Today we’re excited to be connecting with Brii Payne again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.
Brii, thanks for joining us again. Just to level set a bit for folks who may have missed our last interview together, can you briefly introduce yourself?
Thank you for reconnecting with me! I’m Brii Payne, a professional model, actress, and the co-founder of BuddyCap Studios, a production company I started with my partner, Michael. With over a decade of experience in the modeling industry, what sets me apart is my ability to bring a creative vision to life both in front of and behind the camera. At BuddyCap, I oversee everything from casting to creative direction, helping brands tell their stories in unique and impactful ways.
Since our last interview, I’ve moved from Las Vegas to Portland, Tucson, and back to Wisconsin, gaining valuable experience and building my brand along the way. One of my proudest moments was modeling for brands like Nike and Frito-Lay without agency representation. Now, I’m focused on continuing to grow as a creative director and providing opportunities for other models and creatives through BuddyCap Studios.
Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
Since our last conversation, my life and career have taken some significant turns, both in exciting ways and in deeply personal ones. The most transformative development has been the creation of BuddyCap Studios. We’ve built something that’s not only about producing high-quality commercial content but also about providing opportunities for other creatives, from models to photographers. Being a part of every aspect of the process, from casting to creative direction, has been incredibly rewarding.
We’ve worked on some exciting campaigns, such as an entire rebrand campaign for Oxy Acne Care and a recent video for PUMA. Recently, we’ve been working with a local tattoo shop, which has been a super fun project and an exciting way to expand our experience. It’s also opened up new opportunities within the local community, which I’m really excited about. This project has given us a chance to connect with other creatives and build relationships that go beyond just the work itself.
However, this journey has also been shaped by personal loss. In 2020, I lost my little sister to fentanyl poisoning. That experience changed me profoundly, and I now use my platform to spread awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and advocate for education and prevention. I’ve been fortunate to have multiple articles written about my efforts, and I’ve even been published in magazines, which has allowed me to reach a wider audience with this important message. It’s become a vital part of my mission, alongside my creative work, to honor her memory and help others avoid the same tragedy.
Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue growing BuddyCap Studios, especially as we expand within the local community. I’m passionate about creating opportunities for others and using my platform to spread awareness and create positive change. There’s still so much more to explore and learn, and I’m excited for the future.
We also want to give folks a chance to get to know you a bit better so we’ve prepared a fun lightning round of questions. Ready?
- Favorite Movie: The Lorax
- Favorite Book: The Four Agreements
- Favorite TV Show: The Good Place
- Favorite Band or Artist: Little Simz
- Sweet or Savory: Both
- Mountains or Beach: This is a hard one because I love both
- Favorite Sport (to watch): None of them
- Favorite Sport (to play): I enjoy slacklining
- Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): I was in track & field
- As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: I really wanted to be a teacher
- French Fries or Onion Rings: French Fries
- Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Who?
- Favorite Cartoon growing up: Courage the Cowardly Dog
- Favorite Childhood movie: FernGully
- Favorite Breakfast Food: Avocado toast topped with a fried egg
What do you want people to remember about you and your brand? What are some of things that you feel are most important, unique, special, etc?
When people think about me and BuddyCap Studios, I want them to remember our authenticity, creativity, and commitment to helping others shine. What’s most important to me is that we stay true to who we are, embracing both our artistic vision and the real, raw moments that happen behind the scenes. Whether it’s in front of or behind the camera, I aim to create work that connects with people on a deeper level, making them feel something or see the world in a new way.
What sets BuddyCap Studios apart is our ability to wear multiple hats—whether it’s modeling, casting, directing, or creating content—and doing it all with heart. We don’t just create for the sake of creating; we put meaning into every project. We also prioritize collaboration, always striving to give other creatives opportunities to grow, learn, and showcase their talents.
On a personal level, I want people to remember my resilience and my passion for using my platform for good. Whether it’s through my work spreading awareness about fentanyl poisoning or creating content that inspires others, I hope to leave a positive, lasting impact on the people I meet and the industry as a whole.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.briipayne.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briipayne
- Other: https://www.buddycapstudios.com
Image Credits
Michael Schimmel, Sarah Haimes
