When she began her career with a photo shoot in 2006, she lived in St. John’s. The experience encouraged her ambition and prompted her to expand on what little knowledge she had of the ever-changing industry.
After moving to Alberta, she realized the opportunities for modelling were more prevalent than in Newfoundland and she began building her portfolio.
She started by doing promotional modelling for events and fashion modelling throughBlonde Talent Agency.She has worked at many sporting events and had the opportunity to work at the Indy 500 which was held in Edmonton. Despite being unable to attend the huge event, just being chosen to participate makes her optimistic for the future.
“Thousands of girls try out for that show. I was one of the few picked and I wasn’t even at the casting call,” she said.
While in the process of developing her portfolio, she had to be wary of the many scams that exist which she believes gives the modelling industry a bad name.
“Some people spend thousands of dollars to get their portfolio built and get nowhere with their career. Photographers or agencies that do that are usually scams,” she said. “I have yet to spend any money in this industry, it should be and it is the opposite. They pay me. I have a great portfolio built already and I can honestly say that I have met with some amazing photographers, makeup artists and hair stylists at no cost. We work together, because usually we are all looking for the same thing out of our work: to create new art and beauty.”
Another fraudulent scenario she was cautious of was model training schools and workshops.
She said she has not attended these because they basically take your money and leave you with no new knowledge of the industry or the mindset and techniques one should possess in front of the camera or during runway shows.
In her opinion, good models train themselves.
“When you’re at a photoshoot, a runway show or anything like that, you’re always testing your limits and seeing what poses work, what type of walks work, and how your communication helps you. It cannot be taught by anyone, everyone has their own style and your individual personality has to shine through in your work. The more experiences you go through the stronger model you will be,” she said.
Given her success at such a young age and the seemingly bright future which awaits her, she is hopeful for her career.
“I love meeting new people and learning about the industry. When I’m in front of the camera, a whole different side of me comes out and I find myself working so hard just to get that one shot. I love experiencing the different styles with makeup artists and hair stylists. It’s just so much fun for me to get out there and be myself and be surrounded by people like that too,” she said.
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