TorontoStreets Feature Model Q&A W/MM: Scarlet Begonias

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

I am originally from New York, but I relocated a few years ago to Orlando, Florida, and I do travel for shoots.

Who or what inspired you to become a model?

I was an art minor in college and I’ve always had a passion for creative expression. My best friend, Steph, worked as a figurative art model for our school and she taught me some basics about posing. We spent countless afternoons having our own photoshoots with her basic Nikon D40, scouting locations, heading to the thrift store for wardrobe, and taking turns behind the camera. We had so much fun that she insisted I try figure modeling, and I loved it right away!

A few years later, an opportunity arose for me to model for a professional photographer. Both Steph and my amazing boyfriend, Sean, were my biggest supporters. The love and encouragement of my two favorite people inspired me to start modeling and continues to inspire me to stay focused, work hard, and to strive toward my career goals.

How and when did you start modeling?

Modeling professionally was always a fantasy of mine, but I never considered it an actual possibility. One day, while working a long shift waiting tables, I was scouted for a project by a local photographer. My first formal shoot was a few weeks later. I felt confident, relaxed and natural in front of the camera. The nerves melted away as soon as we started, and I fell into an organic flow of posing. The photographer was ecstatic, and I felt unstoppable. When that project was published, I started to connect with more photographers and models. I was shooting as much as possible to build my portfolio and my skills. After a few months of hard work, I was booking enough shoots to make this my full-time and only job, and I have only gotten busier since then!

What type of modeling do you enjoy the most?

This is always a difficult question for me to answer and I honestly don’t think I can choose. I pride myself on being versatile and comfortable in many genres. Each style is empowering in a unique way and each photoshoot is an opportunity to bring a vision to life. I incorporate my yoga practice into all projects– a flow, punctuated by breathing, fueled by inspiration. 

I like commercial/lifestyle modeling and fashion because both genres are meditative for me. I envision myself as one with the product or style I’m showcasing. It’s a fun challenge that’s different every time. 

I’m also a big fan of boudoir modeling. I love my body and showing off my curves! I enjoy using subtle facial expressions and body language to bring the sensuality of the shoot to the next level. I love the heat and drama of it all.

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

Professionalism, above all else. I pride myself on being professional and hold myself to a high standard as a model. I want to collaborate with people who share those values. Talent is important for obvious reasons, but I also love to work with photographers that vibe with me. The creativity flows and you feel like you are in sync with each other artistically–there’s nothing like it. 

Which models or other artists currently inspire you?

I have always admired classic, era-defining models such as Farrah Fawcett, Gisele Bündchen, Twiggy Lawson, Kate Upton, Marylin Monroe, and Pamela Anderson (just to name a few). Tyra Banks inspires me because of her work to encourage body confidence in women everywhere, and her persistence in the face of adversity early on in her career. Naomi Campbell is another that I really look up to because of her openness about her struggle with addiction and her commitment to sobriety and second chances–something I feel quite strongly about as I enter my 4th year of sobriety.

What would be your dream shoot?

When I think of my dream shoot, I picture jetting across the turquoise Caribbean waters in a powerboat. Landing on a secluded white sand beach with limestone cliffs. We shoot in perfect sunlight all morning. Wrapping for a delightfully fresh seafood lunch on the beach before picking things back up at a luxury Balinese inspired mansion on the beach for golden hour. The best thing about this dream shoot is that I am making it a reality! I was selected to be a model for the Mermaid Experience, a semi-annual all-inclusive creative vacation in Turks and Caicos. I am beyond excited!

In addition, I have a never-ending list of photographers, locations, and concepts I want to explore. A few examples- I’d love to do a shoot on horseback, both in a long flowy gown and in the nude. Other fantasy shoots include Hawaiian beaches, a cosplay shoot where I am dressed as Elsa from Frozen, and literally any sort of shoot that is a tribute to iconic models and/or photographs. I did a shoot last year that was Farrah Fawcett themed and I would love to explore that concept again and expand on it. I’d also love to shoot in the Arches National Park someday. I wasn’t kidding about my list, it never ends!

How important is social media in your success?

It’s not the most important thing but it has an impact. It’s great for exposure and networking, but new projects find me through several avenues. Most of my work comes from Model Mayhem, which I personally do not consider to be social media as it is meant specifically for those in the industry. I would still have a job if social media wasn’t here tomorrow.

What else do you like to do outside of modeling?

I practice yoga, hang at the beach, paint/do art, eat healthy food, go on adventures, and spend quality time with the people I love. 

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

The most important advice is to ALWAYS keep yourself safe. The specific things you do for safety might vary in each situation, but always let someone know where you are going, and do your research.

Be kind and supportive to other models you meet. Competing against other models will cost you peace of mind and success. The real competition is yourself; the rest is a distraction.

Be patient with yourself. Learn your body. Practice your poses. Develop your own flow!

Check out Scarlet Begonias’ Model Mayhem portfolio to see more of her work. You can also follow her on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and her website.

Source: MM