Do you consider yourself: Pro, Semi Pro, Hobbyist, Amateur, Something Else?
I consider myself semi pro but "something else" sounds pretty cool too... unknown and unpredictable! My main profession is a dogsitter (Overnight Dogsitting; At Or Away From Home), running my business in the MA and RI states taking care of canines to pay the bills, so I always make time for my job first. However, modeling has done that as well this past year, no complaints on that!
How did you find Model Insider and what do you like best about it?
I found MI by just browsing the internet world, looking for new sites to display my portfolio work. I love the community here! Always willing to give you feedback when asked... and the ability to display more images, unlike some other modeling sites, is a definite plus!
What is your usual genre? Favorite genre?
I can't really label myself to one genre... I'd be bored if I focused my work for just one. I prefer a well-rounded portfolio; from horror, artistic nude, lingerie, pin-up, body scapes, fitness, comical, body paint, etc. But if I had to choose one I have a soft spot for... I just couldn't!! Photography/modeling is so vast, I prefer to embrace all aspects of it.
How do you find photographers to work with?
I've been so grateful to work with such awesome photographers, even those that are just getting started. There's only been a couple of occasions where a photographer didn't get past my phone call interview. I'm good with taking the proper precautions before working with photogs (references, prior work, etc.) and I hope to create more exciting images with old and new ones.
Do you do your own styling and makeup? Do you work with a preferred MUA?
For the most part what you see in my images were created by yours truly in regards to hair and makeup. But I have worked with several hair/makeup artists looking to collaborate their artistic direction with a model... and I love working with others, as long as their imagination is just as wild as mine! MUAs Elizabeth Gatchell and Jennifer Blum has been my favorites, they nail it every time. My hairstylist of 10 years Sandy Jones has been such a help with keeping my hair on point when I'm not in the mood to construct my fro into something myself.
Where do you see yourself going in the next year, artistically and business wise?
Next year I see myself having worked with even MORE photog's, MUA's, hairstylists, models, etc. There are complex concepts I have marinating in my noggin' for so long it's time to execute these ideas and put them in front of a camera. I want to really challenge myself this coming year. As well as taking on more dogsitting clients to the Overnight Dogsitting; At Or Away From Home family.
Do you shoot both in studio and on location and do you have a preference?
I shoot anywhere, as long as the location/setting fits the theme myself and others involved are trying to capture. I'm a sucker for a location that's a contrast in the styling. Put me in a big puffy gown and shoot it in a greasy, filthy mechanical shop, I love that kind of stuff.
Do you travel?
My travel for modeling, like my dogsitting, is only in the MA and RI states. I have to stay relatively close in case a dog is in need of care. However, I have contemplated doing some traveling out of New England for modeling work, but the price has to be right.
Anything else you'd like to tell the Model Insiders about yourself?
I'm a smartass with the sense of humor of a man and the occasional mouth of a sailor (but I know when to keep it professional, like for this interview). If you're not keen with that, then we won't mesh well. But if one were to check out my credit list and ask any of the people I've worked with how well I am, they'd tell you I'm a peach to work with; comical, sincere, reliable, and on point! And I'm always open to new ideas, the crazier and more challenging the better. May I also say what awesome people are in the MI community, various genres being displayed in their absolute beauty. Kudos to all for their fantastic work!
