Meet Trailblazer Elizabeth Estrada

Today we’d like to introduce you to Elizabeth Estrada.

Elizabeth, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I am a twenty-something plus-size model, fashion photographer in LA/surrounding LA area (Ventura). I also work at a botanical garden/plant nursery on the weekends. I love plants and learning about where they come from and how to take care of them. Currently, I am studying to become a registered nurse. So, caring for things is something very dear to me.

I kind of “fell” into modeling after working several bartending jobs and as a skin care specialist at Sephora. I had hopes of moving to Los Angeles and becoming a car/ motorcycle photographer. I had just bought my first bike (this was 2014) and spent a lot of time and money trying (‘trying’ being the operative word) to make it run properly.

I figured I could bartend out in LA to make most of my money but was looking for something else to do part time that had potentially high pay off. While working at Sephora, I was often used as the face model when someone was getting certified to be a makeup artist. People would say things like “Hey, you should become a model!” There was always an obvious flaw in their plan… I was, and have been since middle school, a solid size 12-14. Then, someone mentioned “Plus Size” modeling. I did a bit of research and sent my images to several different agencies. Within about three weeks, I was offered a contract and was able to quit all of my three jobs, I had at the time, after booking my first job with Forever 21.

We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc. – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
The modeling/talent industry is never going to be a smooth road no matter who you talk too. It is difficult and if you’re not questioning your decisions and doubting yourself along the way then you’re not challenging yourself enough.

My advice is to stay focused, have a goal in mind and chip away at it in pieces, do not get overwhelmed by the goal or goals as a whole. It is crucial to keep things in perspective. Also, find ways to stay grounded whether that’s a yoga class once a week, prayer/ church /meditation or wine with your girl crew. That is key!

We’d love to hear more about your work.
I like to think I am an ever-evolving person. Knowledge is power so the more you know the better off you are. Just in my 20’s alone, I have lived like 20 different lives. Some better than others but all of them important and impactful and help me with my present obstacles. I think right now, I am known for my passion of working with plants. I love watching things grow and the idiosyncrasies each plant possesses. All my friends come to me for plant help and I love that.

We’re interested to hear your thoughts on female leadership – in particular, what do you feel are the biggest barriers or obstacles?
The world has come along way, specifically with the plus size movement. I have only been a plus model for five years and have seen it change dramatically. Overall, in a positive way. I believe, in general, being a leader takes a clear vision, hard work and barriers are always going to be there. Being a woman just means you have to work that much harder and persevere.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.lizestradaphoto.com
• Instagram: @lizphoto @lizestradaphoto

Image Credit:
myself @lizestradaphoto

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