My name is Mikayla Smith, I am nineteen years old, and I have lived in northern IL my whole life. I started modeling in late 2011 with a close friend, at the time and continued onto this day. Unfortunately, as well, in 2011 I was diagnosed with a chronic pain condition that has affected my whole life greatly. In short, I’ve had multiple surgeries, lots of medication, and a lot of family/friend’s support to make it this far. I had to take the winter of 2013 off for my own health, but I am desperately trying to get back into the modeling world as soon as possible. I take my modeling seriously, but I also consider it something fun to do versus a career.
What inspired your passion for modeling? The experience and the artwork itself for both questions. I love the fact that someone stops and stared at the beauty of a photograph that I helped create.
What does your career do for you? First, it gives me something to distract myself (I happen to live in chronic nerve pain). It helps keep me busy but also motivates me by showing that I CAN do something with my life that makes me feel beautiful.
What has been your best fashion look? Darker or red hair, dark eyes, or red lips.
What was your biggest fashion mistake? Quite a few questionable outfits and going blond, never ever again will that happen.
What’s your beauty regime? I have a long regime. I wash my face twice in the shower, put lotion on it, and then let that sit overnight. In the morning, I do my foundation, powder, blush, and eye/lip makeup; at the end of the day, I take off all my makeup and repeat the process. I have a strong sense that my clear skin comes from how well I take care of my body itself. Drinking/eating the right things is a big part of that.
What are your favorite types of outfits to model in? I would love to do outdoor shoots (during the summer) the most.
What kind of shoots are your least favorites? I don’t do many sports modeling, I don’t have the body type in my opinion.
Any ultimate goal to fulfill as a model? How do you see yourself progress in this field? I simply want to be known in the local community, yes, being very famous modeling would be ideal, but I’m keeping my goals realistic for the time being. I work with new concepts and photographers at almost every shoot. I’m proud to say I know so many people and have made new friends/connections in my local community.
What kind of shoots would you like to work on in the future? I’d love to work with my face the most. Beauty shoots are what I’m ultimately aiming for, however, I’m very open-minded for now.
Tell me something about your city, your favorite hang out spots there? The closest “major” city around me is Rockford, Illinois. I love the bridges, the rustic-ness of downtown, and the charm of the local businesses.
What do you like to do for fun & entertainment? I hang with my friends the most; I also love to walk around local parks and forest preserves in the area.
Do you eat nutritiously? Tell me about the diet you follow on a regular basis? I believe the better question is do I eat the correct foods all the time? That answer is no, I eat mainly fruits and vegetables, which turkey sandwiches during the day, however, I do let myself have a treat here and there. My diet is simply trying to find a balance between unhealthy and healthy foods. I do not tell myself, “I cannot eat this particular food” especially if I’m craving it. I believe there is a way to eat nutritiously while still giving yourself some “cheat” foods.
How often do you exercise or go to the gym, workout? Unfortunately, and this kills me, due to my chronic pain illness, I cannot work out like I used to. I have accepted that in my life but have made modeling a little harder over the past two years.
What is your perfect day, morning through to night? Getting ready in the morning, my phrase, “looking like a human”, and having a homemade breakfast. Then, spending time with loved ones (family or friends) and hanging out for most of the day to keep my spirits up. I love to lay in the candlelight in the evening to unwind and take a bubble bath before bed.
The easiest way to look pretty and glamourous? BEING YOURSELF.
Now tell me about your favorites. Favorite color: electric blue Favourite film: anything romantic – especially PS I love you Favourite Actor: No one in particular Favourite Actress: Rachel McAdams Favourite Singer: I listen to a WIDE variety of music, it simply depends on what I’m in the mood for Favorites in International music:? Spanish Favourite food: Raspberries Favorite holiday destination: Orlando, Florida Favourite hobby: modeling/ sewing Favorite festival: A local festival in my hometown called “OSD” for Old Settlers Days Favorite author: Not anyone in particular, but I love a wide variety of authors, titles, and themes.
Do you own a domain? Do you blog? I am active on my FB page: www.facebook.com/MRSModeling
Your ultimate message for netizens? Be true to yourself. Stay positive and never give up on your dreams.