Fox of the Week [12/30] Chrystiana Carter

Chrystiana Carter is a model from Atlanta. She has been featured on I Dream of Dollhouse, a DJ Smoke radio mixtape, among others. She discusses, the rush and nerves of modeling, models she admires, and her goals in the business.

How did you get started modeling?

I started modeling in 2005, I went to an E’Lon Cosmetics fashion show casting just to see what it would be like and ended up being asked to do the show. The adrenaline rush I got from being on the runway made me want to do it more. I’ve been modeling ever since.

Describe how you felt at your first photoshoot?

My first photo shoot I was nervous, and I still get nervous at EVERY photo shoot. I know what I WANT to look like in my pictures but ensuring that I come off that way makes me nervous. I’ve only been doing print work since the beginning of 09 so I still have a lot to learn.

What would you say is your best feature?

My best feature is probably my smile. [laughs] You don’t get to see it often in my pictures but I have a Kool-Aid smile. I’ve been told my eyes have an effect about them but I don’t see it. [laughs]

What is your ideal photoshoot location? Why?

I don’t have an ideal location. I love to shoot in different places, and as long as we can have fun on set while being professional that is all that matters to me.

Who are some models you admire?

I admire Heidi Klum because she knows how to work a runway but she has the girl next door personality, which a lot of models do not possess. I also admire Vanessa Veasley (Show Magazine editor) she has done a lot of different types of modeling but is most known for her Urban Glamour. I admire her because she can model and she knows how to handle the business side to modeling. I think sometimes as models people forget that the more you know about the “industry” the more beneficial it will be for your own personal growth.

What is the most rewarding part of modeling?

The most rewarding part has to be when people ask you how you got started and do you have any advice for them. There is no real point in being in the “spotlight” if you don’t plan on using it to help others. Whether it be with modeling or just talking with them to lead them to their own passion. Sometimes people just need encouragement from others.

What is one goal you hope to accomplish?

One goal I would like to accomplish…..My long term goal is to own a modeling agency. I love to use my experiences to help other models. Modeling is fun but there is an education behind it and I think we overlook that at times. Anything you want to do with your life you have to invest time and money into it.

Follow Chrystiana on Twitter.

Fox of the Week [8/27]: Asia Mone't

Asia Mone't is a model from New York. She has been featured on The Today Show [12 June 2009], Glamour Magazine [July 2009] and is the host of X-TV in New York.

How did you get started modeling?

My interest for modeling was sparked when I participated in a runway show while attending college at SUNY Albany. I was one of the first Plus Size models to be in the show. After I graduated I began to pursue a career in modeling landing my first commercial print job with Electric Lingerie.

What would you say is the hardest thing about modeling? What is the most rewarding?

I believe the hardest thing about modeling is fulfilling your vision when others say no. This industry is full of rejection, but you have to stay focused on your goals and the vision you have for your career. The most rewarding aspect of modeling for me is being an inspiration for other women, encouraging them embrace their beauty at any size.

You have some pretty impressive credits on your resume. What accomplishment in your career (so far) is the most meaningful to you? Why?

It is so hard for me to choose one accomplishment that is the most meaningful to me because everything I have accomplished has taken very hard work on my behalf. But lately I have been very happy that I appear in a commercial that is airing in Japan for a TV network called BeeTv. I was very proud because I played a voluptuous woman in the window that was spotted by some young admirers. Anytime I am involved in a project that doesn't traditional include Plus Size Models or put them in a more desirable light, it is another victory for my cause.

What advice would you give a woman who wants to start modeling?

The number one advice I would give to an aspiring model is to treat modeling like any other business. I think people lose sight of the fact that this is a business due to all the glitz and glam. Do your research before investing your time and money in anything. And networking is always key.

Who are some models you admire?

I admire models that make their image into a business empire such as Tyra Banks, Heidi Klum and Gisele Bundchen.

What is one goal you want to accomplish in your career?

One goal I would like to accomplish is landing on a major campaign.