Blog Archives

Oct 12 2014

Interview with J E M — Full-time traveling model

J E M is a 25-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Im Jaylynn, also known as JEM. I was born near Seattle in 1989, and soon after moved to Prior Lake, MN where I spent most of my childhood. I moved to Minneapolis when I was 18 to pursue a career in cosmetology, attending Aveda Institute. During my several months of school, I was involved in a few hair shows as a model. One thing lead to another, and before you knew it, I was traveling full-time worldwide for shoots and projects. Ive been doing this full-time for over 7 years now, and couldn’t be happier. I’ve lived near Chicago for a few years, then moved to Philadelphia for a little over a year. I am now currently based in downtown San Francisco for over 2 years now. I am still trying to push myself further in my career and continue to work my butt off; traveling and being a muse!

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

As I mentioned above, it was when I was 18 years old while I was attending Aveda Cosmetology Institute. I just started doing hair shows and runway shows, and quickly got into print and commercial work. As the years have gone by, I’ve gotten myself into all types and genres of modeling. I love shooting anything from fashion to editorial, lingerie and glamour, and even art nudes and bodypainting!! I never really planned for modeling, but once I started, I couldn’t turn back.

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

I plan to stay in the industry for the rest of my life. Whether it be modeling, photography, wardrobe, makeup or even a booking agent or creative director. While I am still currently super busy with modeling, I haven’t had the chance to venture out with my photography much, but hope to get more into over the next few years here. I am constantly working on my makeup, hair and wardrobe skills, while shooting almost every day while traveling and always connecting with others in the industry.

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

I do tours, which last anywhere between one to four weeks. I usually travel more than half of every month. When I am traveling, I like to keep myself busy. I try to schedule at least 1 to 2 shoots per day. I usually hit up numerous cities on a tour, and stay in each city for just a couple days. When I am home, I tend to relax more and not book as many shoots. I use this time as my down time.

I mainly do photoshoots, but sometimes dabble in video work. I also get bodypainted and sometimes have to perform or promote as well. I don’t do much acting or runway shows, as I much prefer the print world. I shoot any style ranging from fashion to playboy style nudes.

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

The best experience was when I won the “bodypaint model of the year” award at FABAIC a couple years ago. It was so much fun to run onstage all painted up and accept my awesome award & trophy!

The worst experience is when I had a heat stroke during a desert shoot several years ago. Luckily I ended up being just fine, but it was still a scary experience for everyone there. You get so involved in getting the best shot, that sometimes models forget to take care of themselves!! Always remember to stay hydrated and eat healthy, substantial foods before shooting!!

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

Stereotypes of all genre. From photographers to models and everyone alike. There is just so many of them. It’s annoying.

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

I do yoga and ballast ball workouts several times a week, or at least try to. I also try to run for at least 15 to 20 mins a few times a week. It can become difficult while traveling, but just being on a shoot is a workout in itself sometimes.

I always try to eat healthy as well. I don’t eat any red meat, and minimal amounts of other meats. I personally don’t like the way meat makes me feel. I try to make my own food several times a week, so it’s a bit healthier. It’s important to get your daily dose of grains, veggies, fruits and dairies. Also multivitamins can be good too!! Even though it’s difficult to continually eat well while traveling, you can always find decent substitutes.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I don’t think I would. I am pretty happy with myself. Although it did take several years to get to this point. There used to be numerous things I was worried about and self conscious about, but with modeling and working on myself, I’ve become quite pleased with myself. Of course you can always continue to better yourself, but I think being content with yourself is one of the first steps.

What is your guilty pleasure?

Watching Disney movies. Not only are they all adorable and fun, they really have a way of bringing me back to my childhood. Who doesnt like that?

Visit J E M’s website for more photos and information

Sep 27 2014

Interview with Celia Cavalli — Personal trainer, actress and model

Celia Cavalli is a 25-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m a true Midwestern born and raised in the land of 10,000 lakes -Minnesota- to two successful illustrator and artists. I grew up playing sports and living an active lifestyle which inspired me to be where I am today. I’m obsessed with fitness, travel, puppies and good food!

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

I did a few jobs when I was very young and always loved being on camera… I may have invented the selfie.

When I got older I got asked to do promo work and it blossomed from there. I feel very blessed and love working in the field.

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

Taking over the world!!! Lol but really I see myself opening a few businesses and helping other people live to their fullest. I would love to travel more for work as well.

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

I’m trying to break more into acting but am not as experienced in that field; I mainly do promo work and shoots and I enjoy the promo work because it allows me to meet tons of people and be social.

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

I haven’t had the misfortune of many bad experiences thankfully. I think the worst was sliding down a mud hill in my car at Sturgis when it was downpouring!

I’ve had a lot of great experiences and have met tons of good friends who are also models through work. I find a lot of the girls in the industry are very humble and fun.

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

I had a boob fall out of my swimsuit during a promo, I’m sure there are pictures floating around out there of it.

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

I haven’t had too many bad experiences but I’d probably change the fact that there are a ton of guys out there who pretend to be photographers so they can try to get hot young girls. Ladies be smart when booking and bring an escort if it feels weird!

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 huge into fitness, it’s a big part of my life. I started studying nutrition when I worked for a nutrition company in Mn and fell in love with it. Everyone always comes to me with supplement and workout questions. I also try to eat really clean and often -3 meals and 2 snacks- and drink lots of water. Don’t get me wrong I have slip ups where KFC or pizza sounds good!

For sports, I played rugby, soccer, dance and softball in high school. My favorite was rugby! I loved the competitive atmosphere and the tackling was fun, a great way to work out aggression.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

My nickname is “pitbull” because I’m very direct and upfront and not scared of much… but I’m such a softy at heart.

I am a hopeless romantic with a wild side.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would have my hair grow like Rupunzel! Oh wait there are extensions for that. Jk. I try to embrace flaws and make them work. I see so many girls changing the things that make them beautiful and unique… it sometimes ruins their careers.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I wish I could sing! I love signing but it’s often awkward when I pull up to a red light singing and it’s not even the right words and super off pitch. My friends beg me to not sing karaoke.

Visit Celia Cavalli ‘s website for more photos and information

Sep 20 2014

Interview with Ashley Tabitha

Ashley Tabitha is a 25-year old model residing in Fullerton, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Ashley Tabitha. I am 25 years old, born and raised in Southern California, and am predominately Mexican and Irish with a little European blend mixed in. I have experience in print, runway, acting, and promotional modeling with companies such as Links and Laces, Playboy, Vidal Sassoon, Red Gum Studios, and Hotboarder.

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

I began dancing in 6th grade and by the time I was in high school I was not only competing on several teams, but had the honor of being a principle dancer. Later in high school, I joined musical theatre and two competitive show choirs, which is not as nerdy as it sounds. I actually started modeling because headshots were mandatory for teams and constantly taking pictures with my friends felt completely natural. I knew how to control my body, work my angles, and be creative so modeling became another outlet for me to explore.

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

As a licensed esthetician, my goal is to continually further my education and work at either a medical spa or for a Dermatologist. When it comes to modeling, I love promotional modeling and networking mostly because it allows me the opportunity to interact with such fascinating people. I see myself continuing to be a hair model, print model, and promotional model for at least ten years or until I’m so old and wrinkled that they turn me away!

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

I have been blessed with so many amazing opportunities in my life, but overall, any time I am working with Links and Laces, formerly Playboy Golf, I am the happiest. They have truly accepted me as their family, I have made lifelong friends, I gain confidence, and I get to experience a completely different world. I especially love reuniting with the regulars at our Golf Tour events and seeing the glow on newcomers’ faces. I could go on and on about how incredible everything is from the celebrities to the DJs to the locations, and more, but I will spare you the endless details. You will just have to come at an event and see for yourself!

Thankfully, I have not had many bad experiences because I do thorough research prior to the shoot, I always insist on having an escort, someone who is willing to assist and not be a hindrance, and if the photographer is not willing to answer my questions up front as to details of the shoot then I am not comfortable working with them. There was one instance where I had worked with the photographer before so I did not have an escort…big mistake. We were halfway through the shoot and the photographer said “take off your underwear so you can be more free. I want you to experience freedom”. I politely but firmly said no. A few frames later he brought it up again. I calmly told him that the shoot was over, I packed up my belongings, I thanked him for his time, and left. Surprisingly, I received all the pictures in a timely manner, but safe to say I will never work with him again…or attend any shoot without an escort.

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

There should be a website similar to Yelp where models can rate, comment, and research photographers. This would make it easier to know which photographers to avoid, who made the models feel comfortable, returned photos in a timely manner, edited photos well, and more. I think in doing so it would not only create a safer environment for models, but it would give praise to the photographers who deserve it thus generating more business for such photographers.

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

I must admit I am a victim of laziness, however, I do enjoy yoga, pilates, and climbing trees. I honestly believe my main form of exercise is dancing with friends; any time music is on some part of me is dancing or I’m singing my heart out!. I recently started a minimal-gluten free diet simply because I seem to function better without it. I believe in a well rounded diet, six smaller meals through the day verse three big ones, and tons of water. Most importantly, if you are craving something sweet then have dark chocolate, frozen grapes, or frozen yogurt…don’t deprive yourself!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I snort when I laugh, but I can’t snort on purpose even when I try really hard. I’m overly obsessed with ice cream in every form! I also love volunteering for various organizations and do so regularly.

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

Overall I believe personality, intelligence, dignity, happiness, and love mark true beauty. The rest is just pretty packaging. Of course we are our own worst critics. Some days I’m like dang my boobs look good today, and then other days I’m like darn it why aren’t my eyebrows perfect?! In the end it is all superficial and we just have to accept being human comes with flaws that give us character. I would rather learn to be more accepting of my body’s flaws than the entire human race walking around looking like carbon copy Barbies… creepy!!

Visit Ashley Tabitha’s website for more photos and information

Sep 14 2014

Interview with Tara Sugimoto — Veteran turned Model

Tara Sugimoto is a 23-year old model residing in Newport Beach, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am a simple girl who was raised in Palm Springs, CA. I happily served this amazing country as an Army soldier. I love drawing, and being outdoors. Action Sports are my addiction and I love taking pictures and modeling.

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

I first got involved with modeling while I was in the service as a hobby to pursue in my spare time. I shot with my friend Garrett Meyers and it just grew from there.

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

I would love to travel the world modeling and exploring new cultures.

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

I do a few shoots per month for growing companies promoting their brand and for fun shoots with friends.

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

I recently did a hot rod pinup shoot for American Racing Custom Wheels and it was a such a fun shoot! Modeling with an amazing crew and with an amazing hot rod was truly a dream come true. Since then I have a printed poster and a few publications in hot rod magazines.

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

Having to model in public places in little to no clothing is always an interesting experience.

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

Being a petite figured female, I wish it was a fair competition in booking gigs. Being overlooked by majority of the industry because I don’t have big boobs or a big butt kind of irks me.

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

I would like to say I eat healthy all of the time, but I will admit to having a few cheat days consumed with fast food and candy. But I am committed to going to the gym 6 days a week or at least a good run every morning. Living a clean life plays a huge part in maintaining a healthy body and natural energy. Plus it just improves your mood overall.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am going to school for my degree in Network Systems Administration. I am a nerd deep down.

Would you change anything about yourself?

Not at all. I am who I am and I am one of a kind. I wouldn’t change anything about me for any reason. I am blessed.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

I went on a solo road trip from Tucson, AZ to Boise, ID once and after consuming lots of coffee, I had to pee really bad! It was raining cats, dogs, zebras and bears outside and I was in the middle of nowhere. I tried to hold it as long as I could, but it was a done battle so I had to pee in the driver seat into a Big Gulp cup. Not so easy for girls to accomplish. Guys be grateful!

Visit Tara Sugimoto’s website for more photos and information

Sep 11 2014

Interview with Brante Flores — Alternative Model

Brante Flores is a 21-year old model residing in Los Angeles, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I’m Brante, a spunky model from the Ohio Valley! I grew up in Northern Kentucky, was born in San Diego, and have lived pretty much everywhere in-between. I come from a family of four, and am closer to my mother than anyone else on this tiny planet. Being simple to please, I’m pretty much down for anything that will make me laugh. I currently Model full time, relocated to sunny Los Angeles this past May to follow my dreams!

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

I got involved in modeling, pretty much at birth. Having a mother, aunt, and other relatives who not only enjoy taking photos, but take them professionally makes it easy to learn my ‘good side’. I started to really take modeling seriously when I turned 18, finally being able to do a little bit of me, and show what I wanted in my images.

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

Goals, hmmmm… They change every other day! It’s hard for me to settle on one thing, when there’s so many fun and interesting things to do! Professionally with modeling, I suppose my goal would be Vogue. But who am I kidding, tattoos scare the fashionistas.

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

I work everyday, whether it’s shooting, sending out castings, auditioning for castings, promotional social media, or responding to inquiries! My phone gets a little scary sometimes.

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

Best experience would probably have to be….working with Scott Byler! Such an awesome dude! Never a dull moment when in front of his camera! “Hold it Hold it, right there, Don’t move” Love ya Scott!!

Worst experience….gah, this was so bad. I went to this shoot for a magazine based here out in LA. The owner or photographer was the most rude person I’ve ever met in my life. Did I mention he was drinking jack and coke at 10am? Needless to say I ended up leaving the shoot. Let’s hope this never happens again.

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

All my friends make fun of me, I go on what they call green tea ‘benders’. Essentially I drink a gallon of green tea a day. Straight tea! no sugar! It helps keep me energized and also speeds up my metabolism like a race horse!

I also work-out 4 to 5 times a week! I try to walk as much as possible to keep my body in the best shape as possible, and also improve it as much as I can!

My body can gain weight with the slightest mistake so it’s very important for me to continue a strict, green diet, frequent exercise, and water.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Yay! I love ‘Fun Facts’ hahaha. Something people don’t know about me would probably be that I was named after three French authors, The Bronte Sisters.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I don’t think I would ever change anything about myself. I’d love to be thinner, but I think the satisfaction of working towards it will be so much greater than having it just given it to me.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

Oh my gosh! My friends are going to love this, so, let me give you a little back story. I have this problem…where I just pee wherever I like; from parking garages, to the side of the interstate, to the front doors of bars, I’m not always intoxicated during these marking my territory sessions, I just have a weird thing about public restrooms.

So one of my first times going out in Louisville, I decide to go in. I may not have been 50% alcohol 50% blood that night. We ended up going to some pizza joint near all the bars, here’s where the fun starts: I eat my slice, and oh no, the hurricane of pee rushes to my bladder! It’s time my body says, I pee myself, and on the cop’s shoes next to me… So said cop trying to give me a PI… Luckily my friends own the pizza shop and defended me! Then he offers to take me home! Can you say creep?! They wouldn’t let him do that either! Luckily for me, I have great friends, and had an extra pair of pants in my friend’s car! I came prepared that night! haha.

Soooo, the weirdest place I’ve ever pee’d, would be on Mr. Policeman in Louisville, Kentucky!

Aug 18 2014

Interview with Carly Blasian Sheen

Carly Blasian Sheen is a 24-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I would like to introduce myself as an artistic, determined, intelligent being with more ambition than this world can hold! I haven been to hell and back and still bare the scars. My story is no fairytale and I am proud of who I am, a California girl who grew up a dreamer with 4 brothers and 4 sisters. I ran my household from a very young age and grew up much too quickly! But I am still here, still standing, and still strong.

I am a diamond in the rough and will never stop believing. When you look at me I want you to see my potential, creativity, class, and passion! I am a poet, model, dancer, and business woman! I am still becoming who I truly am and you will remember my name!

Do you have a nickname or artist pseudonym? Who came up with it and how?

Yes, “The Blasian Barbie” The name originated from my races being combined -Black and Asian- and I was always referred looking like a doll or barbie ever since childhood so it just rolled off the tongue!

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

I was first approached in 2007 at a Juneteenth event in Sacramento CA by a photographer who wanted to take my photo! He then gave me his card and told me to sign up for modelmayhem to receive the photos. After signing up I received offer after offer and had 7 back to back photoshoots booked, an album cover print gig, and a fashion show, so I kind of fell into it.

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

In 5 years I hope to own at least 3 businesses and have a bachelor’s degree. I am a business women and know marketing and business like the back of my hand. I want to expand from promotions and marketing. I also would like to publish a few books and maybe song write.

How much do you typically charge for a photo-shoot?

Due to high demand my rates vary, but I try to work within budgets and be open minded.

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

My best experience was probably being paid $1,100 for Internet modeling. I made a lot of fans from the site’s exposure and had a lot of fun.

My worst experience was probably when a photographer kept trying to pursue me then refused to give me my photos when I kept my professional stance! Then threatened to black list me within the industry. Funny because now he’s a nobody and I have had the honor of working with many celebrities and major brands.

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

Not that I can think of, most of my bookings have gone quite well.

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

Yes, the racism. It is much worse than people lead you to believe. I also wish it was based more off of talent rather than how far you will go with the hiring employer!

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 Yoga and Dance 5-6 days a week and eat well balanced meals. I feel if you eat good, you feel good, look good, and do good!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a science geek and book worm, I read 6 to 8hrs everyday; I also love to write poetry.

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

Yes, I want plastic surgery!

Visit Carly Blasian Sheen’s website for more photos and information

Aug 15 2014

Interview with Jessica Renee

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

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Please share something people don’t know about you.

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

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

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

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

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

Visit Jessica Renee’s website for more photos and information

Aug 10 2014

Interview with Carol Lisherness

Carol Lisherness is a 25-year old model residing in San Francisco, California.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Carol Lisherness and I’m from Houston, Texas. Although I am a born and raised Texan, I’m a first generation American: My family is originally from Havana, Cuba.

I am a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin. I have a Bachelor of Science degree in Advertising with a Business Foundations Certificate. At the moment though, I am taking a “sabbatical” of sorts from desk work to pursue a possible career as a model. To supplement my income, I do promotional modeling work, which is super fun, pays well, and in a way does use my degree; I call it front-line advertising!

In my spare time, I have a close relationship with my couch and love watching TV marathons! I also enjoy reading, scrapbooking, and working on arts and crafts; I’m so exciting aren’t I?!

I am a proud Air Force wife; Because of my husband, I’ve had the opportunity to move out of Texas and explore the United States! We have lived on the beach in Biloxi, Mississippi and we now live in Northern California. We enjoy exploring NorCal by visiting state parks and going camping!

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

I started modeling my senior year of college. I’ve always enjoyed taking pictures. I have a horrible memory, so I documented almost everything through photos! I take every opportunity to work with photographers in order to learn, grow, and get a variety of images for my portfolio.

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

My goal is to be remembered. I want to leave a lasting impact so that years from now, when people look back, they will remember me.

I don’t quite consider myself a model just yet. I have done some amazing things throughout this career and have been published quite a bit, but it’s just not enough. When I make it big and make the “big bucks,” I’ll then consider myself a model!
In 5 to 10 years, I hope to be established and starting my family. My biological clock is ticking!

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

When I was living in Houston, I was shooting nonstop! But since moving, things have slowed a bit, but it’s picking up as I network and work with new photographers!

I do all types of photo shoots except nude and fetish work. I’ve recently started doing some behind the scenes videos which have been fun to watch! I think most people enjoying seeing my bikini work, but I like to be versatile and do a little of everything.

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

I’ve had so many amazing experiences throughout this chapter of my life: I’ve represented Havana, Cuba at Swimsuit USA International Model Search in Mexico for the last 2 years, and I’m hoping to go back this year! I’ve also represented Houston, Texas at Tropic Beauty World Finals in Las Vegas this year.

One of the worst experiences I’ve had though? Being groped during a shoot. Oh and being pushed to do something I don’t want to do. If I say no, it means no. You’re not going to get a good picture out of me if I’m uncomfortable, so why push me?

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

I’ve actually had the opportunity to fly an airplane during a shoot! I have a huge fear of flying, but I’m so glad I took the opportunity!

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

I am on a mission to redefine the current standard of beauty. I’m all natural: No fake eyelashes, no hair extensions, no fake nails, no breast implants, nor surgical work of any kind; just makeup and me. What you see is what you get. It’s so frustrating seeing these fake women who are so popular. I want to be able to say, I made it without getting all that work done.

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

At the moment, I mostly focus on eating clean. I’m human, so I sometimes slip, but when I do I can’t wait to get back on track. I focus on eating minimally processed foods. That means no microwaveable meals, no chips, cookies, etc, just fresh fruits and veggies and as minimally enhanced meats and eggs that I can find. It can be hard because that weeds out a lot of food, but I don’t want those chemicals in my body. I make sure to read labels very carefully. If the list is too long, it’s out. If I can’t recognize ingredients, it’s also out. I also try to eat small meals throughout the day and snack on wholesome treats when I get hungry in between meals. Oh and I avoid fast food like the plague!! If I have to eat out, I choose the most wholesome looking thing on the menu. I honestly believe that diet is 80% of being fit.

My number one tip? Give yourself 2 weeks of eating super, super clean. After those 2 weeks if you eat any “junk food,” you will feel it. I get sick, bad skin, even rashes if I eat something superbad! Even more motivation to eat clean! But also, don’t beat yourself up if you indulge in a craving. Just don’t binge! Enjoy indulging and then get on track!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have a huge obsession with Transformers! My car is decked out in Autobot gear! Autobots roll out!

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

Yes. There’s a lot about myself I wish I could change. I feel like my nose is too big, and that my thighs could use some toning up, but honestly, I wish I could change how other people view beauty more. I want people to appreciate my type of beauty.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Roaches. Omg roaches. I can handle spiders: I’ve even been bitten by one and sent to the hospital, but they don’t scare me one bit. Hell I’ve even played with a tarantula! I like snakes: I had an ex-boyfriend that had a pet snake that I liked playing with. I should have kept it honestly. I think rats are the cutest pets! I’d love to get one if they weren’t a little messy and hard to train. But roaches? They send me running. I don’t care if it’s dead, I’m out. My way of killing them? Burning down the house. I wouldn’t touch one with a 10 feet pole.

Visit Carol Lisherness’s website for more photos and information

Aug 08 2014

Interview with Manda Mae

Manda Mae is a 20-year old model residing in Ontario, Canada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Manda Mae. I am a 20-year-old internationally published model from Wasaga Beach, ON Canada. I started in the modelling scene at a very young age doing pageants and working for smaller clothing companies. The last couple years I have excelled into all different types of modelling from fashion, glamour, to alternative. Lately I have been focussing more on my alternative work as I am slowly acquiring more and more tattoos. I work as a promotional model for companies such as Iron Fist Clothing, Dirty Shirty, Novel Thread Co, Frightmare, WolfNCrane, and others. I also landed my first Billboard downtown Toronto this year being the promotional model for one of the biggest tattoo expos in the world “Northern Ink Xposure” which was held in June this year downtown Toronto. I also had a chance to do promotion for Rockstar Energy at the convention with Sullen Angels. This year has opened many doors for me and I couldn’t be more proud of myself being a freelance model.

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

I first got involved in the modelling industry when I was four years old. My mom entered me in beauty pageants and had me modeling for all different small companies around Canada. After a few years I decided I no longer wanted to do the pageants anymore and took a break. When I turned 14 I started getting tattoos and had a huge interest in body modifications. After a few years of acquiring pieces to my body art collection I decided I would take a jab back at the modeling industry taking a bit of a different path this time. I started working with some amazing photographers around Ontario and I was noticed in no time. After receiving emails from different clothing companies from around the world to help promote their clothing I started going harder and harder with my modeling. I never would have thought I’d have the confidence I have today but standing in-front of that camera flashing my tattoos has to be the best feeling in the world.

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

My personal goals are to stay a freelance model and see how far I can make it on my own without any agents on my back. I also will be going to college in the next year for wildlife studies as I am a huge animal lover.

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

My workload is spread out and always on the go. Being a freelance model I am constantly on the go from booking shoots, going to shoots, sending out emails and just managing my social media pages. Although it seems like a pain-in-the-ass I honestly love it! It’s something that gives me motivation and drive to keep doing what I love.

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

My experiences so far in the modeling industry have all been either amazingly or just a “whatever”. I’ve always lived by having no expectations so I can’t be let down! One of my best experiences I would have to say would be having the chance to be the Promotional model for Northern Ink Xposure this year and appearing on a billboard downtown Toronto. I feel like this was the most amazing experience so far because I got to meet so many rad people, work with new connections and just be in an environment where I felt me!

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

What model hasn’t!? I mean if you can’t goof around and set aside that pretty intense face for one minute, whats the fun in it!?
I’ve definitely had my share of weird, funny, and embarrassing moments while shooting or even over social media. Some things including falling over from awkward poses, breaking things in abandoned places trying to pose on them, awkward faces, and the list could go on forever.

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

One thing I think I would change about the industry if I could is probably the way people look at each-other’s sizes. Size is something I think every model has a problem with, whether they admit it or not. It’s something that’s going to constantly be biting them in the ass whether they’re perfect or not.

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

Nutrition is something I’ve honestly been struggling with for a few years now but I’m on my way to correcting! I have horrible eating patterns but I am extremely energetic! I love all different kinds of sports from base-ball, volleyball, figure skating, hiking, and dance!

Please share something people don’t know about you.

Facts a lot of you probably don’t know
– I have never dyed my hair, I am a natural blonde.
– I am only 20-years-old
– All my tattoos have meanings
– I have been in a committed relationship since I was 17
– I am a crazy animal lover
– I own a two year old Bernese Mountain Dog that weighs more than me

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

I wouldn’t change a thing about myself because then I wouldn’t be me!

What is your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure for sure is a good old Mcdouble from McDonald’s, I have a serious addiction too them.

Visit Manda Mae’s website for more photos and information

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