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EllyS | VIP Member | Verified Credits (3)

Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?

I was born in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and raised in Staten Island, New York. I am currently Texan, based in Houston, but travel often between Texas, New York, and Illinois.

Who or what inspired you to become a model?

My mother planted the seed that inspired my modeling interest when she enrolled me in pageants through my teen years. I was a part of Super Model New York and acquired many talents that I implement at work to this day.

How and when did you start modeling?

I started modeling when the Selena lookalike search began in preparation for the Selena movie. I was very young then, but it was overwhelming how many people would stop my mother and me to say I resembled the very talented deceased artist and that I should pursue modeling. (To think, Jennifer Lopez stole my thunder!)

What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?

I have been fortunate to work as a fit model, which I enjoyed. It felt as though I had this huge walk-in closet and got to play dress up. Print work has been very fulfilling for me as it allows me the freedom to project how the attires make me feel into an image all can enjoy. I love role-playing in my mind and freezing as the camera clicks away. My most enjoyable modeling experience, by far, is runway! Although these legs are made for walking I find myself at disadvantage being 5’7″, but that has never stopped me from doing “my little turn on the catwalk.” The spotlight was made for me and the feedback from the crowd is priceless.

What do you look for when deciding to work with a photographer?

I like to work with photographers that reflect a unique edge in their portfolio. I enjoy working the most with photographers that bring together a designer/theme idea, makeup artist and hairstylist. I’ll provide the poses while she/he works the angles.

Which models or other artists currently inspire you?

I find it easy to be inspired these days. Social media has provided an endless array of models and artists to serve as an example of which route to take and/or avoid. If I had to choose, I would say the style of Sex and the City character, Carrie Bradshaw, best describes my inspiration.

What would be your dream shoot?

My dream shoot would be something like a 90’s ad. Just classic!

How important is social media in your success?

Believe it or not, social media has not been a tool I utilize for my success. I am more of a people-to-people person and I was fortunate to get my foot through the door before the rise of social media. Of course, Model Mayhem has been the only exception; as I proudly display my most current work for my MM family to enjoy.

What else do you like to do outside of modeling?

I am a mother of two brilliant young ladies and outside of modeling, I enjoy life with them.

What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?

The best advice I can offer an aspiring model is the same advice I would offer anyone wanting to successes at anything in life; do your due diligence- take classes, watch others, ask questions and mold it all together into your own original craft. Let it take flight and best of luck!

Check out EllyS’ Model Mayhem portfolio to see more of her work.