Carlotta Champagne | VIP Member | Verified Credits (65)
Model: Carlotta Champagne; Photographer: TH Taylor
Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?
I am from Florida, but am now based in Los Angeles, CA. I regularly travel for shoots around the United States.
Who or what inspired you to become a model?
I was an art student working in fashion design, and whenever I had a flaky model, or needed a piece photographed, I often ended up modeling it myself. While in school I posed for drawing classes and things of that nature as well, so the progression seemed pretty natural.
Model: Carlotta Champagne; Photographer: GEA IMAGES
How and when did you start modeling?
When I was 18 I did my first shoot posing for a friend for a college photo project. I didn’t become serious about modeling for another 4 years though.
What type of modeling do you enjoy most?
I love fashion. Most people assume I’m an art or glamour model exclusively, but my true love is clothing design, so I am thrilled when people want me to style and model in extravagant wardrobe pieces.
What do you look for when deciding to work with a photographer?
A good attitude! I am open to working with beginners to experts, but big egos need to be checked at the door.
Model: Carlotta Champagne; Photographer: AChuca
Which models or other artists currently inspire you?
Oh my goodness, there are so many great artists out there! Right now I’m on the biggest vintage Moschino kick. The styling of Fran Drecher in the Nanny and Edina from Absolutely Fabulous is taking over my closet and making me want to do really extravagant photoshoots. Leigh Bowery is my favorite in terms of challenging beauty norms while making amazing design, and as far as models to watch out for… there are SO many! I am loving Eva Luna, Lillias Right, Jessamyn Rose, and there are so many models-turned-photographers that are slaying! Check out Tiana Hunter, Shauntia, Theresa Manchester, Kay Jay… these girls are all so talented!
What would be your dream shoot?
I really don’t know… but it would probably involve a vintage Moschino suit and the Austin Power’s airplane.
Model: Carlotta Champagne; Photographer: Greg Daniels
How important is social media in your success?
I hate, hate, hate social media. However it is so important in modeling, and entertainment in general. So many agencies won’t even consider hiring someone unless they have a certain number of followers, because followers = advertising power. Start busting your butt on Instagram now because it will pay off later!
What else do you like to do outside of modeling?
Modeling has been my full time job for 11 years, however on the side I often do vintage clothing resale for fun. My friends often say I need to have my own “American Picker” type of show because I go into estate liquidations and find amazing one of a kind items.
What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?
In the words of Woody Allen, “80% of success is showing up.” Be professional and treat modeling as a job, not a hobby. Listen to your peers, reference check, and make friends in your field. This is not a career of competition, it should be a career filled with allies.
Model: Carlotta Champagne
Instagram: @carlottachampagne | Facebook: @carlottachampagnefans | Twitter: @thecarlotta