Q. How and why did you get into alt modelling? Who are your heroes or your inspiration?

I got into modelling by complete accident. I have always been into alt fashion i used my clothes and body art as a way of expressing myself and my individuality. A friend of mine just so happened to be a photographer and asked me to do a shoot for his portfolio. Before i knew it, i had been spotted by someone who propelled me into the industry. And i've never looked back.

Alt modelling for me is more than just being different. It's about being proud to be different. Recognising that beauty comes in all different forms, shapes and sizes. One of the reasons i enjoy modelling is because i want to inspire people to be themselves. That a model can be the curvy, healthy girls we see everyday.

My inspirations are of course the infamous Betty Page who will undoubtly live on as inspiration to alt models for years to come. Others include Dita von Teese, Masuimi Max, Nina Kate, Bianca Beauchamp and Viktoria.

Q. How long have you been an alt model?

I've been modelling for only a couple of years now but am loving every minute.

Q. Were you a fan of body art before modelling, and is body art a big part of the alt industry?

I have always been a fan of body art and body modification. I had my tongue pierced secretly at 14 and my first tattoo as soon as i turned 18 and have been addicted to the needle ever since! I definitely think that body art is a huge part of the modelling industry although not an essential requirement. Body art/mods to us is like fashion to the non alternative. Things of beauty and admiration, that inspire us to be creative, to be individual and say goodbye to that sad thing called normality!

Q. Is the industry like you thought it would be? What surprised you about it?

I don't think i had many expectations regarding the industry so have had very little disappointments. It isn't all glitz and glamour and every model has to begin somewhere, more often or not at the bottom. The first studios were small and humble, sometimes in peoples houses but as you progress as a model, the quality of the studios, photographers and makeup artists/stylists grow with you.

Q. Did you start off as full-time, or did you start modelling part-time?

I only model part time and have a day job to keep me grounded and my pockets full ;)

Q. Was it difficult to build a portfolio, and what did you learn about the process - meeting photographers, make up artists, wardrobe people, etc ...

Building a portfolio is so much fun! The key is liasing with as many people as possible and getting your name known by everyone. There are some really useful modelling community sites that are brilliant ways of getting pictures, obtaining references, and learning the ropes. They also provide protection from frauds, and non genuine photographers and agencies which i think especially important for young woman.

Q. How was your first shoot ? Were you nervous? What advice would you give new models about how to prepare?

My first shoot was with a photographer i knew which made helped me to relax and be myself. After that initial shoot, i realised this was the key. To be yourself. Have fun with it and show your personality. Make sure the photographers have good reliable references and you feel safe. It is ok to take a chaparone!

Q. Did you join an agency? What was your experience with working with agents?
I am represented by the very lovely Rogue Maidens who specialise in work for alternative females. I think it is essential to find a company that will represent you well for the type of work you want. There are some very good and highly commendable agencies and advise applying once you have established a varied professional portfolio.Remember never to pay money upfront! An agency represents you to make money, not to lose it! I also model freelance which is perfect for portfolio building.

Q. Is safety a high priority for you? What have you learned about how to keep yourself safe while working as an alt model ?

Safety is paramount!!! It has been known for bad people to pose as professionals to lure young woman into bad situations! I never disclose my personal information without knowing whom i am speaking to. Ask for a website and/or references. Only work with people you know are credited! Discuss your ideas prior to shooting and if after you feel happy, arrange a *meet*. This gives you the opportunity to plan the shoot in a mutual/safe environment and often rules out time wasters/frauds. Let people know where you are and what time you plan to return.

Write down the address so someone knows your where abouts. NEVER do anything you are not comfortable with!!! Nudity isn't for everyone and note, not all models have to do it.

Q. Have you found your own style within alt modelling, how did you decide on your 'look'?

I enjoy all the many styles of alt modelling. My favourite styles are Fetish, alternative glamour, pinup/retro, and traditional goth. The best thing about being an alt model is all the personas you can adopt and the different roles you can play. One day you can be a fetish dom and the next a fallen angel. I think variety is important to keep you working.

Q. Is it important to be flexible in what type of photoshoots and jobs you'll take, or do you decide what you will and won't do and just stick to that?

This is a hard question. I think the best way to answer it is that people book you for your particular look or style, maybe even your versatility. If you don't do nude or implied nude, then i think it's very important to stress that on your websites and during communication.
If you see a casting and you think you fir the criteria, then go for it!

Q. Is it a very competitive industry and have you worked with other models?

The industry is very competitive and i have had the pleasure of working with many other models. Nearly all (i said nearly. Lol) alt models are generally easy to get on with and often have the same interests, which makes group/joined shoots a fun and refreshing change. I have really enjoyed meeting different people and have made some really lovely friends. It is always exciting seeing friends published or spotting good photographers from a noted and reliable source!

Q. Have you ever thought about being a photographer yourself, or wanted to try any other job within the modelling industry?

I definitely would be interested in other aspects of alt modelling, especially makeup. I also enjoy artistic directing (helping models with poses) when i get the opportunity. I think i have a good eye for what works regarding body shapes, working the outfit, themes etc. Having experience in front of the lense enables you to understand lighting techniques and can often make amateur models relax.

Q. Is it important to keep other interests/aspects of your life as a priority - things which have nothing to do with modelling? What other skills have helped you as a model?

I personally keep my private life seperate from my modelling although i find other models within the same social circles. I think keeping good relationships and having good communication are great skills in this industry. People want people to be reliable and you can always meet new job opportunities through your social connections. I don't let modelling interupt my private life. I always find time for me!!!

Q. How did your friends, family, or others react to your career choice?

My friends and family have been really encouraging to me, especially my boyfriend. He helped me get where i am today and am so thankful for his guidance and support. I find some people have their own views and opinions but they tend to be the ones less understanding of the alternative scene. We all have the rights to opinions so i give them that.

Q. What advice would you give on how to find work as an alt model?

My advice would be to first get a good quality portfolio and join model social networking sites to liase with photographers/models etc. Once you have established some good photos and reputation, you can apply to castings and agencies for work.

Q. What would you like to achieve in alt modelling in future?

I would like to be an alt model cover girl!!!! :D

Q. If you had one piece of advice to give people who want to become an alt model, what would it be?

The bottom line is *Just be yourself!* Things to be expected when planning/on a shoot. Be professional, have good time keeping and good communication. Being reliable gives good references which can be as important as good pictures. Word of mouth is a big aspect of the modelling industry so be polite, be unique and be remembered. Have good personal hygiene, make sure you have a good nights sleep prior and have a good attitude, even if you are a psychobilly bad ass!!! ;)

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