Blog Archives

Aug 31 2014

Interview with Roberto Cordero Jr

Roberto Cordero Jr is a 19-year old model residing in Gilbert, Arizona.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Greetings and salutations reader, my name is Roberto Cordero but I usually go by Robert, to make it more simplistic for those who find it difficult to pronounce. Anyways, I was born in Yuma Az but the majority of my childhood resides in Oceanside CA. I’m currently staying in the valley of Phoenix Az, where my career began. I am a film student attending the Art Institutes of Phoenix where most of my notions are developed and put into action. My hobbies include creating art, capturing moments and scenes, inspiring, being a thespian or model. Growing up, I was in constant battle, going through pivotal phases, given doubt, feeling hopeless, and lost in this universe. School was a disaster, I didn’t fit in with the kids that attended so I spent a vast amount of time with myself during classes and lunch or spent it with the wrong crowd. I believe that the struggles I had throughout my adolescence has made me a better and more innovative individual. My family, including my 4 younger brothers, one older and one younger sister, is an incredible support system, they believe in me and I believe in them. Though both my parents divorced when I was just a child, they are both civil and have found new partners… which is why I have a big family. I believe the annulment did affect me though which is why I’m a very secluded and silent person but I’m slowly opening up and coming out of that particular phase. But, not to go into complete detail, let me make this short and simple for you, I’m just your average guy living an extraordinary life.

Roberto Cordero Jr wearing a black coatWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

Last year is when it all kicked off. I signed my very own two year talent contract with Deborah Maddox Agency, located in Scottsdale Arizona. You see, there was no hand-outs, it was all one me to take initiative to make this happen and that’s exactly what I did. At first, my plan was to aim as an actor, but slowly as that progressed I became intrigued with the art of modeling. As a freelance photographer, I also shot my own images so I used myself as the model to create and edit and since then I’ve been building my portfolio and submitted for and booked gigs that involved runway, commercial, editorial, and photo-shoots with local photographers. It just happened, there really isn’t an interesting story behind it. It’s just something that became compelling to me. It’s also a great opportunity to gain more exposure as a local and a creative enjoyment for self-expression. And, if you’re fond of fashion, then this is a wonderful opening to its world.

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

If I were to categorize my goals, I’d say my personal aspirations would be a Photographer and Videographer. I’m currently going to school for film but photography will always take a huge part in my life. I’ve been self taught with creating and capturing portraits. It’s just something that lived within me at a very young age, as cliche as that sounds. Now I’m taking full advantage of those abilities. As far as my professional goals, I’d say Acting and modeling is where my passions lies and I view these dreams as my professions. In 5 to 10 years, I see myself changing the world for the better. Inspiring the youth, making positive impact. I also envision myself living out my fulfilled dreams, traveling the world with my loved ones, taking care of my family, working with other artisans, and just being able to entertain, be it on television, stage, runway, and others; and creating art.

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

I’m usually working more on film projects rather than modeling assignments. Right now, I’m currently focused on filming my first feature film which includes dialogue in Flagstaff, Arizona, titled “My Name is Nobody” premiering in theaters in 2015. When it comes to the modeling world, there are many themes and subjects I enjoy depicting or engaging with but most shoots I work on are more fashionable and creative editorials. I’d say I work with modeling at least twice every two weeks, which isn’t really frequent due to my busy schedule with filming. But, that will definitely change up once everything pacifies.

Roberto Cordero Jr in the woodsPlease tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Come to think of it, I have yet to have a bad experience with modeling. I hope I don’t jinx myself on this one.

However, there are many good. Every experience with modeling or anything with entertainment is an amazing involvement. I try to soak in as much as I can and learn from other talent and photographers as I’m on set. The process is incredible; being patient is definitely a virtue. I’ll forever cherish the moments

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

Last year, I was scheduled for a photo-shoot session with TME and I was so stoked for it, thinking I’d be in a room full of incredible and talented male and female models. Well, there were definitely incredible female models at the shoot, then again there were only female models present. I was the only dude. It was quite hilarious actually and took me some time to adjust to the environment. Nothing embarrassing happened, it was just unordinary and funny to me; As it was to the rest of the ladies as well. I still had a wonderful time working with all the creative minds that attended.

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

I would put the value back into creativity and labor. It’s not about money, but it is about value. You can have it good, fast or cheap, but presume you can only choose two. Well, people are leaving ‘good’ out of it and decide to have it quick and vulgar. I would like everyone to slow it down just a little bit to bring back the quality. To have the appreciation for things that are caliber and bringing back those who just want the job done well and with passion. Nothing is free and the fact that seems to be lost lately. We are all aiming in the industry because it is something we are truly vehement about and we enjoy doing it, let’s not get sidetracked.

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 certainly plays a huge role as a model and actor. Physical and mental health is dynamic and essential for the talent. Although, when it comes to food, I’ll eat anything and as much as I want. I have my high metabolism to thank for that and I’m taking full advantage of it for the time being. It can be a hassle at times because it could cause severe acne and system problems so it is best that you balance it out with eating vegetables, tons of water, and making sure you’re taking the right dose of vitamins and protein. Salads are very common in my meals; at least 3 a week. On Mondays and Tuesdays I take two hours out of each day and work on my arms and chest. Wednesday & Thursdays are leg days, and on Fridays I work on abs and back. The routines are making quite a great difference with my fitness and well-being but a difficult task due to my HM but that is no excuse for me to give in. I’ve always been the type to take care of my physique and wellness, as it should be for everybody else. John F. Kennedy said, “Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body, it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.”

Roberto Cordero Jr holding a cigar and whiskyPlease share something people don’t know about you.

I can sense people’s emotions and energy. Also, when someone is staring at me which is quite phenomenal, but at the same time unusual. I guess that’s what they call a “sixth sense”.

Would you change anything about yourself (physical or otherwise) if you could?

There is absolutely nothing I would want to modify about myself. I’ve learned to accept who I am and my appearance. God created us all in his own image, just how he wanted us, so why change it? Be you and change for no one! These TV shows, magazines, movies, and stars give the viewers, especially women, such a distorted perception of reality. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, remember that. As a model, it’s mandatory that you accept yourself because being insecure will definitely be a con in this industry. It will destroy you, knocking down your confidence and that can affect your career. Be you!.

What features do you look for in a partner?

A woman that is open minded, adventurous, spontaneous, witty, quirky, funny, goofy, outgoing, great sense of style. A woman that is confident and comfortable with being herself in and out of public. Also, having a great personality because that is much more important than physical looks. Intelligence, ambition, drive and loyalty are also very essential characteristics.

Visit Roberto Cordero Jr’s website for more photos and information

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Aug 18 2014

Interview with Viktoriya Dov

Viktoriya Dov is a 22-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, my name is Viktoriya, and I’m originally from Sevastopol, Ukraine, the former USSR.
When I was 8 years old, due to a green card win, I moved to Las Vegas, NV, and then again relocated to Los Angeles, CA, when I turned 18. I pretty much left without saying anything at all.

I’m definitely a car enthusiast, I’m an artist. I draw, paint, and write, mostly Novels and Screenplays.

Since I was four years old my profession and passion has been acting; I didn’t get to start on it until i turned 18, unfortunately.

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

To be honest my passion has always been film, I was very inspired by certain movies when I was young. I was brought up on all the Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, & Dolph films, that made me decide that, that is what I want to do for the rest of my life.

Viktoriya Dov wearing a white blouseWhat are your personal and professional goals? Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?

My goals include making the movie I just wrote happen within the next year, It’s a film I wrote for myself and two other actors in mind, then I just want to constantly be working on different and interesting projects. As well as finishing writing my biography screenplay and filming that. I know the little gold statue doesn’t mean anything at all really, but I’d like to be awarded one. I plan on opening my own auto shop in either LA or Las Vegas. I will own my car collection in my garage, and have property in NYC as well as Pacific Palisades. And honestly to just keep working, that makes me the most happy.

I’d also like to buy my mom a house, so she won’t have to work anymore, even though there’s no connection there.

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

It’s really just your luck, I can book something, and once it’s done filming you’re freaking out on where are you gonna work next, what are you gonna work on next!! Hire me, hire me, hire me. Work work work.

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

I just want to say we both probably have had our bad experiences with starting out in the industry. Because we’re so fresh and new to it. You don’t see what you’re getting yourself into. And people do take advantage. I walked into a porn audition once. I had no idea.

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

I thought I booked a shoot once, and it was a fetish nightmare, I had to leave… But it’s so scary the things you get yourself into on accident when you don’t know any better!

Viktoriya Dov wearing a bridal dressIs there anything you would change about the modeling industry if you could?

There’s a lot of things that i would change in both Entertainment and Modeling Industry’s….

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

Muay Thai, and Jiu Jitsu, I wish I could constantly be taking those classes!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I hide a lot about myself, a lot. And it should probably stay that way. No body knows.

Would you change anything about yourself (physical or otherwise) if you could?

I wish I never cut my hair from when it was past my butt!!!

I wish I was more patient in certain aspects. I constantly feel the pressure of time.

Have you ever stolen anything?

Until I turned 18, I was completely insane. There’s so much I can put into that! But stealing wise… From 14-18 I stole everything… I stole food, i did beer runs and bottle runs… I stole clothes, shoes, jeans, I’d walk into a store with one pair of shoes and walk out with another. And I stole my mom’s car once. But we all do bad things when we’re young, right!?

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Aug 14 2014

Interview with Alyssa-Marie Papaleo

Alyssa-Marie Papaleo is a 24-year old model residing in Fresno, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am Alyssa-Marie Papaleo, I am a Model and Photographer. I am from Fresno, California. Born from an Italian father and a Canadian mother. I enjoy both Photography, and modeling as well as taking care of my father and his Cat Rescue Foster House. I like to dance, or go traveling in my spare time, which is hardly ever.

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

In 2010, I first got started by filling in for a model that flaked, and I was supposed to be the second photographer. They all agreed that they like what I was wearing, and that the light was too nice to let go to waste. By the end of the shoot the were impressed with my ability to pose as well as know where my light was, but mainly take direction very well. But I had take fashion design in high school, but moved and had to discontinue that. Howeveer, I’ve had a camera in and at all times documenting everything. In college I chose Photography as my AS Major.

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

After losing most of my photo and memories due to moving and couch surfing, photography helps me recover new memories. After I graduate with my AS degree in May 2015, I would love to attend FIMD for Fashion, or The Arts Institute to further my education in photography. But I want to continue pursuing my model career. I think by 5 to 10 years, I will not being living at home, and I will be taking care of myself, working doing photography and modeling and school if I can afford it. And I will do modeling until I can’t anymore.

Alyssa-Marie Papaleo topless wearing folk accessoriesHow often are you modeling and what does it usually consist of?

I started off with Trade shoot and group shoots, mainly for networking, learning from other photographers and models as well as some basic experience. Then I noticed many photographers wanted to work with me, as well as other models, and that they were referring me for jobs and gigs. I shot as an extra for a movie filmed locally named Showboys, released in 2013, and two short films in 2013 apart of local film festival.

As of recently I can only take paid shoots, because my schedule is limited; Last year of College, Two part-time jobs, Disabled father; Cat fostering, as well as all the normal daily stuff like eat, sleep, clean and study and shoot,  so I plan everything!

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

Most of my events, interviews and films have been a great experience.

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

Height! Not just for me but for lots of people. I don’t think there should be a standard. Models come in all shapes and sizes. Because there are plenty of women who look the part to be a model but can’t. I am constantly booked as a surprise, they say wow you photographer tall, and we always come to the conclusion that I am proportioned, even at a shorter height I have learned to model for my body shape. And there are plenty of unique women that can model.

Alyssa-Marie Papaleo in front of a lakeDo you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I am a very active person even though now I don’t do much of sports. I used to be in Softball in elementary, and I was on the Swim, water-polo, and dive team part of high school. But my mother said I would get bored in the house and climb on things and practically be working out all the time as a child. Now I am a very fast paced person, I make a list of everything I need to do for the day and try to do as much of it as I can as soon as I can, because I never get it all done. Eating healthy is a big thing for me because I am a very sick person after year of bad eating. Being skinny can bother me when others point it out, because I can’t do very much more to gain weight than I am already doing. I am doing my best to get the healthy food I need with what little money I can save.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I can suck my stomach in – organs actually shift into the upper abdominal cavity. I can also create a t-shape and make it “wave”. I can also plug my nose while swimming with my top lip, after have ripped it in pre-school.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Not really because if I had was just able to provide for myself my body and mind would be back to normal and not falling in and out of balance. Normal eating and a regular exercise, and regular income would help me change what I need to change.

Visit Alyssa-Marie Papaleo’s website for more photos and information

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Aug 06 2014

Interview with Angie M. Sanchez

Angie M. Sanchez is a 25-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Angelina Jolie and Jessica Alba combined with a splash of Michelle Rodriguez, that’s me in a nutshell! My full name is Angie. I am a Los Angeles Native, both born and raised; my whole family is here which is awesome. I get to be close to the people I love most. My mother is from San Salvador, El Salvador and my Father from Baja California, Mexico. I am first generation American, the oldest of 3 in my immediate family, and the oldest of 35+ first cousins. I love calling LA home but yearn to live in another country in the near future.

Acting is my first Love. Modeling is my mistress. Creating art is something that comes from the core of my being. I could not imagine life without it. I am represented by one of the best talent agencies in Los Angeles. I feel very lucky. I have worked in commercials, one that is airing soon is a Direct TV football commercial, so keep an eye out. I’ve done music videos, been in catalogues, Teen Vogue, print ads, Mario Lopez’s “Love and Salsa”, and venturing more into the film world.

I am a major goofball! Some of my friends don’t even take my work seriously because they know how silly I am. Bottom line is: I love having fun, laughing and making light of situations. My lifestyle is very active. I have this theory that I’m a Ninja and need to constantly sharpen my ninja skills by eating healthy, staying active whether it be: Bikram Yoga, Dancing, Cardio Barre, Tae Known Do or simply going to the gym. Most importantly making sure I get enough sleep and drink plenty of water.

Angie M Sanchez wearing wornout jeansWhen, how and why did you first get involved in the modeling industry?

I started modeling 8 years ago. The very first photographer I shot with showed my photos to a modeling agency based out of Pasadena, CA. Although I didn’t sign with them they still sent me out on jobs. Which was a great experience. I got to do the Prom addition for Teen Vogue.

Modeling and acting was something I have always wanted to do since I was a kid. I used to beg family members to help me pay for photos and classes. My mom didn’t want me in the industry because of all the crazy child star stories we hear. She had every reason stand by that decision. When I turned 18 I decided there was nothing holding me back. However, I wanted to get a degree. Mostly to make my mom proud. It took me a while but I accomplished that. I received my Bachelors from CSULB in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Interpersonal Relationships.

I tried modeling and studying at the same time but it became too much for me. I prioritized my studies and started studying acting as soon as school wrapped up. Which has lead me to where I am now.

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

Where do I begin… My motto is “Sky’s the limit”. Dream big and never settle. In five years I see myself as a Professional working actor. Traveling. Full schedule. Juggling 100 different projects. I’m excited! Can’t wait!

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

I am doing more acting than modeling. I have castings at least 3 to 4 days a week. Right now, my focus is working on my craft. I want my work to speak for itself. I’m currently studying twice a week at Howard Fine Studios in Hollywood, reading plays and books based on acting.

I shoot every other week generally. I am very selective who I work with. I don’t want to have a bunch of random photos floating around. I truly believe in quality versus quantity.

Angie M Sanchez wearing a swimsuitPlease tell us about the best and/or worst experiences you’ve had so far in modeling.

Let’s begin with the worst: I did a stock photography shoot when I first started in the industry. It was such a rookie mistake. I did not get paid enough for the ads I appear in till this day.
Another time, I was doing a runway show. I left my phone on a charger by the makeup station and had my phone stolen by one of the makeup artist who had already packed up and left. I felt betrayed by my own kind. Lesson learned.

Best experience: I would say every experience is great. As a model or an actress, we are constantly pushing ourselves. The best part is seeing my work. I tend to surprise myself time and time again. Sometimes I look at my work and say “Is that really me?” or “Is that what I look like?”.

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

Definitely one that was out of the ordinary. I had a moment at my very first runway show where I was freaking out!!! Big time! I remember I was on deck to go on the runway and I completely froze. There were cameras, people, friends, family, everything!!! It all ran through my mind as if it were a near death experience. In a matter of seconds I snapped out of it. I envisioned Angelina Jolie in the movie Gia. I remembered how Gia just didn’t care about anything. I walked onto the runway and pretended I was her. I was proud of myself and still think about that moment when I face situations that I feel defeated in. I tend to pretend I’m other characters when I’m working. It liberates me of any judgment.

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

Man, I would embrace those natural curves women have!!! 100%. I wish the industry gave access to before and after shots of models on the cover of magazines. The team of people it takes to put on a production: lighting, editing, photoshop, what the model does to prep for a shoot. I feel that young girls think that they are supposed to look that way. And it’s truly all an illusion. It’s art yes but it’s an illusion.

Angie M Sanchez wearing a bikini on the beachDo you practice any sports and what do you typically eat? Please elaborate on the importance of nutrition and exercise in your life.

I love to dance. I found dance to be one of my outlets lately. I like being in my body and feeling sexy. I enjoy swimming. I was a competitive swimmer in high school. So it always feels like home jumping into a pool. It becomes my territory. For fun I enjoy shooting some hoops.

I try to eat pretty clean but tend to get persuaded by the delicious food in my culture. My favorite dish in the whole wide world is a plate of Plantains with Black beans, sour cream and cheese.

Otherwise, I blend some superfoods as my first meal of the day. Meats don’t really sit well with me so I stick to fruits, veggies and other forms of protein. Black beans being my favorite. I drink a lot of water. For me it’s important to feel good about myself inside out. It’s important to feel flexible and to feel light in my own skin. So nutrition is major!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I shaved all my hair off to donate it to cancer patients when I was 15 years old. I have a pic of it on my Instagram. @_AngieMSanchez

Would you change anything about yourself (physical or otherwise) if you could?

I wish I wasn’t so critical of myself. I’m really tough. Not an easy chic to please. But it keeps me on track and on my toes.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

Have you seen the movie Jumper? If you haven’t, you must. My superpower would be to jump from place to place through a teleport!! Very much like that movie. Except I would use it to be a Ninja Superhero Girl with Super Human Strength. I would secretly destroy any plans that would harm humanity and at the same time I would bring resources to countries in need. I would teleport people with me. Maximizing all the time I have. Then I would then jump back to my regular life as an actress and to see my family. That would be awesome! I think I just created a comic character.

Visit Angie M. Sanchez’s website for more photos and information

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