Blog Archives

Jun 07 2016

Interview with Barbara — Athlete turned model

Barbara is a 25-year old model residing in New York, New York.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Russia, started traveling at 18 years old, and for the last 5 years I have lived between France, Greece, the U.K. and the United States. I love to meet new people, new cultures, taste food, love cooking any kind of food. I’m a very active person, in addition, graduated as a lawyer and love modeling.

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

About 6 years ago, a photographer at a company I used to work for as a lawyer, told me that he practiced photography and would like to work with me. In a few days we had an art and comercial shoot, I was very happy with it. Since then , I’m always ready for the camera.

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

Well, as I said before, I’m a lawyer, which was a dream from childhood. But appearance and the way I look is still important as well. So modeling is a motivation and inspiration for me. In the future, as every woman, I see myself as a mom of a few kids, but still in a perfect shape and doing modeling.

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

I feel free in front of the camera. In particular, I prefer doing sports, glamour, acting, and commercial shoots. Definitely, sports is always my favorite; since I practice sport from childhood, sport is my second language, it’s enjoyable to express myself in it.

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

All experiences have a place to be, you just keep on practicing. My best so far was an advert shoot for Yoga clothes shop in Miami. On the sunrise I had to show all possible flexibility and give expressions a photographer asked me for; it was something new to me to work from 3 am.

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

Well, since I have a very small feet as size 5 to 6, every time I work for advertising I am getting at least size 9, and once I fell in the ocean because of that.

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

I’m pretty happy as it is.

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 eat meat, mostly raw and vegan, love wine, running and do gym everyday for 2 hours, from time to time I go swimming, practicing tennis, and mountain ski.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Passionate about traveling and discovering new things.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Never.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

I’m afraid of heights, somebody told me that if I get as highly as possible I’m gonna kill my fear. So, I jumped with parachute from 4000 meters for the first time, and it seemed it didn’t work out. Now I do jumping in different countries at different heights just to prove an extra time to myself that I’m not afraid of anything. As Julius Caesar said “Faster, higher, stronger”.

Dec 01 2014

Interview with Taylor Tran — Model and Highly Trained Hip Hop Dancer

Taylor Tran is a 20-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in Boulder, Colorado, but my life now is all mainly Denver based. I’m a full time licensed hair and makeup artist and in my free time I’m either working out, modeling, at church or dancing with my hip hop crew – Academy of Raw/Hype 303 -check us out on YouTube!!- we perform, travel, and compete in various competitions around the US. My greatest priority is to love God and love people!

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

I was actually always told I should model since I was super young. I never really looked in to it much. I was in school to be a cosmetologist at the Aveda Institute of Denver and I quickly learned it was a pretty diverse industry, we have access to collaborate with some of Colorado’s best photographers and stylists and more. I saw a flyer for a model call in the institute for the NAHA competition and decided to go and was chosen. Through that, I was asked to model for fellow makeup artists and hairstylists and even photographers that came in to take photos of our work. I started building up a portfolio and just really networked a ton. The idea of being signed to an agency always kind of freaked me out but one of the photographers I worked with really encouraged me to submit to Donna Baldwin Agency and I got signed right away!

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

Honestly, there’s a lot I want to do. I feel really blessed because it seems to me like my heart and mind have lined up with what God has planned out for me as far as my passions and careers go. I’m not aiming it super far out right now, I’m focusing on the beginning of my career as a hair and makeup artist because I just started 3 weeks ago, building up a stable clientele and making enough to travel and open up opportunities for myself. Do I hope to go further in modeling? Absolutely. That dream also scares the crap out of me because I also know though that it’s a very competitive industry, but I don’t think it’s something I can’t achieve. I hope to move to Cali in the near future.

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

It all just kind of depends, the past two months have been super busy for me as a model with Denver Fashion week and shoots and such but it’s all just mainly random. My agent will email me when a client is interested, I also keep contact with many different photographers and love collaborating artistic vision. For me, modeling consists of getting to sleep in and waking up and heading out on location looking like a scrub because they’re going to do your hair and makeup for you – which is one of the best parts. I do mainly print work and photoshoots and also runway, but not as much since I’m shorter than your standard runway model. I’ve done fashion, editorial, glamour, art, commercial, sports and others for portfolio work, magazines, a book cover, and more.

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

Best experience was when a photographer and stylist found me on my agency’s site and flew out from South Carolina to work with me, I thought I’d just be traveling around my state shooting with them but I really had an intense spiritual connection with these people. We woke up as early as 4am and road tripped to Georgetown, St. Mary’s Glacier, and Garden of the Gods just shooting, eating good food and exchanging good music and having some really deep talks. It was amazing and I made some incredible friendships. I don’t really think I’ve had a worst experience, my very first photo shoot was for a hair competition and they dyed my hair neon orange which I thought was going to be awful, but it faded really pretty and I actually kept it for a long time.

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

Probably just the photo shoot I talked about with the people that traveled from South Carolina, totally out of the ordinary. Loved it though. I don’t think I’ve had anything embarrassing happen… Yet!

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

I noticed that it’s more common now so I guess it is changing a little! I would change the majority of the height requirements for top agencies to 5’7″… Mainly because I’m 5’7″ hehe.

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

I do! Dance is probably one of my very greatest passions above most. I’m a hip hop dancer with one of Colorado’s finest hip hop crews called Academy of Raw, formerly Hype 303. We practice 4 days a week and do various performances, battles, competitions, an more. We also travel and compete around the US and have dance fam in places like LA, Hawaii, Vegas, even the UK. We do a lot of intense training and working out. I also try to workout on my own as often as possible, mainly cardio and strength training, I’m a fan of HIIT and I also run a lot. Nutrition has recently become a lot more important to me and I mainly eat clean. I drink a lot of smoothies and try to avoid chicken nuggets which is actually the hardest thing in the world. Just saying.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m actually a very passionate writer. I write poetry, I write what inspires me, I write about my daily life, where I’m going, what I’m experiencing, and more. I have kept consistent journals from the moment I’ve been able to write when I was young and I know for a fact my life wouldn’t be the same if I didn’t. I don’t know why but I’ve always had a strong instinct to document and express absolutely everything in that way.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I want an inch! Just one more inch! I always say that. Haha.

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

Let’s be real here, I’m a very spacey person, always have been. When I was in kindergarten, I wore a really pretty and flowy light blue dress with blue and green flowers all over and and a blue cardigan to daycare one day, and as I was outside on the playground I noticed a breeze that I didn’t notice before. I panicked and sat down and cried and refused to tell the teacher or anyone why for hours because who forgets their underwear? Me, that’s who. I can remember exactly what I was wearing years ago on the specific day but I can’t remember my own underwear. That’s talent.

Visit Taylor Tran’s website for more photos and information

Nov 20 2014

Interview with Nikky Sky — Artistic Grad Student

Nikky Sky is a 22-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am from Lake Tahoe, Nevada and couldn’t wait to get out of my small home town as soon as possible. However, every free moment I have now I think about going back to my family there!

I absolutely love to learn, read, practice yoga, run, work out, and keep myself in great shape. I also love to try new and exotic foods and am getting into mixology as well as being a serious foodie!

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

I got involved in modeling and acting when I was younger but sports sort of took over my life instead. I was injured and had several life altering knee surgeries and it killed my athletic drive. However, when I moved to LA, I started modeling professionally.

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

Finishing graduate school right now in marketing and finance is my number one goal. I obviously have other career goals linked to my degree but I personally want to be happy, healthy, successful and make my family proud in whatever I do.

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

I mostly model for fitness print, sports, bikini and clothing lines but I am also into glamour, makeup and hair prints as well!

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

My favorite shoots are always for local clothing lines and local businesses. The drive and energy I get from up and coming businesses is contagious.

Since I have moved to Los Angeles and most recently Hollywood, the biggest issues I have had with modeling are the flakes and phonies that this beautiful city is full of. I have been stood up and hit on more times by “professionals” more than I can count.

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

Living in Hollywood, nothing really surprises or embarrasses me anymore!!

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

Honestly, if I started to list the things I could change I would go on for hours and hours. Being exceptionally tall and thin is a stereotype of models across the world and being only 5’6 and a bit curvy I am trying to break those stereotypes.

In addition, the stereotypes of tattoos on models in my opinion is ridiculous. I have my fair share of tattoos and still model successfully. I wish more tattooed girls would get out there and show of their art work as well!

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 5 days a week, practice yoga and meditation almost daily and I weight train as well. I eat organic, low calorie and low sugar diets but I eat as much as I want so I never feel starving. Health is a big part of my life but I try to be very conscious of it taking over my whole life.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Many people don’t know that I’m color blind! I confuse red-green, blue-yellow, blue-green and most purples tend to look the same as blues and greens to me!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am constantly striving to be better. I am somewhat of a perfectionist and I wish I could change that a bit. It makes me successful but it can also make me a little crazy sometimes!

How do you think you are most likely to die?

Definitely doing something crazy and adventurous. The crazier and more adrenaline pumping the activity, the more I want to do it!

Nov 10 2014

Interview with Reagan Savoie — From Introvert to Extrovert Model

Reagan Savoie is a 21-year old model residing in Redding, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m from New Orleans, Louisiana, went to school in Texas, and have lived in Utah and California as well. My family are very religious, conservative-Republicans. I have a very European-based lineage which I use to fondly refer to myself as a European Mutt when anyone asks. I am usually quite creative with my spare time. Filling it with reading new Sci-Fi series, painting and drawing, baking and cooking all sorts of new recipes, creating music on any of the three instruments I can play, out exploring parks, or playing at home with my pets.

Back when I lived in Texas we had a ranch where I would ride horses during the summer and on different breaks from school. I currently hold an Associates of Science degree and I love aviation! It was actually one of my degrees for a year but the school I was at messed up my transcripts so I went for a Bachelor’s in Tech Management and an Applied Associates of Science degree instead. I’m still flying however and plan to get my necessary licenses and certifications on my own time.

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

I was a child model from the time I was about a year and a half old with Kim Dawson and then switched to The Campbell Agency a few years later. Once I hit about 12 that died off due to the fact that I looked too old to do child modeling but was still too young to do adult modeling. I started doing some freelance work and got into photography in high school. Now I am a hobby photographer, and freelance model. I also dabble in hair, make-up, and fashion due to my first roommate in college.

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

Personally, I want to have every license and certification to become a Certified Flight Instructor with Instrument and Multi-Engine ratings -CFI/II/MEI-. I want to become a well-respected model that is known for being smart as well as pretty. Professionally, I want to be doing something I love and am accomplished at. I want to be able to wake up every day being excited about what I’m going to be doing.

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

Mostly my early work consisted of fashion print work. I did have a few commercials but mainly I did posters and catalogs. In later years when I first began freelance work I was mostly helping people with their degree portfolios. They consisted of some artwork and fashion as well as glamour shots. Nowadays I’m focusing on broadening my spectrum from just photo shoots. I still consider myself mainly an art, fashion and glamour model but I also work in acting and sports work as well.

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

I remember one time I was helping one of my mom’s friends expand her portfolio for her photography degree. She had me all dolled up in this amazing vintage wedding dress that I thought was the coolest thing ever. My hair was done up in this messy-bun look, I had some pretty heavy makeup on, and the best part? This lady got a friend of hers who bred Irish wolfhounds to bring three of them out to our ranch to make this shot absolutely fantastic! The whole thing had this old-timey deep South feel to it and I had a blast.

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

One time when I was younger, I did a photo shoot for someone who wanted to show a cut family scene of a grandmother and her granddaughter eating some ice cream. I was like 7 at the time. Well the producer had mentioned ice cream and set this bowl in front of me and handed me a spoon. No one told me it wasn’t really ice cream in the bowl, so naturally I had to try it. It was actually just a mixture of butter and sugar. Not terrible, but you can imagine how disappointed I was that it wasn’t actually ice cream.

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

Hundreds of things, but one that I feel like is really prevalent this day and age is people -from agencies to photographers and others- taking advantage of young models who don’t have any experience or don’t know any better but will do just about anything they’re told in order to become famous. I realize that there are places that take great care to be fair with their models, but more and more I get people requesting to work with me that will tell me a shoot is for something that I’m perfectly fine with and then after I’ve spent my time getting ready, they want to change it to something erotic, unprofessional, or additional aspects that were not part of the original agreement they want for no extra charge. I have nothing against being sexy on camera or adding to a shoot, but be honest and straight with what you want to do beforehand so that the models can make informed decisions on what they are actually getting into.

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

I’ll admit I’m not the best role model when it comes to healthy eating habits -being from the South means that I love to eat good food-. However, I do try to maintain a healthy diet as much as possible. I love sports though. Throughout school I did soccer, basketball, volleyball, tennis, cross country, and track. I still get out on occasion to play a game or to go for a run. Every now and then I’ll get in a fitness craze when I feel like I’m letting myself go or eating too much and I’ll do a couple weeks of Insanity or some other type of workout routine that includes daily cardio and stretches.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a total introvert. I have always been the shyest person in the room and even now I tend to stay in and read before going out to meet new people. But I try something new every day and I try to meet at least one new person every week. I keep on a constant smile when I’m out and about because you never know whose day you’ll brighten because of a simple smile.

Would you change anything about yourself?

The one and only thing I would change about myself is my scoliosis. For those of you who don’t know what that is, it’s when a person’s spine is curved or twisted for various reasons. Mine is because my spine is for a person much taller than I am. If my spine were completely straight I would be somewhere around 5’9″-5’10” -according to doctors- instead of the 5’6″ I’m at right now. Because of the lack of space for my spine, I have an S curve in it which makes stretching and staying flexible difficult but not impossible.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I really want to learn falconry, also known as hawking. It’s where you hunt game with a trained hawk or other bird of prey of your choosing. The best way to do it is raise the bird yourself from a very young age. I think this would be the coolest thing ever because 1) It’s different, and 2) I would have my own personal bird of prey! I would probably go with an Aplomado Falcon personally. I actually have a picture with one on my Facebook page.

Visit Reagan Savoie’s website for more photos and information

Sep 20 2014

Interview with Marissa Jacobus

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please share something people don’t know about you.

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

Would you change anything about yourself?

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

Have you ever been fired from a job?

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

Sep 10 2014

Interview with Drue Detox — VFX Motion Graphics Artist & Model

Drue Detox is a 22-year old model residing in Tustin, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi! My name is Drue Marie McKelvey. Drue is not short for anything, it’s not a nickname, it’s just Drue. I was born in Kettering, Ohio. My parents moved me and my siblings to Herndon, Virginia when I was 3 years old. That is where I completed elementary school. My parents moved us again when I was entering middle school to Orange County, California. This is where I reside now. I am the middle child of 3. My older sister is a mathematician, and my younger brother is a bio-chemist. I took after my mother and became an artist. I attend the Art Institute of Orange County and will receive my Bachelor’s in March 2015 for VFX and Motion Graphics. When I’m not working on artwork I’m out at the beach; surfing, skating the boardwalk, or just hanging out with friends enjoying the sun. I’m incredibly adventurous and particularly intrigued by extreme sports. I intend to travel the world someday and just live life to the absolute fullest and happiest.

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

I got involved in modeling shortly after I turned 18. A friend of mine joined model mayhem and wanted me to tag along to a photo shoot with her. When I showed up the photographer liked my look and ended up taking a bunch of photos of me too. I decided to make my own account shortly after that. Sooner than expected my inbox was overflowing with requests for shoots. I always dreamed of becoming a model ever since I was a little girl. I do a lot of free shoots just because I love being in front of the camera so much.

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

My top personal goal is to graduate college and get my foot in the door with a major motion picture studio. I’ve always dreamed of doing artwork for Pixar, Disney, DreamWorks, Sony, or any other animation studio out there really. I could definitely picture my name in the credits of a major motion picture in the next 5 to 10 years. I’d love to still be modeling on the side too of course. Maybe my work in the art industry could also lead to a more professional modeling career. Only time will tell.

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

I don’t get to model as much as I used to since I am so close to graduating college. I’m really busy with putting my demo reel and portfolio together. I try to shoot at least once every few months just to keep my modeling profile up-to-date. I shoot a little bit of everything. People always tell me I can pull off just about any look. I love doing my hair, makeup, and playing dress-ups. What girl doesn’t?

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

The best experiences are always the ones where you make a lasting impression. I have my go-to photographers now because we have become such wonderful friends from having great and fun times at all of our shoots. Bad experiences; I’ve met some real creeps, jerks, and total amateurs from doing this.

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

Nothing embarrassing or out of the ordinary has happened during my career in my opinion. I’m kind of a funny and out of the ordinary person in general. I tend to make a lot of goofy faces and poses on purpose, just for laughs. It’s always good to enjoy yourself and have fun when you’re on a shoot. The more fun you’re having, the more confident you feel, and the better your photos turn out.

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

Most of all, I wish there weren’t stereotypes. I hate when people use the term “plus model” or “petite model”. I wish people were more accepting of skin color, tattoos and body art, piercings and modifications. I wish that there were a wider variety of models than the average 5’7″ white petite blonde girl with an even tan and huge breasts. Give the job to someone other than Barbie, please!

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 the captain of the Varsity Lacrosse team at my high school, but since then I haven’t played any sports. My whole life I have been blessed with an extremely speedy metabolism. I can literally eat anything and not have to worry about my weight. I am addicted to sweets. I’ve been more cautious about my diet recently though, because although I am able to stay thin that doesn’t mean that I am healthy. My doctor told me that I have high cholesterol. I am now eating plenty of whole grains, lean meats, fruits, and vegetables. I have a profile on bodybuilding.com to help me keep track of my workouts, diet, and supplements. I plan on turning my lifestyle around and becoming a lot healthier now.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I would choose a good book over a night out. I’m such a book worm. I’m a picky reader though. I tend to only read sci-fi, fantasy, adventure, mystery, survival, you get the picture. I’m also a zombie fanatic. I could survive a zombie apocalypse without a doubt. I’m also into comic books and cartoons. I like video games, mainly on N64. I’m kind of obsessed with Yoshi. Oh yeah, and I thoroughly enjoy jumping out of airplanes!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I struggled with really bad acne as a teenager and it left me with a lot of unwanted scars all over my cheeks. They aren’t super noticeable, and I can cover them with makeup, but I always wish that they just weren’t there at all. I don’t let it get to me though. I love myself and my life. I think I am a pretty confident and successful woman and I think other people know that and respect it, and I am grateful for that.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I always wish that I were more musically talented. I would love to play the piano or the guitar, but I just don’t have the patience or the hand-eye coordination. I don’t even have a good enough voice for singing. If I could have just one of those talents my life would be complete.

Visit Drue Detox’s website for more photos and information

Sep 10 2014

Interview with Hailee Alexis Hussion

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Would you change anything about yourself?

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

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

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

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

Sep 07 2014

Interview with Heidi Sophia — Model-Actress with Big Cheeks!

Heidi Sophia is a 21-year old model residing in Pacoima, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Heidi Sophia was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and currently resides in the San Fernando Valley. She’s the oldest sibling from a family of four. She enjoys playing sports, drawing, performing, hiking, visiting museums and art galleries, watching movies and sightseeing. She enjoys to make people laugh and help others in whatever she can. She loves animals and will rescue any animal who she feels is endangered in the streets. With an interest in architecture she enjoys designing- whether it relates to home decor and fashion.

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

I have been involved in the modeling and acting industry since the age of 14. Living in the Hollywood area throughout my childhood ignited the flame in me to become an entertainer. Being in front of a camera and performing on stage came easy to me as I always volunteered to play different roles in school plays, be a violinist in the schools orchestra or dance in talent shows. Seeing how intrigued I was my parents decided to help strengthen my dreams by enrolling me in a performing arts school- separate from my educational studies. Becoming a participant in performing art schools allowed me to obtain experience in runway, photo shoots, pageants, dance competitions, as well as auditioning for singing shows. My runway work has ranged from modeling bridal dresses for Davids Bridal, evening gowns for Desires by Silvio, sporting goods and other clothing lines such as Reve, Kayden K., and Ace Club, just to name a few. I have also participated in pageants were I became crowned Miss Honduras Independence 2010. My experiences have strengthened to be who I am and have definitely made me camera ready!

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

Aside from my aspirations of becoming an actress and expanding my horizons as a petite model, I am currently in college pursuing a degree in architecture. My plans reside on becoming someone of great significance whether it’s behind the screens or helping communities. In five to ten years, I see myself graduated, establishing different businesses and exercising my talent in movies and magazines.

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

Due to my dedication for school, I have taken a break from modeling; however whenever opportunity sheds light upon my work consists of photoshoots- commercial, sports, glamour, fashion, taking acting and dancing classes and booking a few runway and music video gigs.

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

With each opportunity, I seek to learn from each experience- whether it is good or bad. Part of my best experiences lie on just being able to get myself out there and be able to book jobs and meet and become friends with people in the industry. Although a few interviews and castings have not been so pleasant I do not let it deteriorate my skills and passion. After all, being heightly challenged, or not being “as skinny” as the other girls motivate me to push hard and work harder than anyone else competing for the job.

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

Fortunately I have not tripped or fallen off a runway, which most models fear before putting on a show. Phew! Although competing in pageants is not always all beauty and glamour, no one really knows how fiery and furious it can get backstage with girls hiding each other’s stuff, ripping costumes or tripping each other before getting onstage. My experience meeting the Pussycat Dolls walking out of an audition in Hollywood may not be extraordinary as others might think but to me it was a sign that I belonged where I have always yearned to be. Nonetheless, being able to bump into several other celebs as I’ve journeyed throughout my castings and auditions has definitely made working in the industry much sweeter!

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

The modeling industry can be very frightful! Thus the pressure of having to be skinny and tall doesn’t make it any easier. Women and men come in all shapes and sizes, thus the current representation of women and men in the fashion world should be expanded and several ethnicites and body shapes should be featured along the media.

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

Being a participant in sports teams as basketball, softball and volleyball, I have managed to stay fit throughout my teenage years. Moreover, aside from exercising regularly the importance of a well balanced nutrition is highly significant. Several models believe depriving themselves from eating works wonders with their body measurements, this is very unhealthy- not only for one’s body but the well being of media consumers.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I enjoy being spontaneous, in fact I am an adrenaline junky. My bucket list includes a variety of dangerous activities such as jumping off planes, buildings, racing a fast car, standing on the edge of a volcano and traveling other ends of the world. On my spare time I love to do different impersonations- I have mastered the woodpecker laugh quite well! Hence, although I may seem extremely confident with my work, I am in fact occasionally timid.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Personally I would not change anything about myself. Being able to feel, think, dance and sing out loud with people watching is what makes you feel alive and differentiate yourself from the rest. Although you may share things with several people, each person has their unique side, we just have to bring it out and bring it out on others.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

The superpower I wish I had is the power to make myself invisible so I can walk in somewhere without anyone noticing and pulling pranks on my loved ones! I swear I am not usually mean, really!

Aug 29 2014

Interview with Sarah

Sarah is a 23-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Sarah and I was born and raised in a stereotypical Japanese household in Redondo Beach, CA. I grew up going to math cram school, Piano Lessons, and Japanese school every Saturday. College changed my life. I was able to break free from my parents and live on my own. I got into rockclimbing and started my own rockclimbing club at UCR. I’ve also been in a couple of climbing magazines, catalogs and advertisements. Once I graduated from college I decided to get my skydiving license so that one day I would be able to climb something tall and base jump off of it.

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

I got involved in college. Someone recognized my climbing talents and I became a climbing model for Mad Rock. After becoming friends with the photographers, I got involved in hair modeling, bikini modeling and Print Modeling. I’ve always been a sports model first though. It’s what I’m comfortable doing and it comes naturally to me.

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

My goal is to be sponsored for skydiving and rockclimbing one day. Perhaps be a Redbull athlete. I could see myself traveling and competing around the world one day.

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

After college I stopped doing everything but sports modeling. It is what is important to me. I want to send a message to girls that being athletic is beauty in its best form.

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

Yes, If I could change anything in the modeling world, I would promote athletic girls in action over boobs on a stick on stilts.

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

Rock Climbing and Skydiving. It’s all about portions and eating organically.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I like going to punk shows and crowd surfing.

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

I wish my arms were a little bit longer so that it would be easier to climb harder!

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

I would drive to Yosemite National Park and Base Jump off of El Capitan… It would be my first base jump and I suppose my last!

Aug 05 2014

Interview with Preston Xavier

Preston Xavier is a 22-year old model residing in Phoenix, Arizona.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Preston. I have been modeling for about 3 years now. I am originally from Sioux City, Iowa but I now live in Scottsdale, Arizona. I love playing almost all sports. I used to play college football back in Iowa so doing anything athletic or dangerous fuels me. I also manage a 13,000 square foot photography studio in downtown Phoenix. Things we do consist of photoshoots, music videos, corporate parties, private parties, weddings, gifting suites, and just about anything else you could possibly think of. This keeps my life very interesting and fun.

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

I got involved in modeling right when I moved to Arizona from Iowa. My mom had always told me I should try it but there is no such thing as modeling back in a small town like Sioux City, Iowa. I auditioned for multiple agencies and I ended up choosing the one that I was most comfortable with, Signature Models and Talent. Right after I was brought on, they asked me if I would be interested in doing an internship as an agent so I decided that it would be good to learn both sides of the camera. For the next year I worked with them as well as modeled and it was an amazing experience.

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

My goal in life is to own my own company which is currently in the works. My business partner and I have been coming up with an investor proposal over the last 4 months and we have finally completed it so I am keeping my fingers crossed! Also, I love to model so I am hoping that I can further my career and get signed in New York and Los Angeles as I just got signed with Wilhelmina in Denver, Colorado.

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

I do a lot of photo-shoots as well as commercials and runway. I have been hired for big names such as Nike, Adidas, Reebok, Ford as well as smaller rolls for hotels, food products, and others. I am always open to new things so it just depends on what the client is looking for. Sports wear is probably my favorite thing to do as well as high fashion clothing such as Calvin Klein.

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

The 2013 like of Reebok clothing was probably the best experience that I have ever done. It was a 3 day event and I had 9 different looks of the new clothing like that I had to show international clients for Reebok as well as pictures of each line that I shot for a catalog. There were about 40 other models of my age so we all got to hang out the whole time which was an even bigger bonus.They also gave me 4 outfits including shoes, backpacks, and ray-bans!. The pay was also amazing!. The worst experience I have ever had was when I did an extra roll for a pizza commercial. It was less than $100 and they kept me there for 12 hours doing absolutely nothing! Never again will I take a roll that long for that little pay, but at least I learned my lesson!

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

One time I was doing a runway show and I completely fell on my face and everyone including me died laughing. I still don’t hear the end of that to this day.

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

The one thing I would change about the industry would be that it’s so small in Arizona. I wish it would be bigger in more states rather than New York and Los Angeles even though that’s not a very realistic wish.

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

I played college football back in Iowa and I was an All American kick and punt returner as well as wide receiver so I try to play pick up games or at least catch as much as possible. I probably have the worst diet in the entire world as I literally eat fast food every day and I am obsessed with Krispy Kreme donuts, bacon, and Oreos. Sort of weird for a model but somehow those foods fuel a decent six pack for me. I do lift weights about 4 times a week though so that definitely helps me keep definition in my arms and legs. I really want to start eating better, but when you have had the bad habit of eating fast food everyday, it’s hard to break it.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

An interesting fact about me would be that I am a third of the way through my private pilot’s license so hopefully in the next couple months I will have finished and be certified!

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

I wish I was a few inches taller so I could do a little more runway.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Snakes. I hate snakes.