Model Spotlight: Madison Reis of TRUE Model Management

Broadwayworld.com continues their "Model Spotlight" series with TRUE Model Management's Madison Reis. Madison shared with us some insider information about her career and current fashion trends.

What was your first modeling experience?

My first modeling experience was with a photographer friend back home in Orlando, Florida. I remember looking at photos of models all day on Pinterest the night before and then just going for it.

What has inspired your modeling career?

I've always been really tall so people usually ask if I play volleyball or model. I have no hand-eye coordination so I entertained the idea of modeling. But the real moment when I decided to pursue modeling was while watching Grey's Anatomy. Katherine Heigl's character paid her way through med school by modeling. At the same time, I was freaking out about how I was going to pay for NYU, so I told myself, "I can model... I can totally do that!"

Who are some of your mentors in the business?

Everyone at TRUE Model Management is absolutely incredible. They're really like a family to me. I've heard some manager/agency horror stories from other girls and am so happy; I really hit the jackpot. But as far as role models, I really look up to Iskra Lawrence. She is not only incredibly gorgeous, she is always working with companies like Aerie and supporting charities such as National Eating Disorders Association to assure that her modeling is making a positive impact on young girls.

Tell us about one of your favorite modeling experiences.

One of my absolute favorite moments was during a test shoot in Central Park. We were by the big fountain near the boathouse and I remembered being there when I was 16, before I'd even moved to New York; It just felt so surreal! I said to myself, " is this my life?! Am I honestly having a photoshoot in Central Park?"

What are some of your favorite fashion trends?

I'm really into simple street style looks. I love turtlenecks, leather pants and everything high-waisted. High fashion sneakers are the greatest thing that's happened to the fashion industry in decades. You could just see the joy on everyone's face this year at NYFW. It was like "it's okay guys, we're here, we look amazing, and we don't want to cut off our feet because of heels."

What would you like to do in the future in your career?

I'm considered a plus size print model but I'm a size 12-14 so I can usually fit into standard size clothing just about anywhere. My dream would be to work for the major teen brands such as American Eagle, Forever 21 and H&M, and model their standard size clothing, just in a larger size than the industry standard (size 2-4 print model). I remember looking at the slim, standard models and thinking that the clothes will never look like that on me in a larger size, but they will fit me. It's not fair that very few companies are accurately representing consumers like me in their ads. I would love to be a catalyst in highlighting realistic and positive body images for young girls

What advice would you give others who wish to have a modeling career?

You've got to have think skin. You will go to casting after casting and maybe they'll say you're too skinny or too fat or your freckles are weird or they might just turn you away without saying anything at all. It's a tough business and it's not for everyone. At the end of the day, you've got to love your face and body just the way they are. As long as you're taking care of yourself, the right client will come along. But until then, you can't get wrapped up in changing yourself for anyone because if you go down that rabbit hole, you'll never be skinny enough, never tall enough, eyes never bright enough, cheekbones never high enough; so just own what you've got.

Do you have a link to your modeling portfolio or professional web site?

You can find me on TRUE's website, www.TRUEmodel.net - http://truemodel.net/gallery-detail.php?c1=curves&c2=curves_development&modelid=1780&catid=36

Photo Credit: Chris Carroll

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