Tuesday 14 August 2012

"Who's that model?" Interview with cover model Tristen @ M.I.M


photo Martin Rondeau

photo Brian Ypperciel


We've been getting a lot of amazing feedback and questions on our FALL 2012 cover, one question we keep hearing is "who is that model?". So, we thought we would sit down and find out a little bit more about the rising star Tristen from Models International Management in Ottawa.

You've only recently started modeling world and there seems to be a fair amount of buzz about you and your potential, how does that feel?:

After only being with Models International for about a year, I feel amazing with what I have accomplished so far! When I first got into modelling, I thought it would just be a hobby I do every now and then, but it has turned out for the better and I am constantly busy with jobs. It has been a very unexpected outcome, but I am very happy and grateful with what has happened so far.

What was the experience like shooting the cover for the one year anniversary issue? Can you tell the readers a bit about the process behind the make-up and hair?:

The shoot was pretty insane, as you can see from the picture. No one really told be about the concept of the shoot other than it was going to be elaborate, which it was indeed. I arrived in Montreal at 9am and right away we started on hair and make-up. The hair had many steps to help it stand up straight, which included me lying on the floor so the stylist could shape it! Then for make-up, I was painted completely black from my chest up which included inside my ears, lips, hands and everywhere else! It felt weird at some points but it was all worth it to get the amazing shot! In total, the hair and make-up took about 5 hours, then we shot for probably less than an hour. The whole experience was new, since it was my very first cover shoot but it was an amazing experience to work with the team that made it all come together. So even after a long day of hair, make-up and shooting, I still had tons of fun and can't wait to do more "elaborate" shoots!

What made you decide that you wanted to be a model?:
As I was growing up, I would always watch modelling shows like Canada's and America's Next Top Model, and I had always thought about starting but never actually did. Then as I got older, I became more interested in the fashion industry, and all of my family and friends encouraged me to get into the modelling business. So after looking into several different agencies in Ottawa, I finally met with Sophie from Models International and since then she has supported me so much and I have been loving every moment of the work I have been doing.


What is your favourite aspect of the modeling business?:
My favourite part so far would have to be participating in fashion shows. They are so much fun! Walking down the runway while everyone stares at you! I was a bit nervous my first few shows, but once you get up there, all of the nerves go away and it is an amazing feeling and just a lot of fun! I do really enjoy photo shoots too, but runway shows are much more interactive, with the crowd and lots of cameras at the end of the runway.

What do you hope to accomplish in your career?:
Throughout my modelling career, I really hope to travel to a lot of places like Paris, Milan, New York, Tokyo, and all of the major fashion cities. I have never really traveled so I hope modelling will give me that opportunity. I also hope to accomplish my goal of being in some of the big fashion magazines around the world.

Best piece of advice to give to a new model starting out or is unsure about getting into the business?:

Modelling can really help your self confidence and teach you about all different new techniques to apply to your everyday life. Before I started, I had no clue how to dress fashionably or do my hair and make-up, but once I started I improved a lot, which gave me more confidence to succeed in this business, and other parts of my life. If you do want to get involved in modelling and want to make it a potential career, you just have to practice practice practice! Posing and walking may seem easy but it takes a person to know what they are doing to succeed. Which is why you must practice poses and walking in front of a mirror at home. I still pose in front of a mirror at home, as do most top models!