As we continue the series ‘A day in the life of… Charlotte Fletcher we take a look at the multi talented Charli’s modelling career:
Photograph by Alexander Laberge
1. WHAT PROMPTED YOU TO GET INTO MODELLING
Photo courtesy girlswithattitude.co.uk
I always said I wanted to be a model from the age of four or five years old when I first saw Naomi Campbell on television. I was in awe at her grace and beauty. I did part time modelling from the age of 16 but when I turned 19 and I went to Grenada on holiday I decided to take modelling more seriously as a profession.
This is because although it is a beautiful island I saw the limited opportunities over there, so I thought I might as well make use of my youth and the opportunities here in the UK, do what I love and get paid for it.
2. WHO IS YOUR BIGGEST IDOL IN THIS INDUSTRY
I look up to Waris Dirie the gorgeous and successful model originally from the Somalian desserts. She may not be a supermodel but she has a great story as she has been through a lot in life that she has overcome. Waris turned the negatives into a positive picture. I admire her bravery, determination and honesty. I recommend every one to read her book named Desert Flower.
3. WHEN AN WHERE DID YOU TAKE YOUR FIRST PROFESSIONAL SHOT
My 1st photo shoot was when I was 16 for the Black Hair magazine (2007 august/ September issue).
4. DO YOU HAVE A MODEL MENTOR
I used to be coached by the wonderful Kellie Taylor who works for the Wilhelmina modelling agency based in Philadelphia.
5. WHAT WOULD YOU REGARD AS THE MOST CHALLENGING ASPECT OF MODELLING
I think for most models it is getting signed by a prestigious modelling agency.
6. WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON SOME MODELS STARVING THEMSELVES TO SATISFY A PARTICULAR SIZE AND WEIGHT
I don’t agree with it personally but I strongly believe in strong will so it’s up to them.
Model Waris Dirie. Photo courtesy tumblr.com
7. WOULD YOU SAY YOU ARE THE RIGHT SIZE AND SHAPE FOR THE INDUSTRY
I love the body I have been given and I think it’s perfect for me. I have not received any complaints… Yet! Luckily I have a very fast metabolism so I can eat pretty much any thing I like however I do try and eat healthily because clear skin is necessary for my profession.
8. DO YOU THINK THERE’S A PLACE FOR FULL FIGURED WOMEN IN THE INDUSTRY IN THE UK AND US
There is definitely a place for curvy women and plus sized models here in the UK and in the US. There are different types of modelling that want differing looks. In reality these people do exist and people do not want to just look at stick thin models all the time because not every body looks like that. Also there are modelling agencies such as Models of Diversity and many others that embrace these full figured models as they recognise, accept and promote their beauty.
10. WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER YOUR GREATEST STRENGTH AS A MODEL
My greatest strength as a model is the fact that I am thick skinned. I can take and accept criticism and rejection. These are very important qualities because in order to make it to the top you will encounter these things. I also believe in a humble attitude and just a real persona in general. People will see that you are genuine and feel more interested in working with you. Looks are not every thing!
11. WHAT WOULD YOU REGARD AS YOUR BEST PHYSICAL FEATURE
Well many people compliment me on my eyes and legs and I like them too… A lot!
12. WHAT ARE THE FORESEEABLE CHALLENGES OF THIS PROFESSION AND HOW DO YOU APPROACH THEM
The challenge I have come across in this profession is dealing with a few people with lack of scruples but that’s like so many other professions. It has definitely toughened me up, made me more aware and taught me to do a lot of research before working with some one. I’m not one for all talk and no action.
13. WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE PERKS OF THE JOB
Well the list could go on forever… Free clothing, new hair styles, make overs, travelling, good food and meeting plenty of beautiful people as well as other creative talents. I love socialising so this is definitely the perfect job for me.
Photograph by Alexander Laberge
14. WHAT FEEDBACK / TESTIMONIALS HAVE YOU RECEIVED FROM PHOTOGRAPHERS, PEERS AND THE PUBLIC
All the photographers I work with tend to have liked working with me and want to work with me again. A majority of models enjoy working with me (I hope) because I am very fun to be around but I know when to be serious.
If any one of them needs assistance then I am always there to help. I firmly believe in cooperation and less in competition. Some times members of the public who have seen my work on the Internet come up to me and compliment what I do. It feels good because at least I am being recognised for my hard work.
15. AS A MODEL WHAT WOULD YOU CONSIDER THE BEST EXPERIENCE YOU’VE HAD TO DATE
The best experience I have ever had is being signed to a good modelling agency and making life long friends across the world.
16. WHAT WOULD YOU SAY WAS THE WORST DAY YOU EXPERIENCED AS A MODEL
When I did not get fed at a job. Since I eat a lot my motto is a hungry model is an unhappy model. I’m only joking I don’t think I have actually had a bad experience.
17. DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF A ROLE MODEL FOR YOUTH
I do believe I am a role model to the youth that know me. My life wasn’t a bed of roses but I sowed the right seeds so life became one. I encourage every one to have a positive mindset because anything is possible. All you have to do is believe.
18. WOULD YOU SAY YOU ARE LIVING YOUR DREAM
Yes I am living the dream. I am always busy travelling, working and meeting amazing people in the industry. I love my life!
19. WHAT PARTING WORDS WOULD YOU GIVE TO ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS
Sometimes you have to make sacrifices and live the life most people wouldn’t to live the life most people can’t.
