Hello everyone! This weeks post is going to be all about a close friend of mine, Stephanie Mitchell. Since she no longer lives in Victoria and has moved out east to chase her dreams in Toronto I felt she deserved to be the first model I interviewed. I've decided it would be interesting to share the experiences of models I have the pleasure of working with for you all to read and enjoy.
When I first began making trips from the mainland over to Victoria, BC last fall I worked with many models trying to get more work for my portfolio and build a name for myself in the area. It wasn't until my shoot with local designer Oyuna (of KAI & KLO) that Stephanie and I where able to work together. After seeing Stephanie's stellar performance throughout the shoot we planned another editorial together soon after finishing "Amidst the Overcast".
While spending around six hour together covering her in various candies/ lipglosses Stephanie and I got to know each other a quite bit more. Since our first two shoots together we have worked on many other projects and supported each other in the pursuits of our dream careers (even if she did move away from me I still feel her support).
Editorial "Sugar Rush", Published in Scorpio Jin Magazine. Photo, makeup & retouching by me.
I recently had the opportunity to ask Stephanie a few questions about her modelling career thus-far and plans for the future. So heres Stephanie talking a bit about herself and photos from our past shoots together! (None of her answers have been changed in any way, these are straight rom Stephanie herself)
Where's your home town? Maui, Hawaii
When did you begin modelling? I was actually a baby model, so I was introduced to it at a very young age. When I was about 10 years old, I began shooting for children’s clothing in Maui. At this time, it was just for fun.
What originally made you want to get into modelling? I enjoyed seeing the designers light up when I put on their outfits
Stephanie in KAI & KLO's Floral Coat and denim over the knee boots. Editorial "Amidst the Overcast" featured in PUMP Magazine. Stylist & designer Oyuna Lodoi (of KAI & KLO), makeup & hair by Alexandra Loughton of Anomaly Makeup for Elate Cosmetics, photo & retouching by myself.
If you have one, who would be your favourite model of all time? Candice Swanepoel (VS Model)
Where do you hope modelling will take you, or is it just a hobby? Although it started as a hobby, in recent years I decided that since I enjoy modelling so much, it would make the perfect career for me. I figure that if I push myself far enough, reach for the stars, I will end up somewhere I am content with.
If you could pick from all the brands, who would you love to do a campaign with the most? Burberry!!!! Something really high end. Or Prada.
Stephanie in an all paper outfit her and I had made for our editorial "Old News" featured in Elléments Magazine. Makeup done by Stephanie herself, photo & retouching by me.
Of all the types of shoot, what would you say your favourite type would be? Examples would be say fashion, beauty, lifestyle, etc. I love Fashion, as well as sexy, Victoria Secret, or bikini shoots.
What’s your favourite part about modelling? Being able to express myself. Anything goes, and most everything is accepted. It allows me to be creative and silly all at once.
Tell me a little about your favourite part of a shoot. When the team can work together in such a way that creative ideas keep bouncing around. When everyone is having fun, and there is a ton of good energy.
Stephanie in a Le Chateau evening wear dress in editorial "Queen Stephanie" published in Elegant Magazine. Styling by Trevor Premack of Le Chateau Mayfair, makeup by Stephanie herself, photo & retouching by me.
Do you believe that modelling is a difficult profession? Why? Yes, it can be difficult. But it can also be very rewarding. Difficult, because often brands or agencies want a specific look, and you either have it or you don’t. There is no in-between. Although, I’ve learnt to not take things personally… If someone said no, it’s usually just because you are not what they are looking for at that time. You may be what their looking for next time.
So do you have specific workout routines to stay in shape or what’s the secret? I eat well and I take care of my body. But I do have cheat days. Honestly, I don’t think about it too much because naturally I am a clean eater. I work out almost every day, and it feels good.
Have you ever had a time in your modelling career where you were told you weren’t good enough or you needed to change something about yourself in order to succeed? If so what was it, if you don’t mind sharing? I was never told I was not good enough, however I was told I didn’t have the right look for a certain agency… But that didn’t mean that I needed to change. And although I have never been told that I needed to change, I have been given advice on how to improve myself, which I am so grateful for!! This advise was not to touch my eyebrows!!! To let them grow!!!
What are your thoughts on the modelling/ fashion industry today? I am proud of the modelling industry for breaking away from the “One figure is everything”. The fashion industry is becoming more accepting of other builds, but I do think we still have a long way to go.
What is one way you think the industry could change to make it better, from a models perspective? It’s funny… Reading the question, I was about ready to start listing thing after thing… But when I think about it, I don’t know if I would change anything. I mean, sure, it would be nice to be accepted by more agencies or brands, and just make everything easy for myself BUT then when I got something it wouldn’t be as fulfilling. And I understand why the industry is the way that it is. So I am just going to leave it at that.
Channeling her inner Candace. Photo for Stephanie's portfolio while she was running for Maxim covergirl, wearing all Victoria's Secret lingerie. Makeup by Stephanie herself, photo & retouching by me.
How has your modelling career been overall? Has it been a fun experience or has it been difficult? It has been fun, and I have been fortunate. Of course I have had struggles, but I have never had a setback. At least not yet. I keep moving forward. But that could be because I try to keep a positive attitude and I realize that being turned down comes with the territory. If and when I am turned down, I don’t feel sad for myself, I say “that’s alright,” and move on to the next thing. There is no limits here. Just got to keep striving for what you want, and it will happen. It has worked for me so far and I don’t plan on stopping now!
What advice do you have for models starting out or anyone who is thinking of modelling? You need thick skin. And you need to be confident in your look and your ability. If you don’t have that, you will be swallowed up. If you have that, you can move mountains. It is not about being the most beautiful; don’t compare yourselves to others. Just be the best you.
Stephanie during our last shoot together, makeup & styling by Stephanie herself, photo & retouching by me.
And there you have it guys, Stephanie's view on the modelling world, how she began and a bit of advice for any of you looking to get into the industry! I hope you all enjoyed todays post, and I will be writing again shortly!
Thank you all! Until next time,
Tristen