Conversations with Frances

Today we’d like to introduce you to Frances.

Frances, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
I started “modeling”, I hate using that word when I was 18. I found my first modeling job while searching on Craigslist in the gig section looking for ways to make money. It was for a junior clothing company looking for a model to come in twice a week to basically have a body to show off the clothes for their site.

It wasn’t anything fancy but some extra income and sorta fun to be on the website. From that little exposure, I met a few photographers in LA and started building up a small portfolio. I’ve always been pretty realistic about what I have to offer and never really had huge aspirations of “making it big” in the modeling world which is why I’ve stuck to being a freelancer. Initially, modeling was just for fun and spare cash but as the years went by I realized how much of an outlet it was for me. I was, and still am, a pretty introverted person and to be able to express myself through this art form has been very therapeutic for me. I’ve transitioned into modeling primarily in the “art nude form” and have found it extremely liberating. I wouldn’t say I have one definite style and actually find that freeing because I’m able to play and bounce around. Recently in the past couple years I’ve been fortunate enough to be able to road trip around with my Mom who plays my personal photographer. I’d say out of everything I’ve created throughout the years, shooting with her has been the most rewarding. She has always been a huge supporter and cheerleader for me throughout my modeling journey and now being able to create with her and have these photographic memories is something I’ll always treasure. My Mom and I just wrapped up a recent road trip shooting up the west coast up to WA and now I’m back on the grind shooting with photographers all throughout CA.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey have been a fairly smooth road?
I’d say there have definitely been some ups and downs but because I’ve never really taken myself all to serious I never really felt defeated. Sure there’s always going to be competition and other girls that are prettier but as I’ve gotten older and more secure with myself, I’ve realized the people that hire me aren’t hiring me necessarily for what I look like but for the creatively I have to offer to their shoot.

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a freelance art model, primarily who shoots nudes. I think what makes me unique is the style of nudes I shoot. It’s not the traditional sexy style but more obscure and a bit corky. Throughout the 15 years, I’ve been a freelance model my style has definitely evolved. I’d say I’m most proud of the photos I’ve been able to create with my Mom. We road trip around, sleeping head to toe in my tiny car, shooting at unique random places.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
If I had any advice for someone getting started in this freelance modeling world, it is to be kind, humble, patient and stay true to yourself. You’ll mostly work with hobbyists and having all of those qualities is appreciated when you’re helping to create with someone who may just be shooting for fun. Don’t conform to the same paths as others, create your own style and don’t apologize for it. Not everyone will understand or appreciate it but those that do and want to create with you mean so much more.

Pricing:

• $150/hr

Contact Info:

• Website: francesinframe.com
• Instagram: frances.in.frame

Image Credits
Last image: Mom, Andrea Endris (Panda), photographing me