kittenwithfangs | VIP Member | Verified Credits (10)
Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?
I grew up on the West Coast and I’m based in Los Angeles, CA. I am an avid traveler and often travel for fun, but I’m not a full-time “traveling model.” That being said, I’m always happy to connect with other artists when I’m in a new city/country.
Who or what inspired you to become a model?
I remember wanting to be a model for my whole life.
How and when did you start modeling?
When I was twelve years old I would have agency scouts stop me in shopping malls, but my Mama wanted me to get an education and have a solid foundation before entering the industry. It wasn’t until I finished college that I started modeling professionally, and by then I was considered “too old” by many top agencies. I’ve forged my own path, accepting projects that I’m excited to be a part of and I’ve done everything from hair shows to runway, editorials, and commercial work.
What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?
I’ve found a great love for “nude in nature” type shoots and workshops. There’s something so rewarding about emoting and creating interesting shapes with the body out amongst the beauty of Mother Nature. I also do a lot of boudoir shoots and have been dabbling more in the erotic art world. I enjoy creating art that celebrates my sexuality in evocative and thought-provoking ways.
What do you look for when deciding to work with a photographer?
Respect and professionalism, always. Obviously, my sexuality is connected to my art and my naked form, but I appreciate when a photographer understands that it is mine to share in an artistic way and can help facilitate a safe and comfortable working environment for both of us.
Which models or other artists currently inspire you?
I’m currently geeking out about a lot of wonderful humans right now: Justin Rosenberg, a photographer who creates moody and emotive portraits and erotica on film. Kevin Mendez, a photographer who primarily uses golden hour light and does an excellent job of capturing the female form in a tastefully sexualized way.
Kayla Lauren, a model who is able to translate her boss bitch energy into every shot and in a single year has grown to over half a million followers on Instagram. Liberty Netuschil, a model who is body-positive and always promotes messages that empower others to follow their passions. HopelessSoFrantic, a model who balances erotic content and fine art with grace and makes time to help other models on their journey– as she helped me!
What would be your dream shoot?
Creating art out in an exotic location– be it a beach, ocean, desert, whatever– with a team of other artists who empower and inspire.
How important is social media in your success?
Vital! I’m trying to use my social media platforms in ways that help empower others as well as promote my artistry. I only recently started using social media in a professional way and it has been amazing the impact it’s had on my career! It’s the face we choose to show to the world and I carefully curate what I want to be perceived as beautiful, but with substance (and a whole lot of silliness).
What else do you like to do outside of modeling?
As I mentioned, I’m an avid traveler, more specifically, I’m a solo female backpacker. It’s a passion that is often met with stigma and judgment, but it’s the most liberating and empowering thing I’ve ever done for myself. I love to wake up in a foreign city and ask myself, “What do I want to do today?” No one else to answer to. No one else to dictate how I should be spending my time. I love the agency and empowerment of it (notice a common theme here?).
What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?
My advice would be to find your boundaries and your strengths and figure out what you want out of this career. I know so many girls who get into nude modeling for the money or the fame and end up just as unhappy as anyone working a 9-5 job they hate. Don’t be afraid to say “no.” Find out what excites you and what you really want to be doing, and then do it!
When I first moved to LA, I had all these ideas in my head about what I “should” and “shouldn’t” do regarding nudity and my image, but I’ve found so much joy and freedom in the line of work I’ve ended up in, even if it looks nothing like the plan I originally had in mind. But also, don’t compromise yourself. Five years ago I wasn’t ready to model nude– I didn’t love my body nor have the savviness to navigate the industry that I do now. Say yes to opportunities if they feel good to you, not because you feel obligated to, and never for the money. The money will come and go, but your self-worth is yours.
Check out kittenwithfangs’ Model Mayhem portfolio to see more of her work. You can also follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Patreon.