Blog Archives

Oct 01 2014

Interview with Andrea — Student and Model

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello! My name is Andrea and I am a model based in California. I am of Italian and Puerto Rican heritage. My Italian side is more prominent in my life; in fact I am typing this from Southern Italy. I am going to school here and traveling for four months. I was born near SF California and I have lived in that area all my life. I attend Saint Mary’s College. I have a small family and I love it that way because we are very close. I love to workout; I like hiking, yoga, lifting weights, running, TRX, swimming and dancing. I was a cheerleader and track runner in high school and had a great time. I love to spend time with family and friends. I currently am a full time student. In California I work part time at a tanning salon and do paid modeling jobs on occasion. Although my main focus is my BS in Kinesiology as I prepare to be a pediatric nurse.

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

I first signed to a small modeling agency at age 15 just by submission. They didn’t get me much work so I then found interest in participating in a pageant. I competed with zero experience in Miss Teen California in 2011, it wasn’t what I imagined it to be so I then went back to modeling. I began shooting with local professional photographers and making connections. I have shot with well over 20 professional photographers and others in the industry.

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

I am a very dedicated person. School is my professional priority at the moment. I would like to continue modeling on the side for as long as I can. In five to ten years I see myself working as a pediatric nurse in a hospital hopefully starting a family of my own.

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

My modeling workload varies a lot. Some months when I am more free I will be test shooting, booking myself work, and attending castings multiple times a week. Other months, I am more busy. I do mostly photo-shoots. I like making short modeling films and acting as well. I like to shoot fashion, lifestyle, glamour, commercial, and art. My favorite I would say is swimwear.

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

I have had many varying experiences. I have worked with many talented photographers that I have become friends with over time and that is great to me. I love working with a full team of great makeup hair and stylists. I love shooting for companies and magazines. I am fortunate to have not had any terrible experiences, but there is nothing worse than a scam.

While I am here in Italy and traveling in Europe I will be shooting with some amazing photographers and I am very excited about that.

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

My most embarrassing modeling memory was shooting lingerie and being so excited about how awesome the pictures were going to come out and as we put the pictures up on a big monitor my tampon was sticking out in most of the shots…easy edit but so embarrassing!

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

Definitely. Height requirement. You would never be able to tell I am under 5’8 in photos yet I am denied by fashion agencies for that statistic. It doesn’t make any sense to me. The average person is 5’4-5’5 and advertisements are suppose to appeal to the most people so why would you put a super tall lanky person for print. I think the height requirement should be omitted and instead the requirement should be a naturally healthy looking physique because that is what we are trying to push in our society.

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

Health is very important in my life. I try to exercise 3 to 6 days a week all the time. I never eat fast food or drink soda. I love to go on adventures that require exercise rather than be in a gym. I love running and hiking outdoors. I do enjoy good food. I value food as a culture and just try to cook fresh local foods and get my workouts in.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am an only child and I know myself very well. Growing up with many adults I get along with elders well and I am mature for my age. I love to talk to old people and hear stories of their life.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would make myself more easy going toward myself. I am hard on myself in a lot of ways. I try to do it all and get upset if I can’t. I also get jealous easily especially of other females. It’s taken me a long time to gain confidence and I have gotten a lot better but there is always room for improvement.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I really wish I was good at singing. I am mesmerized by a beautiful voice and I think most people are. I feel like a beautiful voice makes someone so much more attractive for some reason. If you have ever been to a concert and hear a solo, no matter what the person looks like, everyone falls in love with them after their solo.

Visit Andrea’s website for more photos and information

Sep 26 2014

Interview with Nick Denbeigh — Actor and Martial Artist

Nick Denbeigh is a 25-year old model residing in West Hollywood, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hey everyone! I am Nick Denbeigh, an Actor from Spokane, WA. Professionally I have been acting and modeling the past 6 years. Before that I spent time in the arena football league. Currently I train in Traditional Kung Fu with an emphasis in Northern Styles and weapons. I love to read, train and compete in athletic activities.

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

I first started in Acting and Model in 2008 with a brief role in Bring It On Fight to the Finish and opposite Christina Milian in her music video Us Against The World featuring just me and her. From there I was hooked and still can’t get enough being on set and preparing for roles.

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

My professional goals are to make films for a global marketplace. I want everything I do to be of the highest quality and memorable. It has to stand the best of time and make people want to view the material over and over. In 5 years I see myself making tent pole action films. Filming 2 studio and 1 indie project every year.

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

Acting and modeling is my career. I’m actively doing something in that field everyday from researching characters or trends to actual shoots. Right now I’m heading into post on a project entitled ASCENDED MASTERS, which my team and I have put a lot of work into as well as gearing up for fashion week in NYC.

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

The best experience for me is always viewing the finished product. All of this work goes into these things behind the scenes that not too many people see and when it is all said and done the final product is amazing. For instance ASCENDED MASTERS has been in the works for about a year now from the planning, writing, shot list, choreography for the fight scenes, rehearsal to actually shooting and post. Once it is finish it can never be taken away and that is a very special thing.

The worst experience is just the down time. I have to work on something at all times or I get depressed. I love this industry so much that I wouldn’t want to do anything else.

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

I did a shoot one time where I had full body removable tattoos all over my body. It took about 15 hours to apply it all and at the end of the day they were getting to remove it all. I’m practically naked in the changing area and one of the producer’s friends came to set and wanted to see the tattooing so I said of course. It turned out her friend was a famous actor that I had watched on TV growing up. It caught me completely off guard but it’s a pretty funny memory I have from that awesome shoot.

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

The industry is constantly evolving. It’s our jobs to embrace the changes and make the most of our opportunities and that is what I try to do.

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

I practice Traditional Kung Fu, play basketball, weight train, bike ride just to name a few. I was recently on the Nike 3 on 3 Basketball tournament at LA Live. I do martial arts choreography for films. Exercise is my life. I have been playing sports since I could walk and martial arts is part of my soul. Nutrition is key to keeping me healthy and fit. I never get sick and bounce back fast from injuries and it all has to do with the rigorous train I put myself through and what I put in my body.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

People don’t know how much I read and study. I am addicted to learning and growing. Pushing myself to perfection and I will make the sacrifices in order to do that.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I wouldn’t change anything. I have been blessed with many talents and gifts and I try to maximize those. If there is something that needs change I address it. I work hard to change those things if there are any. So no there is nothing I would change that I can’t change.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I wish I had the ability to teleport. Sitting in traffic is not my idea of fun especially living in LA. I would love to just be able to instantly be where I need to be. I want to explore different plants and galaxies and being able to teleport there would definitely save a lot of time.

Visit Nick Denbeigh’s website for more photos and information

Sep 18 2014

Interview with Emily (Annne) — Small town girl with the biggest dreams

Emily (Annne) is a 17-year old model residing in Chico, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hello all! I am Emily. I was born in Chico, California and I have 1 older brother and two awesome parents. I have a cat named Sushi, who is a goofball, and I love to play video games. I have been playing video games for as long as I can remember. I am commonly known as being a nerd!

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

Honestly I have been wanting to be a model for a long time but never thought I would be able to achieve it. My first steps were contacting people I knew who might know some photographers or models I could network from. As soon as I found a few leads, they helped me out quite a bit. They hooked me up with my ModelMayhem account! Soon I started mesaging, emailing and facebooking every photographer in my area till someone replied with interest in me. Then, my modeling career lifted off.

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

My personal and also professional goal is to be signed with an agency. I have worked so hard to be where I am today but my hard work has not paid off enough to get me into an agency. I am dreaming someday an agency will sign me. In 5 to 10 years I’d like to be in an agency, in a city, working and modeling and going to college. If I don’t get signed with an agency I figure I will just be studying in college.

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

All of my modeling so far has been photoshoots for websites and ads and whatever else. I would like to get into glamour, video and acting and catwalks but haven’t gotten there yet. I usually model once or twice a week if I am lucky.

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

I honestly cannot even think of a bad experience modeling. All I can think of is how much I have learned in the past year I have been modeling. My best experiences would include: random candids photographers take of me, having a good laugh after a mistake in a photo or shoot. I can list so many more but it’d take me forever to type out.

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

I have had so many funny times in my modeling career. First thing that comes to mind is when I did a wedding photo shoot for a wedding accessories designer. Every single person who walked by congratulated me on my marriage, which is funny because I am too young to be married, and we couldn’t stop laughing every time someone asked if I was getting married.

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

I honestly would only change one thing. I think that photographers should give every model one chance to shoot with them. Instead, photographers ignore or turn away any models they see no potential in. Never giving them a chance.

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

I work out daily and eat whatever I want. As long as I stick to exercises daily, the food is not a problem for me to filter in or out of my daily eating schedule.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a huge nerd. I love video games. I also am a artist and love drawing animals.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would love to change my confidence level and how sociable I am. I can be awkward and anti-social sometimes when I try not to be. I think that is currently what I am working on, self-improvement wise, and hopefully I improve these skills.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I could speak any language in the world. Or I wish I knew how to speak all the languages in the world. I think it would be so amazing and useful.

Sep 09 2014

Interview with Karina Alexandra — Full-time Artist

Karina Alexandra is a 22-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Daydreamer by day, visionary by night! I was born in Laredo, Tx and I am now living out my dreams in Burbank, Ca. I’ve been living in the city known as “The Media Center” for about 6 years now. So, Cali feels like home now. My mother is the hardest working person I know and I can only aspire to be as Independent and successful as her. It’s cute to grow up having your family call you by nickname “La Artista” which means the Artist in Spanish. I have a passion for dance and I feel I get that from my grandma and my dad. I have one sibling, a brother, who I want to inspire to follow his dreams and never give up. He’s taught me how to get creative in the kitchen. He’s a good cook and makes a mean salsa! My hobbies include but are not limited to…exploring the world! Oh and making magic happen along the way. That’s important.

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

To be quite honest it happened to me while I was going through some growing pains in my life… I sat at a bar, when I was 21, in San Antonio, Tx by myself, and this guy sitting next to me asked me if I was interested in being a Model for Enterprise. Then, that’s when I decided to apply. If you ask me why? Why not?! I had fun, I felt like it fit my personality and I was learning about where I really wanted to go in life, career wise.

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

In 5 years I see myself in Movies. I have a lot of energy and I want to share it with the world. Action, Adventure, Suspense, films are my top picks for a role I ‘d like to be cast in. My goal is to be the lead character in a film and do my own stunts. I like to train hard and challenge my body to do things, I may have thought to be impossible.

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

At this time, I am representing Miss Burbank for the Miss Manhattan Beach Contest and filming for a TV show called America’s It Girl. It’s the first season for We TV which should air sometime in the fall. The show consists of 6 episodes in L.A. And 6 in N.Y. Think of it as a Project Runway meets America’s Next Top Model. The judges are judging the contestants based on a lot of things including creativity and even designing our own dress. This is what’s keeping me busy at the moment but I mostly do fashion, swimwear, music vids, photo shoots, commercials, and acting. I love the Glamour of it all, it makes me fall in love with my job.

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

Some agencies take a month to pay you. Omg it’s the worst! That can be scary at times when you’re starting off and you don’t watch your spending!. The best is when you get to travel, all expenses paid, free swag and you get paid right on time without having to hunt anyone down. That’s fabulous! It’s not about the money, it’s more about the quality of living. It’s nice to feel appreciated for your hard work. Being a model takes discipline, patience and a lot of dedication because the modeling world is highly competitive. In the end, it’s all worth the sweat you put into it.

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

Yes! I worked at a Concert once and Crystal Waters was performing, I grew up loving her single 100% Pure Love and one of the promoters asked if I wanted to go backstage and take another model with me. When he showed us, to go through a curtain, we were on the main stage dancing with 1,000’s of people and the audience watching. That night was unexpected and therefore Epic!

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

Sometimes, I see girls who are so thin, extra smalls are too big and these girls are being looked up to by a lot of teenagers. That kinda worries me because society is feeding our next generations with unrealistic expectations of what “healthy” looks like, I am not down with thinspiration, that’s just unhealthy. I am going to inspire young girls to think strong is beautiful. Oh and one more thing, I hate the thought of the camera adding ten pounds! Let’s reverse that and make new cameras!. I think super skinny girls might get scared of being too thin then… In my dreams though! We’ll see, maybe I’ll be first to invent that type of camera. 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 love bicycling, rollerblading and breakdancing. I notice I am so much happier when I exercise and that’s why it’s so important to me. I’ve done XMA which stands for extreme Martial Arts. XMA World headquarters was one of the first places I worked at when I moved to North Hollywood because I had a background in Personal Training. I learned that when you eat healthy, you have more energy and can avoid certain diseases. It’s true your teeth hurt, when you give up a high sugar diet, and then bite into a candy. Ouch!!! We are not immortal, therefore, I’d like to take care of what God gave me to work with, even if it means sacrificing a few jelly beans here and there. I just started rollerblading to work too, let’s see how long that I will last. I don’t know yet but I’m challenging myself and you should too!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Before I moved to L.A. to pursue my modeling and acting, I was studying to be a DJ in College.

Would you change anything about yourself?

No, then I’d have nothing to complain about! On a real note, I accept myself with all my flaws and all my sexy qualities. Love yourself for who you are not for what others expect you to look like. A beautiful spirit is much more valuable to me and we reflect that by how well we nurture it. People always have their own opinions about what hair color looks best on me, that’s nice, but I wear the one that makes me feel good. If it makes you feel good, wear it, and rock it! No matter what the color of the spectrum.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

Find a new restaurant I’ve never been to go on yelp and go to one with the best reviews, by myself, to test it out. That way, I can be the first to introduce it to my friends and family. If it’s truly awesome…and I love the food and drinks, I try to re-create them at home. That, and Yoga, to help me eat all I want.

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 28 2014

Interview with CC Mason

CC Mason is a 20-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a 20 year old singer and songwriter, SAG-AFTRA actress, and model. I grew up in Los Angeles and consider myself a true Valley Girl, down to the fact that I was born in Los Angeles Counties’ San Fernando Valley hospital… I am a first generation daughter of an immigrant on my dads side and some say that I have a slight European accent, but that is mostly because my dad never lost his accent and I have grown up around it.
My passions are science fiction, auto racing, gaming, cosplay and cats. I’ll often go to conventions, like Anime Expo, to show off my cosplay costumes. This year I went as “The Stig” from “Top Gear,” but usually I dress as characters from the anime “Naruto.” I also have a YouTube channel on which I play video games and post vlogs.

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

I got involved in modeling by accident. I had done a couple photo shoots to promote my music and acting and one of the make up artists who I had worked with gave me a call and said that she was working on a look book shoot for some people from Tokyo. The clothes were for a size 0 model and the girl they had was no longer available. They gave me a call and the next day I was in downtown Los Angeles doing the shoot. I got some nice photos and a couple hundred dollars for the four hours work and had a lot of fun!

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

I believe in grabbing every good opportunity that comes my way. I just finished filming a pilot for a major cable tv station where I have a co-starring weekly role and I have been lucky enough to work on a number of top tv shows. In the coming weeks I am recording some of my original songs at Conway Recording Studios in Hollywood. I am also always looking out for new modeling gigs. I intend to keep all of these avenues open and will do that until one aspect takes over all the others. Until then, I will be involved in all of them.

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

Like every business, the entertainment industry has an ebb and flow, but most weeks I am very busy. I was in two seasons of the television show “Pretty Little Liars” as a mystery character. If you were a viewer, you would see me most weeks but would never have seen my face! We worked a lot of long hours on that set, sometimes 16 or more hours a day, but it was very fun because the cast was very entertaining! I also was the body double in ABC families “Bunheads” for the lead ballerina, and often did many late night and evening shoots with that show. I have done featured roles on a number of shows where I did not know who the actors really were, but when I was on the set of “Vegas”, Dennis Quaid introduced himself to me. I was very star struck. My whole family are fans of his so I was a bit intimidated.

As a model, I have done a lot of look books. It is a good way to get a steady income. It isn’t the kind of thing that will make you the next super model but it builds your portfolio and your credentials.

Music is the one thing that I’m always doing, even if I’m not in the studio or in front of a microphone, I’m always writing and composing. It’s a fun thing to do when I have downtime on set!

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

It isn’t totally uncommon to see the occasional fireworks when you are working in an environment with a number of artistic people. I was on one shoot where the photographer was a maniac but the photos turned out so amazingly that you just have to let the crazy go over your head and roll with it!

I did a shoot in downtown Los Angeles and there was a limited amount of daylight left so we were rushing to get all of the shots. We did not have a dressing room so we were in an alley stripping down to change clothes behind a really stinky dumpster! I thought it was pretty funny but one of the other models was in tears. I’ve even had directors throw things at the cast to get us to move!

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

I did a photo shoot in a tunnel in downtown Los Angeles, and it absolutely reeked of urine! In some of the shots I was laying against the concrete. I could not wait to get out of those smelly clothes!
Another time I was shooting a music video for my song ‘Inappropriate.” It was filmed by Thomas Kloss, who does most of JLo’s videos as well as videos for Britney Spears and Lady Gaga and a bunch of others, and because of this, he has a lot of celebrity friends, as you can imagine. Anyways, I looked up after a take and Jason Momoa, Kahl Drogo from “Game of Thrones” was standing there. He had stopped by to say hi to Thomas. My mom, who is my manager, said between shots, “Oh there is a nice looking young man there maybe you should talk to him.” Ummm mom no, that is Conan the Barbarian and he is married to Lisa Bonnet.

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

The modeling industry generally does not care about you as an individual. You have to have a strong sense of your self and be confident in who you are and how you look. Constant criticism is something you must learn to take on a daily basis. You are there not to become famous, but to make their product famous. Would I change that? No. It is what 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 am genetically thin. I am 5’8.5″ and weigh 105 pounds. I eat bacon cheeseburgers, pizza, sushi, salads, pasta and a lot of chocolate. I walk daily but do not have any sort of workout regime. My parents were both the same way and they tell me it is all good until they hit 50. Now they have to work hard to stay trim. But until I’m 50, I’ll stick with pizza and chocolate!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am in the NASA archives! When I was in middle school I was the captain of a robotics team that took home a World Championship Award for Excellence. I also play French Horn and saxophone!

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

No one is perfect but I think I feel pretty comfortable about myself.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

Any super power would be a bonus, but if I had to pick one it would be Immortality . I would like to live long enough to see humanity leave the galaxy. That would be cool.

Visit CC Mason’s website for more photos and information

Aug 19 2014

Interview with Tara Jones

Tara Jones is a 23-year old model residing in Santa Cruz, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Stinson Beach, CA. I currently work in Marketing. My passions include acting and sports.

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

I love art and creating beauty. Acting is what started my modeling. I love creating a scene, plot or character. I started modeling when I was 16 and continued on after college.

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

I would love to be a stand up comedian. I would hope that in five or ten years I would be comfortably on stage as a Comedian.

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

I work as a model about 3-4 times a month. I’ve done runway, fashion, art, commercial, editorial and glamour.

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

I think the best experience is when I get lead into an acting scene during them modeling shoot, it gives me a good direction to aim towards. The worst experiences are people trying to get you to take your clothes off. I had a guy tell me he had shot ver 75 girls on playboy and follow me around all day asking if he could take my pictures. That’s annoying.

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

I once opened a beer at the end of the runway because they told me I could do whatever I wanted, and that’s what I wanted to do. I don’t think that’s what they had in mind when they originally told me that.

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

I think I would have it more women run. I find it annoying that men dictate what is beautiful. Women need to start claiming that how we naturally are is beautiful and making that the standard for beauty, what makes you, uniquely you.

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 every morning. I do yoga and some basic martial arts resistance training. I also love the batting cages. I eat lots of fruits and too much mexican food. I drink protein shakes 5 days a week and eat energy bars 3 times a week. Nutrition is very important to me I notice a huge difference in my mood and wellbeing when I eat right.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am naturally uncomfortable in front of a camera, but I power through it and eventually get the shots I need.

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

I used to do martial arts it made my body very strong, I miss being that strong and feeling so capable. I’ve recently started picking up resistance training to ground myself more into my body. I think its important to feel able to defend yourself in your own body.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I have no problem being alone, in fact, I require a lot of alone time between all the random gigs that I do. So you can find me walking, eating and sometimes even seeing a movie alone, I don’t mind, I like my own company.

Visit Tara Jones’s website for more photos and information

Aug 17 2014

Interview with Tatiana Paris

Tatiana Paris is a 21-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Hollywood, FL, and moved to Los Angeles just three months ago. My birth name is Tatiana Chichersky but my whole family goes by the stage name Paris. I grew up in a traveling theatre troupe called the “Goose Family” so we all went with Paris!.

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

I started modeling at about 14. I was really attracted to artsy images and just wanted to be part of that. My childhood friend was a makeup artist and she would do makeup experiments on me and shoot it. I guess that’s where it started! Now, I’ve modeled in Europe and up the East Coast. I live in Los Angeles and continue to do modeling whenever I can.

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

I love modeling but my main goal is acting and film. I hope to be involved in as many indie and artsy projects as possible! I plan on pursuing both fields.

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

My work schedule varies but I usually do anywhere from 2 to 4 photoshoots a week. They mostly are in the commercial, art or glamour genre.

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

The best one when I recently did an underwater shoot that got picked to be on Vogue Italia’s website! So that’s pretty cool!

The worst one, despite the fact that I haven’t had too many terrible experiences luckily, was when I had one shoot a few years ago where the photographer wanted me to pose with pool floaty toys. Fully clothed but just smiling with like pool noodles. Strange.

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

I’m sure this is the most common of answers but I would love to alter the idea of beauty in this industry. Although, I do see some change starting in the industry’s view is still very skewed and narrow.

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

I exercise around 5 to 6 days a week. Some swimming but mostly ballet and dance.

I try to eat healthy for the most part. I do have a legitimate sweet tooth so cake and chocolate are definitely in my diet.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I was homeschooled from preschool to college.

I have a ferocious devil cat that I adore.

I’m of Ukrainian and Italian descent.

I speak Latin!

I’m an enormous classic movie buff!

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

In the modeling industry it would be nice to be like 4 inches taller but I can live with it.

I’d be mega lying if I said I never thought of altering some aspect of myself but I’m happy in my skin.

What is your favorite thing to do alone?

I surprisingly get this question a lot! I think people are always expecting something dark or kinky. I basically like playing guitar and Neopets in my alone time. I’ve been playing neopets for like 11 years. If you don’t know what that is, its basically a kids game where you take care of imaginary pets. Lame.

Visit Tatiana Paris’s website for more photos and information

Aug 06 2014

Interview with Angie M. Sanchez

Angie M. Sanchez is a 25-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Angelina Jolie and Jessica Alba combined with a splash of Michelle Rodriguez, that’s me in a nutshell! My full name is Angie. I am a Los Angeles Native, both born and raised; my whole family is here which is awesome. I get to be close to the people I love most. My mother is from San Salvador, El Salvador and my Father from Baja California, Mexico. I am first generation American, the oldest of 3 in my immediate family, and the oldest of 35+ first cousins. I love calling LA home but yearn to live in another country in the near future.

Acting is my first Love. Modeling is my mistress. Creating art is something that comes from the core of my being. I could not imagine life without it. I am represented by one of the best talent agencies in Los Angeles. I feel very lucky. I have worked in commercials, one that is airing soon is a Direct TV football commercial, so keep an eye out. I’ve done music videos, been in catalogues, Teen Vogue, print ads, Mario Lopez’s “Love and Salsa”, and venturing more into the film world.

I am a major goofball! Some of my friends don’t even take my work seriously because they know how silly I am. Bottom line is: I love having fun, laughing and making light of situations. My lifestyle is very active. I have this theory that I’m a Ninja and need to constantly sharpen my ninja skills by eating healthy, staying active whether it be: Bikram Yoga, Dancing, Cardio Barre, Tae Known Do or simply going to the gym. Most importantly making sure I get enough sleep and drink plenty of water.

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

I started modeling 8 years ago. The very first photographer I shot with showed my photos to a modeling agency based out of Pasadena, CA. Although I didn’t sign with them they still sent me out on jobs. Which was a great experience. I got to do the Prom addition for Teen Vogue.

Modeling and acting was something I have always wanted to do since I was a kid. I used to beg family members to help me pay for photos and classes. My mom didn’t want me in the industry because of all the crazy child star stories we hear. She had every reason stand by that decision. When I turned 18 I decided there was nothing holding me back. However, I wanted to get a degree. Mostly to make my mom proud. It took me a while but I accomplished that. I received my Bachelors from CSULB in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Interpersonal Relationships.

I tried modeling and studying at the same time but it became too much for me. I prioritized my studies and started studying acting as soon as school wrapped up. Which has lead me to where I am now.

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

Where do I begin… My motto is “Sky’s the limit”. Dream big and never settle. In five years I see myself as a Professional working actor. Traveling. Full schedule. Juggling 100 different projects. I’m excited! Can’t wait!

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

I am doing more acting than modeling. I have castings at least 3 to 4 days a week. Right now, my focus is working on my craft. I want my work to speak for itself. I’m currently studying twice a week at Howard Fine Studios in Hollywood, reading plays and books based on acting.

I shoot every other week generally. I am very selective who I work with. I don’t want to have a bunch of random photos floating around. I truly believe in quality versus quantity.

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

Let’s begin with the worst: I did a stock photography shoot when I first started in the industry. It was such a rookie mistake. I did not get paid enough for the ads I appear in till this day.
Another time, I was doing a runway show. I left my phone on a charger by the makeup station and had my phone stolen by one of the makeup artist who had already packed up and left. I felt betrayed by my own kind. Lesson learned.

Best experience: I would say every experience is great. As a model or an actress, we are constantly pushing ourselves. The best part is seeing my work. I tend to surprise myself time and time again. Sometimes I look at my work and say “Is that really me?” or “Is that what I look like?”.

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

Definitely one that was out of the ordinary. I had a moment at my very first runway show where I was freaking out!!! Big time! I remember I was on deck to go on the runway and I completely froze. There were cameras, people, friends, family, everything!!! It all ran through my mind as if it were a near death experience. In a matter of seconds I snapped out of it. I envisioned Angelina Jolie in the movie Gia. I remembered how Gia just didn’t care about anything. I walked onto the runway and pretended I was her. I was proud of myself and still think about that moment when I face situations that I feel defeated in. I tend to pretend I’m other characters when I’m working. It liberates me of any judgment.

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

Man, I would embrace those natural curves women have!!! 100%. I wish the industry gave access to before and after shots of models on the cover of magazines. The team of people it takes to put on a production: lighting, editing, photoshop, what the model does to prep for a shoot. I feel that young girls think that they are supposed to look that way. And it’s truly all an illusion. It’s art yes but it’s an illusion.

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 to dance. I found dance to be one of my outlets lately. I like being in my body and feeling sexy. I enjoy swimming. I was a competitive swimmer in high school. So it always feels like home jumping into a pool. It becomes my territory. For fun I enjoy shooting some hoops.

I try to eat pretty clean but tend to get persuaded by the delicious food in my culture. My favorite dish in the whole wide world is a plate of Plantains with Black beans, sour cream and cheese.

Otherwise, I blend some superfoods as my first meal of the day. Meats don’t really sit well with me so I stick to fruits, veggies and other forms of protein. Black beans being my favorite. I drink a lot of water. For me it’s important to feel good about myself inside out. It’s important to feel flexible and to feel light in my own skin. So nutrition is major!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I shaved all my hair off to donate it to cancer patients when I was 15 years old. I have a pic of it on my Instagram. @_AngieMSanchez

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

I wish I wasn’t so critical of myself. I’m really tough. Not an easy chic to please. But it keeps me on track and on my toes.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

Have you seen the movie Jumper? If you haven’t, you must. My superpower would be to jump from place to place through a teleport!! Very much like that movie. Except I would use it to be a Ninja Superhero Girl with Super Human Strength. I would secretly destroy any plans that would harm humanity and at the same time I would bring resources to countries in need. I would teleport people with me. Maximizing all the time I have. Then I would then jump back to my regular life as an actress and to see my family. That would be awesome! I think I just created a comic character.

Visit Angie M. Sanchez’s website for more photos and information

Aug 02 2014

Interview with Heather Ford

Heather Ford is a 23-year old model residing in West Hollywood, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi I’m Heather! I am a true original Southern California girl who grew up in Simi Valley, which is located in Ventura County. Most people don’t know what I’m talking about when I say Simi Valley because it is such a small city so I always add in the Ventura County! I absolutely love living in California and feel truly blessed to have grown up here. What is nice is that most of my family also lives here including my parents and grandparents. I am extremely close with my family and I consider my mom to be my best friend.

I am a huge outdoorsy kind of girl. I love horseback riding, dirt bike riding, camping, going to the beach, hiking, snowboarding, and going boating on the lake. In addition to modeling, I also have my Bachelors Degree in Communication and I have worked as a Healthcare Consultant for the past four years.

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

I have always loved being in front of the camera ever since I was very little. It was hard for me though because I don’t have parents that participated in the “arts” so they never really supported my dreams of becoming a professional model and actress.

I started putting myself out there right when I turned 18 and I’ve had a few ups and downs because of going to college and working, but I have been doing more acting and modeling work recently and have been the happiest I have ever been!

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

My ultimate goal is to be a successful working actor. I don’t need or want all the fame, I just want to be working! I appreciate every work opportunity I get.

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

I am modeling at least a few times a week. My schedule has never been busier. It is true that when you put your all into whatever you want to do, you get much more opportunities.
I do several catalog photo-shoots for clothing companies, and I do a lot of acting, which is my main passion.

Sometimes I will do photo-shoots with photographers just to update their portfolios and I also just recently participated in walking in my first fashion show for a charity event, which was so nerve-wracking!

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

Luckily, all of my shoots have been absolutely amazing. I have worked with some awesome photographers who have made me always feel completely comfortable and they do what they say they will.

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

I was shooting on the beach with one of my favorite photographers and I kept noticing these two boys kept walking by. The eventually got very close to where they could hear what my photographer was saying. So my photographer decided to play a joke and started saying things like “Let’s do this Heather. You know what Playboy wants. Give me the sexy Playmate stuff we need and so…” So these boys immediately thought I was a Playmate and I just went with it being as I was doing an implied topless pose at the moment anyways. They all wanted to take a picture with me and were asking what month I was. I just laughed and it completely made my day.

I love when my photographers crack and make jokes and make shooting so much fun!

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

I would change the body image part of modeling. I have always worried about my body and whether or not it was good enough. Now that I have grown up a bit from when I first started modeling, I embrace my body now and that’s why I’ve gotten so into fitness. I don’t like being extremely skinny and I absolutely love my muscle tone and curves.

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 big fitness enthusiast! I love love love working out! I go to the gym and lift weights 6 times a week. I also love doing yoga, it is one of the only things that actually can completely relax me.

I am part of a professional fitness team called Team Edge, and we are bikini competitors for NPC. We live a very disciplined lifestyle and follow a strict meal plan and workout plan. It’s very hard, and not for the faint of hearts, but I absolutely love it! And I love the fact that you can actually see my abs.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Something that most people would never know about me is that I am a huge worrier. In fact, I worry about worrying too much!

People would never guess this about me because I always try to be positive and upbeat about everything and I try to live in the Now, but in reality I am always thinking about what could happen in the next month or two.

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

If I could change anything about myself, I would change the fact that I am terrified to take risks in life.

I know that the best things come out of leaving your comfort zone, but it is so hard for me to do that sometimes. I wish that I had the courage to take more risks. I am working on it every day!

What is your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure is eating sweets! Oh man! If I could eat sweets all day, everyday, I totally would. I think I am a fat kid at heart, because if I started listing off all of my favorite foods, you would think I’m 400lbs.

I absolutely love frozen yogurt, ice cream, donuts, chocolate, cinnamon rolls, pancakes, french toast, and the list goes on and on and on.

It’s very hard for me sometimes to be so disciplined with my diet because I am not supposed to have any sugar at all. Sometimes I do have to cheat in order to keep my sanity!

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