#IndustryInsights - Teodora Sutra

This week we sat down with model Teodora Sutra (@teodorasutra) to have the chats and find out what it takes to be a superstar model. Teodora, originally from Latvia, has taken the Irish modelling industry by storm, and she gives us the low-down on her high-profile fashionable life.

How did you first get into the modelling industry? I won a competition, "Ford Supermodel of the World", when I was 14 years old, I got the chance to represent Ireland in the world final In New York. It was the best experience for me, scary yet super exciting! I've been with 1st Option Models ever since. It was never my dream to model but I'm very glad my mum found this competition, because otherwise I wouldn't have ever even considered this career.

Can you describe a typical work day? There is no such thing as a typical work day as a model, everyday is pretty much different. Last week I had a job where we all left dublin at 7am to go to Galway for a fashion show and only got back to Dublin at 2am. The whole day was filled with fittings, makeup, hair and rehearsals...and of course lots of sitting around and waiting. Then, on the other hand, I could have a job where I just have to show up and it's a 1 hour shoot and I'm done. What I love, and at the same time dislike about this job, is the craziness of not having a proper schedule. Everyday is different and it keeps me on my toes.

What motivates you? Travelling. Seeing the world. Without my little holidays every couple of weeks/months I'd have no reason to work. I work so that I can afford to live life to the fullest.

How do you integrate social media into your modelling career?

I try be active on my social media, posting pictures from behind the scenes at work and of my life also. I think it's good to post new work photos on social media. Clients and potential clients can see updated work and make a choice on booking you or not without doing castings. I do try not to post too much as I know people can get annoyed with seeing this mug all over Facebook and insta! Haha.

What has been your biggest career achievement to date?

Honestly there are too many, every time I shoot for a client that hasn't booked me before, or a magazine that hasn't used me before, that's an achievement. Or working with a photographer that I've been dying to shoot with is a big achievement for me.

Have you any advice for people thinking of entering the industry? Always be yourself and stay true to that. Have a strong head on your shoulders and remember, any criticism thrown your way should never be taken personally. If a client says to me, ''ah you're a little too big/too small/too tall/too blonde,'' whatever the criticism may be, you have to remember it's something specific to that client, and not a representation of you personally. I've learned over the years to never take that kind of thing to heart.

Is there anyone that influenced you to take this career path?

My mum pushed me at the beginning to stick with it. I had zero confidence; I was super lanky and shy, and to be honest the industry has made me a lot more confident now. So... Cheers mum!

Where do you hope to see yourself in 5 years?

I have absolutely no idea. I want to travel and see the world. Until I have seen it all, I will not be fulfilled! I don't like thinking too far ahead so God knows where I'll be. But I am very lucky and grateful to have this job, so if I am still at it in 5 years... then big high five to myself!

What is your pet peeve about working in the modelling industry?

That people don't take this job seriously, They just think it's for fun or a little part-time job. It is a lot of fun at times, but also a lot of hard work. But it's also very rewarding.

What do you do to relax and unwind after a long days work?

I like to go out for dinner; dinner and a glass or 2 of wine. It's my favourite meal of the day, and to have someone else cook it for me after a long day of work is an absolute dream. When I'm even too tired for that, then I like to come home and get into my pyjamas, cuddle up on the couch with my two cats Tyson and Kleo, and watch a movie.

To keep up with Teodora's exciting life in the modelling industry, make sure you're following her on Instagram and Twitter.

YM.