Blog Archives

Jul 16 2016

Interview with Hannah True — Midwest Med Student & Model in Sin City

Hannah True is a 20-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born an only child in Omaha Nebraska and moved to Las Vegas Nevada in 2015. I’ve modeled for years now and have found my own passion for photography along the way. I’m in school to become a PA and before moving I was a Zookeeper, I’m a huge nature lover who also had a passion for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, I like to think I’m down to earth and my sense of humor shows that greatly!

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

I danced for 14 years and my instructor was personal friends with a photographer, the photographer asked to take some pictures of me to promote her business and I of course said yes. Later on, one of my dear friends began running her own photography business and asked me on multiple occasions to shoot for her, this is when I became featured in my first magazine, named Beyond the Wanderlust. Since moving to Vegas I have started getting paid for my shoots and I’m so excited and thankful for the experience, exposure and people I’ve had the privilege to meet along the way.

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

I want to continue modeling, hopefully securing larger and more regular paid jobs with a company or a few sponsors. I’m continuing my education as it is my number one priority and I see myself pursuing my medical career within the next 5 to 10 years and hopefully I still have the privilege to model along the way as it is not only a job, but a passion and work of art.

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

I’ve mostly been doing independent modeling, I did many shoots over the course of the year but as of lately my shoots have been limited simply due to timing. I primarily do shoots but I have also been featured as the lead role in a short film that took place around April and May. I am open to anything and everything as long as those I’m working with and I have good chemistry and are trustworthy.

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

The best experiences I’ve had modeling would take far too long to type! I’ve had so many incredible experiences with so many photographers and people that they by far outweigh the bad experiences. However, I had my dose of that too. I blame my own naivety on some of it, but regardless I was in a very unprofessional setting with an individual who did not understand boundaries and then began attempting to pursue me after the shoot with multiple -back to back if I didn’t reply, which I didn’t- inappropriate messages.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances I was able to learn greatly from this experience and now I am able to be more forthcoming with photographers when I stand my ground if there’s something I’m uncomfortable with. It has heightened my sense of personal security and well being, and it has taught me that despite wanting to continue modeling and shooting, I am never to do something I’m uncomfortable with and that I should look out for myself first.

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

I would like for it to be easier to get into. I don’t like some of the pretentious vibes I get from agencies and I wish it was a more personable place of 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 danced for 14 years and played soccer for 5. I currently workout regularly as a healthy diet and exercise are incredibly important to me, a healthy life is a successful life and I want to look and feel my best always

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m left handed and colorblind.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think we all have days that we would like to change something about ourselves. But at the end of the day, self love comes first and happiness comes from within. You cannot control everything but you can control yourself and I think that living a healthy lifestyle can mitigate many physical and mental issues we often find ourselves struggling with.

What was the meanest rumor ever spread about you?

After elementary school I became homeschooled. Rumors spread about me that the reason I was “taken out” of school was because I wasn’t smart enough to stay in. Actually, it was because of the school system I was in and I was even in the “discovery program” which was an advanced learning program for high achieving students. I can laugh about it now, but the fact that people thought I wasn’t smart enough for school when it was the exact opposite is pretty funny to me today!

Visit Hannah True’s website for more photos and information

Jul 10 2016

Interview with VikTory — International ft. ballerina travel model

VikTory is a 26-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada and New York City, New York.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in a small town in Austria and I have 5 siblings and amazing parents that are still happily married! After graduating college and earning my degree in professional classical ballet and modern stage dance I worked full time as a dancer in focus ballet and lyrical dance at European Ballett St. Poelten, the same company I have performed and danced already part time while attending school. I started at the Corp de ballet and later on I performed as a soloist with the company. We danced all over Europe, went on a 5 weeks tour to China, and I danced the opening for an opera ball in Dubai, danced in Brazil, Sydney, Turkey and other places around the world just to name a few. My whole life was about dance and school, yet I am very close with my family and siblings, from whom by the way nobody dances.

BY laeey taggesell

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

My dream was always to be a dancer in NYC, so at the age of 21 I did the step and I came to NYC – with 2 suitcases and nothing else. I got a part stipend for “Steps on Broadway” but I had to build my whole life up from nothing… by myself. I was not naive, I knew it would be hard but I had a passion and a dream and I had to give it a try, as I never thought about myself as a model, because I am short -5’3″- and I don’t consider myself as very pretty, and I just didn’t fit in in any category: too short for fashion, too “ugly” for print, not muscular enough for fitness. I had some experiences with photo shoots, because while dancing with the company in Austria we had a lot of shoots for magazines, newspaper, billboards, and I truly enjoyed it.

At the beginning I still worked as a ballet dancer in NYC when I was asked to do a photo shoot for a ballet catalog. After the shoot I did some research and I realized that there is a “whole other world of modeling” out there and again I went all in: I decided to be a full time model overnight! It may seem naive, I knew it won’t be easy but I knew if I want to make it – I have to make it work because I did not know anyone nor did I have money I could fall back on.

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

That’s a good question. I always have very long term goals and a lot of ideas, but I very often have no exact plan on how to achieve them but always do so by staying flexible in the way of approaching them; one big goal I am working on at the moment is to get my green card, it is a big goal for me, as most people and even lawyers told me it is impossible to do so, but I got already my work permit as a ballerina model with “extraordinary abilities” which made me very proud and I am not afraid of working hard to archive the next step.

I want to eventually write my own book as I had a lot of crazy things already happening in my life and I get asked quite often when I will publish my book. I also want to keep inspiring people, put my toes more into acting as I enjoy that part of modeling a lot… there are many ideas I have but I like to convince people by action not by words. As far as personal goals, my whole life has been about work and my career so I would like to eventually settle down, a little bit, not really settling down in the ordinary way but maybe just find a place of my own in a city I want to live in.

by Rod B.

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

Well every day is different really. Most work I do are photo shoots, specially ballet and dance related. When I am touring I shoot a lot: 1 to 4 shoots a day, and then sometimes I don’t shoot for a week… it all depends. I always work out in the morning, do my shoots and after my shoots I answer emails to set up new work.

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

I prefer to focus on the good, no matter what kind of work you do there is always something you don’t like, but all in all I had good luck and the good things definitely outdo the bad ones. I love hearing so many personal stories of people I work with, and I feel very blessed that nearly at every shoot it ends up to be a collaboration and I have a lot of saying specially regarding poses, timing, angles, and others. My work with dbox, an incredible agency in NYC who hired me for the “432 park avenue project” was definitely one of my highlights so far, but also the work with Samantha Yousseff for “Studio Technique” was very inspiring, and I felt very honored as she flew in from Toronto just to work with me.

To work with the well-known sculpture artist Richard MacDonald and seeing a statue I posed for at the Bellagio in Las Vegas was fantastic as well. I love leaving “quiet little footprints” all over the world by having images of me in galleries in San Fransisco, NYC, Boston, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Austria, Italy and many more. Posing as the cover model for the highest luxury apartment in the western hemisphere in NYC and posing for Richard MacDonald as well as getting booked by Gene Schiavone, one of ballet’s top photographer and published in NYC times are definitely one of my best experiences so far.

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

I had a lot of funny moments at the beginning of my career due to the fact that english is not my native language, A lot of people use sarcasm in this industry which was really hard for me, because at first I had to translate the meaning of their words and then figure out if they actually mean it or not. It caused a lot of “little – long breaks” which turned out a bit embarrassing for me.

As it took quite a while until I got a joke, sometimes I said things the wrong way, and it came across very wrong. e.g, for me it is important that the photographer got the shot he had in mind or we created the vision he was going for, the “Austrian” way of saying this is : “Are you satisfied” – you can image that I got a lot of weird looks and laughter at the beginning; but believe me, I learned fast. Out of the ordinary: Well very often people told me to do an image where I stretch, so I did my stretching. I am very very flexible, due to hard work, not naturally, so people where literally shocked when I really stretched. We then agreed on the fact that it would be a better picture if I just pretend to stretch.

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

To be honest I had a very hard time to refer to myself as a “model”, because there are just too many bad associations with this job title; and while people immediately think about a tall and beautiful girl, other associations are: lazy, bitchy, irresponsible and dumb. I met a lot of other models over the years or am at least in conversations with them and believe me most of them are anything but that.

Therefore I would love for people to understand that this is a job as well and it takes a lot of work to create beautiful images and art. Not every model just models for the fact of “fast or easy money”, not every photographer sleeps with the model or vice versa and not every model takes drugs. These are all stigmas, maybe a small percentage behaves that way but definitely not the majority of the models.

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

Yes I work out a lot, as lot of the bookings I get are due to my ballet and dance experience, and as a former ballerina I am used to practice 7 to 10 hours daily and I want to keep my technique and physique as much as possible. When I shoot dance or contortion images it is just kind of an additional little work out for me! I do work out daily, a routine I have created for myself that consist of stretching, yoga, Pilates and muscle exercises, and I constantly watch what I eat and follow a vegan plant based lifestyle.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am really shy in “normal” life, I feel very comfortable posing nude and dancing on a stage but I still get very uncomfortable in groups… Yes I feel more uncomfortable wearing a bikini on a public beach than posing as a model in front of a large group of photographers.

Would you change anything about yourself?

A few years ago I would have given you a long list, but nowadays I try to work with what I have. I still wish to be taller and have bigger eyes and longer legs and clean skin at all times, and be funnier in bigger groups, but I learned that nobody is perfect so I decide to work with what I have and make the best out of it.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I would love to speak more language, as I think that a language barrier is the main reason that causes misunderstandings and separation. I speak German and English fluently and I learned French at school, and I taught myself some Brazilian Portuguese – as I have a lot of friends from Brazil and I fell in love with the country. I understand a little bit of Russian, because most of my dance teachers where from Russia, but I would love to speak all languages fluently! And, if I can get a second wish: I really really really wish I could tackle the whole media, internet, and computer thing better as I would love to improve my knowledge of using a computer as I am not the best in that.

Visit VikTory!’s website for more photos and information

Jun 18 2016

Interview with Trigger — Arresting Fit Life, Bodybuider, Model and Cop

Trigger is a 24-year old model residing in Missoula, Montana.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Montana and still reside here, being an only child, have always played sports and been active since I was 5. The fit lifestyle I have always had is something I love a lot. I played basketball for 13 years, volleyball for 6 years, gymnastics for 2 years, tennis for 5 years, among other sports. Since graduating high school I pursued modeling and have since done several shoots. I am graduating College in May of 2016 with a degree in Criminology and hope to one day work for the FBI or law enforcement. I just competed in my first bodybuilding show this April and placed 3rd and 4th, while falling in love with modeling and weight training ever since.

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

I first got into modeling after doing some pre-shoots to help a friend’s photography business grow. Since getting noticed through helping her, I did fitness shoots and made a calendar for a small town fire department, and since then it has been growing and I enjoy every minute of it. I got into modeling because I enjoyed doing shoots, being in front of a camera and one of my good friend’s has done it for a while. Doors were opening so I thought I would take advantage of the fitness modeling door opening. I plan on walking through it!

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

My original goal was to be an FBI agent and or work for some law enforcement as a police officer. Since modeling I have still wanted to pursue this goal, but I also want to be a pro bikini competitor as well as a model for companies, either for clothes or supplements, so I say my ending goal is agent, model and bodybuilder. I have high standards and goals for myself and I plan to go for my dreams, so in 5 to 10 years I would hope to be married and pursuing at least one of these goals. I am constantly moving, besides if you want to get something done, ask a busy person!

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

I mainly do photo shoots that are fitness related because that is what I am pursuing and what I love to do, just as I love anything fitness related. I was once in a commercial for a local supplement store in Missoula and was paid for that. Most of my photo shoots are for progress, gains and to build my portfolio, as I am not signed with any agencies yet, but I would like to be.

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

I do not know what my worst experience would be, but my best experience was doing a fitness shoot and getting a little attention from a local clothing store. I am still building my portfolio and trying to get more noticed, so all of my experiences are smaller than most.

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

Like I stated in my bio about myself, I have always been involved in some type of fit activity, and I am currently focusing on weight training and bodybuilding. My diet consists of if you can kill it or you can grow it, then you can eat it, while if it comes in a package that crinkles and makes noise, then it’s not on the diet. It is important to not just take the diet plan or diet pills on the TV screen that they say works for everyone. Do your research and realize that everyone’s body is different and different foods work for different people.

Knowing what you are eating and how you are exercising for your body is important, as we are all different so we can all do similar things but not the same things. If you do not pay attention to what your body is doing, or how it feels after eating a certain food or how it reacts, then what are you doing? The minute you take the time to do your research and watch your body change for the better, the better you feel, because you did it.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I can tie a cherry stem in a knot with my tongue in 5 seconds or less depending and I am a Christian and the Lord is my best friend.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would not change anything about myself because everyone is unique and perfect in their own way. No one is a mistake or messed up, we are all different: I mean I will be honest I am not a fan of my face or my nose and wanted to get a nose job. For the longest time I was self conscious about having small boobs, but if someone doesn’t like me due to a physical attribute, then they don’t need to be my friend anyway. Small is better than bigger anyway -I can do more and don’t have back problems- I am happy with who I am

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I wish I could fly, but I really wish I had the power to read peoples’ minds or to be an invisible mind reader who could fly as well, that would be the best. I would want to be able to see the world from up above, to be able to know if someone was lying to my face and it would be cool to play some fun pranks on people. It is good to have a sense of humor.

Jun 13 2016

Interview with Cassidy Lee — Glamour Model with an Edge

Cassidy Lee is a 21-year old model residing in Detroit, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Cassidy Lee, a 21 years young from Detroit, Michigan. I have dark hair and green eyes, and besides modeling, I manage a beauty salon and also own my own interior decorating business. Independence and not caring too much about what others think of me is what I am all about.

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

I started modeling at ten years old, and being so young with working parents, I did not have anyone to travel to photo-shoots with me, so as soon as I was able to do things on my own, that’s just what I did. The minute I turned eighteen I started getting back into the industry, and do a photo-shoot a week typically. I love this industry.

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

In five to ten years, I see myself signed with an agency, as well as a centerfold in Maxim, Playboy, or Sports Illustrated. I want to get my face out there as much as possible, make a difference, and push some limits, mostly modeling glamour, sexy, and edgy, that is what I put all my energy into.

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

Photo-shoots typically are scheduled at least once a week for me. They usually consist of getting my hair and make-up done, and then shooting for a few hours, depending on the job. Although I have done acting before, most of my work consists of glamour, edge, and playboy-like work.

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

Every shoot is the best to me, whether it’s working with someone new, or a team I work with regularly, I always learn something new or get to do something fun and creative. Since every photographer shoots differently, I always learn a new tip from them, and it’s the same thing with make-up artists. I love having these connections and people I can always go to with questions or ideas to bring to life.

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

Some of the craziest experiences in my life have been on photo-shoots. In California, I did a photo-shoot with a python that weighed more than I did. There was one time I did a lingerie shoot in the snow, next to a snow hill where there were tons of people sledding. There’s never a down moment being a model, that is for sure! I love it.

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

If I could change one thing about the modeling industry, it would be height requirements. Being only 5’6, it limits me and so many agencies to work together. I do not want to do runway work, but print work is where I am supposed to be, and I wish it was easier to get signed being my height.

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

I will admit, I am lucky with a good metabolism. Before photo-shoots, I typically try to eat as healthy as possible though, and splurge on pizza and burgers as soon as I am done haha!. I also try to do some at home workouts and walk regularly too.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I was meant to be in the 80’s era. Total 80’s girl all the way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No, I would not change anything about myself. That’s a problem with images and influences with girls especially nowadays. You are YOU, no one else can be you. So EMBRACE your flaws! Love yourself.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

My favorite thing to do alone, well there are a lot of things. I am a very independent person, so I do need my alone time. I read and write a lot, I love reading things that are true or could happen. I love writing about things that are going on in my life, songs, poems, anything on my mind.

Visit Cassidy Lee’s website for more photos and information

May 23 2016

Interview with Karrin Rachelle — Karrin Rachelle is a professional model

Karrin Rachelle is a 24-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello, I am Karrin Rachelle, born in Seattle, Washington, but mostly grew up in Bellingham, Washington and am currently based in Las Vegas, Nevada. I’ve been modeling since age 7, but I’ve been more seriously modeling for about 7 years now really.

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

From age 7, I was in a couple of children’s advertisements and such for my school mostly, after which I mostly went on a break really for a few years and picked it back up years later. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the country doing photo shoots, fashion shows, appearances and more.

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

My main goal in life right now is to continue with my modeling, acting, social media, magazine contributor careers, among, others, and continue building my brand. My goal has always been to take my work as far as possible though really. Aside from all that, I love inspiring others as well.

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

I pretty much work whenever I feel like it mostly. My workload usually just depends on how much I’m willing to take on really, and sometimes I may hit as many as 2 or 3 photo shoots in one day; thankfully, it’s usually only just one. I regularly work on my social media and the social media of a couple other brands as well.

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

I really loved one of the summers I spent almost a month shooting all over Hawaii especially. Being able to just island hop a bit more, having one of my best friends documenting again most of the adventures and shooting all over a few of the majestic islands of Hawaii is just the best pretty much.

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

Haven’t we all? When you model professionally you’re pretty much just asking for some extra interesting experiences sometimes, both really good and some pretty bad I guess too filled with drama… I really love how I get to meet even more interesting and amazing people though always.

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

I don’t play sports near as much as I used to and would like to seems like, though I am an avid football watcher. Sushi, cheeses and drinking all kinds of cool teas I especially love. My juicer and protein powders are some of my best friends though hehe.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could make myself an inch taller that would be cool.

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

Pretty often actually really. There are times when it is just way way more comfortable, practical, fun and flirty like that really. And my boyfriend really kind of digs it too a lot hehe. Generally very easy access tends to often be a very good thing.

Visit Karrin Rachelle’s website for more photos and information

May 12 2016

Interview with Genevieve Burnesse — Full-time Model, Actress & Designer

Genevieve Burnesse is a 19-year old model residing in West Hollywood, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Depending on where you met me, you may know me by a different name; most of my friends know me as “Jen”, my family calls me “Jenny”, but most of the world knows me as “Genevieve”. I am originally from Atlanta and currently based in West Hollywood, CA. The first dress I ever designed was a red velvet evening gown at age 7.

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

From around age 7 to 10, I was in a couple of children’s fashion shows for Nordstrom in North Georgia, after which I quit for a few years and picked it back up around age 16. Since then, I’ve traveled all over the country doing photo shoot and fashion shows, festivals and red carpets.

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

My main goal is to continue my design work, build my new brand, BLVCK CVT, and to encourage others to follow their dreams, no matter how distant they may seem. For the longest time, my dreams seemed so far out and I want to spread a little hope; everyday, I strive to create wild new art and enjoy sharing it with our world.

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

My workload entirely depends on where I’m at. When I’m in Los Angeles, sometimes I may hit as many as 3 photo shoots in one day! Thankfully, it’s usually only one, and when I’m in my hometown, Atlanta, I work less but I get to dive into more interesting projects, like designing costumes for music videos.

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

Last Summer, I was in O’ahu, Hawaii with one of my best friends for over a month doing “suicide shoots” all over the island. That means we drove all over the island changing outfits and taking pictures in all sorts of terrain. The island magic was magnificent.

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

Who Hasn’t? Just last week, I accidentally posted a beautiful photo on instagram from a recent photo shoot that was a bit more revealing than I would have liked to have on the internet! But don’t get your hopes up, I’ve taken it down now… Only a few thousand people saw it…

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

Sushi is probably the base of my food pyramid. I love fruit, cheese, vegetables and drinking hot tea religiously.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I got my scuba diving license when I was 14, as I love to be under the sea.

Would you change anything about yourself?

If I could make myself a few inches taller and immortal or cyborg, I’d probably go for that first chance I got.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I was more musically talented. Although I can sort of play a bunch of instruments, write music and sing, it’s kind of… whatever. Even if I wanted to go that direction, I don’t think I have the time. Perhaps I should start composing for someone else, haha.

Visit Genevieve Burnesse’s website for more photos and information

May 05 2016

Interview with Katie Otten — Stage, voice, film actor and model

Katie Otten is a 26-year old model residing in Omaha, Nebraska.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in West Bend, WI, and have two amazing and loving parents, as well as an older brother, who instilled in me a love for video games and anime! Because I grew up playing video games, I got involved in cosplay a few years ago, and recently got my boyfriend into it too, and I love going to conventions, spending time with friends, and seeing new plays and movies.

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

I began acting when I was in my first play in 5th grade, and from then on, I knew I wanted to work in theatre. As I got older, I learned more about modeling as well, and realized that, for me, it could be another way to become a character and tell a unique story. My favorite photo shoots are ones that really let the viewer imagine a story.

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

I definitely want to keep modeling, not for the sake of making money or promoting in certain fashion, but rather to create new characters and narratives. Next year I’ll be attending graduate school at the University of Nebraska – Omaha to get a Masters in Theatre. I am also currently pursuing voice acting, with two completed audio books, and in a few years I hope to be voicing video games or cartoons. I also hope to keep using theatre to teach children valuable life lessons.

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

I tend to do photo shoots with local photographers, usually when we both have an image or idea in mind. I do a lot of time period shoots, like Victorian, or cosplay-related, like Steampunk or various shows and video games. I would say I average about two or three shoots a month, and I definitely like to have a plan in mind ahead of time.

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

Yes! I actually found out a few weeks ago that I’m going to be on the cover of VC Andrews next novel, “Whitefern”. It’s a very unexpected honor, and I’ve already pre-ordered a copy!

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

I wish that society didn’t stress the notion that women need to be thin to be beautiful, which is even more so in the world of modeling. I know that many companies are trying to change this view, but I think we still have a long way to go.

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

I love doing yoga and going walking or hiking. I think it’s important to eat healthy, especially because, as an actor, my body is one of the most important tools that I have, and I especially enjoy fruits, strawberries are my favorite food ever!, yogurt and bagels.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love rainbows! Whenever I see one while I’m driving, I have to try really hard to not let it distract me. Sometimes I just pull over so I can gaze at it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Hmmm, that’s a tough one! Sometimes I wish I was better at slowing down in my life, and appreciating all of the accomplishments that I’ve already made, rather than always wishing that I could achieve even more things. Sometimes we forget that we’ve already done so many amazing things, and there’s no need to always be comparing ourselves to others.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I really want to get better at singing, as I always get nervous about singing before an audition, but I really enjoy doing it when I stop worrying about how I sound. I also own a mid-size Celtic harp that I want to keep learning how to play. Music can do such amazing things!

Visit Katie Otten’s website for more photos and information

Apr 26 2016

Interview with Maggie Dickey — Actress, Model, Artist, Dancer, Singer

Maggie Dickey is a 21-year old model residing in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Maggie Dickey and I am a Dyslexic Artist born in Bellflower, California. I have been doing the arts since I was very young and have been pursing it ever since, while going to school and will eventually go to the University of Minnesota to get my BA in theatre. I have a passion for anything and everything artistic, love to make others laugh, and would love to become a comedian one day as well.

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

I was a sophomore in high school and I was just super determined to start modeling so I started using Model Mayhem, while being very careful, and still. My parents help me gain the confidence to succeed in this industry because of how much they respected and supported my dream. If it wasn’t for them I would not be where I am today.

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

To be honest I don’t want to imagine my life in 5 to 10 years because honestly I’m living in the moment, and personally hate being on my phone in front of people, as I think it’s so rude. But anyways my personal goals would be to be happy and have at least two Dalmatians, as they are my absolute favorite since I was a kid, and 101 Dalmatians is my life. I would love to get as far as I can in this industry, love making and creating things with other creative people, and hope to work with Lady Gaga one day.

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

Whenever I can, but it honestly depends on the job I get, and I love just doing photo shoots for free because I want to see how I age and do a big video of all my pictures at the end of my life. I honestly just love making art, and definitely am not a runway girl… I’m way too short and it’s just not my thing, I am definitely an actress.

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

My modeling experiences have been great, as I’ve just met so many wonderful and talented people. I love working with others like I said before, and feed off of other people’s creativity, while modeling clothing and being able to keep it afterwards is like my absolute favorite thing. Bad experiences would be just men making awkward comments while taking my pictures… Need I say more?

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

You mean my entire career right? That’s what being a talent is.

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

Definitely the height for runway models and the weight. I just wish everything was more natural and set a better example for younger women, as I still feel the pressures of the industry and my weight. I still get self conscious about my body and I do this stuff for pleasure.

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

Exercise definitely makes me feel good about myself and I can eat what I want the more I exercise so I like working out.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a Lady Gaga fanatic, she is my inspiration and I love her dearly, but I feel like everyone knows that because I make it so obvious. I am dyslexic and have struggled in school my whole life, the school systems made me feel like an outsider and that I would never be as smart as the other kids. I felt like I would never amount to anything; I was also sexually abused when I was young and it affects me to this day. I believe in justice, freedom and Woman’s rights.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Why? I was born this way! No one should feel they need to change anything about themselves!

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I would definitely love to be able to fly… Just so I could get to auditions fast and get to see people I haven’t seen in a while quickly, I want to travel without having to pay, I would love to be able to go to different projects in different countries in one day!

Apr 21 2016

Interview with Jessie Murray — Full Time Mom, College Student and model

Jessie Murray is a 25-year old model residing in Branson, Missouri.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Jessie, and I have been modeling since I was 6 months old thanks to my parents Edwin and Patricia, who helped me to start my career. I was born in Arkansas but have lived in Missouri all of my life, and my main hobbies are singing, dancing, acting, modeling, do some photography, play the guitar and so much more. I am interested in the arts as well, and I am currently in College majoring in automatics and studying to be a wildlife conservation officer. I do all that I can for my child and I plan on becoming successful.

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

My parents are my biggest supporters, because when I was six months old -during early 1991, the following year after I was born-, they got me started off in modeling at a very young age, taking me to photography and artists studios, where they used my images in their arts.

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

My personal goal is to finish College so I can have a fantastic career to be sure that I can take care of my little family. If I make it in the modeling industry that would be extremely amazing, as I have been involved in it for so long and hope that I can do well with it at some point.

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

I model a few times a month, although I used to model at least 3 or 4 times a week before I got my full time job and started College. I mainly do photo shoots, actings, pose for artists, as well as the catwalk; in general, I have done all genres except in the adult industry, which I don’t plan to either. Figure nude is OK for me, but if it looks unclassy I will certainly not do it.

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

My best experiences are meeting new people, as it is great talking to them, seeing their amazing work, appreciating that everyone is different, and I am happy to work with them all. Worst experience is meeting some photographers who do not give you any images after a shoot, and I have even met a few that did not give me any images at all.

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

On one photo shoot I almost fell off a little cliff into some mud.

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

I wish people wasn’t so judgmental on race, hair and body shape, and I’d love to have them to be more understanding of models that are parents, as no matter what our children come first. In the same way, I cannot stand them picking favorites and not giving others a chance.

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

I like to hike, play basketball, go out dancing and just working out in general, since I am a pretty active person. I eat just about everything, I am on no diet.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have a scoliosis problem.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would not change anything about myself. I am who I am, why change?.

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

I would spend that time with my family, do things that my daughter wants to do, make as many happy memories with her that I possibly could and show her more of how much her mommy loves her. Her happiness is way more important to me, so no matter what I would spend it with her.

Visit Jessie Murray ‘s website for more photos and information

Apr 14 2016

Interview with Celka — A musician who models

Celka is a 23-year old model residing in Springfield, Missouri.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Celka, and I come from a very unique family. I was born in Houston, Texas, however currently live in Springfield, Missouri, and will be moving to LA this fall to pursue an MM in Music Composition at USC. As it stands right now, I am a freelance model, musician, and office manager at my mother’s weight loss clinic. My father is a physics professor for a local university, but has credentials that extend to doing contract work for NASA occasionally; he was a finalist in the astronaut program once upon a time and therefore trained with people who eventually became astronauts.

My mother has an incredible musical history; her father was principal bassist for a symphony in Seattle, but also played jazz bass and trombone. This musical history is why I am a musician now – when my grandfather died, we inherited several instruments, including a cello older than the United States. My older brother now plays that cello, I have a younger brother who plays violin, and I play viola. We therefore used to play regularly as a string trio, and all of us play professionally. While my younger brother has decided to pursue performance, my interests went in the direction of composition, which is why I will be studying at USC this fall.

My family is very proud of our heritage – my grandmother on my dad’s side is a famous cook known to be the one in America to turn to for Finnish cooking and much of Scandinavian cooking. All of us have been to Finland, my brothers and I having both played music and visited the town of our ancestors. My Finnish and Scandinavian look is why people thought I should model in the first place, and other than writing and performing music, I enjoy drawing, have conducted music for productions in the past and like to sing.

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

Throughout high school people consistently told me that I should model, but I didn’t believe them. My career was sparked when the photographer that took my senior photos asked me back for a makeup shoot for his online magazine, however it didn’t truly start until a couple of years into college, when I decided I would take the plunge, primarily to raise money for myself. While monetarily it hasn’t supported me, it has improved me substantially as a person – I am much more confident than I was before I started modeling.

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

The question “Where do you see yourself in five to ten years?” has always bothered me simply for the fact that, while I have goals, I have no intention of being upset with where life leads me. My goal in life is to expand my horizons – I intend to pursue music composition professionally, perhaps with modeling, but perhaps without. I will not be discouraged if modeling is not always a part of my life; it has been fun and I would love to do it professionally, but I’ve never been in a position to pursue it full-time.

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

I primarily do photo-shoots – I used to do them almost weekly, with most photographers wanting me for artistic shots, however with my current schedule I was no longer interested in trade for time. I do shoot for pay perhaps every month or so. In the past I have done a few fashion walks for charity and also just for fun.

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

My best experience was a photo-shoot I set up myself, when I had adopted a rescue dog who had lost all of his faith due to maltreatment. He was a breeder dog, from a pedigree bloodline, so he was still gorgeous. I coordinated with a photographer to model an outfit from a local boutique that matched the dog’s markings. As for my worst experience, I will not name anyone specifically – the worst shoots were always ones where the photographer or organization was ambitious, but disorganized. I have frequently worked against egos convinced of their superior professionalism, which in turn ruined the quality of the shoot. When fellow models’ feelings are hurt or when my day basically goes down the drain because of someone’s poor organizational skills and lack of care to the models’ schedules, I put those photographers or designers down as people with whom I will never work again.

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

This doesn’t pertain specifically to my modeling career, but – I went viral for a while for making faces! Last year I submitted a bunch of hideous photos of myself imitating celebrity facial expressions and the internet ate it up. Thanks to that little fluke, I ended up with a contract with an acting agency.

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

As with many gigs people try to give me musically, a lot of modeling gigs are expected to be voluntary. Models, especially where I’m from, are frequently used without payment. I do not have time to do modeling voluntarily, which is why I don’t model as much anymore – I have other ambitions, just as anyone organizing a shoot or fashion walk does. When I’m there, I will do my best and be as efficient as possible – sometimes actions taken by organizers suggest that they assume otherwise.

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

For exercise, I walk and do an exercise program called Essentrics – it’s wonderful because it tones and lengthens your muscles while stretching your body and keeping it nimble, so I walk away from a workout refreshed. Diet-wise, I listen to my body, as I don’t eat food that leaves me feeling exhausted, which includes fried foods. When eating out I always ask for grilled instead of fried chicken, forgo extraneous sauces such as ranch dressings, and make sure my plate is colorful, with greens to combat the carbs and meats. I believe in a protein and fiber quota – each meal must have a healthy serving of both. Some carbs are okay but must never be the main constitution of a meal. It’s all about balance.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

My passion for dinosaurs never died: I still know a lot about them and love reading news on new findings. For a while growing up I wanted to be a paleontologist.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I’m always working to appreciate something new. Sometimes my developed biases get in the way of learning about a new thing; I am regardless still doing my best to keep an open mind.

What features do you look for in a partner?

I don’t care how interesting it is – humility. People are going to say all sorts of things, but humility is perhaps the strongest factor in who I choose. Humility is what makes one strive to be a better person than they were yesterday – if you don’t have that, why would you ever aspire to change?

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