Blog Archives

Feb 10 2015

Interview with Jennifer Lynn — “The Skinny Girl Model”

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hey! My name is Jennifer Lynn. I grew up in Doylestown, PA. It’s a cute little town in Bucks County. I have an amazing family. My mom, dad, two brothers, sister-in-law, and my two little nephews who I love all to death! I am a big family person, we all get together on the weekends and party! In the winter time it’s football, fires in the fireplace, and pool table games in the rec room. In the summer it’s baseball, grilling and swimming pool fun! I love both my nephews, Jamison is just a baby but Sean is my crazy, fun little 3 year old buddy. My nephews are the ones I cherish the most when I’m not modeling or doing crazy tattoo adventures.

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

I love the camera, always have. When I was little and my dad would break out the dinosaur size video camera, I had to be the star of the show. I also remember getting my very own camera when I was younger and taking selfies when I was 7! When I turned 14 I begged my mom to let me go to Barbizon School of Modeling. When I was 18, that’s when I got my first tattoo and figured why not do both hobbies in one! I would surf the internet and see these beautiful tattooed models and right away appreciate their beauty. I think everyone is beautiful in their own way and that’s how I wanted to be seen.

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

I have a couple goals I need to meet. With all my goals I always make sure to be happy and healthy. I want to travel the world! Professional goals would be to meet many people in the industry as well as working with them.

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

My workload is steady right now. I mainly do photoshoots including lingerie, glamour, fashion and nude. I am just getting into traveling and doing tours in other cities and states. I have done TV and video and about to enter the world of feature films!!! I am very excited about that!

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

I have had many experiences during my time as a tattooed model. When I started I didn’t understand the importance of tattoo placement on your body. I also didn’t know how important it was to have good art work on your body as well. When I would get tattoos when I was younger I didn’t pay attention to any of that stuff and now I regret it. I want to be the best that there is. I want the quality of my tattoos to be the same quality as the photos I produce.

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

I haven’t had too many embarrassing moments as of yet. I am very awkward in heels so I avoid them at all costs, if I wore them more often it would make for some embarrassing moments.

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

If I could change anything about the modeling industry it would have to be the misconception that models have a glamorous lifestyle. Let me tell you it’s not all lingerie and sunshine.

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

Sports… No way! I do like a good game of badminton in the summer time though. I love to eat! I am a skinny girl and I can eat a lot! I eat very well. I’m in love with vegetables and eating organically. I stopped eating fast food probably about 5 years ago and soda about 7 years ago. I try to stay away from red meat sometimes, but I love a good juicy burger! I don’t exercise, I should… but I don’t. I don’t have any diet tips the skinniness just runs in my family.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

There is not much no one knows about me. I have a Q&A that I do on my youtube channel and I am very honest with my fans. Check it out…

Would you change anything about yourself?

Yes, physically I would change my spine!! I mention this to my followers and fans every once in a while. I have scoliosis! It’s terrible I need surgery. It’s getting to the point where it is now affecting my posing in pictures. My back does not arch like most models because of the curvature and I’m in a lot of pain after a photoshoot.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

haha! This may be weird to some girls but I just recently took my first pee outside!! Is that too much…? haha! I was taking a road trip out west to California and there were no bathroom stops. I was around Arizona and I pee’d in the desert next to a huge cactus!!

Jan 06 2015

Interview with Julia Piper — Service Member and Model

Julia Piper is a 22-year old model residing in New Haven, Connecticut.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Julia. I’m originally from a small shoreline town in CT. I studied history at Eastern Connecticut State University for several years but left to explore opportunities working with nonprofits in the New Haven area. Social justice is a passion of mine. I come from a very large, crazy, and supportive family where I have three brothers and three sisters and I felt like this was the right move for me.

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

I first got involved with modeling when I was sixteen. I was scouted by a Boston modeling agent at the Providence Mall and signed with them. I was pretty involved with sports in high school including: cheerleading, lacrosse and paintball so my schedule didn’t really allow for me to do much traveling. When I went to college I put modeling on hold. I recently had some life changes this past summer and decided that I wanted to get back into things, so I’ve only been back working for about eight months now. I just love making art.

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

I would like to continue my work in the nonprofit sector. Modeling is also something that I am very passionate about and maybe somewhere down the line I’ll be able to find a happy harmony.

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

This past summer I was booking between one to two jobs a week. It’s a little harder now because I work 50 to 60 hours a week. My schedule will change again in June so I’d like to spend as much time as I can modeling then. I’ve done video and commercial, but my main passion lies in crazy high fashion type shoots. I love doing the crazy hair and make-up and just playing pretend for a little while. I like feeling like I’m helping to create art when I model. I love art, and I love being able to be a part of it.

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

You always get a few strange requests from people. My advice to young women would be to know what your boundaries are when going into a job and don’t be afraid to just say “no”. Always bring a chaperon with you and if a photographer pulls underwear out of their trunk you do not need to wear them -even if it is a paid shoot-! Haha, that was probably one of the weirdest things that’s happened to me. I have no problems saying “no” though. I respect myself, and I respect modeling as an art form, and sketchy trunk underwear are just a NO.

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

There was one time a photographer was upset because I wasn’t being “sexy Heidi Klum” enough. I was like; that woman is gorgeous and has a killer body and wayyyyyy more experience than me. He kept saying “sexy Heidi Klum” and it was freezing and I was slipping off a rock and it was so awkward. I don’t do sexy. It’s just not my look and he had seen my portfolio. I brought a friend as a chaperon and she just kept laughing. He was a little over the top.

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

I think the industry is making some great strides right now all on its own. I just think that it’s very important for young people to realize that there is a lot of work that goes into these pictures and unlike Beyonce I think that most of us do not wake-up like this. There are hours of hair, make-up and editing that go into most of these photos. At my 9 thru 5 job I’m lucky if I have time to remember the mascara.

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

I’m terrible at this. I try to eat healthy but since I work so much I found that I had been ordering food out way too much. I recently got back in to my old routine though. I do a shake for breakfast, salad for lunch, and I mix up dinner. I throw in some vitamin enhanced water throughout the day. I don’t punish myself though. Wings are my favorite food, any of my friend will tell you that. If I slip up it’s not the end of the world. Life is short and should be enjoyed. As long as there’s balance it’s okay. I also walk 30 minutes to and from work a day. I hardly ever drive and I even walk to the grocery store. I used to spend a lot of time in the gym, but my schedule is kind of crazy right now. I try to eat right and walk when I can and so far I’ve been able to maintain myself. I try to jog a few miles every now and then, too.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am absolutely terrified of birds that can fly. Most people wouldn’t think this because I volunteer at an aquarium working with penguins. It’s only the ones that fly that freak me out. If there are birds on the side walk I will cross the street. Especially crows!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I have a gap between my two front teeth. All throughout my childhood I would try to think of ways to close it. I would take the rubber bands that my friends used on their braces and try to get my gap to close together. I begged my parents for braces and got made fun of from time to time. I wouldn’t smile with my mouth open. I was told that when I got my wisdom teeth it would close… I waited and waited for that day. Turns out I only have one wisdom tooth and that did nothing. My junior year of college I had the opportunity to get Invisalign to close it. I almost went through with it. Even the dental assistant told me how pretty it would look. How dumb is that? I have younger sisters though and I am always preaching about self-acceptance and confidence. How could I even think about doing something like that? How hypocritical would that be? Young people need to stop focusing on potential physical “flaws” and see the big picture. These things are what make us individuals. Today, I am so happy that I didn’t close my gap, I always smile with my mouth open now when my friends point a camera at me now.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I really really wish that I knew how to sing. Sometimes when I’m drinking with friends I think that I can. I can’t. On rare occasions we’ll wander over to our local karaoke bar. It’s bad. I’ve seen the videos. It’d be way cooler if I could belt it out like Mariah.

Dec 11 2014

Interview with Sierra Lanae — Fitness & Fashion Model battling MS

Sierra Lanae is an 18-year old model residing in Aurora, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Thorton, CO. My mom, Jen Brown, is a fitness model and competitor in the NPC & has been competing for over 5 years. I go to school for cosmetology but at the end of the day there is nothing I love more than going to the gym.

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

I got into modeling in the summer of 2014. I started because I want to make sure I do everything I’ve ever wanted to do before my Multiple Sclerosis takes over, one of those things on my list is modeling. I also had huge insecurities with the way I looked. When I was younger struggled with anorexia and bulimia. After that I struggled with eating too much and never wanting to go outside or be around people, I was so ashamed of how I looked. My insecurities got better when I started going to the gym everyday and saw how my hard work & passion was improving my life for the better. I was still really insecure when I started modeling; I thought if I put myself out there I may like what I see & I do! Modeling has changed my life completely!

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

My biggest dream was to fight MMA until I found out the stress it would put on my body with MS would make it worse. I now wish to pursue my modeling career and compete in NPC. I also wish to graduate cosmetology school and after get certified in personal training and nutrition. I also want to do modeling workshops to teach other models how to use their insecurities to their advantage.

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

I have at least a couple photo shoots a month. I haven’t done any catwalks and only one video commercial.

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

I would say my best experience in modeling is when someone messaged me on Facebook after my first time being in a magazine and told me they were a huge fan and loved my work. The worst experience would have to be a photo shoot I had where he would take one picture put the camera down and make sexual jokes followed by comments on how I should consider nude.

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

In my very first photo shoot someone stole my shoes downtown that I was borrowing from a friend.

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

That in order to make it in the industry, everyone thinks you have to get nude and you don’t.

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

Fitness and nutrition in everyone’s life, not just models! Proper Nutrition is one of the most important factors in a healthy lifestyle. I personally eat a lot of protein, fruits and veggies; any carbs I have I cut off at about 4pm. I also eat 5 to 6 times a day and drink as much water as possible. Fitness side of things cardio and I are not friends but I try and at least get 20 minutes cardio session in the early morning and after a workout. Mixed Martial Arts is the only cardio I love to do and would suggest it for everyone to try. I love lifting being able to go into the gym put on your headphones and drowned the world out for an hour or two makes all the difference to make you happier & more relaxed. Not to mention when you reach a new max weight or see progress, that amazing feeling you get knowing it’s because of your hardwork! A healthy physique is something that can’t be bought and has to be worked for.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m a superman nerd -everyone knows this-. Every boyfriend I had until graduated high school somewhat looked like Superman or reminded me of Superman. I use to also read the comic books and do different voices for each character. I would also play the radio show to put me to sleep.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I take people’s criticism to heart too much.

What features do you look for in a partner?

I guess my answer to that is someone that I can be myself around. Someone I can go to the gym with because I am not giving that up for anyone! If we can’t have a real conversation it’s not going to work. They also have to be funny. I care about personality more than anything else.

Dec 08 2014

Interview with Briana Aureate — Full time student and model

Briana Aureate is a 19-year old model residing in Grand Junction, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello loves, my name is Briana Aureate and I was born and raised in Denver, CO. I love fitness and sports. Some particular favorites of mine being softball and soccer. I also love painting and art. However, right now I am a full time student at Colorado Mesa University studying to be a chemist.

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

Ever since my freshman year of high school I’ve been really interested in modeling. I’ve always liked photography and also have always wanted to model. I started taking classes my freshman year then began pursuing my modeling career my senior year with model mayhem. Later I began contacting photographers through facebook and now it’s becoming a reality for me. I love all of the art there is in modeling. The connections you make with the photographer and how you collaborate to create a piece of art together.

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

One of my biggest dreams involving my modeling career is to one day become a Hollister model. Until I can build a strong enough portfolio and strong enough skills for my modeling career I’m going to continue planning shoots in Denver until I become well known to the modeling community. I would also love to travel or shoot with professional photographers in other areas across the U.S. such as Las Vegas, LA, and New York.

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

I model more often when I’m in the Denver area. I try to find work where I can in the Grand Junction area but it depends what’s out there. I typically shoot either in studio or outdoors fashion shoots mostly and sometimes more artsy themed shoots or fitness. Either way I like a diverse portfolio. I’d also be interested in doing video modeling.

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

I’ve had great experiences getting to know photographers as good friends! I’ve also learned a lot about my body and how to move it, and which angles work best for me. I learned tips with hair and makeup and color. It’s all very creative and exciting to me.

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

I’ve had guys around Denver ask to take pictures of and with me while shooting and I’ll take them with them. It’s fun to hear them say they’re taking them because I’ll be famous one day. I fancy the thought!

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

I would like there to be less nude photography out there and more art and fashion. I respect a model if they choose to model nude and I respect photographers who shoot it but I personally don’t like photographers who are pushy about it.

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

I work out several times throughout the week at our gym at my university. I’d love to get more involved in my favorite sports again. I also enjoy training with my friend who is a physique competitor.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

It’s interesting that I was the first girl in my high school’s history to make the boys baseball team! I played baseball all throughout middle school then fought my way for a tryout my freshman year in high school. Fortunately for me I beat out some boys and made the JV team!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would like to have longer hair, maybe a smaller nose, and to be taller. But when it comes down to it I’m more grateful for what I do have than I focus on what I could have.

What is your guilty pleasure?

I love watching bad girls club. I’ve seen every season and would go on the show in a heartbeat.

Nov 29 2014

Interview with Corinne Victoria — Model and Performer

Corinne Victoria is a 21-year old model residing in Denver, Colorado.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Corinne Victoria and I’m a full time model based out of Denver, Colorado. I was born in Park Ridge, Illinois and lived there as a small child. After which I lived in Arizona for 10 years , both in Phoenix and Surprise. I’ve been located in Colorado now for about 6 years.

My biggest hobby is dancing. I love to dance and perform both on and off the stage. Other interests of mine include anything Alice in Wonderland. Dressing up in elaborate outfits and going to numerous kinds of events. As well as fetishes and the BDSM community.

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

Well fun fact I did modeling when I was a baby. I modeled in diapers and did things like JCPenny ads for example. I however did not do any modeling as a child or young teen. Growing up I didn’t think too much about modeling. Modeling always seemed to me like one of those dream jobs you never actually get to have. When I was a teenager though I thought to myself why not model? What’s really holding me back? In honesty there was only myself holding me back and no reason I should not or could not model. So I did my research on getting involved and had my first shoot I’ll be able to remember at the age of 17!

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

I do hope to continue modeling for as long as I possibly can. Modeling is very important to me and it’s something I rather enjoy doing. My goal is to be able to still be involved in the industry even as I age. Other than that though I look to be a mother in the years to come. I have found a wonderful partner who’s great and there is no doubt of children in our future. I hope to be able to take care of my home and family. Daydreams about being a housewife!

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

I work all the time. I most often do photo shoots but, I have also done video work as well as helping out with various classes. I’ve modeled for art classes and have helped teach modeling classes. I model in a multitude of genres including – glamour, fashion, art, cosplay, editorial, fetish, lifestyle, and others. The summer months are definitely the busiest for me. Can definitely be a bit hectic at times! The winter months are considerably slower, but not completely dead. I am a freelance model which means I work independently rather than through an agency. There are pros and cons to both and I happen to prefer working independently. That being said the workload on myself is much higher. When I’m not out at a photo shoot I’m at home responding to e-mails and messages. Constantly organizing and looking for more work.

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

I’m not sure about the best or worst experience I’ve had but I’m going to talk about my traveling experiences with modeling. Traveling is great! I’ve gotten to travel around to many different places. It’s a great opportunity for any model and I’m privileged to have been able to travel a number of times. I love traveling, you get to see a new place you not have been able to see otherwise. You get to have completely new and different experience from what you see as the norm. At the same time however traveling, especially for work, can be exhausting. Waking up at crazy early hours, staying up particularly late can be taxing on one’s body. A lot of the time you go from spending a fair amount of time in the airport and on the airplane. Then you go directly into working long days.

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

I definitely have an embarrassing story that comes to mind. I was at a photo shoot once and everything was going well. About an hour or so into the shoot the photographer pointed something out to me. He pointed out that well… I had started my period. I hadn’t even noticed myself until he pointed it out. I was completely mortified and embarrassed!

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

I would definitely change the reliability and certainty. The industry can be a little inconsistent at times. Sometimes shoots get moved, sometimes they get canceled. You can’t always count on something to happen when it’s supposed to because things get moved and changed around.

Not just shoots but models. There are a number of ‘models’ out there that bring a bad representation to the industry. There are models that are late, there are models that flake on shoots, models that give a no call no show. These people bring a bad name to those that work hard in what we do and behave in a professional manner when it comes to shoots.

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

Nutrition and exercise play an important role in my life. Being a full time model I have to stay conscious in my eating and exercise habits. Maintaining a healthy figure is important. Personally I eat an all vegetarian diet. I generally eat healthy foods, lots of colors and vegetables but, that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy a good brownie here and there. As for exercise being a performer I do a lot of exercise. I’ve been a dancer all my life and was a swimmer for most my life. I currently dance as a gogo dancer as well as other performances such as contortion. I have to stretch everyday in order to stay limber and perhaps push my limits. I also dance on the regular to keep up my dance moves, plus there is always room for improvement! Not to mention dancing is a great, enjoyable form of cardio.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Interesting fact, I have an affinity for the Japanese culture. Both ancient and modern. I love the rich history of Japan. I also love modern fashion and technologies. I could type an entire list of the things I appreciate or love on Japanese culture. I’ll keep this simple though. I plan to make a trip to Japan at least once before I die.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would change my hair. My whole life I’ve always wanted really long pretty hair. My hair always seems to stop at a certain point though and just not grow any further.

I’ve been working hard to take good care of my hair and keep it healthy. I’m avoiding putting in damaging and costly extensions. Simply promoting hair growth as naturally as possible.

What is the kinkiest thing you’ve ever done?

I’m unsure about the kinkiest thing I’ve done. Being an active member in the BDSM community I’ve partook in a numerous amount of kinky things. I’m in a 24/7 Dominant and submissive relationship. I frequent fetish parties and dungeons. I’ve done things like rope suspension and bondage, wax play, fire play. I’ve been flogged, whipped, caned, you name it!

Visit Corinne Victoria’s website for more photos and information

Nov 24 2014

Interview with Heather Hoffman — Undefeated Boxer/Yoga Teacher/Model

Heather Hoffman is a 22-year old model residing in Oakland, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Jacksonville Florida, but have lived in about 80 different places and households in my 22 years. I grew up with a younger sister, whom I got custody of at 18 years old. I moved out of my home and eventually lost my mom to drugs around the age of 16 years old, and began working full time while also in high school. I lived with numerous families of all different ethnicities, social classes and religions, which gave me a full cultured and non-judge mental perspective on life.

I love traveling, and just recently moved back to Northern California after spending some time in Costa Rica teaching yoga to the locals who couldn’t afford expensive classes. I knew no one, and left with just a backpack. It was an epic experience to say the least. I found myself through meditation and healthy self expression. I currently have my hands in multiple different professions, one being the part owner and co-founder of a successful small business in the organic edible industry. I spend my time creatively- training in boxing, although I no longer compete- teaching and practicing yoga, dancing, singing, modeling, drawing, giving nutrition and wellness counseling, studying different forms of natural medicine through food, hiking, and talking to my dogchild.

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

Since I was a little mugwamp, I always loved photography and how a picture forever holds moments that have drifted from the present. I bought myself my own camera and as I continued to fool around I realized being behind the camera was just as invigorating. My favorite modeling gigs are ones that include full featured personality and push me to be creative and speak without words. I have done a few magazine articles including a surf magazine and been featured in an “Up and Coming Entrepreneur Article,” along with multiple yoga shoots, clothing and fitness catalogs and a few more. My style is versatile to say the least.

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

I see myself continuing with my many many business ventures, my organic food company, along with opening an all-over wellness center where people of all types can come and relax, yoga, train, crossfit, meditate, get nutrition and wellness counseling, eat healthy nutrient dense food -that tastes good-, and overall be happy in the current moment and share it with other like-minded souls. I want to give to those in need and help those who simply just need a helping hand. I needed it, and in the end realized I had to find it in myself. I want to lead people to find that place within themselves.

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

My modeling workload completely depends on my business workload and availability. I strongly enjoy being creative and expressing myself through modeling so I make it a priority. Sometimes I will have large gigs which require lots of time and preparation, other times I will have multiple simpler shoots. I have done a few comedy videos, posters, catalogs, modeled wedding dresses on runway and other times mostly just fitness shoots and freelance work.

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

While in Costa Rica, I met a photographer who shot for the local Surf Magazine, and asked if I wanted to shoot. I spent the day laying on soft white sand in Guanacaste, surrounded by a sweet tropical breeze, unlimited coconut water, a feast of freshly picked fruit from the trees, perfect surfing waves, good islander-like vibes, professional surfers, and was free to do as many and whatever yoga poses I wanted. Basically my paradise.

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

My most awkward experience was at the start of my career. I showed up to a self described “photographer’s” studio, which was actually the basement of his grandfather’s situation -can’t call it a house- who was actually a hoarder and as we opened the door to the photo-shoot room millions of antique and trash-like items came tumbling down. As I responded with a horrified expression and double chin, the photographer flashed his 5 dollar kodak camera and asked me if I was ready to shoot… I did extensive research before each shoot after that jolly experience.

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

Hmmmmmm with my experience, the legitimacy of “photographers.” Now a days any dude or lady can buy a camera and take a few pictures and call themselves a photographer and secretly use it as a creepy dating tool. Like “Oh, move your chin to the right a little, shoulders back, tighten your jaw, and go ahead and take off your shirt and wave it ’round yo head like a helicopter…”
At my age, I wasn’t sure how to do background checks and without parental supervision, I didn’t really have any one to back me up. I’ve gotten lucky and no one has ever tried to take advantage of me, probably because I’d beat their ass, but I have heard soooo many stories where young girls have not done enough research and gotten themselves into uncomfortable, sexually harassing, and sometimes even life-threatening situations. Not cool.

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

I have studied Ayurvedic medicine, holistic nutrition, and healing through food. I am actually vegan, and during the summers I am mostly raw. I eat this way because it feels best for my body and helps me feel more in tuned with myself and my surroundings. I have been active my entire life- and have played every sport from boxing, basketball, soccer, softball, yoga, hip hop and breakdancing, tennis, golf, been on the swim team, and crossfit. I feel my best when I am active and my body is moving.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have epilepsy, but use medical marijuana and CBD and have not had a seizure since I started medicating naturally.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am always working on bettering and improving myself as a person. I set personal goals for myself and hope to enhance my over-all life and situation whenever possible.

Have you ever been in a brawl? Please elaborate.

I am such a non-Violent human being now, but as a kid I was slightly lost and I hung out with the “wrong” crowd. I have actually been in a few brawls- I didn’t start them and they didn’t initially involve me but I had to jump in to protect and back-up my “fam,” as they would do for me. One was at a fair, one at a movie theater, and one in Target… yes inside Target. I moved cities shortly after most of my friends got arrested, and somehow my reputation followed me to my new town and no one ever tried to mess with me or my sister throughout high school. That was convenient.

Visit Heather Hoffman’s website for more photos and information

Nov 23 2014

Interview with Sofia Novakova — Chameleon model/ Nerdy athlete

Sofia Novakova is a 24-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

You are what you do and think every day. I am naturally curious about many things and the era that would describe me best would be Renaissance- universal man, whose day can span from inventing a parachute in the morning to as far as observing stars at night. I was born in a little spa town in Slovakia, but immediately relocated to the capital city Bratislava. My roots are deeply encraved in me, which I feel intensely while travelling. This is one my biggest hobbies and I found that out when I was 18 years old taking up on Camino de Santiago. This pilgrimage has opened my eyes and awaken an adventurer in me, that is ever hungry for new experiences.

My family is my life. I love every one of them, my mom is a strong and intelligent woman but most importantly she is kind, which gave me a lot to look up to growing up. My sister is a little devil with a good heart and challenges me every day. I used to love summers going to my grandparents’ house lost in the mountains of Slovak paradise. Being able to kind of “grow up in the nature” gave me the sense of true meaning of what is important in life and firmly set my priorities to focus on.

I think it’s great to combine knowledge and sports, like Greeks used to. I’m an athletic artist, I love to paint using duck-tape and sprays, box, run in the forest and do yoga in the morning listening to Maori songs by Kiri Te Kanawa or Nahko Bear. James Franco is similar- he is crazily witty, almost like an intellectual nerd but at the same time he makes this face and says “You’re peanut butter and jelly!” Most of my life I’ve done things that had something to do with art, theatre, film-making and education.

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

It started as an idea in high school, when by best friend Klara got a Canon camera for birthday. She wanted to do a photoshoot and since we both loved fashion, we decided that we would be first-timers for each other- her as a photographer and me as a model. Which made sense really because she was more introverted and I was an exhibitionist, who would dance Hip-Hop all the time.

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

What you make of your days now, creates series of consequential moments, that will form your future life. I have finished directing my first promotional sports video for my exercising group MITS -military training simulation- which I founded in order to get together a community of women who would like to just go in the forest and have a helluva good work-out. Seeing positive feedback makes it meaningful to me. Myself in ten years may be blurred, but my goal is quite clear. I want to be of contribution and leave a mark for future generation- kids of today will one day be the young adults dealing with the same issues as we are now, and to make it just a little nicer or easier for them would be a good way to go. I would like to make films and art that would articulate my observations and be of positive influence. I will do what it takes to incorporate exploring the world and having a peaceful home and a family. That’s what I need in personal life. And book. I wanna write a book. I love books.

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

I model every now and then, depends on the project. I need to find the person behind it smart and stimulating, someone who knows what he is doing and to whom I can relate to. I do videos and short movies too, because it is more organic and uses mediums such as movement, spoken word or music. It touches different areas like sport, lifestyle, enviroment, love and others. The possibilities are endless.

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

Everyone I worked with was amazing. My latest shooting was with Stefan Merriweather, LA based photographer and we went to work in this remote beach called the Wedge in Newport and it was awesome. It was all surfers and big waves and empty beaches. Reminded me of Hawaii.

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

I had to put on an alien costume and dance with it.

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

Just put more honesty to it.

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 this question.

Yes. Nutrition and sports- very big role in my life. I definitely put a lot of effort and thought into my every day diet and the way I schedule exercise. I wake up quite early in the morning, do my yoga for 30 to 40 minutes, eat breakfast which is oatmeal poured with hot water with cinnamon, bit of butter and honey. Usually I eat a lot of soups, tomato, cabbage or curcuma. I also like buckwheat that I put in pan along with lot of vegetables. I don’t eat that much meat, but I use onions, olive oil and lemon a lot for cooking. I additionally use vitamins if I work out a lot, magnesium, B6 and C will do. I go running three times a week at least and then there’s boxing…my grandma hates it, says it makes my shoulders wide, but I have just naturally well developed upper body.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

When I get cold feet I warm them up using hot water from the sink. It once happened in the kitchen too. I have repetitive dreams. I like to put salt on the bread that already has honey on it.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I am changing a little every day, I read a chapter per day from selected motivational books in the morning to set a good base-stone for my day. The more I read, the more I realize there is maybe not necessarily a lot to change, but definitely a lot to improve. My urge to speak when others do, for example, or be more patient, forgiving and you can always be more kind. That’s the best.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I put on earphones, get naked and dance like crazy to the remix of Party Up by DMX.

Nov 04 2014

Interview with Cami Annette — Model, Writer, and Web Designer

Cami Annette is a 25-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Howdy, folks! I am a professional netizen by day and a fitness and lifestyle model by…well…also by day! Born in Oakland, California, I am the youngest of three girls. I get my height -5’10- from both parents: my mom is 6’1 and my dad is 6’3!.

I can usually be found walking my two dogs, Boise and Paco. Hiking and HIIT, which stands for high-intensity interval training, are my favorite forms of exercise and how I spend most of my free time.

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

I’m a noob to the modeling world, having just started in September 2014. I’ve done shoots for friends over the years, but only recently decided to pursue modeling professionally. So far everyone I’ve met and worked with has been amazing; I feel so blessed to have had the opportunities I’ve had so far and really look forward to what the future has in store.

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

In addition to appearing in Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Edition, I would love to publish a book. I also want to return to school and earn a second Bachelor’s in computer science.

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

I’ve been shooting a couple times a week since early October. I mainly do photoshoots, but have a video shoot coming up in the next couple weeks. The last photoshoot I did was for HP Computers, which was shot by the fabulous Doug Adesko.

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

Eek. Once I had a photographer pull out his “friend” while we were reviewing my photos on his computer. Needless to say, I never shot with him again.

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 regular yogi and practice about twice a week. My favorite type of yoga is “power” or Ashtanga yoga. I also do HIIT in the form of an abs class at my gym twice a week. Finally, I walk at least 6 miles a day with my dogs and try and hike three times a week.

Nutritionally, however, I am all over the place. I try and eat a hearty piece of meat, either steak or a pork chop, three days a week. I hydrate regularly with fresh water as well as C2O coconut water. Otherwise, I don’t really eat anything on a consistent basis and often let my body guide me toward certain foods.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I once gave bone marrow in college. SO painful, but SO worth saving a life.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Yes! I would stop thinking so much. Physically, I’d probably correct the scar that appears next to my right nostril. I was bitten by a dog about three years ago and the scar remains.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

In my backyard. I was training my puppy to use the potty outside and figured I’d show her how it was done! She’s fully housetrained now thanks to me, ha!

Visit Cami Annette for more photos and information

Nov 03 2014

Interview with Alexandra Ford — Fashion blogger, photographer & model

Alexandra Ford is a 24-year old model residing in Pismo Beach, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Owensboro, Kentucky and lived there until I was about 20. I’d never wanted to leave a place so bad! So I moved to downtown Chicago to finish my last two years of college at The Art Institute. I had a bit of culture shock at first, but Chicago has so much to offer. There is always something to do. Once I finished college I moved to Pismo Beach, California. Ever since I was a child I’ve always wanted to live in California. I’ve had a few modeling opportunities here since it is so close to Los Angeles. I will be moving to LA permanently in a few weeks so that I can pursue modeling further. I’m so excited to live in a big city again!

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

I first started out doing photography in high school. I became bored of landscapes and nature, so I bought a tripod and used the camera timer to take pictures of myself. I was somewhat impressed with them so I started posting regularly on fashion sites and soon after began my own fashion blog. It all grew from there. People would contact me asking me to model for them or to help them build their photography portfolios, and I’ve been working with a lot of different photographers ever since. I just started using Model Mayhem and I’ve gained a lot of modeling opportunities from that as well.

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

There are many creative jobs I would love to pursue. I love styling, doing make-up, and blogging about fashion. I also love painting and illustration. Of course I would love to be a full-time model, traveling around to different places and meeting new people, but that’s a bit of a stretch. We’ll see how it goes when I move to LA! As long as I’m happy with what I’m doing I count that as a huge success.

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

I model at least once a week. It usually just consists of me doing different poses for the photographer at a location we both agree on. So far I have styled all my own shoots with clothes from my closet and makeup from my bathroom. I always love doing my own hair and makeup, since I have basically tried everything and I know what looks good. I’ve done studio shoots, outdoor shoots, and video shoots. Outdoor shoots are definitely my favorite. I mostly work by myself, but I always love to work with another model. It gives me a chance to meet someone and make connections.

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

I’ve had many great experiences. I’ve visited some of the most beautiful places! Shooting in the Oceano dunes was probably the best. I felt like I had landed on another planet. The giant hills of sand were breathtaking. The worst experience would have to be when I was posing in the middle of a succulent patch on the beach. I looked down and there were huge spiders literally everywhere. I had to force myself not to look down no matter what I felt crawling on my legs!

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

Yes! I think the craziest experience would have to be when I was shooting on my own by a creek, with just my tripod. This happened to be back in Kentucky on my grandparents’ farm at dusk. I heard some coyote’s howling not too far away, but I wasn’t too worried at the time. Several minutes later I heard something rustling, and turned around to see tawny fur and eyes hiding behind the bushes. I freaked out because I thought a coyote was stalking me! It turned out to be two young fawns, and I couldn’t have felt more relieved.

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

I wish I could change what is perceived as “beautiful,” a lot of people don’t understand that anything outside of a size 0 can be beautiful. Don’t get me wrong, I find so much beauty in a tall, thin model working a Chanel runway. But I find just as much beauty in a curvier plus-size model. So many women beat themselves up for not being pretty enough, or thin enough, or tall enough. I used to be one of them. I’m more confident now than ever because I’ve learned that you have to embrace what you have, not dwell on what you don’t and never will have.

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

My exercise routine is pretty laid back. I walk a lot, and before I go to bed I do crunches and squats. I drink a LOT of water! Between 65 to 80 ounces a day. I love coffee and tea, I drink at least two cups a day of each. My go-to food of the moment would be carrots dipped in hummus. I love oatmeal with peanut butter. I’m actually a vegetarian, so I eat a lot of nuts, vegetables and fruits. Quinoa black bean burgers are definitely my favorite meal! Every now and then I splurge on potato chips and frozen yogurt.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m obsessed with Nintendo games. I love everything Mario and Sonic. My favorite game right now is Mario Kart 8! It’s so much fun. I can waste hours and hours playing video games.

Would you change anything about yourself?

There will probably always be days where I’m like, “I wish my hair was a little longer,” or “I wish I had thinner thighs,” but honestly what good does that do? You are you for a reason. There is beauty in everyone. It has taken me 24 years to become completely confident and happy with myself and my body. I wouldn’t change a thing about myself.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I wish I could morph into a mermaid. I love everything about the ocean. I love snorkeling in reefs and swimming with whale sharks. I love venturing to shipwrecks, they’re so ghostly and interesting! A dream of mine is to be an underwater model in the middle of a shipwreck. Marine life is so fascinating and beautiful; if I could spend every day exploring the ocean I would do it in a heartbeat!

Visit Alexandra Ford’s website for more photos and information

Oct 28 2014

Interview with Victoria Sea — Short but talented

Victoria Sea is a 18-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a born and breed California girl. I grew up in the greater Los Angeles area with my parents, and my older twin sisters. I have lived there all of my life, except for three months I spent in Maui, and three months I spent in Nashville. Traveling is one of my life passions, and I do not feel comfortable leaving a place until I feel like I have seen it completely. I fell in love with swimming from the first time I ever got in a pool, and have been nicknamed “Fishy” ever since.

I grew up dancing, singing, and acting, but when I had my first photo shoot, and knew that that was the path for me. I have interests in careers, besides modeling, such as fashion, real estate, and anything that could get me a job by the beach for the rest of my life. Some of my favorite things are rice, bathing suits, peonies, the Pacific Ocean, rainy weather, and Christmas lights.

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

I had my first photo shoot when I was 16. My boyfriend was an incredible musician and had all this passion and direction for what he wanted to do with his life, and it would always drive me crazy that I didn’t have the same kind of love for anything. I knew I loved being out there in the industry, and wanted to be a face people recognized, but I didn’t love any of the things that could get me there: singing, dancing or acting.

One day, I was on tumblr and I saw this picture of Rosie Huntington-Whitely, and I couldn’t shake the feeling of how rad it would be to see a picture of myself like that. I told my dad I wanted to model, and so he got out his camera and started taking pictures of me. Still in my school uniform, hair a mess, I posed for those pictures like no tomorrow. They came out awful, and I never showed a soul but that’s when I really knew that this was something I enjoyed. On my first photo shoot with Rage Models, where I was previously signed but not anymore, the hair, the makeup, the outfits. I was in heaven. From that test shoot in the owner’s house, I knew that this was a dream I had to chase.

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

My personal goal is to find what makes me happy, and to chase that. For now, that’s modeling, traveling, and constantly being around the people that make me smile.

My professional goal is to prove that you don’t have to be 5’10 to be a model. I believe that although I am vertically challenged, I have everything it takes to be a well-known and working model in the industry. I hope that in 5 to 10 years, I am modeling full time, traveling the world, and showing people that if you really want something, ignore the odds and the restrictions, and make it happen anyway.

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

This summer I really started getting into it, and had at least two photo shoots each week. It’s a bit slower right now, while I am in school but I am actually changing some things for next semester so that I can focus more on modeling. I do mainly photo shoots, but I have done a few videos as well. My shoots have been mostly fashion and for clothing companies.

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

My very best experience so far absolutely has to be Project Mermaids. Project Mermaids is a save our oceans campaign, where they take pictures of celebrities and models as mermaids to ultimately raise money to support saving our oceans. I’ve been obsessed with mermaids for as long as I can remember, so this was absolutely a dream come true. I took land pictures, and underwater pictures at Catalina Island. They just recently had their kick off party in Venice, California, where there was a 9-foot print of me as a mermaid in the center of the gallery, surrounded by celebrities and other models. It was the coolest.

I haven’t had many bad experiences modeling, except for the occasional scams that I almost fall for and or the creepy photographer that texts me pictures of his face before our photo shoot.

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

Not much, I was one time at this one photo shoot that started at 9am. The photographer, let’s just say, was not my style. This person wanted to place me for every shot, tilting my head just a little bit before taking the picture. It was so painfully slow, I was there until 7pm, not to mention I was only running on 3 hours of sleep.

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

My biggest frustration about the modeling industry is the height discrimination. If you are not at least 5’8, agencies won’t even look at your profile. This is my biggest challenge for sure. As a 5’5 model, getting signed has not exactly been a walk in the park. But there are other ways to model besides agencies, and it’s definitely taught me a lesson in fighting for something you really want. I would love to see agencies lower the height requirement for print models, not everyone that’s applying wants to walk runway!

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 yogi. I do yoga every chance I have, whether it’s going to a class or whipping out my matt at the end of the night when I really need a good meditation. Yoga is really important for strength building. I accompany yoga with Pilates and sometimes spin to work out all muscles, but the yoga classes have my heart. Other than that, I run almost everyday, and swim whenever I can. Gyms and me do not get along. I have to be outside, or in a class. I am a very picky eater. I have always loved healthy foods, and live for my local Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods. I was a vegetarian for three years. Now I’ve added chicken to my diet, but basically stick to a vegetarian meal plan.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a Sagittarius, I can touch my tongue to my nose, I’m allergic to dairy, chocolate, and onions, water and tea are my favorite beverages, I absolutely hate texting, I would take coffee bean over Starbucks any day, if I could sell my soul to turn my legs into fins, I would seriously consider it, I love the sun, but I also love sweaters and wish that they would just get along and let me have both, I have to sleep on the left side of the bed, I have a phobia of feet, and I buy myself sunflowers regularly.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I’m not perfect, no one, but Blake Lively is, but I try really hard not to look in the mirror and create a list of things that I wish were different. Sure, if I could have a perfect body without working out, and be a few inches taller, I wouldn’t complain, but I think these imperfections are in my life for a reason. Having to work out constantly builds character, and makes you much more proud of the result than if it were just always there. And being short has made modeling harder for me, but has shown me a place where I could make a difference.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

One time when I was much younger, I went to an elementary school playground with my friend. I really needed to pee, but it was a saturday that meant the bathrooms were locked. We had walked a long way to get to the park, and we weren’t ready to go home yet, so I decided to squat in the bushes, no big deal. But right as I started to go, a security guard came out of no where, my friend dove was behind the bush to warn me but it was too late, I was mid stream. She quite literally cupped her hands under me and caught my pee to stop the sound so we wouldn’t get caught. Talk about a friendship right there.

Visit Victoria Sea’s website for more photos and information

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