Blog Archives

May 29 2015

Interview with Jeffery Stephan (JS) — Model / EDM Int’l Recording Artist

Jeffery Stephan (JS) is a 27-year old model residing in Chicago, Illinois.

Born and raised just outside of America’s windy city, Chicago, Jeffery Stephan was awakened to his muse at a young age. At just age three, he began his early years of musical discipline. From Jazz to Blues, Rock to EDM, JS will continue to create magical vocals and innovative music for the future of humanity, as we know it.

At age 12 Jeffery joined forces with his music school’s traveling blues band based out of Chicago. Exploring these avenues, he began to experience the joy of the main stage, playing at events like the Taste Of Chicago. From Jazz Band to the Choral line for his high school, Jeffery Stephan excelled wherever possible.

Now at a cumulative point in his musical education, Jeffery’s creative focus has begun to shift to the ever-growing market of Electro-Modulated music. With a voice and style all his own Jeffery Stephan is sure to light up the stage and resonate in the ears of many a generation to come.

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

I was actually approached in a shopping center in Downtown Chicago at age 15 by a talent scout. I wasn’t exactly sure if I was going to be interesting because I never found myself really fashion-friendly. I started understanding all of the creative aspects and how I could really relate to the fashion industry. I just had so much fun getting into it in both modeling and my music career. I love to portray not only sound but imagery, in the way that I can fully express myself and my soul.

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

In the next 5 to 10 years I honestly want to see not only a lot of progress of myself, but a lot of progress of the world and everybody around me. I believe that we are moving in a direction at a very exponential speed whether it’s with technology, politics, morality or spirituality. For myself, I just want to be able to create a foundation for myself – a legacy – that I can leave behind for future generations. I believe that we are all in this small world together and that we have to do the best we can to not only survive but to prolong the essence of what we are and that is magical to me.

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

For myself a lot of the photos that I do take are for my marketing efforts and my music career. But I am in a couple of fashion shows and I do some commercial print. I am also an aspiring to be a fitness model because I believe that health and fitness is something that goes hand-in-hand with our mind and our spirit. To live long and stay youthful and to be able to experience more than we can imagine!

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

My experiences in the entertainment industry have been quite up and down I do understand that a lot of times we have to be a certain look and a certain body weight and a certain body color and a certain color for eyes and hair, etc. And also in the music industry it is very hard to trust the right people and also in any entertainment industry because you want to make sure that you are constantly on your guard to make sure that you were working with people who are truly looking to not only advance themselves but to invest in you and advance yourself as well because it’s all about helping each other in any industry. Everyone wants to be successful and I understand that there are a lot of different ways that we can be deceived but if you truly believe in yourself and you feel that you go with your natural instinct just always know that the feeling that comes with inside yourself should be the one that you make the decision with.

Some of the best things that I feel that have happened to me is to be able to work with such wonderful personalities: beautiful people, creative people, innovation and being able to see just how things have changed over the past 10 years whether it is with fashion or music. I’m very excited about the shows that are coming up and I am truly looking forward to continuing my journey in this world.

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

If there was anything that I would change with the modeling industry it would be a more conscious way of understanding why it is the way that it works and to be able to help educate people who truly want to be aspiring models of what exactly being a model entails.

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 is one of the top most important things anybody could do not just to be a model but to be a healthy human being. I very much do like to stick to a strict diet of not eating junk food and trying to have a good amount of protein in the food I choose. I guess something that makes it very much simple for me to eat healthy is having the love to cook. Now I know I’m no Julia Child but I do know that I have a wonderful passion for being creative in the culinary arts and just because I didn’t go to culinary school doesn’t mean that I have not had great responses and reactions to the different kinds of cuisine that I cook.

Going to the gym 5 to 6 times a week is something that I find that is not only a must, but it has become a habit. It’s a place where I can really release my stress and tension of the week because we all know that there are various stressful things that happen in this crazy, chaotic world. Just know being healthy and fit is something that will not only give you a very long lifetime, but it will make you feel good from the inside out and you will truly be proud of yourself!

$Jeffery Stephan wearing latex black pants$ Please share something people don’t know about you.

One interesting fact about myself is that I was adopted at birth. I also have an adoptive brother who is not genetically related to me. He sure is the best 23-year-old that I know and is truly a best friend and brother. Not being able to truly know who my real parents are as of yet kind of makes me wonder what they look like and the possibilities of different directions in my life. But I believe that the universe has a path for all of us and that everything does truly happen for a real reason.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Let’s see now I know it’s the year 2015 and we have not become human cyborgs yet?! Just kidding! But I do find it fascinating that there is a possibility in the future that we will be able to have a much longer lifespan due to the technology and what we can do to our bodies. I’m not talking about cosmetic surgery, I’m just talking about getting an oil change and possibly getting a new engine! I’m not saying I want to live forever, but I am very much a futurist and it would be fantastic and a dream to be able to see all of the technology and evolutions in culture that we will have in the next hundred or thousand years. But as for now, I’m very much comfortable in my own skin and I do want to truly be a human being with an inner soul that can express itself physically and mentally.

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

Well I’m currently single, and it’s not that I’m not open to possibilities because anything can happen but I’m trying to focus on myself at the moment and to pursue my dreams because I definitely would like to meet somebody who has the same motive and aspirations for themselves. Just let nature take it’s course.

Visit Jeffery Stephan (JS)’s website for more photos and information

May 28 2015

Interview with Heather Marie Stephenson — “East Oahu Model”

Heather Marie Stephenson is a 26-year old model residing in Honolulu, Hawaii.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a pre-med student and a dog mommy to two adorable fur puppies.

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

When I first moved to Hawaii, I got signed onto Wilhelmina Hawaii Modeling Agency and from there starting modeling. Then, I started working at Hooters and did photo shoots there too which built my portfolio.

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

To graduate from College and go to Med School while continuing to model. Eventually have kids.

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

A couple photo shoots a month. It would be more but I’m very busy with school and work also! I would love to run the catwalk but I usually do beach or studio shoots with varieties of different styles.

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

In the beginning when I had no clue what I was doing, I was scared and didn’t know how to move while shooting. The photographer had to tell me to calm down and played music for me.

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

Tripping over myself. I’m pretty sure I’ve done that a few times.

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

More access to opportunities.

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

I run a lot as well as hike. I eat whatever I want but usually try to be as healthy as possible. Every now and then though a girl needs to have some cookies and pizza though!.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’ve lived in 8 different places and play 5 instruments.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Everyone has insecurities sometimes, but behind them is so much beauty! Our flaws are what make us unique. As Nick Lechey said, “What makes you different makes you beautiful!”.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Pizza and brownies.

May 12 2015

Interview with Cheyanna Lavon Zubas — Internationally Published Model, Actress

Cheyanna Lavon Zubas is a 24-year old model residing in Atlanta, Georgia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Cheyanna Lavon Zubas and I was born at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California. I am very passionate about my modeling and acting as well as singing, song writing, and guitar playing. I am also an entrepreneur as I own a company called Isabela Couture. My passions include modeling, singing, song writing, guitar playing, and acting. I am engaged to Jack Andrad, guitar player and owner of the Atlanta based band Uncrowned. I am constantly working to expand my portfolio and love to try new things!

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

As a young adult a local photographer approached me about shooting together. The thought of being a model had never crossed my mind until then but I took the opportunity with excitement and an open mind. After building a substantial portfolio and falling in love with modeling, I was informed that I needed a Spinal Fusion Surgery and if I didn’t have it done within the next five years I would become paralyzed from the waist down. This terrified me but with the help of my friends and family I was able to stay positive and recover quickly and in the end it actually aided with my posture which is a big plus for modeling.

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

People tell me that I need to simply focus on one thing and make that my ultimate goal in life; that I won’t succeed if I aim for multiple things at once. This is when I look at them and say, “I am focusing on a goal, and that goal is to be successful in as many dreams of mine as I can and as long as I never give up and stay true to myself. I don’t see why that’s not possible.” I try not to limit myself. In five to ten years I see myself being more successful with my modeling and entertaining career as well as my business.

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

My work is very consistent. Whether it’s editorial, advertising for companies, salons, promotions, published work, I am constantly working. I try to spread out my interests evenly but mainly my work is for modeling and acting. I have been internationally published in magazines and featured in many television shows such as Institute Magazine and The Vampire Diaries.

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

The worst experiences I’ve had are being rejected by agencies because of my height. That, and the often talked about circumstances when a photographer tries to pressure you into shooting nude regardless of what you have agreed on. This, however, is easily handled. Just walk away.

On a lighter note, my best experiences have been finding gem photographers to work with who are as professional and driven as I am.

I love to learn from experiences. Whether it’s good or bad, it helps you to grow not only in your profession but also as a person.

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

I was shooting for this magazine and they hired a freelance photographer to shoot me. The phototgrapher was amazing! Great portfolio and very professional. Now… although the pictures came out great and got really good feedback, no one would know that for the entire shoot his two-year-old was strapped to his leg with a death grip screaming non-stop!

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

Absolutely. One of the things I would change are the crazy measurements. I won’t call them unrealistic because obviously there are people who fit the look but there are very few people who can. You may be a phenomenal model who wants to take their career to the next level but if the agency wants a 5’10” girl who has the body of a little boy and you are 5’7″ with the body of a woman you’re not going to be given a second thought in most circumstances. Women are naturally insecure about themselves and these measurements just exacerbate the stereotype that models have perfect bodies. We all know that’s not true, nobody has a perfect body.

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

Exercise is very important to keep your body toned and in proper shape for shoots, not to mention it is wonderful for overall health. Especially in the long run. I go to the gym very often, about 6 to 7 days a week and I like to add runs when the weather is nice. Now when it comes to nutrition I am a bit guilty with pizza and wine binges. I do like to eat healthy but I’m definitely a foodie so exercise is key to keep my body in proper shape.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love animals! Especially little ones! I have a bit of an obsession actually. I’m constantly asking my fiancé for a puppy… or a kitten… or a fox… Haha!
I’m also a huge fan of Dragon Ball Z.

Would you change anything about yourself?

My love for food. Actually, I take that back. The fact that if you put a gourmet meal in front of me I will finish it. All of it. Haha!

If you were the opposite sex for one day, what would you do?

I would walk around in public without a shirt on. Girls get hot too!

Visit Cheyanna Lavon Zubas’s website for more photos and information

May 11 2015

Interview with Denise Tapia — Singer, Songwriter and Freelance Model

Denise Tapia is a 23-year old model residing in Atlanta, Georgia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello! I am Denise Tapia. I was born in Brooklyn, NY to Dominican parents, but am currently residing in Atlanta, GA. I have been here 2 years now working as a Receptionist at a hair salon, and freelance model, as well as learning the ropes in the music business. I am currently in the process of returning back to school to receive my Bachelors in Biology.

Modeling has always been a favorite hobby of mine, which I have been doing since I was 18. My true passion is Music. I remember writing my first song in the 5th grade for a math project, in which I was awarded a page in the newspaper. Ever since then, I knew music was my calling. I am looking forward into expanding and collaborating with other great artists and personalities. My dream is to one day own my own record label.

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

My first official modeling gig was in 2011, when I decided to take a break from school and move to Los Angeles. It was a music video for Ace Hood. While in LA, I was also in a commercial for the Hairfinity hair product. I have always been a photogenic personality and love being in front of the camera.

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

In 5 years, I see myself established with my Bachelors degree, as well as working on music and maybe so still modeling as a hobby. However, music is my first passion and I definitely see myself successfully owning my own label 10 years from now.

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

I model often when I have the free time to do so. It consists mainly of music videos for various artists, including independent and established artists. I have also been in fashion shows, high fashion, urban, glamour, and implied nude modeling, and try to do photo shoots as often as I can.

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

The best would definitely have to be me meeting new people, photographers, and the like, as well as learning more about the industry as I go, and looking back and actually seeing myself grow throughout the years. The worst would have to be when people don’t take business as business, and become unprofessional.

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

Yes! I would change the height requirement for high fashion modeling!

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 practice any sports currently, but I was an active cheerleader from middle school throughout high school. I am so slim, but I eat crazy. However, I do tend to exercise at least 2 to 3 days out of the week.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

People may not know that I was born with Inverted Nipples-grade 2, which is a condition where instead of pointing outward, the nipple is retracted into the breast. I recently found out about this condition. Also, I do not believe in religion.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would change my shyness. I tend to be very shy, especially when I really like people. I love everything physically about myself.

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

I hate underwear! I cannot remember the last time I have even purchased a Bra!

Visit Denise Tapia’s website for more photos and information

May 04 2015

Interview with Manda Dawn — Freelance Model

Manda Dawn is a 20-year old model residing in Cataula, Georgia.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi there everyone! I go by Manda Dawn. I am an 18 year old Georgia peach. I was born and raised in Georgia; I graduate this year, and am just so happy to be done with high school! I have a crazy family, that you can’t help but love. A unique hobby I have is playing and taking care of my pet squirrel Nutella. I looove to sing, it’s I guess you could say my passion or talent. Eventually, I am going to go to college to get my degree in psychology. I really love helping, and just caring for people the best I can.

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

I have always wanted to get into modeling, but just never knew exactly how, especially living in a really small town. I just needed some kind of opportunity. After going through months of training with Barbizon USA, and learning a lot about modeling, I wanted to take it a step further. I got into modeling because what girl has not fantasized about all eyes being on her? I have always thought the idea was just super cool, and thought I would be great for it!

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

In 5 years I see myself with my psychologist degree, hopefully opening up my own business to try to help people better themselves and just understand their situations. In 10 years I hope to have a beautiful family, to share my success with, and build an empire with.

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

Well, I love new opportunities, but can not take every little thing that comes my way. I mainly do photo shots and videos. I love doing fashion, erotic or lingerie, bikini and glamour shoots. Most times I am loaded down with shoots to do all over!

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

I have never really had a bad experience so far, and hope not to have one either. I am just a very bubbly person, so I am always smiling and dancing around behind the scenes of shoots and videos. I love when the photographer has music playing, it relaxes me so I can do my thing!

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

I love doing bikini shoots, because most of the time you are outside and have tons of people around you, mainly on the beaches. It’s funny to me because you never know what is going on in their head.

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

There is a lot I would change in the modeling industry if I could. One main thing that really bothers me, is stereotyping. Most people think you have to be stick thin, or a skyscraper to model, but I believe that if you are devoted and dedicated, why can’t you do what you love? The industry has all types of modeling, from runway to plus size modeling, and size and shape should not matter, but it does to many.

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 do track, before I grew really big boobs! I exercise at least 5 times a week. I think everyone should do some form of exercise, and stay motivated to do it also. You should stay active, even f it’s just walking up and down your driveway. I try to eat healthy, usually eat salad, fruits and stay drinking water. Even when I go out to eat, I order water with lemon. I’m not saying I always eat healthy, I would be lying… everyone has their cheat days, but after I make sure to work it off.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

A lot of people are shocked when they find out I do not drink, smoke, or party. I just have my standards like everyone else, but I never judge anyone for doing what they like and want to do. Another interesting fact is I am only 5’0, 18, with size 32H breasts and still growing… Wow, right?

Would you change anything about yourself?

Everyone has something that they would change about themselves, but I can honestly say I love who I am and how I look! God made everyone the way he did for a reason, so why try to alter that? I believe that everyone is beautiful and unique in their own way.

What was the meanest rumor ever spread about you?

Oh gosh, what rumor hasn’t been spread about me? From my boobs being fake, to me having an STD, I went through so many rumors. All the girls and my so called “friends” just loved to run their mouth about me, all because of my body, jealousy is not pretty.

Apr 20 2015

Interview with Sarah Michelle — Freelance Model

Sarah Michelle is a 20-year old model residing in Orlando, Florida.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello everyone! I go by Sarah Michelle. I am from Maine but have resided in Florida for a little over a year now and I love it! I am currently going to school to get my Registered Nursing License. However, in my mean time I am a traveling bartender and bartend at motorcycle and bike weeks around the United States. It’s an awesome experience and I’ve met a lot of amazing people on my journey of traveling. I plan to take my nursing degree and travel the world. For my hobbies, I love anything outdoors and I work out a lot. I’m always trying new things and looking for new opportunities.

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

I started modeling when I was in high school. My mother’s friend was trying to branch out her photography from more than weddings and school photographs. So she asked me to do a fashion shoot with her!

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

In five years I see myself established with my nursing degree. However my dream is to be an actress and a model for fashion and commercial print magazines. In ten years, I hope to have made a family.

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

I do a lot of photo shoots around the U.S. Everytime I travel I always try to set up a photo shoot somewhere along the way.

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

I’ve never really had a bad experience. I always love to goof around and have fun with the photographer. I think a fun atmosphere creates better images.

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

I think the best experiences were when I’ve done beach shoots, because everyone’s staring wondering who you are and exactly what the photos are being used for.

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

I think exercise is very important not only for physical attributes but for the mental part too. I work out 5 to 7 days a week, typically in the morning so I start off my day with energy. I normally take a protein shake and eat very clean… but hey, everyone has their cheat days!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I feel everyone has something that they want to change about themselves, it’s just everyone’s beautiful in their own way.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I love just watching tv or reading a book and drinking a glass of wine!

Apr 19 2015

Interview with K. Reed — Business Yogi Model Wildwoman

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Not really.

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

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

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

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

Please share something people don’t know about you.

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

Would you change anything about yourself?

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

What is your guilty pleasure?

A nice joint!

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

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 09 2015

Interview with Victoria Catherine — Sales Manager by day Model by night

Victoria Catherine is a 23-year old model residing in Tampa, Florida.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Victoria Catherine, I’m 23 years old, born and raised in Seattle Washington! Go Seahawks!! I currently live in sunny Tampa, Florida with my Australian Shepherd named Riley who I adore. I guess the best way to describe me is that I’m an independent business woman. I love being successful and knowing that I did it all by myself. I work in sales as a main job but when I realized how easy and flexible modeling was I jumped right into it. It’s great side money and plus I enjoy getting all done up and feeling uber sexy. I’m very active. I enjoy bike rides, rock climbing, hiking, and snorkeling or diving. I have a boat which Riley and I love taking out in the gulf of Mexico. Despite my active lifestyle I don’t mind curling up with a glass of Pinto Nior while binge watching Netflix. As a Sagittarius born on Dec 11, 1991 I’m known as the international traveler, which couldn’t be more accurate. If I could spend my entire life traveling the world and meeting new people I would.

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

I had no interest in modeling, in fact as a young girl I was a big tom boy. I played every sport and swore I’d never wear a dress to prom. That didn’t last long, when my parents moved the family to Florida, my entire lifestyle changed. It was when I was at the mall with a friend of mine when a man approached us asking us if we had ever had an interest in modeling. I laughed and thought the guy was a creep. He gave my friend his card and she ultimately called and booked a session with him. When I saw how her pictures turned out I too decided to give it a try. The second I got behind the camera I instantly took a liking to it. I was surprisingly “naturally photogenic” the photographer told me. My mom and I proceeded to find an agent to sign with. Never managing to land the right one my career never really took off. I found that I could find my own gigs better than my agent and I didn’t have to give them a cut. Ever since, I’ve been managing myself. I’ve done quite a few promotional gigs and was even featured in a few European magazines.

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

My ultimate goal when it comes to Modeling is being on the cover of Maxim or Sports Illustrated. If modeling doesn’t work out in that way, I’d like to be on the cover of Forbes with an article discussing my fortune five hundred company that I’ll have one day.

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

Like I said Modeling is more of a hobby or side job if you will, so I’m not focusing as much on it as of late. However, I’m planning on pursuing it a little more and see where it takes me. I got into acting in College and that’s where I’ve had the most fun in my career. It’s just unfortunate that Florida’s not a very good market for acting which makes it very difficult to find projects to work on. With modeling I’ve done several promotional stuff which is what I find pays the best for me but if I had a choice I’d love to do really neat creative photo shoots. Glamorous artistic shoots. I love big hair and crazy makeup.

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

The best experience I’ve had modeling was when I modeled Gabbi swimwear designs in a fashion show. I love rocking the catwalk. I had cameras flashing and lights everywhere with music blasting, I was in the zone. Such a fun experience one I’ll never forget. My worst experience had to be when I was shooting a Great Depression shoot and it was at least 90 degrees in this tent they had set up for us to shoot in. It was a semi romantic/depressing shoot. We spent hours in this 90 degree tent with 4 other people trying to get the shot just right. By the time we got the shot my makeup was melting off my face, my hair was a frizzy mess, and I felt gross and grimy. The pictures ultimately came out great but man was that the most antagonizing shoot I’ve ever done. That’s the price you pay when you’re a model, people think it’s all fun and games but only if they knew.

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

Oh yeah, once I was shooting on a surf board off the shore a little bit and a big wave came blasting through, knocked me clear off the board and when I surfaced my boob had popped out. I was a little dazed and confused and hadn’t even noticed until the photographer I was shooting with pointed it out. I was so embarrassed. At the time I was only 18 so being young and in High School still it was traumatizing.

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

Honestly the industry today is what we’ve made it. Women in magazines have been portrayed as sex symbols since Marilyn Monroe was discovered. I don’t think it’s gonna change any time soon but if I had a say I’d censor it a little more. Call me old fashion but I like the 60’s and 70’s pin up models. I like the bikini models that didn’t have to pull down their bottoms to show their vagina lines peaking through. Women are sexy without having to be naked. Sure sex sells and I’m not saying I don’t like seeing it myself I just wish they classed it up a bit. I think it’s gotten almost distasteful over the years.

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

Haha my motto is I’m young and have a good metabolism so I eat whatever the hell I want. Sorry but life is too short to not enjoy all the delicacies the world has to offer. I’m sure it will catch up with me some day but until that day comes carpe diem. But I do tend to stay fit. I love being active. While I don’t slave away at the gym I do run, bike, and rock climb almost everyday.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have a strange obsession with touching things… like I’ll be in the grocery store and if it’s shiny or stands out in anyway I feel this sudden urge to touch it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Sure I could say I hate my nose, or I can’t stand the fact that one foot is bigger than the other, or that one shoulder blade is higher than the other but you know what, that’s me. That’s what makes me unique. I’m happy with my overall self at the moment.

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

I think it would be such a blessing to know the exact moment I will be taken from this world because I’d be able to let go and live the life I’d always wanted! The first thing I’d do if I knew I only had 24 hours left to live is drop everything and fly to a destination that I hadn’t visited yet. Hopefully it won’t be too far that way I won’t spend too much time on an airplane, which would have to be First Class, by the way. I’m sure it would be somewhere tropical like Central America or even South America. Once there I’d scuba dive with sharks and explore what the deep sea has to offer. I’d jet ski naked. Do tons of alcoholic shots! Marry a stranger. I’d go horse back riding in the ocean. I’d hike a mountain in the rain forest. I’d try to leave some sort of mark on this world. And then I’ll die peacefully in an underwater bungalow.

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.

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