Life & Work with Isis Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Isis Smith.

Hi Isis, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
I began modeling back in December of 2020, which lead into my first appearance on the runway on January 23, 2021. I started off in the runway just as a new hobby to pick up while I was finishing up my senior year of college. Shortly after I returned to school from winter break, I decided I wanted to embark on a journey into the entertainment industry. Which is something I’ve always wanted to dabble in; however, not necessarily modeling–but something involving social interactions.

Quickly after, I decided to motivate myself into becoming one of Cleveland’s “top models’. Closing out 2021, I walked in numerous fashion shows in Ohio, Michigan, and New York. I told myself on New Year’s Eve that I will be leaving 2021 as a rookie but tackling 2022 as a veteran. Which I did, just that! After the new year, I applied for multiple shows and began receiving callbacks. Gloria James and the House of Glo; All-Star experience was one of my major calls during the beginning of the year. I was beyond hyped and excited to know that as a new model, I was chosen over hundreds of others, new and old. It was a well-needed confidence booster that did the job! Soon after, I went to NYC for fashion week; Los Angeles for the B.E.T. Awards pre-show hosted by NAAB radio; booked by FAROUK Systems as a professional hair model, invited to model mayhem finale show as a VIP model/guest, and MUCH MORE! The opportunities were pouring over, day after day. I was so blessed to have transitioned from the “new face”, barely can walk, keeps looking down, bad posture…. (the list goes on)… to become one of the models to WATCH! I have taught models (new and experienced) how to walk, talk, and encourage people to be themselves.

Three years later and I’m still at it! I have honestly done so much within three years I forget half of the opportunities I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing. Just because life is beginning to happen so fast. I’ve gone from not knowing of events, begging to walk for people, spending hundreds of dollars…. to…. personal invitations, paid bookings, and exclusive castings (through the people I’ve encountered).

This is only the beginning to my journey. God has a million more blessings in store.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
In this industry, each model will discover or run into different challenges that others may not. However, a universal obstacle for models I have encountered is knowing when it is appropriate to share your personal feelings and/or beliefs. This can mean many things: outfits, hair, makeup, comfortability… etc. We struggle speaking up about things we do not like or do not agree with in hopes to not upset anyone or be seen as a hard model to work with or unprofessional.

I simply encourage models to do research, know what you are getting into before commitment. Even after commitment, check-in, ask questions and feel free to be open and honest. Never wait till prep, before, or on show day.

Be yourself! Most models are not open like myself, so they’re more standoffish and shy. No! Be yourself, enjoy the day, give it your all but allow yourself to find fun + light within the process.

A huge obstacle most models do not speak on, or some are not fully aware of; is financial expenses. Models will face a few finical expenses including but not limited to; hair, makeup, gas, food/drinks, undergarments, heels/shoes, grooming, and etc.

Keep in mind, as models, we have to do the groundwork before we go out to casting calls, shoots, and shows. You are expected to have your hair, face, and body properly groomed before all modeling events. Models are expected to have their own nice, clean, ready-to-wear heels, undergarments, etc. You should not rely or wait on anyone for those essential things.

There will be moments during your career or after you are signed that you will not have to worry about hair, makeup, undergarments, shoes, etc. But, as a model keep in mind you will spend money in order to grow or advance your career. Every casting will not be paid, all shoots will not be free, all shows will not be bookings…

Just know the difference between paying for essentials and paying for another person’s preference.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
– NYFW 5x – LAFW 1x
– B.E.T. Awards PreShow
– Gloria James All-Star experience; styled by j.Bolin
– Farouk Systems
– Akings Popup
– VIP Guest for Model Mayhem
– Professional Hair Model CHI
– Paragon 2.0 Atlanta
– Ocularity gallery opening face model
– Walked for Lisa Cloud
– NYClive
– FRISKMEGOOD Fashion Show 2x
– Tre Sorelle
– J. Bolin
– Appearance on the Sisuandra show
and much more!!!!!!!!!

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
A few lessons from my last three years inside this industry would be;

1. Do it scared! Do it alone! Do it how you want to!
Models do not be afraid, do not let the opportunity miss you because of fear or what others would say/think. This is your life, live it up.

2. Be free! No stress, no negative energy or vibes.
Stay positive, at the end of the day–everything always works out for the best.

3. You are THE BRAND! Do not forget to represent yourself in a manner that will reflect professionalism. Models tend to forget we are walking businesses; you cannot allow yourself to be lazy in public. Keep your game face on and tackle those challenges!

4. Listen.
You never know what you can learn from another person. Just allow them respect to speak to you, do not dismiss anyone. You do not know what information someone might possess.

Pricing:

• Modeling classes: runway $35
• Portfolio Building $65: includes digitals
• Posing Course: $25

Contact Info:

• Website: linktr.ee//_isissmith
• Instagram: instagram.com/iisissmith
• Facebook: Facebook.com/isissmith
• Youtube: YouTube.com/modelmyminute

Image Credits
Joederick Rackson // ShotsbyRod on Instagram Howard Bruce // Howard, Bruce on Instagram Michael Shelton // alarmblu on Instagram Cameron Ewart // camdavelle on Instagram // Pk.Media216 on Instagram // In The City Magazine on Instagram // Shooter.Shots216 on Instagram