Modeling in Focus

South Carolina Beauty Sheena Makes a Great Role "Model"
by Elias AllStar OMP Member #10270

A brunette beauty from South Carolina, Sheena (OMP Model #28826) has been modeling for as long as she can remember.

"I've done pageants ever since I was six months old and believe me, some people may think that pageants aren't a type of modeling, but in reality they are. It's definitely along the lines of runway, really. I've been modeling in front of a camera for almost six years and I can't express in words how much I love doing it."

Her diverse portfolio is a reflection of her versatility as a model.

"I love doing artistic styles like gothic, punk, and alternative. I like sexy shots or anything that's just out there, out of the normal or eye-catching. I also like shooting lingerie, casual, fashion, glamour, swimwear, advertising, commercial, editorial, and anything dealing with cars, motorcycles, or trucks."

Having a background in dance, drama, and gymnastics, Sheena was immediately interested when the possibility of modeling was mentioned to her by a friend.

"A friend of mine that I met back in 2003 introduced me to an agent. After I showed him some of my images, the agent wanted to sign me. That's how I got started."

The agent also suggested that Sheena join an online modeling community in order to gain more exposure.

"That's how I discovered One Model Place - the agent introduced me to the site. I've been a member ever since. It has helped me get my career in modeling started. It's also given me a million chances to meet some awesome contacts along the way."

Her experience working with OMP photographers has been very rewarding.

"One Model Place photographers are awesome. I would say 99 percent of the photographers I've worked with have found me on OMP. "

Sheena relates some of the rewards and challenges of modeling that she has encountered over the years.

"The main reward is that you get the chance to meet the most amazing and talented people. A challenge in modeling for me would have to be that I never go to any shoot without my mom. Some photographers do not approve of that and want you to come alone. I don't do that. It's mainly for my protection, but at the same time it offers a sense of comfortableness. Because if you aren't comfortable when you are doing a shoot, it will show in your photos."

Sheena's future plans as a model include being a role model for other girls who want to pursue the field.

"I would honestly say that one of my main goals as a model is to show the young women and girls in this world that you don't have to take nude pictures -- or show anything that you don't want the world to see -- in order to be a model. I also want to be a role model for young girls in the world that have a dream to be a model and prove to them that no matter what people say about you, you can achieve anything you set your mind to do."

She offers some additional advice for young models just beginning their careers.

"Make sure that you don't do anything that you are going to be uncomfortable with. If you aren't comfortable doing it, then don't do it. If the photographer tries to push you into something that you don't want to shoot, tell them NO! Never go to a shoot alone either, always have someone with you and do your research on the photographers you plan to work with."

Before she gets back to her hectic shooting schedule, Sheena reveals one more secret to a successful modeling career.

"You just really have to have the dedication and the desire for modeling in order to succeed at it."