Blog Archives

Sep 08 2014

Interview with Claire — Model and Photographer

Claire is a 19-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in the south Bay Area of northern California. My family is culturally American, but we come from Scandinavian descent. Inspired by growing up in a liberal town in the heart of Silicon Valley, I learned from a young age how to be comfortable in exploring new interests. I consider myself an activist for many causes, but particularly gender and racial equality. As a result, I have become involved in numerous philanthropic endeavors while pursuing hobbies of mine. I have hosted and even performed in charity benefit concerts. I have been heavily involved in volunteer organizations since middle school, and still am with my sorority at my university. As a photographer, I love to take photos with a message; a shot that makes the viewer stop and reflect. I like to be able to convey stories and social critiques through visuals. As a model, I strive for similar standards by collaborating with photographers to also create images that express thoughtful ideas.

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

I created a portfolio and talked to various agencies in San Francisco during my freshman year of high school. However, after speaking with my friends who also model and discussing contracts, I decided the contracted model route was not for me. I wanted more flexibility– with my schedule, my responsibilities, and my shoots. I became a freelance model, and I have networked my way through the modeling industry.

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

Since becoming a freelance model, I have modeled part-time because my education is my first priority. I am currently studying Public Relations and Marketing at a university. Next year I will be a sophomore, so I will have to focus on my academics before modeling. However, modeling and photography are passionate hobbies of mine. I will continue photography during the school year, and model in San Francisco during my summers back in the Bay Area. I would love to use my connections and experiences in the photography industry to develop a career in marketing and advertising. Nonetheless, I hope to never stop taking photos.

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

Since I am a part-time freelance model, I enjoy having the flexibility to collaborate with others on what kind of work I do. I have done runway and promotional shows, but I prefer photo-shoots the most. I have done glamour, fashion, art, and commercial, but I favor lifestyle photography. It is essential for me to feel comfortable when modeling, so lifestyle photography is ideal for me, as I can relax and embrace the thematic emotions. I get excited for every photo-shoot, but I love anything a little different with an interesting concept and meaning as well!

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

My favorite part about the modeling industry is how many people I’ve met. I am inspired by other artists, so I love collaborating with creative designers. I warmly remember driving up and down highway one with an amiable and talented photographer; it was beautiful shooting on the beaches at sunset with such good company. I have had my fair share of negative experiences, which mostly consists of photographers being unprofessional. I have learned valuable lessons from each experience, so I don’t regret any of it!

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

I was once painted silver from head to toe for a photo-shoot for a boutique’s jewelry line in San Francisco. My hair was teased into a huge nest above my head too! I had a lot of fun with the hair and make up artist; it’s always exciting to do a crazy look. After the shoot, I was walking down the Mission to get to my car, and the remarks from people on the street were hilarious! I got a lot of attention from people who were tripped out by my costume and thought I was an alien. It was weird and unsettling at the time, but so funny to look back on now!

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

There should be less of a stigma against women who are at a healthy weight or are overweight. There should be more equal representation in women’s and men’s races. Less unrealistic photoshop should be used across the board to distort the public’s standards and expectations of the ideal human body. However, I am particularly passionate about how models are treated in the industry. Too often models are objectified by men and women behind the scenes.

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

Portion control is the most important factor for my diet. I get so excited about food; it’s hard to control myself sometimes! However, I try to work out every day. It’s essential to keep your body healthy and eat right. At the end of the day, being able to love and accept your body is especially important no matter what.

Would you change anything about yourself?

People are always changing and growing. Beauty does not last forever. I have pushed myself beyond what was necessary to maintain an ideal model body, but I have learned that conforming to such high standards will not truly make me happy at the end of the day. I will always find things that I could improve on, personally and physically. I will continue to strive to be the best version of myself, but I will do so for myself– not for anyone else. I believe that accepting and loving oneself is essential.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I love to go hiking and meditate at a rest-stop on the hike. It is so lovely to be out in nature and just relax. There are so many beautiful places on the west coast to explore!

Visit Claire’s website for more photos and information

Sep 06 2014

Interview with Celina Valdez — 2/3rds Passion, 1/3rd Pride

Celina Valdez is a 20-year old model residing in Gardena, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My full name is Celina- Christine Valdez, born and raised in the South Bay. Half Asian persuasion and half Saudi Spice. An only lonely child who had to find a way to keep my idle hands busy before I went crazy. I’m a Freelancer at best, I like to model, design, style, make music, belly dance, rap, and craft. I spend most of my time on my online store Priscillaesque.com, my true passion.

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

I moved out at an early age and started going to school for fashion merchandising and business. My ultimate goal was to further my online business by taking merchandising classes. I used to model all of the clothes on my website until someone approached me with proposal to model for their online store. This was my first real modeling job where I actually got paid. The photographer was super sweet and gave me tips to further myself in the modeling business. I made a black book, social networking pages, business cards for myself to get my name out there and eventually the gigs started rolling in.

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

My personal goals are my professional goals. I’m working towards turning my e-commerce into and actual physical boutique. In about 5 to 10 years I see myself as my own boss, like how it’s always been since I was 15. Another goal of mine is to remain happy throughout my life and hopefully having a career doing something I love will do just that.

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

I usually do about 2 to 3 photo shoots a month. I’m very picky with my photographers, like every unsigned model should be. The industry likes to give people “an image” and if you do a shoot that’s overly provocative or has some nudity, other companies or photographers may want to stray from you. I strictly state No Nudity on all my sites so please do not ask! My favorite photo shoots to pose for are Cosplay, Fashion, Pinup, Dance, Editorial, Promotional, and Au Naturale!

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

I haven’t had too many bad experiences with photo shoots besides the occasional walking up a steep hill in 5 inch heels or the 7+ hours in the makeup chair. It just irks me how some photographers take months and months and months for them to send back pictures or prints. Otherwise, I enjoy most every photo shoot! I meet new people, have new places to stay around the world, learn about new cultures and fashions, it’s really all so for the experience!

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

I got really drunk at a music video shoot and ended up puking.

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

Most definitely! There are numerous accounts of harassment going on and no one even knows it! Some companies buy photos off of photographers who don’t pay their models and then they’re surprised when they see their ass hanging out on an American Apparel billboard. I can go on and on…

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

I am a vegetarian, have been for 12 years! I do little workouts every day and make sure to stretch every morning. I was in and out of hospitals as I overcame a battle with Anorexia and I found out the hard way that if you don’t have your health, you really have nothing.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I get mad props for my freestyles fiya fiya!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would get rid of my blackheads maybe but that’s all.

Have you ever stolen anything?

I can name 4 stores that I’m banned from.

Visit Celina Valdez’s website for more photos and information

Sep 01 2014

Interview with Rachael Elise — Glamour and swimwear model

Rachael Elise is a 21-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi there! My name is Rachael Elise. I currently live in Hollywood, born in San Dimas, and raised in Northern California, all of them in California. I love to hike, play sports and drink wine! Currently I attend school, will be graduating in September and pursuing a career in modeling.

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

I began modeling at a very young age, and began fashion modeling. As my looks changed I was more suitable for swim and lingerie modeling. I began appearing in music videos for various artists, and doing print work for local companies. I continue to do large amounts of print and video work to this day.

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

My personal goals are to find that special someone, and to share my life with that person, and in the next few years start a family. I also hope to broaden my horizons when it comes to modeling, I would like to travel the world and experience new things.

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

Currently I do 1 to 2 jobs weekly. From music videos, promo modeling, glamour print and commercial work. I try to keep myself well rounded, 1 to 2 times a year I’ll walk for different designers in LA fashion week or other private fashion shows.

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

I Got the opportunity to work with amazing glamour models along with well known recording artists from Chris Brown, The Wanted, Baby Bash and many more. No negative experiences so far, fingers crossed!

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

The one thing I would change would be the expectations of women’s figures. From skinny to curvy, I believe all women are beautiful in their own way and feel that the fashion industry along with other parts of the modeling industry should accept and embrace models that aren’t the typical “cookie cutter”.

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! I love keeping active and eating healthy; I tend to eat 3-4 balanced meals a day high in protein, and low in starch. I cycle 2 to 3 times a week, and weight train 2 to 3 times a week as well. I cannot stress the importance of taking care of your body, especially when you are young!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a natural dirty blonde!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I mean who wouldn’t want to change something. Do I wish I had thinner legs and a smaller butt? Yes. A straighter nose? A more symmetrical face? Of course. But I’m glad to have my little quirks and imperfections. It’s what makes me…. Me!

What features do you look for in a partner?

Well, first off the physical attraction has to be there! Let’s face it, we’re all driven by physical attraction -I know it sucks, but it’s true-. I’d say the guy has to have some sense of humor, I can’t stand guys who can’t laugh. Someone who is extremely driven, and passionate about what they do, because I myself am that way. Last they have to have some sort of family values, I like men who are caring and think of others before themselves.

Visit Rachael Elise’s website for more photos and information

Aug 21 2014

Interview with Ashley Brooke Mitchell

Ashley Brooke Mitchell is a 24-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Originally from the country on the east coast of the United States, a little state called West Virginia. I always dreamed of growing up and becoming a fashion model. As soon as I graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Broadcast Journalism at a young age, I ran as fast as I could to the bay area in California. Being a gymnast and cheerleader in my past, I gravitated towards Pilates and yoga and completely fell in love with the culture of NorCal locals. Now I’m an avid runner and hiker when I find time in my hectic schedule. I’m an MTV reality personality that was on Real World EX-plosion, travel around the world for shoots and runway shows, as well as a brand ambassador for many high profile companies.

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

When I first got into the industry I was a promotional model working for companies like Bacardi, Budweiser, and Covergirl. I was working so much I didn’t have time to sleep! Once I was out about in my new hometown a few photographers and fashion designers started coming up to me or friend requesting me on different social medias. My very first photoshoot was then published in a local Bay Area magazine, from there things took off. I was walking in runways all around California, being published in every magazine around the bay and even landing spots in worldwide commercials for Adidas and Skechers! Not soon after, I landed a spot on a reality Tv show on MTV. I have now traveled the world working in Paris, London, New York City, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and all around the world.

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

My goals for the years coming up is to gain more worldwide exposure, continue building my skills and resume, and approve my connections and knowledge of the industry. I also am trying to break into the acting industry, so I am always trying to learn and grow

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

I model anywhere from 2 to 5 times a week. It almost always consists of fashion shoots, but I am not surprised to have a runway twice a week. I also shoot a lot of commercials and product ads, at least 4 or 5 times a month. I am a full time model and actress so you can find me in random short films and extra in shows on HBO, Discovery Channel, and more.

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

I believe the best and worst experience are all due to attitude. Always have a positive attitude on set and with coworkers, you never know who you will meet or what connections you can make. Everywhere I’ve gotten is not only because of my skills, but because I try to always smile, be positive, helpful, and friendly backstage or on set.

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

You can not get embarrassed as a model or actress. Always laugh at yourself and be laid back, no one wants a stuck diva. Also, when you are lighthearted those embarrassing moments turn into a bonding moment for the whole crew. I always seem to be laughing and giggling when the cameras not on, so all of my sets are rememberable as well am I. This will guarantee re-bookings and positive references.

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

I guess it could be possible for girls anywhere to have a chance to break into the industry. Right now if you are not in one of the fashion capitols, you have no chance.

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

My eating habits are not the best, although I do eat a lot of protein, mainly cheeseburgers. My trick is good genes, lots of running, hiking, and yoga! I also hit the weights at the gym, it’s the trick to staying toned, healthy, and strong!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I get homesick a lot and miss my mommy! I also recently went through a heart tearing break up and am just trying to get back to my usual positive state of mind.

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

I try to be happy with who I am. You can’t change yourself physically, so appreciate yourself. When it comes to the real me, what’s on the inside, I wish I wasn’t so sensitive. I also wish I didn’t have this southern accent, it’s hard to pretend like I don’t have it for acting!

What features do you look for in a partner?

I look for someone who can make me laugh. Someone who knows what they want and can make up their mind of what they want. Someone who makes me feel safe, loved, and worthy. Someone who can take care of themselves and who is close with their family. I like guys who are dark, tall, and handsome, but all of that comes second to the way they make me feel. I love to be loved. Who doesn’t!?

Aug 15 2014

Interview with Jessica Renee

Jessica Renee is a 23-year old model residing in Roseville, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hey guys, my name is Jessica, I was born in Sacramento CA. I’m the oldest daughter of 7 siblings and I’m really big on family. Family is a word with multiple meanings but to me it means the people who know your good and your bad and love you for who you are. Fun facted that nobody would ever guess I’m a mom of a beautiful little boy. I love the chances I get to spend with him, he’s my Prince Charming. I love to do things with my hands; by far my favorite would be cooking. I’m currently working as a hair stylist in Roseville while planning my move to Los Angeles to really start my career as a professional model.

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

I have been interested in modeling my whole life but I first started building my portfolio and promoting myself as a model 4 years ago working for barbizon. I love modeling and got into it because it was my way of expressing myself in the beauty industry and giving girls some to look up to especially my three little sisters.

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

My goals in life is to never have any regrets. Both personally and professionally. For me never having any regrets means if I want something I go for it 110% and if it ends up not happening then I can say I was strong enough to try and push myself. Personal main end goal would be to have a family that I can take care of and give opportunities to be whatever they want. Professionally I want to be a top model, which for me means runway print and promoting in every country and being a role model for girls like me who we’re shy and knew they were cute but never thought they were that beautiful girl. I want to be that model who shows there is beauty in all girls in all forms of modeling. In five years I would like to have my modeling career stable and starting to take off in multiple countries, in ten years I want to have change the world made an impact on people’s lifes and view of the world and continuing my career and helping those who are driven but don’t always have the means to get their dreams.

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

Usually I do 3 to 4 photoshoots a month and a few promotional events. Promoting work mainly consist of being a brand ambassador and print work depends on what client is looking to see I do all works of print work.

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

For me there are no good or bad experiences, there are just learning experiences. I learn when a project is going to be tough or uncomfortable or a struggle to get the look or when everything is on point and goes smooth straight on through. Some of my greatest learning moments were the harder experience because it would teach me a new way to see the look and how to achieve it with my body face and personality.

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

The only thing I feel this industry really needs is from everyone: models, designers, photographers, agencies and companies to do more giving back or activities to help those less fortunate not only to those in other countries but those in the USA or home towns.

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

Nutrition is very important to me; I mainly eat home made nutritious food. My body is naturally very slim so for me exercise wise I do a lot of weight lifting and yoga, it helps to keep strength and tone and muscle in my body but it will also help me in the long run to have a healthy lifestyle and stay active as I get older and wiser.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Most people don’t know that although I am very forgetful I strangely can remember a lot of what people say to trust to tell me.

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

There is nothing I could say I would change about myself because I am always trying something new and changing and growing; when that stops then I might have to figure out a few things to change.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I could tumble. As a child I struggled with back problems and headaches because I had scoliosis so I was never able to tumble. This made me annoyed so I took my little sister and started throwing her around and now she is a wonderful tumbler and very strong in her flips.

Visit Jessica Renee’s website for more photos and information

Aug 03 2014

Interview with Helen Of Joy

Helen Of Joy is a 24-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Bath, England and raised in the beautiful Okanagan area of British Columbia, Canada. My family is very diverse, on my father’s side alone, I have cuban, Jamaican, Swedish, Welsh, Panamanian, Indian and Chinese roots! I also found out via a long lost family member we are also related to a native tribe called the Arawak, which is Spanish and African descent. I grew up dancing, modeling and acting thanks to my supportive parents who did the same for my siblings who also act. I also became a major part of the Canadian urban scene, which entailed me surrounding myself with musicians, artists. I began promoting for hip hop and edm shows which has lead to me being a part of battle rap culture.

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

I began modeling at a young age, my mum used to be a model as well. I began runway in my teens and in my 20s my work always gravitated back to the arts when I moved to Vancouver and then to Toronto to follow my passions and career.

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

I want to accomplish many things. I want to become a part of a successful tv series and land a few movie roles; Bond girl is something I’ve always wanted. I see myself accomplishing goals with charity work to do with children and animal rights! I hope to gain the covers of rolling stone, vogue and GQ magazine to name a few. Design my own fashion line, run my own talent agency and travel the world spreading good vibes and a good message! I also wish to own a house and have kids perhaps in that time also!

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

I do a bit of everything full time. I want to pursue my acting career more so but shoots definitely help with that industry also! I have a few runway shows coming up in the future as well as collaborations for clothing lines.

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

My best is all the amazing relationships and connections I have made with people I have worked with! It was the best advice I received was to foster your relationships. It’s key in this industry.

My worst is creepy photographers. I’m an incredibly awkward person sometimes but my creep radar is on point. Making sexual or inappropriate advances is not cool!

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

I slipped and fell backstage once, thank God it was backstage! Good advice is to tape the bottom of your shoes so you don’t hit the ground.

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

I honestly feel it’s on a good path and will continue to. I’ve been very fortunate that people aren’t afraid of beautiful tattoos anymore and that people prefer mixed race models for the diversity now!

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

I practice dance, Pilates and crossfit! I would love to take up boxing as well! I always try and eat healthy and I’ve begun to cut out dairy and red meats!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a pretty open book about what I feel passionate about! I was considering lately running for president one day. I mean, if Obama can come from nothing and do some amazing things, why can’t I?

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

Nothing. I’m very happy! Longer hair perhaps!

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

I am head over heels for my man Nicholas Hyams, who is known to the hip hop world as Lush One; he is a power house of the battle rap industry and he is doing some amazing, next level things for the culture. Can’t wait for him to shine brighter than he ever has before, I’m super proud of him!

Visit Helen Of Joy’s website for more photos and information

Jul 15 2014

Interview with Izzy Diep

Izzy Diep (short for Isabelle) is a 23-year old model from Ontario, California. She is an Alt/Print Model looking to expand her portfolio. She has experience in Fit, Bridal, Promotional, Lifestyle, Fashion, Hair, and Bikini modeling.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Isabelle but everyone calls me Izzy. I’m an old soul in an oddly proportioned body and I’m much too ambitious for my own good.

A bit about my background, I’m a first-generation American and parents are immigrant refugees. Being the oldest out of 6 children I’ve always been had the “I can and will do everything and nothing can stop me” attitude. I’ve been told sometimes I’m a bit instance but usually I’m the girl who is laughing at everything.

I’ve always been a bit of a bookworm. I double-majored in Media and Global studies at University, and earned two bachelors degrees in 4 years while studying the German language and working part-time in the university library. I can’t stand having nothing to do. It drives me crazy!

I enjoy random adventures, turbulence on airplanes, delicious foods and drinks, and a good comedy show. I’m not much of a team player but I enjoy individual endeavors like rock-climbing and Pilates.

At the moment I am in Germany working on my language skills and attempting to network because my dream is to pursue academic research in Western Europe.

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

I had a friend growing up who liked to dress me up and put a bunch of makeup on me and take photos. He later came out to us as being gay and started dating a Canadian photographer who also wanted to photograph me. I was 15 at the time and I dyed my hair every week a different color of the rainbow and everyone in town knew me as “the rainbow-haired chick” so I lived the notoriety and signed up on model mayhem and started booking photoshoots. And now I’m here.

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

I would love to be on a magazine cover one day, but who doesn’t? The number 1 thing on my bucket list is to have a part in a Quentin Tarantino movie, no matter how small! Haha! I would like to think that in 10 years people can refer to me as “Doctor” and I’ll would have seen most of the world already with the love of my life.

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

Having a full-time school and workload almost my entire life I haven’t done much modeling work compared to my peers but I’ve done a few fashion and lifestyle shoots, usually helping out my artistic friends with their concepts. I’ve done a lot of hair and makeup modeling because well-my hair dyes really well and I have more exotic features. I would love to model full-time though now that I have the time.

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

I am lucky enough to have never had any terrible experiences. The best though was when I shot for a men’s magazine launch issue in a gorgeous mansion.

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

One of my first shoots was a guerrilla photoshoot in what is now the Los Angeles cultural center building when it was still under construction. We ran around in an unfinished building shooting illegally and I would change behind unfinished walls. Very fun!

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

Be more accepting and promoting of men and women of color.

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

The only sport I do is indoor rock-climbing about once a week. Tones your body and strengthens everything. I like to call it my stealth-ninja training.

I love food. I love carbs and cheese. But I also love not gaining weight so I let myself eat my carbs and cheeses in the morning and I drink an insane amount of juice and water. Usually I’ll just have heavy dinner foods for breakfast and just snack for the rest of the day on fruits and vegetables and nuts.

I also hate sugar, so I take my coffee black and my tea plain and strong. Also, eat plenty of eggs! Keeps you fuller longer.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I get sleep paralyzation almost weekly. It’s not even scary anymore, just annoying.

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

I wish I was a more consistent person who enjoyed socializing more. I swear, if people never invited me out I would just stay in bed all day watching movies.

Visit Izzy Diep’s website for more photos and information

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