Interview with Cover Model Joey Grant Luther

Interview with Cover Model Joey Grant Luther

TRC: Hi Joey and welcome to The Reading Cafe.

 We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Joey on Instagram / Facebook

JGL: I’m originally from Virginia. But have spent more than half of my life in NYC, so I think that qualifies me as a ‘New Yorker’ now. I have been a model for over two decades and am currently represented by Wilhelmina Models, Im a licensed wildlife rehabiltator, and a vegan, and I love pigeons and my motorcycle!

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

JGL: I was shy and reserved as an only child, but dreamed about being a singer- but the idea also terrified me.

TRC: Would you please tell us about your experience as a ‘wildlife rehabilitator’?

JGL: I found a small bird one day on a NYC sidewalk and became determined to save his life. I called around and found a lady, Rita McMahon, that saw injured birds at a veterinary hospital here in NYC. After finding several injured birds over the next few months, I began volunteering with her and interested in becoming a wildlife rehabilitator. A couple years later I became a NYS Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator. She opened a wildlife center (wildbirdfund.org) about eight years ago, and I have been a volunteer rehabilitator there for most of the last eight years. Working with wildlife (mostly birds) has given me a much deeper respect for all animals and inspired me to become vegan.

TRC: What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

JGL: I was on tour in Germany doing ‘Carmen-A Rock Opera’ and it was tough- traveling every day on a bus and performing for three hours a night for six months. When the tour ended in Munich I got a modeling agency there and started to work. The pay for a day of modeling was about what I received for a month of being on tour. It wasn’t a tough decision to switch careers at that point. I worked in Munich, Madrid, Athens, then came back to New York and signed with an agency here and have been very fortunate as a working model for over two decades.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

JGL: I can’t say that I have had any terrible experiences, Ive been very lucky. I have shown up for work and the client decided they didn’t like me once or twice and they didn’t use me. But thats the great thing about being represented by a good agency- once you are booked for a job, you get paid whether they use you or not.

TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors /body builders just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

JGL: Most photographers have extensive websites and social media so you can tell the type of nude photography they are shooting before you say yes to a shoot. If you are uncomfortable doing something, don’t do it. There are so many respectful photographers out there that are willing so shoot a beautiful body in a respectful artistic way. If a situation ever goes from ‘artistic’ to ‘sexual’, just walk out!!!

TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

JGL: You have to look as modeling as a job, not as an ego booster. Like any job, it can be stressful at times and rejection in inevitable. When work is good, I think of it as doing my job well. For me, a daily workout and meditation relieve most of the stress in my life. Volunteering is also a great way to take my mind away from the stress I do have in my life.

TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

JGL: Sex and romance are a beautiful part of life, I think thats why people enjoy reading about it. Who doesn’t want to feel sexy and be in love? As a cover model, we just have to be comfortable with the picture thats being taken.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

JGL: Yes, of course, at least with the romance novel industry. We have been so conditioned to ‘judge a book by its cover’, that usually the picture or the title is what sparks the reader to pick it up. I know Im guilty of this. I also rely on reviews, and am very loyal to authors. Even in other genres I find myself reading all of the novels by an author I like. Then I’ll look for another enticing ‘cover’ to pick up.

TRC: Do you remember the first romance/novel cover on which you appeared? Do you have a favorite?

JGL: I don’t remember the first cover I did but my mother might. She has boxes of them. There was a time in my early career that I was shooting five or six covers a week. I’ve included some of those pictures.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

JGL: I don’t know the exact number but if I had to guess, Id say its well over 200.

TRC: What do you do to relax?

JGL: I LOVE riding my motorcycle, I enjoy playing the piano (I have a piano teacher) and learning new music, I meditate daily, I read, and I have a great circle of friends that I spend a lot of time with, I travel often, and I love the beach!

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

JGL: To be a better piano player, meditate daily and see India, and build a successful skin care business.

TRC: What is something that few people know about you?

JGL: Most people don’t know that I moved to NY to be a singer and worked as a singer for the first four years I was here.

TRC: Who or what are your inspirations?

JGL: My personal aspirations a pretty simple- to just be content with who I am and find gratitude every day for the things in my life, and more beach time. Professionally, Im starting a mens skin care line that I hope to have off the ground by the end of the year.

TRC: What type of music do you listen to? What songs are on your current playlist?

JGL: Ludovico Einaudi, Diana Krall, Dua Lipa, Emeli Sande, Kenny Chesney. As you can see, I enjoy most genres of music.

TRC: On what on your currently working?

JGL: Modeling- Im booked for a catalog over the next few weeks (a regular client). As I mentioned before, Im starting a mens skin care line. Ive tried to take great care of my skin and my body throughout my career, so helping other guys do the same seemed like a natural next step.

 

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Impossible Burger (its vegan and the closest thing I can get to the real thing)

Favorite Dessert: Ben and Jerrys non-dairy Cherry Garcia

Favorite Movie: All time favorite has to be Lion King

Favorite TV Show: All time- Breaking Bad and The Good Wife – Im fascinated by our legal system, Currently- Wild Wild Country

Last Movie that you saw: Jurassic Park: Fallen Kingdom

Secret Celebrity Crush: Every character in Zootopia

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Dark chocolate (the vegan answer)

Do you have any pets? I had a rescued pit bull, Bebe, that passed away a year ago, and a bird named Nacho that passed away last month, so currently have an empty nest, but Im sure that won’t last long.

Pet Peeve: People that don’t respect pigeons.

TRC: Thank you Joey for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

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An Interview with Fitness and Cover Model Mike Chabot at The Reading Cafe

An Interview with Fitness and Cover Model Mike Chabot at The Reading Cafe

Mike Chabot 5TRC: Hi Mike and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Mike : Instagram / Facebook-Mike Chabot Fitness / Facebook-Mike Chabot Model

Mike: I’m a 26 years old fitness model and personal trainer who devotes his life in helping others get the mindset and physique they always dreamt of. Since I can remember, I’ve always done a lot of sports; it’s always been a big part of my life. Soccer has been my main sport. I played for about 10 years and nowadays I prefer playing tennis. I’m a very competitive person. At the age of 16, I discovered at first fitness and strong man competitions. I was intrigued to know how those people could achieved such a perfect physique conditions so I started training on my own.

I always have been the kid who aspired for more in life. I definitely wanted to make a lot of money to achieve freedom. While I was studying finance and administration in college, I started a window washing company that allowed me to know that I wanted to be self-employed. After 3 year in college, I decided to drop out since I knew it wasn’t for me. I also closed my company because I realized I wasn’t happy doing something that wasn’t my passion.

Back in 2011, I was involved in a motorcycle accident that forced me to stop training for 6 month and 3 years later I still have some pain and limitations. While I was recovering from this accident, I started being interested in personal development and the ways to reach happiness. Since fitness was my passion and I wanted to be in contact with people, it just made me even more motivated to become a fitness model and personal coach. My message was clear: Training is not only about having the best shape of your life. It’s also having a strong mindset that will help you become a better person and focus on your goals.

Mike Chabot 1

Now on top of being a trainer, I am an international fitness model. I did photoshoot with clothing brand such as PUMP, Fitness revolution and more. I’m also a book cover model which and at the moment I did around 130 covers most of them are New York Times Best Seller. My goals for the future is to partnership and model for luxury brand such as Hugo Boss, Nike or other big name.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Mike: I wanna invest in technologies, learn more and build an empire in multiple niche

TRC: What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

Mike Chabot duo

Mike: Well I always been interested into modeling but not conventionnal run way more like billboard or magazine and commercial so as soon as I was *famous* enough to be a public figure I started.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Mike: Not really but yes sometimes it can be a waste of time or disorganized.

Mike Chabot 6TRC:  Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors /body builders just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Mike: I would tell them no never do any nude picture, you can play on the edge to tease but don’t go full nude. Even ass picture I suggest you keep it for a big role or big brand if needed.

Mike Chabot trio 1TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Mike: I’m not a person who has a lot of stress so I’m always good with it. I always trust the process even if I had bad decision or money problem back them. Its part of the game either you are ready to risk or you don’t play

TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Mike Chabot duo4

Mike: Well if thats what they want I am fine with it, the life in general is more sexual than ever so why not. Sexuality is a good thing and being open about it is fine by me.

TRC: Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Mike: Of course it does since it will give you a visual of the character you will fantasize on.

Mike Chabot 3TRC: Do you remember the first romance cover on which you appeared? Do you have a favorite?

Mike: I do have a few covers I prefer and yes I remember the first few covers I sold, damn its been a while.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

Mike: Around 160-170 so far but they aren’t all published yet

TRC: What do you do to relax?

Mike: Watch tv series or movies, read or chill with my dog or friends

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Invest in Bitcoin and help others

Master the foreign exchange

Build my personal brand to a whole new level

Play in a tv series and a movie

Travel the world and find the right person to build everything with me.

Mike Chabot 4TRC: What is something that few people know about you?

Mike: I have some OCD and I’m a gamer (love all the super heroes stuff and pc gaming)

TRC: Who or what are your inspirations?

Mike: I really love The Rock, Gary Vee, Richard brandsom, tony robbins and a few other people.

TRC: What type of music do you listen to? What songs are on your current playlist?

Mike: It always depends on my mood I love all music

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Mike: My mobile application ‘Mike Chabot’ to help even more people with the fitness lifestyle and learning BTC and FOREX

Mike Chabot duo 3

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Mike: Be happy and be patient life is a marathon not a sprint so don’t try to cheat the process

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: sushi and burgers

Favorite Dessert: Now that I am lactose intolerant there are not a lot of desserts I can eat but it used to be cheesecake and chocolate cake

Favorite Movie: there are so many lol

Favorite TV Show: Suits and Game of Thrones

Last Movie that you saw: Kingsmen, The Golden Circle (wasn’t really impressed)

Secret Celebrity Crush: Celebrity I don’t really have; Instagram model I really like is Anllela Sagra

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Used to be milk but I can’t anymore

Do you have any pets? An English bulldog named Boum Boum

Pet Peeve: I can be impatient or impulsive haha

TRC: Thank you Mike for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We look forward to seeing many more covers.

Mike Chabot duo 6

 

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Interview with Cover Model & DJ Mitchell Wick

Interview with Cover Model & DJ Mitchell Wick

TRC:  Hi Mitchell and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Mitchell: Facebook / Instgram / Twitter / Website

Mitchell Wick 12Mitchell:  Hey I’m Mitchell Wick, born in Sydney, Australia. I’m the youngest of three, with two older sisters and  a very close family which are everything to me. Enjoy getting outdoors and keeping fit, when I’m not doing that I’m working on my music 🙂

TRC:  What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Mitchell:  Wanted to be a professional footballer (soccer) 

TRC:  What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

Mitchell:  I was approached at a music festival in Miami, USA. At the time I was over working at my current job (telecommunications technician) so decided to take the risk and give it a go! Best decision of my life to date haha 🙂

Mitchell Wick Trio


TRC:  Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Mitchell:  Wouldn’t say completely wrong but Ive had some rough days that’s for sure, one especially in Colombia when not one person in the crew could speak English which made for a very difficult long day of shooting!


TRC:  Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial.  Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Mitchell Wick Leslie McAdam duo

Mitchell:  Nudity is part of life and if shot properly is beautiful, but if its not then it can be the total opposite and you don’t want to be apart of that! You have to be smart about who you are going to shoot nude with and really trust that photographers vision and have a good relationship with them beforehand to make sure you are both comfortable. Also make sure you know what the images are going to be used for exactly and the mood of the shoot before you commit to anything!


TRC:  The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful.  What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Mitchell:  Escape to a place I know I can forget about everything like going surfing or hiking, these are the best ways for me to clear my mind, relieve stress and just enjoy nature without worrying about a thing!

TRC:  At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance story line has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Mitchell Wick Kim Karr covers

Mitchell:  As I’ve been on multiple romance covers now its obviously great for me as its work, but on top of that I really enjoy seeing my image on the cover of these books and the buzz it creates!

TRC:  Do you believe the cover image plays a deciding factor for many readers in the process of selecting a book or new series to read?

Mitchell:  For sure, I believe a appealing cover plays a huge part of a successful book. Who wants to pick up and read something thats not visually appealing to the reader? Especially for a romance novel!

TRC:  Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

Mitchell:  I believe around 7-8

TRC:  Do you remember the first romance cover on which you appeared? Do you have a favorite?

Mitchell Wicke Cover 4Mitchell:  I do, my first cover was for Leslie McAdams – Stars in the sky, she was amazing and got me involved with the community 🙂


TRC:  Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Mitchell:  Surf, hike, listen to music and hang with friends.

TRC:  What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Mitchell:  Greater success in modelling/DJing, start a family & settle down in one place 🙂


TRC:  What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Mitchell:  I can’t give that away then everyone will know right? ….. but I sleep kinda weird with my arms tucked up at times…. you have to see it to believe haha it’s a little odd 🙂


TRC:  What do you believe is the biggest misconception about modeling ?

Mitchell Wick duo 2

Mitchell:  Easy work and high paying, its not true at all! Its a hustle and very testing at times but I love what I do and will continue to keep pushing myself to achieve more in the industry!

TRC:  What type of music do you listen to? What songs are on your playlist today?

Mitchell:  House & techno mostly, that’s what I mix when DJing 🙂

TRC:  On what on your currently working?

Mitchell:  DJing tour 🙂

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Seafood

Favorite Dessert: Frozen Yoghurt

Favorite Movie: Shawshank Redemption

Favorite TV Show: Game Of Thrones

Last Movie that you saw: Wind River

Dark or Milk Chocolate: Milk

Do you have any pets? No, I travel too much 🙁

Pet Peeve: Greed

TRC:  Thank you Mitchell for taking the time to answer our questions.Congratulations on all of your success and the amazing cover images. We wish you all the best and many more covers !!

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Interview with Photographer and Cover Model Danilo Andjus

Interview with Photographer and Cover Model Danilo Andjus

TRC: Hi Danilo and welcome to The Reading Café.

Danilo Andjus 4Danilo: Good afternoon to the Reading cafe and all the readers, thanks for the invitation to do the interview. Hope my answers won’t be too boring 🙂

TRC: We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Danilo: Facebook / Website-Andjus Images / Instagram

Danilo: My name is Danilo Andjus, I’m 25 years old and I am from Belgrade, Serbia, which you could say is my base, but because of my work I am mostly traveling around the world.

My main focus is on lifestyle photography for the istock by gettyimages company, but I’m still doing direct bookings in modeling which was my main job until about 3-4 years ago when I was traveling around and working for many different agencies around the globe. I can say I lead a very dynamic life filled with many adventures combining work and pleasure.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Danilo Andjus covers

Danilo: Well I think, like most people, as a kid my dreams changed from day to day. :D:D But the first thing that comes to my mind was the dream of becoming a professional football player when I was about 7-8 years old, a dream I pursued until I was 17-18 years old. I suffered an injury than, and had to stop playing (professionally).

TRC: When not modeling what is your ‘day job’?

Danilo: My day job and everyday job is as a photographer

TRC: What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

Danilo Andjus 3Danilo: To be honest I didn’t know much about modeling, and most of what I knew was basic stereotypical stuff that usually people who don’t know much think about modeling. I started modeling in a very spontaneous way, it was exactly in the period after I suffered that injury and couldn’t play football anymore. One day I was chilling with my cousin and she had to take some keys to her neighbors so I went with her to keep her company. Her neighbor turned out to be a famous and respected fashion stylist and designer. He saw a potential in me and started asking questions. In the beginning I was not so interested but after some encouragement from my friends and family I went with the flow and this stylist connected me with some agencies in my city which then after just a few days offered me contracts to go work around the world. Starting with China which I think is the main place for most of the ‘’modeling beginners’’, I began the journey of modeling. The rest is history hahah .

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Danilo Andjus grouping

Danilo: Well I think the one that definitely went wrong was when I was doing a shoot in Milan, and Milan is known to be full of very (really very) skinny models, but I was at the time, lets say, a bit ‘’stronger’’. I was already booked for this job where the client really liked me and while I was getting ready for the shoot, putting on clothes, the client was explaining to be careful with the clothes because they were very expensive and how even the buttons were special. In that exact moment, the button on the pants I was trying to fit in and were much smaller then my size, just popped out – BOOM – and hit the client in the head as my pants dropped. I was thinking in my head – Hmm okay Danilo, one job less, and maybe few burgers less next time, no stress. 😀

TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors /body builders just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Danilo Andjus CoverDanilo: From my point of view I never had any ‘’dirty offers’’ for shootings, but it can happen that you are asked to shoot a campaign for some underwear that is maybe too transparent or too erotic, so my advise is, as I do it too, always ask for pictures of the clothes before the job so you can check for yourself whats it about. I did many underwear campaigns and I really never had any major problem.

Once, in Shanghai, China, my agent told me I was booked to shoot a campaign for pyjamas and I had to fly to another city for the job. Once I arrived, while I was waiting in the studio, I was looking at the clothes and saw some G-string underwear hanging there, so I told the stylist sorry but this will obviously take too long because I only see girls underwear here, which means the clothes I need to shoot didn’t even arrive yet. And he just answered: off course they arrived, it’s these ones and showed me the G-strings hanging there. 😀 😀

I was very pissed for the miscommunication between my agency and the client and in just one hour I was back on the plane to Shangai, since I, naturally, didn’t shoot the g-strings hahah

Danilo Andjsu 9TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Danilo: Well I don’t think modeling specifically exposes you to many people.

Everyday life exposes you to many people. Its about how much each one of us wants to be exposed or not.

And the stress is very often there but mostly not because of people, but because of 5am call times for shootings, shootings for winter jackets on 40 degrees on some tropical island. Or the opposite: shooting swimwear on 10 degrees in the sea, flying every day to a different town, living out of your own suitcase and planes, and many other things.

TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Danilo Andjus Cover 2Danilo: I can see that in the past years the popularity grew very fast, but to be honest except me being on many covers I don’t have connections to any romance books nor I read them.
I read comic books,sci-fi and crime books 😀

TRC: What do you do to prepare yourself for a shoot?

Danilo: If you mean in the way of training what I do, i do not go to the gym (a lot). My main thing to keep in shape is that I play sports 5 times a week, football and basketball.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

Danilo: I don’t remember to be honest 🙂

TRC: What is the most outrageous thing you have had to wear or do for a photo shoot?

Danilo: Hm lets say the most outrageous or just funny clothes was when I actually shot for a brand that makes work uniforms, so I was the post man, the milk man, the garbage man, the police man, the fire man, and the construction worker. And NO, it was not a pornographic shoot hahaha

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax? Have fun?

Danilo Andjus 8Danilo: Well most of my free time I spend it with the most beautiful woman in the world who is also my girlfriend, and with friends and family, they are cool too. I have an older brother and a sister, Im the youngest. 🙂 I can definitely say when its all of us together its always a recipe for good fun.

We love to go to cinema, eat all kinds of different food, travel a lot, play mortal combat on ps4 😀 go clubbing in different places, pre-drinking on my balcony that becomes the main party many times etc etc

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Danilo Andjus 5Danilo: hmm I’m really more then satisfied and happy, I have a beautiful family, girlfriend and friends, an amazing job that is growing day by day and that takes me around the world, so I can’t complain, nor say the exact 3 things I feel like accomplishing… everything is going on its good way I just need to ride along…maybe own a Ferrari would be nice though hahaha

TRC: What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Danilo: That I am Batman shhhhh !

TRC: 😉

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about modeling ?

Danilo: There are many misconceptions about modeling which cause the usual stereotypes. People who don’t know anything about modeling, or the ones who consider Kim Kardashian or Paris Hilton or god knows what Escort with million followers on social networks as examples of professional models… And then start asking questions like is there a lot of prostitution in your line of work? Escorts? Do they ask you to do this or that? Do you need to sleep with clients to get a job? And many similar questions… Also what is definitely very annoying is when i see silicon girls on social networks calling themselves ‘’MODELS”. Apples and oranges, people. It’s just a shame for all those hardworking models to be put in the same spot and compared to people mentioned above.

TRC: What type of music do you listen to? What songs are on your playlist today?

Danilo: I listen to hip hop, house music when I’m going out, and when I’m working, chilling or answering interviews I listen to jazz, blues and Brazilian music. 🙂

Danilo Andjus 6

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Danilo: I am currently working on how to best enjoy my one month holiday! haha! I just arrived from Dubrovnik, Croatia where I’ve been with my girlfriend for a week and now I’m in my summer house in Sveti Stefan, Montenegro enjoying the summer. After Montenegro we’ll be going to Greece, so I can’t complain! 🙂

Jokes aside, new work plans are cooking for September when its gonna be very busy..

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Danilo: I think I already spoke too much hahaha

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Sushi and mom’s Cous Cous ( actually all mom’s kitchen)

Favorite Dessert: Lindt chocolate, Brazilian dessert called Brigadeiro and beer of course haha

Guilty Pleasure: Ordering junk food at 2am, drinking liters of beer and playing ps4 with friends until birds don’t come out in the morning 😀 😀

Favorite Movie: Gladiator

Favorite TV Show: Breaking Bad, Black Mirror, Vikings,

Last Movie that you saw: The new Spiderman… not bad 🙂

Secret Celebrity Crush: my everyday crush Pamela… but not Anderson

Dark or Milk Chocolate: actually white chocolate 🙂

Do you have any pets? Yes I have two cats, Kosta and Tarzina and two dogs Raj and Luna, creyzeee everyday party haha

TRC: Thank you Dan for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success and the amazing cover images. We wish you all the best and many more covers !!

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Interview with model Jacob Rodney Hogue

Interview with model Jacob Rodney Hogue

TRC: Hi Jacob, and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the cover of Laura Kaye’s RIDE WILD. We are BIG fans of Laura at The Reading Café. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Jacob Hogue 4Follow Jacob on : Instagram

Jacob: I grew up living in multiple states temporarily, but spent most my time in Great Falls, MT until I was 15. I moved to Yuba City, Ca at that age. At age 19 I joined the Army reserve and after 8 years and one deployment to Afghanistan I chose not to reenlist and moved to Long Beach, CA to model and act.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Jacob: Dreams and aspirations as a child were very limited. I grew up in a loving yet sheltered Christian home. I loved singing and sports but never really approached either as a career possibility.

TRC: When not modeling what is your ‘day job’?

Jacob: I work security at Sgt Peppers Dueling pianos on the weekend and am also an avid writer in my free time. I write songs, poetry and am creating my own tv show.

Jacob Hogue 7TRC: Would you please tell us about your beloved four-legged friends?

Jacob: My pets are my children. I have two pitbulls. My male is 1/2 bullmastiff. I also have a savannah cat, who is the coolest guy ever (hence the name “Xander Cage” and my girlfriend has a dainty little Siamese girl.

TRC: What first sparked your interest in modeling? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling was something you were interested in pursuing?

Jacob: Modeling was something I never really considered, but my good friend, John DeWall, had dove into modeling and acting and put me in touch with Wander once I was out of the Army and now here I am.

Jacob Rodney Hogue cover 2TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Jacob: I have never had a shoot go completely wrong, but if it ever does happen I’m sure I will make the best of it because that’s all one can do. I love to be challenged.

TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors /body builders just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Jacob: When it comes to nude modeling. My advice is always do your homework on those involved and then do what you want to do. I’ll repeat that. Do what YOU want to do. If you’re truly self aware and know who you are then focus on that. There will always be people who disagree with you or have different perspectives and that is okay. There’s always a chance that walking through a door can open others as well as close others. If you’re happy with what you’re doing than that’s what is important.

TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. At times do you feel alone, surrounded by so many people? What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Jacob Hogue 1Jacob: I never feel alone. I consider myself an outgoing introvert. I thank my girlfriend and my younger Brother for that. We see most things the same way and they always have my back because of our similar perspectives on everything. She loves photography and modeling and he is a musician. I’m an outgoing introvert so if I’m alone it’s because I’ve chosen to be for that moment. When I’m stressed I just remind myself that I can handle it. Eight years in the Army help with that. I also smoke a joint and have a glass of wine. I focus on controlling what I can control.

TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Jacob: When it comes to a stigma on the male model/ romance industry I don’t really give it much attention. There are so many perspectives and opinions out in the world. A person just needs to focus on doing what they want and love. I think the recent jump in the industry is due to the love of all the people involved. I’ve only been to one event/signing but the fans are fanatics and I believe the same could be said for the authors. It’s a community happy within itself and growing. There will always be those throwing shade or causing conflict but the few cannot destroy the masses.

Jacob Rodney Hogue coverTRC: What do you do to prepare yourself for a shoot?

Jacob: As an avid writer and inspiring actor when I get on set I just create my interpretation of the character and write my own scene in my head to play with. I become what is asked of me. And I love it. I always approach shoots like I’m in a scene of something.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers that your image has appeared?

Jacob: I’m the kind of person who doesn’t keep track of the number of stuff I’m on. I’m honored and enjoy every single one but I’m always chasing the next one. Plus, the goal is to be on more than I could count so why bother lol

TRC: Do you remember the first cover (book or magazine) on which you appeared?

Jacob: The first magazine I was on was a cover/ editorial for obvious magazine which was awesome. I actually wore most of my own clothes and helped style myself which was awesome.

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Jacob Hogue 2Jacob: I spend a lot of time on walks with my dogs to relax. I live 4 blocks from the beach so how could I not. Also, I’m a huge believer in the best way to relax is to just do nothin. Non-typical meditation of sorts. I just sit down somewhere and do absolutely nothing, except for maybe smoke a joint 🙂

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Jacob: In the next 5 years I’d like 1) quit my day job 2) have my tv show idea really go into motion 3) still be happy. You will always hear me resort back to being happy. There are so many forms of it and I feel people get too caught up in chasing other people’s happiness or trying to please everyone. I believe in being selfish and kind at the same time. Do what you want, be nice to people and avoid those who aren’t.

Jacob Rodney Hogue cover 7TRC: What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Jacob: I’ve actually already mentioned it in an earlier question. Hardly anyone knows I write and love to sing. I was a choir boy in high school and took vocal lessons.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about modeling ?

Jacob: The biggest misconception I’ve experienced is many people believe there is no hard work in it. It is unreal the work behind the scenes and when you’re on set shooting you are expected to do your job so it’s not all for nothing. People who don’t look for the big picture will never see it. Misconceptions are for the ignorant who are not concerned with learning. And I have ZERO time for that. I love to not know things so I can learn. But I do wish I knew everything.

TRC: What type of music do you listen to? and what music is on your playlist today?

Jacob: I listen to almost everything so I’ll name artist : Mixon (my brother) Logic, j cole , usher, JT, Lukas graham… all country, all types of rock, some classical, some jazz… like I said… everything

Jacob Hogue covers 8

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Jacob: I’m currently finishing up the script for my pilot episode and trying to book more modeling and acting jobs. To see my Latest project follow me @jacobrodneyhogueshow I put everything in instagram

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Jacob: I would love to stress my beliefs in being happy. Whatever your happiness is. Do that. Always try to understand others perspectives whether you agree. Seeing how all different types of people get to different types of places will help you navigate life. In the end do what you want and be happy. Stop caring about what everyone else thinks. You can always find people who are on your level. Be happy be happy be happy.

Lightning round

Favorite Foodpizza

Favorite Dessert-Twinkies

Favorite Movie-Legends of the Fall and Warrior (sorry had to give 2)

Favorite TV Show-Shameless

Last Movie You SawLa La Land

Secret Celebrity Crush-Michelle Rodriguez

Dark or Milk Chocolatemilk chocolate

Last Book You read-Inside Delta Force

Pet Peeve-ignorant pit bull comments

TRC: Thank you Jacob for taking the time to answer our questions. It is always a pleasure to meet the man behind the cover. We wish you all the best.

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Interview with actor/model Drew Leighty

Interview with actor/model Drew Leighty

TRC: Hi Drew and welcome to The Reading Cafe.

We would like to start with some background information. Please tell us something about yourself?

Please Follow Drew : Facebook / Twitter / Instagram /

Drew Leighty 1Drew:  Well I have always been an athlete. I played just about every sport growing up, and narrowed that down to baseball, water polo, basketball, and football in high school, and on the side I would go surfing and snowboarding with friends. In college I played baseball before I had an injury to my collar bone, snapping it in half, that took me off the field for good. In the ER I met a woman who gave me her card and asked me to contact her to model for her company. Some may say the rest was history, had I made some impact on history. Sadly I didn’t haha. I began modeling for Ford, then moved to Pinkerton, and worked with a theatrical manager. I then moved to a new commercial agency, RC Talent, owned by my friend who was previously an agent for Pinkerton. Soon after I had my son and I took a hiatus from the entertainment industry to work full-time and finish my bachelor’s degree. About two years ago I did another shoot with Scott Hoover and started being featured as a book cover model. Then a year ago I did a couple trailers for Jennifer Armentrout’s Titan Series and realized I had given up what I loved to do, acting. Since I have resigned with my old commercial agent as well as my theatrical manager, I’ve been featured on more book covers, worked on commercial like Ross and American Crew, and soon will hopefully be on some SOAP Operas or prime time TV shows.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Drew:  My dream growing up was always to be a professional baseball player. However, the snapping of my collar bone really ended that dream. Fortunately, before I had declared Communications as my major at the time I had taken a public speaking class and did absolutely terrible. My counselor had suggested I take a theatre arts class to help me with my public speaking, so I did, and I fell in love with it. I realized how natural a transition was from being in the spotlight on the baseball field to being in the spotlight on stage. I took that passion, transferred it to my work in the entertainment industry and ran with it.

TRC: When not modeling, what are your other interests?

Drew:  I love studying. I read a lot of books on working a stage, script reading, character development, etc. to enhance my skills as an actor and give me an idea of what is to be expected from all aspects of production.

TRC: Would you please tell us something about the Showtime™ television series SUBMISSION and your role?

Drew Leighty 5Drew:  Well I joined SUBMISSION originally as a regular, but didn’t receive much information about my role. They sent me some contracts but as you might imagine once I got the call saying I got the role, I was off the walls excited, I mean it was my first major role. So the contracts I was sent, I signed and returned without even reading, they asked me if I knew any “adult” (we had different ideas of what adult meant) actors and I was like, “you kidding I know tons!” and they asked me to get a girl who was a good actress that could play a love interest. I reached out but all my friends were working at the time so I had to let that go.

Then I get an email, and they cut my days from 3-4 weeks to one day, and I was distraught. I mean I had passed up job opportunities to commit to this show so it was very unfortunate. Still in the back of my head I was like, if I perform well then maybe they’ll want to keep me as a regular. This is about a week or so before the first day of filming. At that point I still hadn’t received a script, they said they had done a bunch of rewrites and were still working out kinks. The day before I’m supposed to be working was the day I finally got the script. I get it, I get my character name, and I begin reading. Right off the bat I realized I’m not much of a character in this story at all, I mean I’m five or six pages in and haven’t even heard my character mentioned. BOOM, I see my character’s name highlighted half way down the page. I skip ahead and look down to read my first line, it’s three words. Basically a throw away sentence, so I skip ahead some more, nothing. Skip some more, still nothing. I skip, skip, and skip and there’s nothing, no more lines. So I start back at the page where my line was and realize my character is the main character from a book from the 50’s or 60’s. He’s kinky for today’s day and age but can you imagine the scrutiny he would have faced if he’s as kinky as he was for today but lived back then?

Transfer Drew Lieght yCoverSo I did what I learned, I began building my character. I read on, and all of a sudden I’m hitting a very real and organic sex scene, it took me a few read throughs to confirm that this was my character getting down and dirty. At this point my jaw was on the floor and heart was thumping, I thought for sure they would have asked me was I okay with a sex scene. I grabbed my contracts and there it was in the first paragraph, simulated sex scene, so they had told me. Soon after I get an email, it’s from a high friend and basketball teammate who I haven’t seen or spoken to since high school, now he’s a camera man. His email says “Hey man are you working LA tomorrow on SUBMISSION?” I come to find out he’s the head camera man on the show, so not only am I doing my first simulated sex scene, I’m also doing it in front of a guy who I haven’t spoken to since high school.

I get to set and find out the girl who’s working the scene with me is a well-known adult star (if you’re like me and don’t know this yet, adult star means porn star), so that made things even more intimidating for me. However, fortunately enough for me the crew, the director, the actors, were all so professional I felt completely comfortable for a first timer. In the end I wouldn’t take it back because that was the most difficult role I’ve had but it made me learn a lot about my abilities as an actor and myself.

Drew Leighty M. Clarke series

TRC: What first sparked your interest in modeling? acting? Is there a defining moment where you knew that modeling /acting was something you were interested in pursuing?

Drew:  Well modeling just kind of came with the territory. I wanted to act but the agency I originally worked for, Ford, saw me as a youthful model. I had no experience besides college courses in theatre arts for acting, so they wanted to develop me for the industry. After a few moves from agency to agency, and a few jobs I had a little experience under my belt but not enough so I had to go to expensive schools to study with teachers that would help give me a more professional look on my resume. I’ve always known that I wanted to be in the spotlight, whether for baseball or acting. It’s something that comes natural to me and it’s something I enjoy doing, like I love doing it. Working and studying for it I love as well, which is a love and passion I have never found in any other subject at school.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot or fillming that went completely wrong?

Drew:  Yes my first photoshoot, I paid for. I paid over $900 for the shoot so off the bat I should have known something was wrong, but I was young and naive, and new to the industry. I got my images, all of my headshots, and ZED cards back and they all looked like trash. I found out soon after that the entire shoot I had paid for was a scam, luckily the person who informed me was willing to help me and looked after me from there.

TRC: Many photo shoots and film sets take the model to exotic locations. What has been your favorite location to shoot? Least favorite location (and why)?

Drew Leighty 6Drew:  Well my favorite was probably the Bahamas obviously for the tropical beaches, sun, room service, etc. Plus we were there for four days so that was also nice to have a day to relax by the pool and beach. My least favorite was probably the Mojave desert at night in the Winter. It was cold, I was in pants that had holes and rips, and at night it began snowing.

TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality to pornography. What would you tell young models/actors /body builders just entering the business about nude modeling and photography?

Drew:  I would tell them do whatever you are comfortable with. For us it’s an art, the poses we take create a picture that we consider to be art, to us it’s not controversial or pornography. However, like artists we must be proud of our craft, if you are uncomfortable during a shoot it will show, and it will not look like art and you will probably not be proud of it. So stick within your comfort limits and do not do anything that you find uncomfortable.

TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. At times do you feel alone, surrounded by so many people? What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Drew Leighty Cover 2 Very Twisted ThingsDrew:  No I never really feel alone, I have my family, I have my agents who take great care of me and always include me in everything even things outside of the industry like workouts, or dinner or whatever. However, when I do stress it’s usually due to not booking a job in a while and I usually take a second to myself, to reevaluate what I’m doing. Find what’s stressing me out, usually it’s money, and take a look at what I can do to break down that stress.

TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry but the popularity of the romance story line has skyrocketed in the last few years especially with the erotic and sensual cover images. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Drew:  I’m very thankful for it. I’m thankful for all the authors who write these novels, and use me on their covers. I’m thankful for the readers and fans who read these novels and enjoy the covers. And I’m thankful for the erotic and sensual reality that is portrayed. I think inside we all have a piece of us that can relate to these stigmas and that’s what makes it so exciting and enjoyable. It shows us that the natural being that is within us isn’t something to be held in or to be shy about, it’s something exciting and lovable that can bring you a new sense of euphoria that we haven’t been able to experience yet.

TRC: Do you remember the first ‘romance cover’ on which you appeared?

Drew Leighty Cover The Return 1Drew:  Yes “The Return,” by Jennifer Armentrout.

TRC: Do you have a favorite cover-romance image or otherwise? (e.g. magazines, ads etc)

Drew:  I like them all. I don’t think I could pick a favorite because all of them show a different side of me. Some tender, some strong, some athletic, some passionate. To me they show me my experiences that I have faced and triumphed. They show me my growth as a human and my development in my craft. To me they show my life.

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Drew:  I go on dog walks with my family. We go to the beach. I read or chill and watch Netflix. I do whatever my mind asks me to do in that moment.

TRC: Do you listen to music when you work out? If so, what songs are currently on your playlist?

Drew:  I listen to pandora. My current play station is J. Cole Radio. I enjoy his beats and the messages he sends through his lyrics.

TRC: What three things would you like to accomplish in the next five years?

Drew:  I would like to get on a SOAP to start my acting career, so let’s start a #getDrewonaSOAP movement. I would also like to help an Animal Rescue non-profit along with a Climate Change non-profit. Sooner rather than later I would also like to help fund and receive funding for a project I have been working on for the past 6 years “NEVER HIKE ALONE,” a Friday the 13th Fan Film, that I have been lucky enough to be a part of. A story lead by a very creative writer/director who I have known for about 7 years.

TRC: What is something that few, if anybody, knows about you?

Drew Leighty 8Drew:  I eat wrappers to cupcakes.

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Drew:  I am currently working on “NEVER HIKE ALONE.” Along with finding work on a SOAP or TV show.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Drew:  I would also like to help non-profits for the ocean and marine life, education, and veterans.

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
BBQ Bacon Cheeseburgers (add onion rings and french fries- inside burger)

Favorite Dessert
Rocky Road Ice Cream

Favorite Movie
Troy

Favorite TV Show
Sons of Anarchy

Last Movie that you Saw
Blackmass

Secret Celebrity Crush
1.) Jennifer Anniston 2.) Amber Heard 3.) Carrie Underwood

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Milk Chocolate

Last Book that you Read
“The Power”

Pet Peeve
Chewing with your mouth open or bad breath. Or bad breath while chewing with your mouth open.

TRC: Thank you Drew for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best !

Drew:  Thank you again so much and I hope this was alright!

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Interview with Cover Model-Nathan D. Weller

Interview with Cover Model-Nathan D. Weller

Nathan Weller 3TRC: Hi Nathan and welcome to The Reading Café. We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

NOTE: Nathan Weller pass away in 2020

 

Nathan: I grew up in a small tourist beach town along Lake Michigan.

TRC: What were your dreams and aspirations growing up?

Nathan: I played hockey for fun but I was better at baseball. My first aspirations were to get college paid for with a scholarship then professional baseball player. I did end up playing professional baseball but it didn’t last long. My arm went and I had to get tommy john surgery. After that I never fully came back 100%.

TRC: Will you please tell us about how you got started in the modeling business? How were you ‘discovered’?

Nathan: K Keeton Designs discovered me. Kelsey messaged me on Facebook asking to take some pictures. I was bartending at the time and remember showing up to the photo shoot that morning on a couple hours sleep. She snapped a few pictures and posted them. Ever since then the authors have loved me and welcomed me with open arms.

TRC: What have been some of the challenges you have faced in your modeling career?

Nathan Weller 4

Nathan: A constant challenge is staying in shape. I’m still fairly new to modeling. I didn’t really see the opportunity at first. When I decided to start taking it seriously I started working out again. Injuries can also be a challenge. It’s hard to get in shape when you’re battling an injury. Food has been a challenge for me as well when it comes to staying in shape. I tend not to have portion control or will power to resist all the delicious foods. You put a large pizza in front of me I will eat it.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Nathan: Haha, well some authors can be picky as to what they want on a cover. I’ve had to redo shoots before. When you pour your heart and soul into a book you tend to have a certain vision of how you want your cover as well.Sometimes outfits don’t align (hair color, nails, etc.) to the author’s vision. Other than that if something goes wrong it’s usually caught on camera. The outtakes of a shoot are my favorite part.

Nathan Weller 2TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality and pornography. You have posed nude for several photographers. What would you tell young models just entering the business about nude modeling?

Nathan: I’ve never technically done nude modeling. Sure I’ve taken my clothes off under hotel bed sheets but the photos are more seductive and don’t focus on the nudity. You also have to be careful of who you work with as well. Make sure the photographer is reputable, especially for you young ladies out there. If you’re not comfortable with something don’t do it.

TRC: The modeling industry exposes you to many people and sometimes it can be very stressful. At times do you feel alone, surround by so many people? What do you do when the stress becomes overwhelming?

Nathan: The stress that I deal with is the imperfection of my body. I’m constantly comparing myself to other fitness models and see areas I can improve. Sometimes I wish I could just drop this modeling stuff and be a fat kid lol.

TRC: Is modeling your full –time career or do you have a ‘day job’?

Nathan Weller 5

Nathan: Modeling is not my full time career but I wouldn’t mind making it. I would love to spend more time in the gym and posing with beautiful woman. Right now I’m in between jobs. I try to live a simple life. Go to the gym, take care of my animals. I have 30 acres north of town with a few goats.

Nathan Weller 1TRC: At times, there has been a ‘stigma’ surrounding the male model and the romance-cover industry. But the popularity of the paranormal romance storyline has skyrocketed in the last few years with the many vampire, werewolf and fantasy storylines. What is your opinion about the recent popularity and the very busy industry of the ‘romance cover model’?

Nathan:  The popularity of the romance industry is very exciting for me. Regardless of the general theme behind the book it’s just great to see the industry grow, not only the industry but the personal friends success along the way. I’ve had the opportunity to watch careers blossom.

That being said, sex sells and covers are very important. As an author you need something that is unique and flashy, but yet portrays your story. Covers that will make a reader pick up a book and open it.

TRC: Do you know the number of novel covers on which your image has appeared?

Nathan: I’ve done about 20 covers now. Half of those books are out now, others are still in print.

Nathan Weller Cover8TRC: Do you remember the first ‘romance cover’ on which you appeared?

Nathan: When You’re Ready by J.L. Berg was my first cover. I think that’s when I realized that this was kind of a big deal. I was on the cover of a bestselling author.

TRC: Do you have a favorite cover?

Nathan: It’s hard to pic a favorite cover. They are all unique and special in their own way to me.

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Nathan: Throw on some pj’s, pop in a movie, grab some snacks, and light one up.

TRC: On what on your currently working?

Nathan: I’ve debated writing a book of my own, although I don’t know that I could. As of now I’m just jotting down a few ideas. Being around the book industry has been very inspiring. A romance book that comes from the raw male perspective seems like something readers would be interested in.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Nathan: Thank you for everyone at The Reading Café to give me this opportunity!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food
French toast

Favorite Dessert
Chocolate chip cookie dough

Favorite Movie
The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Favorite TV Show
The Walking Dead

Last Movie that you Saw
Pain and Gain

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Milk

Last Book that you Read
The 12th Planet by Zecharia Sitchin

TRC: Thank you Nathan for taking the time to answer out questions. Congratulations on all of your success.

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Interview with Cover Model-Tessi Le’Anne

 Interview with Cover Model-Tessi Le’Anne

Tessi 1

 

TRC: Hi Tessi and welcome to The Reading Café.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Follow Tessi: Tessi Le’Anne Facebook

(Image by K.Keeton Designs)

 

 

Tessi 3Tessi:  Hello, thanks for having me! My full name is Tessi LeAnne Conquest. ← yes, that is my real last name. I am from a small town, graduating class of 32 people. I am actually a Criminal Justice Major, although most of my working career has been at banking related jobs. I have dog, Nyx, and a small Boer goat herd. My favorite smells are motor oil, vanilla, coconut. Fewer things make me happier than getting mail and the warm feeling of a pile of clothes right out of the dryer.

TRC: What were your goals and aspirations growing up?

Tessi:  Haha, well in 1st grade I was set on being Pocahontas when I grew up. Through middle & high school I wanted to be a High School English teacher. Now…currently, I think I’m still trying to find my niche, my place among the masses.

TRC: Will you please tell us about how you got started in the modeling/cover modeling business?

Tessi:  I started modeling in 2012, doing shoots with photographers here and there. I didn’t started cover modeling until being introduced to Kelsey Keeton of K Keeton Designs, in November 2013. I went to a shoot to observe and things took off from there. Since then I’ve attended a few author conventions and met some incredible people.

burn for You

 

 

TRC: What was your first ‘published’ romance cover image and by whom (author)?

Tessi:  My first published Romance Cover image is for Author Marquita Valentine, titled “Burn For You”.

 

 

 

 

TRC: Do you know the number of covers on which your image has appeared?

Tessa Le'Anne covers

Tessi:  It’s hard to keep track sometimes with which covers have been revealed and which are still in the works. So far, all together, I will have been on around 23 or so.

TRC: Do you have a favorite cover image (book or magazine)?

Tessi LeAnne cover 3Tessi:  Each cover image tells its own story, some are stock images that just happen to match the Authors characters perfectly, and some are custom, being built around the Authors specific wants…my favorite so far would be “Burn For You” by Marquita Valentine or “Seduce Me” by Ryan Michele.

TRC: Have you ever had a photo shoot that went completely wrong?

Tessi:  I guess you could say things don’t always go according to plan…people don’t show up, rain storms and such, but for the most part, the individuals I have worked with have been great at adapting to the situation and we still pull something good out of it.

TRC: Where is the most exotic setting you have had the opportunity to work and model?

Tessi Le'Anne The FallsTessi:  A big part of my work is done in studio; however I just recently shot in a place called “The Falls”. It was pretty awesome.

TRC: Is there a model or photographer with whom you would like to work but haven’t had the opportunity?

Tessi:  A photographer I always wanted to work with was Brian DeMint of Eyeworks Photography…he’s a creative genius, and I recently did that! There are a couple people I have my eye on, whose work I admire, Roland Moriarty, and Chadwick Fowler, their images are always to die for.

TRC: Would you please tell us about K Keeton Designs?

K Keeton Designs

Follow K.Keeton Designs: Facebook / Twitter

Tessi:  Of course…K Keeton Designs is your classic “triple threat”. Kelsey Kukal-Keeton is the mastermind, woman behind the curtain, if you will. Not only is she a photographer, she is a cover designer, and professional hair and make-up artist. Kelsey is a down-to-earth lady who is next to impossible not to like. She literally has a collection of models that would all do just about anything for her. If you’re looking for anything book cover related, she’s your girl.

TRC: Nudity in modeling or acting can be controversial. Some pictures can cross the line between sexuality and pornography. What would you tell young models just entering the business about nude modeling?

Tessi 2Tessi:  My advice would be to always ask, ask, ask for the details. Never be afraid to ask direct questions to a photographer, always take someone with you to a shoot if you do not know the individual or don’t feel comfortable alone, inquire about people you’re thinking about working with—DO YOUR RESEARCH, always read the model contracts you are signing and lastly, don’t be afraid to say no.

(Image by Curtis Almeter)

TRC: Whom do you most admire and why?

Tessi:  I think the people you most admire change throughout your life, depending on particular “stages” and “places” you are. Currently, the two people I admire most are Kimi Flores, and Kathy Coopmans. They each have learned some hard lessons in life, made it through the toughest times and continue to shine with positive attitudes, optimism and kindness. They both remind me on a daily basis to push myself, that I can overcome whatever challenges I face without bitterness and to live a life of kindness.

TRC: Who is your biggest supporter?

Tessa and MonicaTessi:  My biggest supporter of my modeling career would be my little sister, Monica.

TRC: What is your most embarrassing moment?

Tessi:  My most embarrassing moment would probably be at a shoot one time with K Keeton Designs and MJR Photography, the concept we were trying for required me to jump in the air and hit certain poses…well, this particular jump, the paper backdrop I was standing on slid and needless to say, I went down with it…I was fine, and a few laughs later, we were back at it.

TRC: When you are not modeling what can we find you doing?

Tessi:  When I’m not modeling and working, I spend my time with family and my closest friends. I love reading, watching movies, cooking, being outdoors, anything craft related; sewing, crocheting, scrap booking.

Tessi 4

 

TRC: What three (3) things would you like to accomplish in the next ten (10) years?

(Image by MJR Photography)

 

 

Tessi:  This is a hard one, as I’ve learned the hard way, life has a funny way of changing ones plans…
1) I hope to continue growing in my modeling career, and to, at some point, be signed with an agency.
2) I hope to grow as a person, travel the world, chase the things that I want most, and find myself along the way.
3) I know this one is as cliché’ as they come, but hey, I’m a girl right?! In 10years time, I hope to find my counterpart, my significant other and start our journey together.

Tessi 7TRC: What is something that few people (if any) know about you?

Tessi:  Something that few people know about me… one of my favorite things in the world is the first drink of an A&W Cream Soda, but I never drink the rest of it.

(Image: Red Vine Studios/ Tim Miller)

TRC: Would you please tell us what you do to relax?

Tessi:  When I’m trying to relax I like to go for a run, I think it helps me clear my mind and wind down…or veg out to Netflix. I’m a sucker for a good television series!

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Tessi:  Currently, I have a couple custom cover shoots in the works, a handful of events, I am beyond excited to be attending, over the next year, and hopefully some BIG, EXCITING changes to announce soon. 😉

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Tessi 6Tessi:  I’d like to thank you, Sandy, and The Reading Café, for inviting me here for the interview. I am thrilled to have had this opportunity to share a little about myself. Again, thank you so very much!

(Image: Peter Bennett)

Tessi:  Please stop by my model page, give it a *LIKE*, and enjoy the ride…lots of exciting things to come =)

Follow Tessi: Tessi Le’Anne Facebook

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food- Black Olive and Cheese Pizza

Favorite Dessert- No Bake Cookies

Favorite TV Show- Arrow

Last Movie You Saw- Transcendence….Johnny Depp *rawrrr*

Dark or Milk Chocolate- The darker the better!

Favorite Song (at the moment)- The Lonely by Christina Perri

Secret Celebrity Crush- I accidentally gave this one away haha, Johnny Depp

Last Vacation Destination- Atlantic Beach, North Carolina

Pet Peeve- Ahhh, this is a hard one, I might be a little OCD. My biggest would probably be how my towels are folded.

TRC: Thank you Tessi for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on all of your success. We wish you all the best.

(Image: K.Keeton Designs)                            (Eye Works Photography-Brian Demint)                   

Tessi Le'Anne image10157226_253046951550016_2989121964906434631_n

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