Elle Est ... Vraie Beauté
photography | Aritus Pictures & JStyle Photography Studios
model | Ashley Marie Tower
words | Sherry Johnson
How did you get involved in Modeling?
I never thought I would want to model until I was offered an opportunity to model for some CD covers. After talking about it more I became very interested and excited to try it. Sadly, the whole thing fell through for unrelated reasons and my contact had to unexpectedly move to China. He was my only connection to that modeling job and I could no longer reach him. I knew I might never get an opportunity like that again, so I began to research how to get into print modeling and pursue it on my own.
How long have you been a model?
I’ve been modeling for 4 years, although I had to take a break in between for school. I started my portfolio by getting my boyfriend to take some really good shots of me with a few different outfits and creating a Model Mayhem account to post them on. Everything started to come together from there. I had many photographers contact me for TFP shoots, so I spent some time working with different ones, building my portfolio, and becoming involved with modeling events.
How many shoots have you done so far?
I’ve done countless shoots. I like to take advantage of as many opportunities as I can.
Are you working on any current projects?
Yes, I currently have a few concept shoots in the works.
What kind of shoots have you done so far throughout your career?
So far I have done print and fashion/runway modeling. I am satisfied with what I have accomplished so far, but I do have much bigger goals that I am still working towards!
Tell me about an area in which you would like to improve as a model?
What I would like to improve most as a model are my facial expressions. Sometimes I feel like I am giving the look that I want, but it doesn’t look quite right when I see the picture! I want to be able to get it right 100% of the time.
What has been your favorite photo shoot?
My favorite photo shoot is actually my first shoot with Jim McCulloch (JMac Photography). We shot outdoors in Ybor and it was a blast. I ended up with an audience for one portion of it since a very boisterous lady came up to us and started bringing all sorts of attention to the shoot, shouting things like “You go girl!” and “Work it!” Let me tell you, it was not easy keeping a straight face with her making me laugh as much as I did! But, that’s what I love about it so much. We managed to get some really awesome shots, Jim taught me some very useful tips, and we had a great time doing it. My boyfriend, Jesse, even got to shoot some fun behind the scenes stuff which I always love to see.
What are your strong points as a model?
My strongest points in modeling are the ability to follow direction well, understanding how certain angles and poses will look on camera, and having fun with every shoot and show.
Do you think that you have matured as a model?
Yes, I would say that I have. I’ve learned many techniques and tips that have helped me grow and improve as a model.
What has been your biggest achievement in the field of modeling?
My biggest achievement so far has been to walk in some really awesome fashion shows. I never thought I could do runway, but I also know that I should never say I can’t do something until I’ve tried and failed again and again…LOL!
Give me a few tips to becoming successful in modeling?
Some rules I follow:
We all know you need to eat healthy, but keep your meals balanced. Don’t cut out everything you love from your diet, but make sure you watch your portions and what you’re eating. Moderation is key.
Exercise is a given, but be consistent. I’ve made the mistake of taking a few weeks off from my gym routine and all of a sudden I couldn’t fit in some outfits I was given to try on at a shoot…You can’t be perfect all the time, but if you are trying to do fashion and runway modeling, you can’t just take a break and expect to continue modeling your same fit and fabulous look while you put your health and fitness routine on hold…unless you are really lucky and are just blessed with some amazing genes!
Be enthusiastic, focused and pleasant to work with. No one wants to work with an un-interested or rude model! Everyone involved in a modeling gig is investing their time and often times money, so you always want to take the job seriously and not be absorbed in your social media or texting while someone is trying to announce important information or work with you.
Show up early to casting calls, events, shoots, etc. You never know what kind of delays you will run into once you get there (or on the way), and it looks much better on your part to be there when it starts instead of rushing in last minute.
I always say success comes from doing what you love. To be a successful model, you need to do many things, but always remember to enjoy the journey.
Who is your favorite model actor?
Tyra Banks, along with a few others! It’s tough to pick a favorite, but Tyra is my inspiration for pursuing my modeling career. Her constant positive and encouraging attitude was what gave me the confidence to go for it. Not to mention, she is absolutely gorgeous!
Where can the readers follow your career?
Instagram: www.instagram.com/ashleymtower
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashleymtower
Website: www.ashleymariemodeling.com
We would like to take the opportunity to thank model Ashley Marie for this exclusive interview and don't forget to follow her career and catch her as a Prolific Quarterly Brand Ambassador. -PQ
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