Hi y’all! It’s been a while— my apologies. The first semester of sophomore year has been a whirlwind, to say the least. But with all of the essays, clubs, cooking for myself, projects, and hanging out with friends, some amazing opportunities came when I least expected them. For example, really modeling for the first time.
One of the heads of my university’s student-run fashion magazine reached out to me over Instagram and asked if I would like to model for the next issue. Of course, I said absolutely! She asked for some pictures for reference and all of my measurements. Now picture this: me digging through my mini college toolbox for a tape measure, only to find one of those metal bendy ones for construction. Then picture me wrapping it around myself to try and find my waist measurement. I mean, hey, it worked in a pinch.
I was then cast for a nineties-esque Delia’s catalog-inspired shoot, and I was ecstatic, to say the least. I’m not really used to being behind the camera, so the nerves were there. However, on shoot day, it felt so natural. The photographers, also students, were so supportive— they were constantly screaming, “Slayyyy! You’re absolutely killing it. A natural!” Were any of the things they said accurate? Who’s to say— but it definitely helped me loosen up a bit. The aim of the shoot was to be a little campy and silly, which was definitely easier than trying to serve face in green eyeshadow and a “Punish Him” t-shirt.
My makeup was a late eighties-early nineties vibe with garage door kelly green eyeshadow and a pinky-neutral lip. My first look was giant purple earrings, an unbuttoned mid-length denim dress, and a light green & pink marbled mesh corset/skirt set. This look was a bit out of my comfort zone, but, to be honest, so was the entire experience. My second look was definitely more me— dark wash Dickies overalls and a cornflower blue t-shirt that said “Punish Him” in orange lettering. Loved it. The models were encouraged to pose with early 2000s props like Gameboys, CDs, and a pink DS. It was honestly super fun to pose around with all of the props; acting like I was taking a cheesy selfie with a DS was something I never knew I needed to do in life.
I was truly surrounded by so much love throughout the shoot. These girls, most of which I’d never met before, embodied positivity and support to the fullest extent. A little aside about me: I reflect on every event that ever happens to me— for better or worse. After I left the shoot that morning, I couldn’t help but smile. It couldn’t have been a more positive first experience being in front of the camera. When I was doing my routine reflection later that day, I realized how much of a “gratitude moment” I’d just experienced. Feminine support, confidence, creativity, and love absolutely enveloped the room, and for that, I’m forever grateful. It’s hard to find spaces in the “entertainment” industry that embody such qualities— and I found one. Granted, it wasn’t a typical professional environment, considering it was for a college magazine ran by 20-somethings. However, it was more official than taking Instagram pictures with your closest friends— so in my book, it was professional.
All of this to say— take the risks when you can. More often than not it’ll be something you’ve only dreamed of. I would have never gotten this opportunity later in life— considering I’m an International Studies/Journalism major. Don’t let it be a “would’ve could’ve should’ve.” Make it an “I did. It was uncomfortable and new. But, I did.”
Much love chicks!
Maddie <3
