There's for sure a lot of girls like to become a model and don't dare to do the decisive step. Find some interesting statements in our interview with curvy model Kealey Pennell from Sydney, Australia:
Kealey, please tell us a little bit about yourself to begin with. How old are you, Where were you born and where do you live now, What is your profession and do you have other besides modelling?
I'm 18 years old and I was born in Sydney, Australia. I still currently live in Sydney, where I study a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Notre Dame Australia. I'm in my first year and I study part time, so I have time to model and part time work. Besides modelling I work part-time as a Medical Receptionist in a busy medical centre.
photos are inter alia of debsjphotography
Could you share with us how you first became interested in modelling?
With my 6 foot height, many people would always mention that I should be a model, but I never really thought much of it, especially because when I was younger many of the models I saw didn't have the same body as me. I was a very active and fit as a child, I still am and the way my body is built, I was never going to be a size 8, and I embrace that. As I grew up, I began to look up to models such as Robyn Lawley, Laura Wells, Tia Provost and Stefania who became role models for me. I was approached at age 17, at my gym by the owner of a local company Zlata Moda, to participate in some modelling for her brand of silk dresses. The photographer from the shoot mentioned an agency that I should look into called Bella Management, the day after the shoot I got into contact with Bella and I was signed soon after that!
I'm 18 years old and I was born in Sydney, Australia. I still currently live in Sydney, where I study a Bachelor of Nursing at the University of Notre Dame Australia. I'm in my first year and I study part time, so I have time to model and part time work. Besides modelling I work part-time as a Medical Receptionist in a busy medical centre.
photos are inter alia of debsjphotography
Could you share with us how you first became interested in modelling?
With my 6 foot height, many people would always mention that I should be a model, but I never really thought much of it, especially because when I was younger many of the models I saw didn't have the same body as me. I was a very active and fit as a child, I still am and the way my body is built, I was never going to be a size 8, and I embrace that. As I grew up, I began to look up to models such as Robyn Lawley, Laura Wells, Tia Provost and Stefania who became role models for me. I was approached at age 17, at my gym by the owner of a local company Zlata Moda, to participate in some modelling for her brand of silk dresses. The photographer from the shoot mentioned an agency that I should look into called Bella Management, the day after the shoot I got into contact with Bella and I was signed soon after that!
What would you say characterises your work in comparison to other models?
I'm happy to be representing the every day woman through my work, I previously did a Yay For Every Body Campaign for Target, where I was so excited to be involved in a body positive movement, for every body shape, of every age. I think its really important to promote a healthy body image for young women and men, to be happy with who you are and how you are.
What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in modelling?
I have learnt to be comfortable and confident with my body, and to accept myself for who I am. Not every one is made to fit the same mould, and thats ok. How boring would it be if we were all the same! Diversity in modelling is definitely making a change for the better and I am so glad to be a part of that.
What kind of jobs have you done as a model, e.g. catwalk, outdoor shootings, fashion weeks, hostess?
As a model I have done editorial shoots for Cosmopolitan Australia, commercial shoots for Big W Australia and local shoots with designers. My most recent and major job was the Target Australia Yay For Every Body Campaign, where I was flown to Melbourne for two days of shooting, it was an amazing experience.
Among your works, which is your favourite photo and why?
Out of all of my works, my favourite would have to be the Target Australia Yay For Every Body Campaign. I just had such an amazing time shooting with the most lovely people, and we were together promoting health body image which just made it even better.
Tell us your funniest or most awkward modelling story.
Oh gosh! On my very first shoot, I was shooting for Cosmopolitan Australia and I had been sitting for a while in hair and makeup and I had gotten up really quickly to get changed. On my way walking onto set I tripped on a cord and face planted in front of everyone! I'll be happy to forget that happened!
I'm happy to be representing the every day woman through my work, I previously did a Yay For Every Body Campaign for Target, where I was so excited to be involved in a body positive movement, for every body shape, of every age. I think its really important to promote a healthy body image for young women and men, to be happy with who you are and how you are.
What are some of the most important lessons you have learned in modelling?
I have learnt to be comfortable and confident with my body, and to accept myself for who I am. Not every one is made to fit the same mould, and thats ok. How boring would it be if we were all the same! Diversity in modelling is definitely making a change for the better and I am so glad to be a part of that.
What kind of jobs have you done as a model, e.g. catwalk, outdoor shootings, fashion weeks, hostess?
As a model I have done editorial shoots for Cosmopolitan Australia, commercial shoots for Big W Australia and local shoots with designers. My most recent and major job was the Target Australia Yay For Every Body Campaign, where I was flown to Melbourne for two days of shooting, it was an amazing experience.
Among your works, which is your favourite photo and why?
Out of all of my works, my favourite would have to be the Target Australia Yay For Every Body Campaign. I just had such an amazing time shooting with the most lovely people, and we were together promoting health body image which just made it even better.
Tell us your funniest or most awkward modelling story.
Oh gosh! On my very first shoot, I was shooting for Cosmopolitan Australia and I had been sitting for a while in hair and makeup and I had gotten up really quickly to get changed. On my way walking onto set I tripped on a cord and face planted in front of everyone! I'll be happy to forget that happened!
What kind of fashion do you like most?
My style varies a lot, I enjoy comfort so that is always at the front of my mind. On a casual day I enjoy jeans and converse, but I am a sucker for 90's fashion, grunge and glamour, I would say they are my favourites.
What would you tell a newcomer who asks for your advice on how to start?
For any newcomer, the best advice I could give would be don't change yourself. There is always a client that you will suit, I might not be the model one client wants, but could be the perfect model for another! Be self-confident, resilient and willing to learn, and you will go so far!
My style varies a lot, I enjoy comfort so that is always at the front of my mind. On a casual day I enjoy jeans and converse, but I am a sucker for 90's fashion, grunge and glamour, I would say they are my favourites.
What would you tell a newcomer who asks for your advice on how to start?
For any newcomer, the best advice I could give would be don't change yourself. There is always a client that you will suit, I might not be the model one client wants, but could be the perfect model for another! Be self-confident, resilient and willing to learn, and you will go so far!