Model, Model On The Wall
“Mirror, mirror on the wall, who’s the fairest of them all?” Oh reader, Michelle Phanh is the fairest of them all! Michelle Phanh, with a true heart, has captured the modeling world. Raised in a small faraway land in California, Michelle has always wondered what her life would look like as a model. Instead of making a wish in the well, Michelle seized the day and singlehandedly made her dreams a reality. Discovered by a local designer, this was her first frolic into the modeling world. Now home-based in the kingdom of New York City, like Snow White, Michelle made friends with multiple people within the fashion industry. She gained relationships with the companies she modeled for and the photographers who took snapshots of her. Michelle worked with her resources and gained experience from those around her. They were her “Doc” and “Happy” (hint, hint, the Seven Dwarfs).
However, she didn’t get those experiences because of a prince. Michelle put her name out into the kingdom. “I put my face out there. Whether that’s test shoots with photographers I know or just a simple iPhone camera!” An online presence is mandatory! It was important to have her face and image on social media. This leads to collaborations and connections. “Creating an inner momentum” is what Michelle would describe it. Creativity is a big part of the modeling industry. Whether creating a social media post or posing for a professional camera, models can utilize themselves as extensions of art.
“I'm not afraid of the dark woods at night. And the goblins,” wise words from Snow White. Rejection is a big part of the modeling industry. Similar to Snow White, Michelle wasn’t afraid of rejection. It only fueled her to become better. With that ability, she landed modeling gigs. Michelle says, “A modeling photoshoot varies.” A typical day for a model will not always be the same. Every individual, in the fashion industry, is different. Everyone has their creative qualities. But that’s part of the excitement! Michelle gets to be a part of so many colorful paths of creativity. As stated, she makes herself an extension of art. With that art; she is kind, responsible, and always tries to have a positive attitude.
Michelle believes having inner confidence and self-worth is one of their top priorities. Being a model, showcasing your uniqueness, and personality to the world is one of the best gifts you can give. “When I was younger, going into something, expecting the event to be this way or that way can create insecurities. The best way to deal with a shoot or anything is to go with the flow. Collaborate! Be positive! Be unique! Promote your individuality!”
Michelle, not only, promotes self-worth within the modeling industry; but, she also creates her work with her newsletter (Ok, So). She is creating her voice in a role that doesn’t require many to speak. With optimism, resilience, and hard work; Michelle Phanh is her own Snow White!
Happily Ever After,
Vy Vo
