Today we’d like to introduce you to Ney Paz.
Ney, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started taking modeling seriously when I moved to Houston. I began taking photos for fun with my cousin. We would get dressed and bring a couple of wardrobe changes to shoot in. Then it slowly manifested itself into an actual career. I started working with a photographer, Quinton Sextion when I first moved here. We did a test-shoot and that’s when I knew I wanted to take a further leap into the fashion industry. He was one of the first people who really encouraged me to show Houston what I had to offer. From then on, I just kept myself out of my comfort zone, pushed forward, and worked with a variety of wonderfully talented photographers, makeup artists, stylists and designers. I kept myself busy by consistently auditioning, going to castings every week, taking acting classes and getting a runway coach. That all led up to a modeling contract in Houston. All of this was happening while I continued to study towards my Interior Architectural degree. I am forever grateful to have come across every opportunity that has come my way. The work never stops just how the city never sleeps. I look forward to the new year and what this chapter has in store for me.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Absolutely not. When I moved to Houston, I felt like I almost immediately had to figure out what market I fit into and the business aspect of modeling. I didn’t always get the booking I auditioned for, but I always knew that it was okay. I knew my worth and those no’s didn’t define me as an artist. There is room for all us beautiful creatives in this industry. I know my time will come.
About a year ago, I temporarily relocated to West Texas/New Mexico to work in the oilfield. I needed to continue paying for college and this was a quick solution for me. I was dressed in my FR’s (Fire Resistant), hard hat, and safety glasses. Spotting for the heavy equipment operator one week and flying out to Houston the next day for a runway show or a photo shoot. It was definitely challenging, but I knew I could manage both.
A challenge I often faced was constantly being criticized for not fitting the standard model size. In the beginning of my career I was very hard on myself. It took lots of self-care and daily affirmations to believe that I was enough. I knew that the modeling industry was and will continue to shift into an inclusivity of all shape and sizes. It’s truly fascinating to see the modeling industry become more and more body positive for all.
We’d love to hear more about your work.
Growing up, we didn’t have the option to go shopping for a new outfit. My mom would come home with second hand clothing that would be donated to her. We worked with what we had and had to get creative with it. I would say my love for clothing and fashion unfolded here. Moving to Houston & being a full time college student comes with a lot of adjustment. I quickly had to find a side hustle that would allow me to continue modeling. I started organizing closets for a living. I know how to style and I’m great at organizing so what better then to organize peoples closets. My inspiration to become an Interior Architect all rooted from me organizing other peoples closets. That’s when I knew what I wanted to do for a living. It’s something that I genuinely enjoy doing. Fashion, of all spectrums, is a big inspiration to me.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was super shy I still kind of am. I was the only girl raised amongst boys. So I wasn’t a complete girly-girl, I definitely leaned more towards the tom-girl side. I grew up going to the race track with my dad and brothers, being around race cars at the drag strip, riding four-wheelers out in dunes or in the mud when it rained, riding my BMX bike to the track. I really have a passion for motorsports also. My mom would always dress me up in the most fly outfits. I may not have been the loudest kid or the girliest, but I was always fashionably dressed. Because I was so shy, I now realize that my form of expression was through my outfits, pieces that I sewed together, and even my paintings. My mom definitely influenced me to tap into my creative side.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neypazzz/
Image Credit:
@imjust_q
@ianstills
@bonnienichoalds
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