Today we’d like to introduce you to Gloria Nnaji.
Hi Gloria, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Modeling was never a passion of mine, but I truly had a passion for art. One day back in 2011, one of my friends who started modeling invited me to one of her photoshoots. I honestly had no knowledge in modeling what so ever. So the photographer asked me to join, of course I did not know what I was doing. I couldn’t pose or give facial expressions. So once those images landed on Tumblr, I started getting more connections to photographers. Before you know it, it started growing on me. So I took my passion for art and modeling and combined those two to start producing images to inspire people.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Anyone who says modeling is easy is absolutely lying. It’s been extremely stressful and at the same time a wonderful experience. It wasn’t easy at first especially dealing with unprofessional people in the industry, having low self-esteem issues and letting negative opinions of other people get to you. Everyday I have to remind myself that I don’t model for the satisfaction of others but I do it for my happiness.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am known for being a model, but over the years since I have progressed I see myself as more of a visionary. Anyone can stand in front of a camera and take a picture. As a model, I want to be different from the rest. I want my work to leave you thinking. I like producing work that will inspire others and over the years, that’s the feedback I’ve been getting. The most thing I’m proud of is my growth. I am extremely proud of my confidence and my determination to make nothing but masterpieces.
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
Pinterest/ Tumblr are the two apps that really have inspired me over the years. Just being able to see women like me, black women taking over the industry is very admirable.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/africanglow/?hl=en
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/africanglo?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor
Image Credits:
Photographers: @Tayojr @cameronlaque @Photomaticsmith @Jprcreate @Francisshad.co
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