Have you ever considered the story behind that big poster you saw in the window of H&M? Or Zara? What about the pictures you see when online shopping? Or the 30 second youtube video advertising a brand’s newest product? Contrary to what some may think, all these things did not happen in the blink of an eye. Let me tell you from first hand experience behind the scenes, there is always a story. I once shot a campaign where we started shooting at 6pm, and didn’t finish until 6am. And that was just to film a few short videos. All over the world, models, photographers, stylists, editors, and many others are hard at work to create these photos and videos, and what may look like a simple picture requires hours of work from so many people. My name is Sammie, and I want to open the door to understanding what it’s really like being a model, while also sharing some of my own personal experiences in the industry. Believe me, there is a lot to know…
Let’s start with the basics. I am a Canadian girl from a small (ish? Not sure it’s considered small anymore) town in Alberta. I have a wonderful family with two parents, a younger brother, and a dog, who I miss everyday. I love books, coffee, and Taylor Swift, and I am passionate about politics and activism. I started modelling at just 14, and four years later, at 18, I am across the world living the life that 14 year old me dreamed of. I am currently living on contract in Bangalore, India for three months, but I have also traveled to Seoul, South Korea, and Jakarta, Indonesia. I mostly model for e-commerce and catalog, but I also do campaigns, runways, and video shoots when given the opportunity. My life is quite chaotic and very unpredictable, and it is often a challenge, but I love it. If you’re interested in being a model yourself, or just curious on the details of what modeling life holds, this is the place for you!
I began modelling and traveling full time in July 2022, with my first contract being in South Korea. Right after I graduated high school I was gone, and it was terrifying and exhilarating. Unconventionally, my family came with me in the beginning and we had an amazing time exploring Korea as I slowly eased into my new life. Things didn’t work out for me work wise on that first trip, but I refused to give up. It’s a story for another time, but my experience there was pivotal for me, and I hope to return someday. Next I was off to Jakarta to start again! This time completely alone, I traveled to a another new country without any idea what to expect. I parted from my family and got right to work, which was scary but so fun. I worked a lot on that trip and learned so much. While I had a completely different experience from the first trip, both trips completely changed me and my life. India has changed me all over again, and I’m sure all future placements will continue to do the same. Everyday is a challenge and completely different than the one before. It’s not all as glamorous as you may think it is, but I wouldn’t trade this experience for anything. I’ve got lots of exciting things coming up when I leave India in a couple of weeks, and I can’t wait to see what my next contract will hold.
With this blog, I’m hoping not only to share with people who are interested but also people who maybe aren’t yet. I think modelling is misunderstood, and I want to open peoples minds to understand the good and the bad that comes with this life, while also getting to share my own personal experiences. International modelling can be a lonely life, and sharing your thoughts and feelings is an important part of the experience. I’m not sure exactly what this will blog look like quite yet, but I’m excited to see where it goes. I hope you will follow me on this journey! Thanks for reading. Until next time,
Sammie Taylor
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