Model Q&A: Shannon Murphy
Shannon Murphy | VIP Member | Verified Credits (12)
Where are you from? Where are you based now and do you travel for shoots?
I moved around quite a bit growing up, but I live in New York City now. I was born in Illinois, then lived in Iowa and Texas before moving to NYC for college to study Musical Theatre at CAP21. I travel as much as I can. I love the opportunity to travel for shoots and to meet new people!
Who or what inspired you to become a model?
I’ve been acting since middle school and I love the arts. I have always been intrigued by photography and modeling. I love how a photograph tells a story. I love how the model’s expression and posture tells a story. I love how lighting tells a story. I love how multiple artists get to collaborate and tell a story together. That has always been something I wanted to be part of.
How and when did you start modeling?
After I graduated from college I saw a post on Facebook that was looking for a model. I decided to apply and the photographer decided to work with me. I instantly fell in love with modeling and collaborating. He then recommended Model Mayhem and the rest is history! It’s so exciting how in this current era we have all these tools to connect with other artists and create something phenomenal together! Every professional was once a beginner, so always just jump in.
What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?
My favorite thing about modeling is to tell a story. It is so exciting how each shoot has a different story to tell. I love portraits because you get to focus on the story your face tells, editorial shoots because you get to focus on the story your wardrobe tells, glamour because you get to focus on the story your makeup tells, lifestyle because you get to focus on the story your environment tells, and every genre because each one has a different story to tell.
What do you look for when deciding to work with a photographer?
When working with photographers, my favorite characteristic is passion! It’s an honor to work with photographers who are passionate about what they do and what they have in mind for the shoot. One of my favorite things about modeling is the opportunity to meet and work with new photographers during each shoot. It’s thrilling because they each have their own personal story as to how they got into photography and they each have their own distinct style. I have so much respect for photographers and I’m grateful I’ve gotten to work with so many talented artists.
Which models or other artists currently inspire you?
I love the direction art is taking currently. As a society, we truly value creativity and originality. It’s inspiring to see artists take a concept and make it their own. Every day I am inspired by artists I personally know, such as photographers, makeup artists, designers, and other models. I believe that supporting other creatives and lifting one another up is the best way for us all to grow and flourish.
What would be your dream shoot?
My dream shoot would be underwater! I’d be a mermaid with a million sparkles, tons of shimmery scales, and all bedazzled from head to fin! We’d travel the globe to find the most beautiful aqua blue water that has ever existed. I’d get to swim with all the fish in the sea. And, I’d get to live out my The Little Mermaid dream!
How important is social media in your success?
Social media has been the key to staying relevant, showcasing work, and meeting new creatives. I have been blessed to get a lot of opportunities because of social media. It’s crazy what the right hashtag can do! It’s been a learning experience as far as what’s the best way to navigate social media. It’s thrilling that a quick DM can connect you to another creative, and before you know it, you’re outside shooting in the streets of NYC!
What else do you like to do outside of modeling?
I love everything involving dogs, coffee, and cardio! I have done an athletic shoot, and a shoot with a cup of coffee, but I’m still waiting to do a shoot with dogs! So, please feel free to reach out if you want to shoot with some puppies anytime soon.
What’s the best career advice you can give to new models?
I think the most important qualities in order to achieve your dreams are your work ethic and kindness. People want to work with other kind people. It’s crazy what a loving and positive attitude can do to a room. Energy is contagious. One of my favorite things about life is that you don’t have to be the most talented, you just have to be the hardest worker. If you consistently give 200% every day and don’t give up you are on your way to making your dreams a reality. Spread kindness and hustle for happiness.
So, to all the other creatives out there, I’d love to connect with you on Model Mayhem and Instagram!
Check out Shannon Murphy’s Model Mayhem portfolio to see more of her work. You can also follow her on Instagram.
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May 21, 2022 at 10:52 am, George Manos said:
This is an excellent interview, hats off to you for such level-headed answers. A couple things really struck a chord with me:
– Your story-telling approach to image making. Same thing I try to do with my photographs. It’s a challenge. With some things there appears not to be much of a story to tell. Yet, most times, if you look hard enough, you’ll find one, particularly with people (meaning portraits). Spend enough time with a person, talk with them, take enough pictures, and you’ll find that person in one of them.
– That you have no tattoos. So rare these days, and (to me) so authentic.
– Your answers, which are extremely coherent and positive.
Really wish you the best.