Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Michelle
Hi Courtney, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
When I was around 15 years old is when I first started modeling, so it’s been four years now. I started with no clue about the modeling industry, no connections, started from what seemed like nothing. It was a big adjustment from anything I have ever done, but I knew it was something that I loved doing. I had my first branded shoot with Defend Nola on Magazine Street. I did my own hair and makeup. it was a very raw first photo shoot, you could tell that I was new to it all and that I really had no clue as to what I was supposed to be doing. I then began teaching myself more about the industry, following lots of models on social media, watching YouTube videos, etc. I would do at home photo shoots where I’d set my phone, camera, or computer up and use the timer to take photos of any concept that I had come up with. Whether it was for clothing, makeup, shoes, purses, literally anything.
From there I’d just share myself on social media and collaborate with local photographers and brands. As time went on and I began learning that the industry is very cut throat. The beginning steps of my process wasn’t all smooth sailing. I had my ups and downs growing up modeling learning to love myself, being a petite model, learning to love my gap, and trying not to mimic every standard that was set on social media. Always was conscious about many things but mainly about my gap, little did I know that would be my money maker. Growing up I was always into so many different things from sports, art, singing, playing instruments, acting, fashion and the list goes on, but I wasn’t passionate about any of it. Modeling was the first thing I became passionate and committed to. It always felt harder to give up than to keep going, that’s when I knew that this is what u wanted to pursue for as long as I could. I definitely still have my times where I feel confused, lost career wise, or wonder if I’m going in the right direction. Here I am today, still here going strong, striving for greatness. Many more obstacles but I’m ready. I know that there is so much to come and that I’m destined for greatness.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Most of my struggles would include not having the proper equipment needed to get the best quality images when first starting out. Along the line one of my biggest challenges for myself was my appearance. Modeling is a cut throat industry where you are always being judged from your height, weight, hair, skin, what you are wearing, etc. all the time. That was hard getting used to and a lot of the times made me doubt myself and it made me fight for perfection. Which was a constant battle because I was striving for something that doesn’t exist!
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m known for modeling. Just like with a song, painting, movie, music, or choreography I see modeling as bringing a vision to life and telling a story. I’m most of proud of how far I’ve come with modeling as far as starting with nothing, to being signed, opening up more doors, and creating bigger opportunities for myself. The thing that sets me apart from others is definitely how bad I want to achieve the goals that I have set for myself, how hard I’m willing to work to see results, to move forward, to get to where I want to be.
Contact Info:
- Email: info@ft45.agency
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/co.michelle/
Image Credits
Lavonte Lucas, Vonnié Nesby, Phips Chelsey, Jones Century, Girl Vintage, Karla Photography, and FiftyTwo45 Agency.
