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Kafer1968 | VIP Member | Verified Credits (2)

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

I am not from anywhere particular. My father was in the military and my mother is German. I was born in Augsburg, Germany, and moved to the United States when I was a toddler. At the age of seven, I became a US Citizen and until the age of sixteen, I traveled back and forth from Germany to the United States to different duty stations.

I am currently based in Maricopa, Arizona, and I will travel for shoots.

Who or what inspired you to become a model?

In 2009 I did a photoshoot for my boyfriend who was being deployed to the Middle East. I had such a great time doing the photoshoot and realized that many of the large companies were lacking a more mature woman in their ads, so I decided to delve into the modeling arena. As I continued to do so it was evident that this was a way for me to express myself and attempt to make everyone realize that what is missing in the advertising industry was reality. No one wants to be almost 6-feet tall and weigh 100-pounds.

How and when did you start modeling?

I started modeling when I was 41 after doing the photoshoot as a gift to my boyfriend!

What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?

I thoroughly enjoy doing implied modeling. You are displaying zero nudity, but at the same time, you are displaying a wide arrange of emotion and artistic expression (if done correctly). I also enjoy doing any type of modeling that has you out in the environment. You can express so much if you utilize your surroundings accurately.

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

I look at the photographer’s work. You can see how talented they are and what their definition of beauty is. When a photographer reaches out to me, I ask them what their objective is. I also look to see that they are professional, punctual, and reliable.

Which models or other artists currently inspire you?

The one artist that inspires me is Tchalla Hawk. I have worked with him multiple times and his work is amazing! He makes me want to be the best!

What would be your dream shoot?

My dream shoot would be a project that shows the world you don’t have to be 20 and skinny as a rail. Just being real is powerful!

How important is social media in your success?

I believe that social media is an important key factor in your success.  Everyone is so focused on the number of followers you have but it would be so nice if the success would be more focused on your ability and work ethic.

What else do you like to do outside of modeling?

I love being active. I exercise and ride my bike daily. I enjoy fishing, hiking, dancing, learning new things, traveling, and being involved in my community.

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

The best career advice that I can give is always to listen to your gut! Be safe! Do your research and ask a lot of questions. When you go to shoots, always bring someone with you. There are so many photographers out there who just want to take pictures of nude women. If you are going to do a nude shoot, ask questions. I always ask what the objective is. Why are they taking the nude pictures. Look at the profile of the photographer. If their pictures look like they are an amateur, do you really want them to take nude pictures of you? Ask questions, know who you are going to work with, and ask yourself why are you going to do this shoot?

Check out Kafer1968’s Model Mayhem portfolio to see more of her work.