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Nutrition, Modeling and Sports

Aug 13 2016

Interview with Ashley E. Matthews — Song and dance model

Ashley E. Matthews is a 26-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Canadian born, southern California raised, current Las Vegas local in Rock of Ages the music. Professional musical theatre actress, singer, dancer as well as specialty performer and model. Hapa -half asian- and proud of it, I have worked professionally on both coats, Vegas, Utah and even all the way to Macau.

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

I started out as dancer, then became a musical theatre actress and film and tv actress. The dance life lead to a lot of modeling opportunities both print and live and I kind of fell into it. They all tend to go hand in hand and I love each one for what they are.

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

My professional goal is to continue performing, acting, and modeling for as long as I can and never have a “grown up” job. I don’t like to set time limits, every actress wants to be on Broadway or win a Tony or Oscar, but unlike most professions, that doesn’t make or break a career. Not being on Broadway doesn’t mean an unsuccessful career, so as long as I’m happy in five to ten years, I’m doing something right.

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

My main career is acting, live stage, on camera, among others, so the modeling jobs are here and there. I typically do fashion, dance photography, and live modeling and performance type jobs and have done some glamour and catwalk in the past. I have done a lot of bridal modeling as well.

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

In modeling, the best experience I had was at a job for a launch of a new Liquour line. the Job consisted of us taking photos on the red carpet, passing out samples to celebrities, and sitting in the pool and hot tub at a private mansion while holding cocktails made of the new liquor. We even played around in the photo booth set up for guests and the photos ended up so good they were used for advertisement for the product. We had a blast and I still can’t believe that was a paid job. The worst experience I had was being told I would be modeling at a Bridal expo on a stationary platform. When I arrived I was put into a massive bridal gown two sizes too big for me with a cathedral train, too big shoes, and told to walk a catwalk in front of hundreds of future brides. Nervewracking and not my best work.

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

When it comes to the entertainment industry in general- we are in need of a major boost of diversity. The default tends to be caucasian- though high fashion modeling tends to be more diverse. Commercial modeling and especially Hollywood and Theatre have serious faults when it comes to diversity, especially when it comes to Asians. Asians are not given the same opportunity as caucasians and even other minorities and it’s 2016- time for change. Thank God for shows like Hamilton on Broadway breaking barriers- but it’s not enough.

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 the last person to talk to about this. Though I am a professional dancer, I am not a professional fitness or nutrition expert. My exercise is dance, right now the show that I am in. If I work out before a show -6 shows a week- I don’t have the energy to get through my show- so the high energy choreography serves as my cardio and exercise in my everyday life. When it comes to nutrition, I’m a carboholic, and though I tend to try and think about eating healthy… it’s not my strongest suit. I’m a super foodie and I say enjoy life and the importance of food while you can. Life is too short for green salads and bland meals.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am a trained fire eater.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I wish I could work on self confidence internally. Though I may seem confident, internally, this business is hard and I have my daily struggles.

Do you have any fears or phobias?

Octopus scare me like no other. They are a terrifying animal, far too intelligent, can fit through any size hole bigger than their beak, open jars from the inside to escape, and change color and texture in the blink of an eye. They are terrifyingly smart and dangerous- and people are brave enough to eat them, I don’t know how.

Visit Ashley E. Matthews’s website for more photos and information

Aug 04 2016

Interview with Eira Rose — Amorphous, Pocket-sized Model

Eira Rose is a 25-year old model residing in Purvis, Mississippi.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

My name is Eira Rose, born in Tampa, Florida, to a military family, and have lived all over the world. I’m a fashion designer and cosplayer; I dabble in writing, music, makeup, jewelry-making, and wig styling, and I enjoy reading and playing video games. I work as a full time dental assistant… and I model! Perhaps the most unusual thing about my success as a model is my size, as I’m only 150cm, which is aroun 4’11”.

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

I started actually modeling in February of 2014. Pretty much my whole life, I heard, “You’re too small for that” and “You’ll never make it because of your height”; but I woke up one day, determined to at least put myself out there: I wanted to model. I didn’t want to just look at the artistic, beautiful images… I wanted to be them.

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

When it comes to the modeling industry, I’d like to see myself in more artistic formats in five years. I’m in love with fantasy, science fiction, and the absolute ethereal. I’d love to be paid to be in magazines that so often depict men and women who look simply untouchable. It doesn’t particularly interest me to be outright sexualized, which is a lot of the industry, and what a lot of people really enjoy doing. That’s just not who I am, or how I want to be depicted. In ten… well, ask me in five years.

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

Usually, I do fashion, glamour, and art photo shoots. I’m really big on Japanese street fashions, so I’ve recently done a cute space-themed coordinate “uchuu kei” shoot, a lolita shoot, and I have a gothic aristocrat shoot coming up in the cooler months. I’m also into alternative fashions, from punk and grunge to pin-up. Pin-up seems to be a favorite with local photographers, and I’m definitely not complaining! I’ve done a cosplay shoot recently too, and that was magnificent; I made the costume myself, so, for me, it was art, as I made the character, then became the character. I’ve done some runway, too. In July 2015, I walked for the Japanese lolita fashion label, “Baby, the Stars Shine Bright” at Mechacon in New Orleans. It was a lot of fun, and I managed not to fall even though the shoes were five and a half sizes too big! I’d do it again too, given the opportunity.

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

Some of my best experiences come from working with groups, actually. A friend of mine, Doll, organized a Fourth of July pinup shoot this year, and there were at least six photographers shooting, and I believe eight models. We laughed and had a lot of fun working that day. It was so hot and crowded in the studio, but everyone left happy with the work we did and the people with which we interacted. I won’t discuss my worst experiences in too much detail. I’ve met some photographers that make me very uncomfortable, and some who seem to know the exact angle that highlights a model’s flaws.

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

One of my first shoots, the photographer thought it would be cute to have me put on a little boy’s shirt, and I’m talking real little, like 7-8 years old… and it fit, it was a little short, but it fit. It was kind of embarrassing, and kind of funny.

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

“Industry standards”. By no means is it anyone’s right to decide what’s beautiful or right. As a designer, I understand haute couture requiring height minimums and weight maximums- after all, the walk is about the clothing, not the people in them- but the standards are hurting people who are extremely beautiful, but weren’t born the right shape. A thousand times, I’ve wished my legs were longer and thinner, but genetics gave me hips, and martial arts gave me substantial thighs. I’ve wished I were taller, but that will never happen. And there are people killing themselves inside with these things, telling themselves they’re not good enough… all because of “industry standards”.

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

I’ve never been good at sports, even though I was the most aggressive defender in my soccer division when I was in 6th grade; I can’t dance, and I love food. However, I love yoga, I walk daily, and I love to roller skate. I pretty much eat anything I want, but my “bad” foods are always in moderation, so I limit myself to one soda a day as a maximum, drinking predominately water, I don’t eat a lot of sweets or other junk food. I’ve found that eating excessive amounts of processed and empty calorie foods actually makes me sluggish, so maintaining a healthy diet isn’t even primarily about the way my body looks, but how it feels… it’s very important to me to make sure I feel great.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I don’t have a definitive gender identity. I’ve honestly been asked about it on several occasions, and I can never find an answer less vague than “nonbinary”. I’d love to describe it to you, but it’s not something anyone who doesn’t experience it can understand.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I did already mention that I’d like to be taller, but otherwise, I think I’d ditch my “jack of all trades, master of none” abilities to be a master of one or two of my favorite things.

Have you ever been fired from a job?

I worked, very briefly, at an AT&T satellite store called Extreme Wireless. About two months in, I was helping an elderly customer who wanted to add her tablet to her plan, but was on a fixed income and couldn’t afford to add it to her existing plan. So, I offered to change it, eliminating the unlimited calling and texting, since she didn’t use them often or even at all, and they weren’t required for the plan. Immediately, a coworker jumped on me, saying those plans had to have the texting, which I disagreed, and he insisted.

When I asked him why, he couldn’t give a real answer, and in the end the poor customer left more confused and let down than when she’d come in. He told me, “Don’t you ever question me in front of a customer again.” The next day, I was told by a manager that I was there to make the company money, not help people budget. I took my weekend off a week later, vowing to start looking for a new job after I got back from an event. The manager fired me Monday morning when I arrived because I was “just not a salesperson, and that I was too much customer service.” Sorry for not lying to old ladies. Oh, wait… no I’m not.

Aug 01 2016

Interview with Marybeth Noonan — Model turned Miss Maine

Marybeth Noonan is a 21-year old model residing in Windham, Maine.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi there! I am Marybeth Noonan from Raymond, Maine. I am a 21-year-old college student studying broadcast journalism at Lyndon State College, and was recently crowned Miss Maine 2016 this Spring. I am extremely passionate about fundraising to combat the underfunding of pediatric cancer research.

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

I was in a Toyota commercial with my family when I was a baby but the first shoot that I remember was a casting call for an L.L. Bean catalogue when I was in elementary school. Then once I started competing in pageants in 2008, I became more involved with my modeling career.

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

Winning Miss Maine was a huge goal of mine! I will be competing in Miss America this September. Maine has never produced a winner at Miss America so I’m hoping to change that. As for professional goals, I am working towards my degree in electronic journalism arts. I want to be a news anchor when I graduate.

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

I have done a variety of modeling types but commercial photoshoots are my favorite. I love the shoots where I can smile the whole time! I really can’t pull off a serious shoot, it just isn’t me. I look at pictures where I’m trying to look serious and I can’t help but laugh at myself. I am such a bubbly and outgoing person, a somber look simply doesn’t match my look.

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

I once had the opportunity to model for Tony Bowls in Orlando, FL. Most of the models were older than me and were so beautiful and refined. It boosted my confidence to think that I was “at their level” too. I’ll never forget wearing that stunning gown in front of the camera. I felt radiant. I have not had a bad experience in my modeling career. However, I turn down a lot of shoots because they are too sexy for my liking, as I am going to be a news anchor one day, and I want to set a good example and never pose in a shoot that is too promiscuous.

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

I once had shoot with a live animal called a sugar glider. Sugar gliders are small little creatures and belong to the possum family. Since they are nocturnal they like to hide in pockets and dark places. I was a little nervous to hold it but everything was working out fine until the little guy ran down my shirt and hid in my chest! It was so funny yet embarrassing.

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

I think we need more body-positive campaigns in the modeling industry. The apparel brand Aerie no longer re-touches or photoshops their models. We need more companies like that.

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 run and weight lift: there’s no better feeling than seeing your body get stronger. I like to look healthy and fit opposed to extremely thin. I eat 6 small meals a day that mainly consist of lean protein and complex carbs, as my health is a huge priority in my life.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I have gone indoor-skydiving!

Would you change anything about yourself?

I used to be really critical of my fair skin. Now that I’m older I understand the importance of keeping my skin healthy. I have traded in the tanning oil for SPF, as I would much rather be a little pale than get skin cancer when I’m older!

What is your hidden talent?

I can hula-hoop for hours without stopping! I recently went to a local parade and festival as Miss Maine, where I saw there was a hula-hooping competition and couldn’t resist. I walked out onto the field in my crown, dress and heels and joined the competition. All of the kids loved it, it was so much fun.

Jul 30 2016

Interview with Melanie Boria — Small Town Model

Melanie Boria is a 26-year old model residing in Milford, Michigan.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am from Milford, Michigan, which is a very small town in the metro Detroit area. I love to travel! I am always going somewhere, I spend more time traveling than at home, love seeing new things, meeting new people and trying new restaurants. I love food, my favorite food is Pasta, and I also can make the best chocolate chip cookies, as well as I’m becoming a professional on Pokemon go.

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

Being from Detroit, I always had a strong appreciation for the Auto Show. Ever since I was 3 years old, I loved seeing all of the beautiful models working at the show, so becoming a model and getting to work the Detroit Auto Show was a dream of mine.

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

I see myself traveling to places I’ve never been and modeling in new exotic destinations, I would really like to do something with food, have a cooking show or a blog where I can share food that I’ve tried in different places, give tips on restaurants and recipes.

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

I mostly do photo shoots and video shoots. I’ve been in music videos, commercials, advertisements and book covers. I also do trade show modeling where I get to travel and model; I model year round and it consumes a lot of my time, but I love it so it never feels like work.

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

One of my best experiences was shooting a music video with one of my favorite rappers, Passport Louis! He is one of the most fun and passionate people I’ve ever worked with and his music videos are always so detailed, it was awesome to be a part of such an amazing project and after I shot the first music video with him, I ended up shooting 3 more with him.

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

I was taking photos in an abandoned church in Detroit. I was wearing a very risqué outfit. All of a sudden a bunch of people started coming into the church, turns out this church was not abandoned! I was mortified!

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

I think that the industry is getting better everyday. I hope that it will become even more open to more types of looks, shapes and personalities. Everyone is beautiful and everyone should see themselves when they look at a magazine or watch TV.

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

I think nutrition and exercise are the two most important things to do for yourself. I love to bike ride, rollerblade and dance, try to get exercise in my everyday life in a way that is enjoyable to me, but I love food! Food is definitely my weakness, and I especially love Italian food and dessert, but I always make sure I get enough fruits and veggies too. I don’t drink and I don’t do any drugs, as I think that part of loving and taking care of yourself is making sure your nutrition and exercise is a necessity.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I love to make people laugh and sometimes for fun I will make up my own stand up routine.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would love to be able to sing.

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

If I could chose one superpower it would definitely be flying, I think it would be pretty sweet if I could fly, I could go wherever I want, whenever I want! I could take whoever I wanted with me and it would be so beautiful, plus I would never have to wait through a security checkpoint again.

Jul 27 2016

Interview with Megan Starr Loxx — Your Variety Show

Megan Starr Loxx is a 26-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I am 26 years old, born and raised in Las Vegas, NV, started freelance modeling when I turned 18 back in 2008, and have been modeling full time since 2010. I love skiing, kayaking, and many other outdoor adventures, have a love for animals and try to give back by volunteering at animal shelters. I also have a passion for real estate, have dreams of owning many properties and renting them out to tenants, and want to fix up homes and flip them for a profit as well.

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

I always wanted to be a model, ever since I was a teenager, specially a Victoria Secret, or Venus lingerie model, as well as becoming a sex symbol. I started applying for modeling gigs the day I turned 18, and didn’t know where to look at first; I didn’t even hear about ModelMayhem until 2009, so I found all of my gigs by referrals during my first year of modeling, and took strange fetish gigs that I still participate in to this day. It has been a long and exciting journey for me.

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

I will continue to pursue modeling for as long as the money and the bookings are steady. I do a lot of fetish content, and I now produce and sell my own content, as well as I plan to continue to grow my fanbase and further market my brand. I would also like to hire a reputable web master and get my website up and running as I envision it by next year, and am currently hiring other models to fulfill custom video orders. I would also like to learn more about editing, and photoshopping, as I enjoy being self-employed, and I am grateful for the lifestyle modeling has given me.

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

How often I shoot varies greatly from month to month. There is a lot of traveling photographers that come to Las Vegas, and some are looking to hire models for professional projects they are working on, while others are what I call hobbyists. I shoot erotic, nudes, glamour, artistic, outdoors, fetish, and even video shoots. I am available to be booked for a large variety of gigs, don’t have a single tattoo, no facial piercings, no breast implants or other body modifications, and I try to keep an overall natural look that has become hard to find here in Las Vegas. Certain conventions such as CES, AVN, and Bridal, will bring in many photographers and I am always booked once to twice a day. The summer is also very busy for me, as all of June and July has had 1 to 2 shoots booked per day, with one day off a week. However, I have to use that one day off to get caught up on my custom video orders that fans placed the week before. Other times of the year are much slower, with only 2 shoots a week.

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

I’ve had some great experiences over the last 8 years modeling; for example, I have had the pleasure of driving a Bugatti topless, I’ve traveled all over the world modeling on all expenses paid trips and cruises, I’ve met some incredibly beautiful and talented people along the way, and I even created some lifelong friendships. I have had very minimal negative experiences modeling, and I would have to say the worst for me personally is the impersonation. Some photographers and videographers that hired me many times throughout the years, and had accumulated a lot of content of me, created stores and websites impersonating me, using my name, and writing in first person as their marketing strategy. This caused several fans to believe they were communicating with me directly.

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

Well… given the many different unique fetishes I have done over the years, yes tons of embarrassing things have happened on shoots. I have gotten used to humiliating myself on camera at work, but again this is just in the fetish category. There was this one time, I had to fly to Portland, Oregon for a 3 day trip were I was shooting two of those days for a well known adult site, and I had to provide my own wardrobe, as well as do my own hair and make up. Well the airline lost my luggage leaving me with nothing the entire trip! I had to use leftover wardrobe on set, I couldn’t do my hair for the shoots, and the cheap replacement razor I used gave me a horrible rash on my vagina. It was embarrassing.

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

I wouldn’t change the modeling industry at all. I would however like to go back in time and never work with certain people.

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

I have been eating very poorly ever since my childhood. I am officially ready to change my eating habits drastically, and for the past 90 days I have been making better eating choices. I do exercise every single day for at least 30 minutes. I go on a 5 mile jog once a week, and love going to the gym.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think it is always important to continue growing and bettering yourself as a person. I am not perfect and I have bad habits I am working on, such as time management, diet, and more. As for my physical image, I would change a couple things if I could. Such as removing my freckles, having a natural tan, being two inches shorter, having thicker hair, bigger lips on my face, smaller lips on my vagina. I realize all those features make up my unique look, and even though it isn’t my personal physical preference for myself, I am still beautiful.

Where is the weirdest place you’ve ever peed?

The strangest place I ever peed was into a large vase used for flowers on my kitchen floor, and I had to hover over it. It was for a clip for my fetish and adult store. You can purchase it for $14.99 here, if you’re too curious and have to see for yourself.

Jul 16 2016

Interview with Hannah True — Midwest Med Student & Model in Sin City

Hannah True is a 20-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born an only child in Omaha Nebraska and moved to Las Vegas Nevada in 2015. I’ve modeled for years now and have found my own passion for photography along the way. I’m in school to become a PA and before moving I was a Zookeeper, I’m a huge nature lover who also had a passion for maintaining a healthy lifestyle, I like to think I’m down to earth and my sense of humor shows that greatly!

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

I danced for 14 years and my instructor was personal friends with a photographer, the photographer asked to take some pictures of me to promote her business and I of course said yes. Later on, one of my dear friends began running her own photography business and asked me on multiple occasions to shoot for her, this is when I became featured in my first magazine, named Beyond the Wanderlust. Since moving to Vegas I have started getting paid for my shoots and I’m so excited and thankful for the experience, exposure and people I’ve had the privilege to meet along the way.

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

I want to continue modeling, hopefully securing larger and more regular paid jobs with a company or a few sponsors. I’m continuing my education as it is my number one priority and I see myself pursuing my medical career within the next 5 to 10 years and hopefully I still have the privilege to model along the way as it is not only a job, but a passion and work of art.

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

I’ve mostly been doing independent modeling, I did many shoots over the course of the year but as of lately my shoots have been limited simply due to timing. I primarily do shoots but I have also been featured as the lead role in a short film that took place around April and May. I am open to anything and everything as long as those I’m working with and I have good chemistry and are trustworthy.

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

The best experiences I’ve had modeling would take far too long to type! I’ve had so many incredible experiences with so many photographers and people that they by far outweigh the bad experiences. However, I had my dose of that too. I blame my own naivety on some of it, but regardless I was in a very unprofessional setting with an individual who did not understand boundaries and then began attempting to pursue me after the shoot with multiple -back to back if I didn’t reply, which I didn’t- inappropriate messages.

Despite the unfortunate circumstances I was able to learn greatly from this experience and now I am able to be more forthcoming with photographers when I stand my ground if there’s something I’m uncomfortable with. It has heightened my sense of personal security and well being, and it has taught me that despite wanting to continue modeling and shooting, I am never to do something I’m uncomfortable with and that I should look out for myself first.

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

I would like for it to be easier to get into. I don’t like some of the pretentious vibes I get from agencies and I wish it was a more personable place of work.

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

I danced for 14 years and played soccer for 5. I currently workout regularly as a healthy diet and exercise are incredibly important to me, a healthy life is a successful life and I want to look and feel my best always

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m left handed and colorblind.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think we all have days that we would like to change something about ourselves. But at the end of the day, self love comes first and happiness comes from within. You cannot control everything but you can control yourself and I think that living a healthy lifestyle can mitigate many physical and mental issues we often find ourselves struggling with.

What was the meanest rumor ever spread about you?

After elementary school I became homeschooled. Rumors spread about me that the reason I was “taken out” of school was because I wasn’t smart enough to stay in. Actually, it was because of the school system I was in and I was even in the “discovery program” which was an advanced learning program for high achieving students. I can laugh about it now, but the fact that people thought I wasn’t smart enough for school when it was the exact opposite is pretty funny to me today!

Visit Hannah True’s website for more photos and information

Jul 13 2016

Interview with Cassie Wong

Cassie Wong is a 19-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

Hi there, I’m a Vegas native and 100% Chinese. I’m a huge animal person and own two dogs named Baloo and Bear, and a cat named Teemo, I’m actually not that family oriented so my pets are everything to me. I’m an art nerd, and live the pottery wheel, and also hope to open up a pottery shop and teach classes here in Vegas. I’m also attending college as a Biology major, I was thinking maybe I could become a plastic surgeon on the side. I mean, someone needs to make the world pretty.

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

I was always told I had the height and figure, ever since a young age, but the thing that really pushed me was the big debt I have from college. I’m also a huge narcissist, so getting my pictures was like Christmas… I can’t get enough of myself! It’s a pretty fun and competitive industry, and runways definitely most fun.

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

I hope to be involved in art, it’s very therapeutic for me. I’ve always wanted to live in a townhouse in Vegas, and I never want to leave this city, who would? I would also love to be published in more magazines, get more exposure and maybe visit New York for modeling opportunities.

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

I do quite a lot of runways, and conventions, but I’m very picky with photographers and would only shoot tfp -time for print- with photographers that I think I would benefit from. I love shooting fashion, my frame was made for designers clothes, and I also shoot lingerie every now and then to pay the bills.

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

My first runway, which was the fashion week Las Vegas, was a bit nerve-racking, I had no idea what I was doing and everyone’s naked behind the curtain. It was crazy! Definitely a learning experience and I loved it, I also made it to the cover of that season’s magazine. I shot with a photographer out of town for lingerie, he was from Thailand and didn’t speak much English, was pretty creepy and the wardrobe was tacky as hell. He was breathing heavily and talked to me too pervy ugh! Anyways long story short, he was super persistent to receive “other services” from me! Who does thas? I left right away right after I changed back into my clothes. Thank god I didn’t have to call the cops!

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

I shot implied nude in the Valley of Fire and a whole bunch of cars passed by honking at me while I was butt naked hahaha. I casually waved hi to all of them.

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

It’s so hard to get exposure and get paid at the same time. I just wish it wasn’t as competitive as it is.

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

I eat only fast food, and don’t participate in any type of exercise. I’m blessed with a fast metabolism and can’t gain any weight, but it’s a curse at the same time, I would love to be a bit thicker, but I definitely can’t complain too much, judging on my diet and exercise routines.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m like ugly Betty, big glasses and messy hair when I’m off the clock. Most photographers don’t recognize me and think I’m a catfish when we meet before a shoot.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would never change anything. I remember in middle school, I really wanted double eyelid surgery, fake boobs, and a bigger butt, but as I grew older, I got to love my body completely and take advantage of my model figure by shooting fashion and walking runways.

Have you ever stolen anything?

In high school, I was a complete rebel. Smoked a lot of pot, stole a whole bunch of clothes, skipped school everyday. I have no idea how I managed to graduate, as I also used to steal clothes from malls until H&M caught me junior year. They took me to the back of the store and called my parents. Turns out, I never got caught by physically stealing. One of the people that I was here with ratted me out! I was about to be let go and the security asked if I stole anything, I told him of course I did. And he literally pulled out a pile of clothes in my backpack and said “I didn’t even catch you on surveillance, props to you”.

Visit Cassie Wong ‘s website for more photos and information

Jul 10 2016

Interview with VikTory — International ft. ballerina travel model

VikTory is a 26-year old model residing in Las Vegas, Nevada and New York City, New York.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born and raised in a small town in Austria and I have 5 siblings and amazing parents that are still happily married! After graduating college and earning my degree in professional classical ballet and modern stage dance I worked full time as a dancer in focus ballet and lyrical dance at European Ballett St. Poelten, the same company I have performed and danced already part time while attending school. I started at the Corp de ballet and later on I performed as a soloist with the company. We danced all over Europe, went on a 5 weeks tour to China, and I danced the opening for an opera ball in Dubai, danced in Brazil, Sydney, Turkey and other places around the world just to name a few. My whole life was about dance and school, yet I am very close with my family and siblings, from whom by the way nobody dances.

BY laeey taggesell

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

My dream was always to be a dancer in NYC, so at the age of 21 I did the step and I came to NYC – with 2 suitcases and nothing else. I got a part stipend for “Steps on Broadway” but I had to build my whole life up from nothing… by myself. I was not naive, I knew it would be hard but I had a passion and a dream and I had to give it a try, as I never thought about myself as a model, because I am short -5’3″- and I don’t consider myself as very pretty, and I just didn’t fit in in any category: too short for fashion, too “ugly” for print, not muscular enough for fitness. I had some experiences with photo shoots, because while dancing with the company in Austria we had a lot of shoots for magazines, newspaper, billboards, and I truly enjoyed it.

At the beginning I still worked as a ballet dancer in NYC when I was asked to do a photo shoot for a ballet catalog. After the shoot I did some research and I realized that there is a “whole other world of modeling” out there and again I went all in: I decided to be a full time model overnight! It may seem naive, I knew it won’t be easy but I knew if I want to make it – I have to make it work because I did not know anyone nor did I have money I could fall back on.

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

That’s a good question. I always have very long term goals and a lot of ideas, but I very often have no exact plan on how to achieve them but always do so by staying flexible in the way of approaching them; one big goal I am working on at the moment is to get my green card, it is a big goal for me, as most people and even lawyers told me it is impossible to do so, but I got already my work permit as a ballerina model with “extraordinary abilities” which made me very proud and I am not afraid of working hard to archive the next step.

I want to eventually write my own book as I had a lot of crazy things already happening in my life and I get asked quite often when I will publish my book. I also want to keep inspiring people, put my toes more into acting as I enjoy that part of modeling a lot… there are many ideas I have but I like to convince people by action not by words. As far as personal goals, my whole life has been about work and my career so I would like to eventually settle down, a little bit, not really settling down in the ordinary way but maybe just find a place of my own in a city I want to live in.

by Rod B.

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

Well every day is different really. Most work I do are photo shoots, specially ballet and dance related. When I am touring I shoot a lot: 1 to 4 shoots a day, and then sometimes I don’t shoot for a week… it all depends. I always work out in the morning, do my shoots and after my shoots I answer emails to set up new work.

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

I prefer to focus on the good, no matter what kind of work you do there is always something you don’t like, but all in all I had good luck and the good things definitely outdo the bad ones. I love hearing so many personal stories of people I work with, and I feel very blessed that nearly at every shoot it ends up to be a collaboration and I have a lot of saying specially regarding poses, timing, angles, and others. My work with dbox, an incredible agency in NYC who hired me for the “432 park avenue project” was definitely one of my highlights so far, but also the work with Samantha Yousseff for “Studio Technique” was very inspiring, and I felt very honored as she flew in from Toronto just to work with me.

To work with the well-known sculpture artist Richard MacDonald and seeing a statue I posed for at the Bellagio in Las Vegas was fantastic as well. I love leaving “quiet little footprints” all over the world by having images of me in galleries in San Fransisco, NYC, Boston, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Austria, Italy and many more. Posing as the cover model for the highest luxury apartment in the western hemisphere in NYC and posing for Richard MacDonald as well as getting booked by Gene Schiavone, one of ballet’s top photographer and published in NYC times are definitely one of my best experiences so far.

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

I had a lot of funny moments at the beginning of my career due to the fact that english is not my native language, A lot of people use sarcasm in this industry which was really hard for me, because at first I had to translate the meaning of their words and then figure out if they actually mean it or not. It caused a lot of “little – long breaks” which turned out a bit embarrassing for me.

As it took quite a while until I got a joke, sometimes I said things the wrong way, and it came across very wrong. e.g, for me it is important that the photographer got the shot he had in mind or we created the vision he was going for, the “Austrian” way of saying this is : “Are you satisfied” – you can image that I got a lot of weird looks and laughter at the beginning; but believe me, I learned fast. Out of the ordinary: Well very often people told me to do an image where I stretch, so I did my stretching. I am very very flexible, due to hard work, not naturally, so people where literally shocked when I really stretched. We then agreed on the fact that it would be a better picture if I just pretend to stretch.

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

To be honest I had a very hard time to refer to myself as a “model”, because there are just too many bad associations with this job title; and while people immediately think about a tall and beautiful girl, other associations are: lazy, bitchy, irresponsible and dumb. I met a lot of other models over the years or am at least in conversations with them and believe me most of them are anything but that.

Therefore I would love for people to understand that this is a job as well and it takes a lot of work to create beautiful images and art. Not every model just models for the fact of “fast or easy money”, not every photographer sleeps with the model or vice versa and not every model takes drugs. These are all stigmas, maybe a small percentage behaves that way but definitely not the majority of the models.

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

Yes I work out a lot, as lot of the bookings I get are due to my ballet and dance experience, and as a former ballerina I am used to practice 7 to 10 hours daily and I want to keep my technique and physique as much as possible. When I shoot dance or contortion images it is just kind of an additional little work out for me! I do work out daily, a routine I have created for myself that consist of stretching, yoga, Pilates and muscle exercises, and I constantly watch what I eat and follow a vegan plant based lifestyle.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I am really shy in “normal” life, I feel very comfortable posing nude and dancing on a stage but I still get very uncomfortable in groups… Yes I feel more uncomfortable wearing a bikini on a public beach than posing as a model in front of a large group of photographers.

Would you change anything about yourself?

A few years ago I would have given you a long list, but nowadays I try to work with what I have. I still wish to be taller and have bigger eyes and longer legs and clean skin at all times, and be funnier in bigger groups, but I learned that nobody is perfect so I decide to work with what I have and make the best out of it.

What is the one talent you wish you possessed?

I would love to speak more language, as I think that a language barrier is the main reason that causes misunderstandings and separation. I speak German and English fluently and I learned French at school, and I taught myself some Brazilian Portuguese – as I have a lot of friends from Brazil and I fell in love with the country. I understand a little bit of Russian, because most of my dance teachers where from Russia, but I would love to speak all languages fluently! And, if I can get a second wish: I really really really wish I could tackle the whole media, internet, and computer thing better as I would love to improve my knowledge of using a computer as I am not the best in that.

Visit VikTory!’s website for more photos and information

Jun 28 2016

Interview with Kayleigh — Future MD and Model

Kayleigh is a 22-year old model residing in Omaha, Nebraska.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Omaha, Nebraska and currently attend school in Lincoln, Nebraska for Microbiology and Chemistry–not your typical model material! I have two sisters and a brother and attended an all-girls Catholic high school that was probably the greatest thing that ever happened to me. In my spare time I like to play with my 4 month old puppy, Paloma, run, cook, read, and catch up on my shows! My newest binge watch is Game of Thrones.

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

I actually began modeling before I entered Kindergarten, when I was signed to an agency at age 4 or 5 and was doing catalog and runway work before most kids know how to read. I have an entire binder of all the work I did when I was young, and it’s so funny to see me decked out in all that 90’s denim. I never thought of it as work, and I never knew other kids didn’t do what I did. I began modeling again for friends and for fun in college as a way to break out of the monotony of my studies.

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

I’ve wanted to be a physician since I was a little girl, and I plan to enter medical school within the next few years. My ultimate career goal is cardiac or urological surgery, specialties where women are extremely underrepresented. In 5 years I’ll still be in medical school, in 10 I’ll be completing my training as a surgeon.

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

I am not a full time model, as school will always come first for me. I pick up jobs when I can; I don’t model for the money, but for the artistic release and pleasure it gives me. I don’t do erotic shoots, as I cannot jeopardize my future career, although I’d love to do some private life modeling. Currently, I typically do more artistic indie photo shoots that are fun and give me a creative outlet.

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

I’ll give you the weirdest. Last summer, I did a gorgeous shoot with an extraordinarily talented photographer I met who lives in LA. She travels to Nebraska every once in a while and texted me one day that she had a special idea for a shoot. It turned out that that shoot required me to pose with a dead blue jay! The photos turned out gorgeous and I do not regret the shoot at all, but it was certainly one of the weirder experiences I’ve had, you can even see the photos on my or her Instagram.

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

My mom loves the work I do, and recently made a photo of me her cover photo on Facebook, as moms do!. The only problem is, I don’t think she’s noticed that the white dress I’m wearing is completely see through!

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

The modeling industry is inaccessible to people who do not fit the traditional pin thin body type or the plus sized body type. I am thin, but I do not have the time to keep my body to industry standards.

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

I run 20 to 30 miles or so a week, and I eat what I want. I know I shouldn’t say that, but I’ve been blessed with a body that regulates itself well, which is why I don’t count calories or macros. That being said, I do try to keep 80% of what I put in my body “good” for me, and that’s my rule of thumb. 80% of what I eat during the week is leafy greens and grilled chicken and yogurt and eggs and fruits and veggies. The other 20% is whatever treats I want. It’s a good balance.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I’m the president of an organization that runs mobile medical clinics down in underserved areas of South American countries. I’ve been to Peru and Ecuador several times to work with the people down there. I’m hoping to go back within the year.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I think every woman would want to physically change things about herself, so I’ll skip that. Right now, I’m working on some personality traits of mine. I’m working on being a better listener and on compromising. My boyfriend is very sweet and I am very stubborn, so I get my way almost all the time, which is not fair. I’m trying to learn how to meet him halfway and communicate better so I can be a better friend, girlfriend, and overall person.

What is your guilty pleasure?

My guilty pleasure is Diet Coke. I know the aspartame is bad for me and could give me cancer but I figure we’re all going to die someday. My cell phone could give me cancer too and I’m not going to give that up! I actually quit a few years ago and then started drinking it again after I went abroad.

Visit Kayleigh’s website for more photos and information

Jun 18 2016

Interview with Trigger — Arresting Fit Life, Bodybuider, Model and Cop

Trigger is a 24-year old model residing in Missoula, Montana.

How would you introduce yourself to our readers?

I was born in Montana and still reside here, being an only child, have always played sports and been active since I was 5. The fit lifestyle I have always had is something I love a lot. I played basketball for 13 years, volleyball for 6 years, gymnastics for 2 years, tennis for 5 years, among other sports. Since graduating high school I pursued modeling and have since done several shoots. I am graduating College in May of 2016 with a degree in Criminology and hope to one day work for the FBI or law enforcement. I just competed in my first bodybuilding show this April and placed 3rd and 4th, while falling in love with modeling and weight training ever since.

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

I first got into modeling after doing some pre-shoots to help a friend’s photography business grow. Since getting noticed through helping her, I did fitness shoots and made a calendar for a small town fire department, and since then it has been growing and I enjoy every minute of it. I got into modeling because I enjoyed doing shoots, being in front of a camera and one of my good friend’s has done it for a while. Doors were opening so I thought I would take advantage of the fitness modeling door opening. I plan on walking through it!

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

My original goal was to be an FBI agent and or work for some law enforcement as a police officer. Since modeling I have still wanted to pursue this goal, but I also want to be a pro bikini competitor as well as a model for companies, either for clothes or supplements, so I say my ending goal is agent, model and bodybuilder. I have high standards and goals for myself and I plan to go for my dreams, so in 5 to 10 years I would hope to be married and pursuing at least one of these goals. I am constantly moving, besides if you want to get something done, ask a busy person!

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

I mainly do photo shoots that are fitness related because that is what I am pursuing and what I love to do, just as I love anything fitness related. I was once in a commercial for a local supplement store in Missoula and was paid for that. Most of my photo shoots are for progress, gains and to build my portfolio, as I am not signed with any agencies yet, but I would like to be.

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

I do not know what my worst experience would be, but my best experience was doing a fitness shoot and getting a little attention from a local clothing store. I am still building my portfolio and trying to get more noticed, so all of my experiences are smaller than most.

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

Like I stated in my bio about myself, I have always been involved in some type of fit activity, and I am currently focusing on weight training and bodybuilding. My diet consists of if you can kill it or you can grow it, then you can eat it, while if it comes in a package that crinkles and makes noise, then it’s not on the diet. It is important to not just take the diet plan or diet pills on the TV screen that they say works for everyone. Do your research and realize that everyone’s body is different and different foods work for different people.

Knowing what you are eating and how you are exercising for your body is important, as we are all different so we can all do similar things but not the same things. If you do not pay attention to what your body is doing, or how it feels after eating a certain food or how it reacts, then what are you doing? The minute you take the time to do your research and watch your body change for the better, the better you feel, because you did it.

Please share something people don’t know about you.

I can tie a cherry stem in a knot with my tongue in 5 seconds or less depending and I am a Christian and the Lord is my best friend.

Would you change anything about yourself?

I would not change anything about myself because everyone is unique and perfect in their own way. No one is a mistake or messed up, we are all different: I mean I will be honest I am not a fan of my face or my nose and wanted to get a nose job. For the longest time I was self conscious about having small boobs, but if someone doesn’t like me due to a physical attribute, then they don’t need to be my friend anyway. Small is better than bigger anyway -I can do more and don’t have back problems- I am happy with who I am

What superpower do you wish you had? Why?

I wish I could fly, but I really wish I had the power to read peoples’ minds or to be an invisible mind reader who could fly as well, that would be the best. I would want to be able to see the world from up above, to be able to know if someone was lying to my face and it would be cool to play some fun pranks on people. It is good to have a sense of humor.

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