part of me. It is something that I feel comes natural to me. I feel like there are not very many red head models, so I got to represent!

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

My personal goals are to push myself as far as I can and see where I end up. Hopefully it will be somewhere rad, with lots of pizza. Just kidding, I see myself being happy and successful at whatever I am doing in five or ten years.

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

I model a couple times a month because I am in college, dance and work as well as model. I mainly do photo-shoots, such as dance, glamour, beauty,art and some sports.

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

I would say the best modeling experience would be is the first time I modeled with a male model. It was for a wedding photo shoot so the pictures had to be pretty intimate. I thought it would be super awkward, but it turned out to be a blast. We had great chemistry and it was wonderful to see a beautiful art form come together before our eyes.

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

Not yet, but I’m waiting for that moment to come.

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

Yes! I would love for real beauty to be able to shine as well as enhanced. I would love for the quirkier side of people to be expressed. To me, modeling is like painting a picture. If it doesn’t have character, or something to make it unique, it’s not as interesting.

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 run cross country and track, but after six years of competing I got tired of it. So now I focus more on ballet to stay in shape and keep a lean and flexible figure. I eat pretty healthy, no fast food at all, but like to splurge on some sweets every now and then. Juicing is also a favorite for me. Getting micronutrients never tasted so good

Please share something people don’t know about you.

That I do have a soul -get it, because I’m a ginger-.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Probably not. I’ve come to a point in my life where I can accept and love myself for who I am flaws and all. I can only strive to make myself better each day, physically and mentally.

Have you ever been fired from a job?

When I was seventeen I worked at Mrs. Field’s cookies at my local mall. It was a seasonal job possibly longer. So on christmas eve my boss was talking to me saying how we probably wouldn’t need as many people after the holidays. I didn’t get the hint that she was talking about me. So the next week I showed up to work asking when I was next scheduled. The awkward silence I received after that question finally hit me that I was the one that got let go. So they handed me my tips and I did the akward never coming back here shuffle out of the mall.

Sep 16 2014

Interview with Ariana Jenée — Aspiring Petite Model

Ariana Jenée is a 22-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Ariana Jenée. I was born August 20, 1992 in Reno, Nevada, but I have moved a lot in my life and California is my home. My mother, Lisa Morton, was a young single mom; she passed in 2007 at the age of 36, and I never met my father.

I have had a passion for being in front of the camera since I was a young child. My grandmother is a photographer and always used me as her model. We both learned and practiced together throughout my life. In high school dance was my second passion but even dancing couldn’t replace the happiness I get from being on camera.

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

My grandmother, Valerie Morton, started practing photography on me as a toddler. It became my passion as well. As I got older I really started to become more dedicated and interested. I started working with other photographers and learning on the way. The information I learned from them I used with my grandma for practice as well. Then I started trying to do little modeling jobs as much as I could and now at almost 22 years old I am ready to go full speed ahead.

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

I am a dreamer and goal setter. The list is miles long. I could go on and on about all my different goals but in my mind they all lead to two different things: Happiness and Success.

In five to ten years I hope to have completed my college education while also making a career out of modeling and even acting. I want to be financially stable and able to travel.

10 years from now I hope to be the woman I have growing up to be and working so hard to become in all aspects.

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

I have worked for many clients; for staples as a model for their website, for an ad for a boutique, many music videos, modeling for flyers, a calendar, as an extra for talk shows, and plays and dance recitals throughout school.

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

Best experience is having somebody completely random come up to me in the grocery store and recognize me from some of my work and tell me how they started following me on social networks and how I inspire them.

Worst experience is getting turned down because I am not a giant tooth pick. I believe that being tall and skinny is not the definition of a model. Beauty comes from all shapes, sizes, cultures, and more. A model is more than someone with a skinny waist, it’s someone that can make people inspired and motivated, someone who can be looked up to.

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

Everything is an extraordinary experience for me. I never thought that I would be able to experience any of this. Especially with the life I’ve lived. It’s all a blessing the good and the bad. I just keep looking forward to more.

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

Modeling isn’t one type.
Like I stated earlier, you shouldn’t have to be tall and underweight to be a model.

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 dance and do yoga. I now go to the gym as often as possible or do at home workout DVDs. I do not eat fast food or junk food and don’t drink sodas. Next month I will be starting a whole new extreme workout plan and diet. Nutrition and exercise mean everything in the modeling industry. So I have to really be dedicated and focused on them both.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love to write poetry.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am beautiful and perfectly imperfect, completely comfortable in my own skin. Of course everyone has room to grow and improve as a person, and that happens with time. I’m human. I like learning from my mistakes and I never regret them because they’ve made me who I am today.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

I am terrified of clowns.

Sep 15 2014

Interview with Megan McMath — US Navy Sailor turned model

Megan McMath is a 25-year old model residing in San Diego, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hey ya’ll! My name is Megan and I was born and raised in Houston, TX but currently reside in San Diego, CA. When I joined the Navy I was stationed in San Diego and just fell in love so I stayed.

I’m an only child and growing up it was just my mother and I. She is my best friend and knows everything about my life. Growing up I barrel raced in rodeos and I was a cheerleader and dancer, and she was always right by my side. I’m very lucky to have such an amazing mom!

I grew up on a ranch with horses, cows, goats, chicken, an emu, and others so I’ve always been very out-doorsy. I love snowboarding, camping, riding dirt bikes -I have a CRF250R- and horses, hiking, and really anything else that’s outside. I have two dogs that I adore and I take them to dog beach to play Frisbee as frequently as I can. I’m addicted to working out and I spend 5 to 6 out of 7 days lifting weights. I am also very big into EDM festivals, and go to every one that I can. I make my own outfits and go all out so that’s a big thing for me.

I have my Associates in Marketing and my Bachelors in Interior Design. I had a very demanding Design job, but was under paid so I quit. Now I am concentrating on modeling until I find another Design job that fits my expectations.

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

My mom put me into gymnastics and dance when I was three years old, and when I did my first dance recital I knew the spotlight was home. As I grew older I would buy disposable cameras from Walmart with my friends and we would do full on photoshoots with make up and fun wardrobes. My mom took me to Mayo-Hill which was a popular agency in Houston to try out, and I made it. I did a small shoot for GAP back in 1997, but had to quit for a while because school and dance just got too demanding. I started back up in 2007 when I started going to the Playboy mansion.

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

My goals are to hopefully get my face out there. I want to be published in a magazine or billboard or something along those lines.

In 5 to 10 years I hope to be a mother of two.

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

I do photo-shoots twice or three times a month. I love to be in front of the camera so pretty much as frequently as I can. I shoot everything and anything except for nude or fetish.

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

The best was with a photographer named Jay Waren. Our pictures came out perfect! We were out shooting at 5-7am right when the sun was coming up so the lighting was perfect. We had great chemistry.

The worst was with a photographer I will not name. We had shot together 7 times so we had a real good professional relationship. He pressured me into doing a nude shoot that I really didn’t want to do but I did because he just wouldn’t stop. He gave me his word that he would not post them on line because I didn’t want to portray that kind of message. I trusted him. That next day I found all of my nude pictures everywhere on the internet. I was mortified! He refused to take them down. I had to hire a lawyer to get him to take them down.

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

I eat healthy and typically only organic food. I have a weakness for brownies and foyo though so that is my main cheat food.

As I said earlier I am in the gym weightlifting 5 to 6 out of 7 days a week so fitness is very important to me. I love to hike, and I am on a hip hop dance team named Culture Shock. That is my main cardio since we meet 3 nights a week.

I want to live a long healthy life so I only put clean food into my body. My father died from diabetes, so being healthy is very important to me.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am extremely hard on myself. I am never happy with how I look.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I could sing. I am always singing anyways at the top of my lungs, but it sounds like a dying cat.

Sep 10 2014

Interview with Hailee Alexis Hussion

Hailee Alexis Hussion is a 19-year old model residing in San Diego, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Other than modeling, I have always had a huge personality a loud unique voice. Originally I’m from Plano, Texas but my family moved to California when I was 3 so I am San Diego raised. I was a theater nerd til high school and I also danced 20+ hours a week. I was on my high school’s dance team and we won first place at USA Nationals in the Lyrical and Contemporary Category for 2011 and 2012. Last year was my first year of college where I danced on the side lines of the Mountain West Champions, the Fresno State Bulldogs.

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

I have been modeling off and on since 5th grade. My little brother acted and modeled all the time, got tons of attention and as a 5th grader, I wanted that same attention. My mom took me to meet with some agents but I was too tall to model for little kid stuff and too young looking to model for teens. But I still signed with a San Diego agent and did a few things here and there. It wasn’t til my freshman year of high school, when I had matured that scouts started stopping me everywhere. I had signed with the first management company that wanted me. Big mistake, they wanted all kinds of money for shoots and fees. I didn’t know any better. After getting out of my contract with them, I signed with a SD agency, OC agency and LA agency and they are the real deals. All though it’s not the big leagues yet, I have booked many big time jobs. I know with time, experience and relationships under my belt, my time will come to be bigger than I am today.

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

I plan on finishing college in LA, where the industry and work is. My personal goals, are to marry my high school sweetheart. He is leaving for the Marines soon and I know it will be hard but he’s worth it. I also want to be successful, the American Dream. Everyone’s definition is different, but I want to make my family happy, and prove to all the people that thought I wasn’t good enough, that I am. I want to be financially successful and I want a beautiful family, that travels at least once a year for vacations.

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

I model at least once a week. With work, dance, school, my boyfriend and my family. I haven’t had the opportunity or the balls to jump into modeling full force. I like to do it all, although I’ve never done nudes. I have walked in LA Fashion Week and many other fashion shows, I have a few editorial spreads published. I have also done plenty of catalogue shoots. Stock photographers love me because I have a very commercial look. I have done some commercials and sports shoots too and like I’ve said before I used to be a huge theater nerd and dancer.

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

I always think nip slips are so embarrassing!! Like we are trying to be high fashion and risqué but then you’re posing and 30 seconds later you realize you are showing more than you thought and at that point the photographer has stopped taking pictures to let you realize that you’re giving everyone around the shoot a bigger show than they signed up for! Normally I brush it off but every once in a while I turn bright red in the face and can’t help but be embarrassed!

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

I would change how big and unprofessional it’s become. With technology today everyone thinks they can be a photographer, and with a website like model mayhem everyone thinks they have what it takes to model. But modeling and fashion is a lot more than the small world of model mayhem nudes and skimpy car photo shoots. To put it harshly, If the only jobs you book are through model mayhem, even if it’s a lot, I don’t consider that professional modeling. Because of technology nowadays, photographers don’t pay for the professional models, they pay for the ones who will work for cheap.

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

I eat everything I see, but I also was blessed with a very fast metabolism and I dance way too many hours a week. In my first year of college I have definitely come to realize that eating healthy is more important and eating all the junk will in fact catch up to you.

Would you change anything about yourself?

As many times as someone may say “I would never change anything about me”. I know first-hand that you can’t please everyone with your looks, there’s always going to be someone with tanner skin, skinnier legs, bluer eyes, more defined cheek bones and better eyebrows, but me? I’m all natural. Some things you can change and some things aren’t worth changing.The blonde isn’t bleached, the skin isn’t tanned and the eyes are light green. I have pale skin and I freckle like a red head does, and clients often tell me I would be a better red head than a California blonde but in this industry being different helps you stand out. Some people will love that and some will hate it. Just be the you that makes you the happiest!

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

I would call everyone who’s had an impact on my life, to tell them I loved them. I would donate my money to my favorite program for kids with autism, I would kiss my boyfriend for hours and have a picnic on the beach with my family. I would write down my favorite memories with my favorite people so they all had something to remember me by. I would laugh, love, probably cry a little and thank god for the life he let me live.

Visit Hailee Alexis Hussion’s website for more photos and information