Photography by: Lesley Xiaohan Ma

Produced by: Her Studio New York

Directed by: Stephanie Rommelt

Interviewed by: Shayna Viola

What do you identify yourself as?

I am a model, as well as a full time student studying accounting.

I am interested in pursuing a career related to business but I also want to do something creative. So I think I get the best of both worlds.

What inspires you creatively?

Being on set different creatives. I am inspired by their stories, their drive, and their motivation for what they do.

Who do you feel inspired by?

I feel the most inspired by my Mom. To me, she is the person I aspire to be. She is truly my role model; she’s very hardworking and humble.

“She’s the woman that shaped me into the person I am today.”

What is a dream you would like to accomplish? 

A goal I would like to accomplish is a goal I’m currently working on right now which is graduating college and being successful working in the business field and hope to still continue to pursue modeling as well as it gives me joy and work for some of my dream brands. Overall, I hope to inspire others, continue to work hard and live in gratitude.

Do you have any insightful stories about the beginning of your modeling journey?

I think one of the most memorable stories I have during the beginning of my modeling journey would be when I booked my first ever modeling job which was for Harry Styles’ brand Pleasing. I was a huge one direction fan when I was younger and Harry was one of my favorites so being able to model for his brand was a huge deal for me and I couldn’t believe it.  I remember being so nervous but excited at the same time. 

 “It was an amazing experience and I loved working with everyone on set.”

Prior to booking this job and getting signed to my first agency, I spent almost a year just testing with photographers and dealt with a lot of rejections from agencies. Though even today, I still face a lot of rejection in the industry. I’ve learned to handle it better. It has taught me to not take the rejection personally and the right opportunity will find you and to just trust the process 

What is it like balancing school and a creative career?

Balancing school and a creative career at the same time can be challenging at times but it has taught me to work hard and have good time management skills. I’m very grateful to be able to pursue both. It really is just knowing your priorities and you may have to sacrifice certain things in your schedule to balance both school and modeling. For instance, during exams or any important due dates or presentations I may have to book out from any jobs or castings.  Although it’s good to hustle, balance is key so taking time for yourself is also very important as well amidst the busy schedule. Though, when I’m modeling it’s like getting a break from school and vice versa. It almost feels like I’m living a Hannah Montana life and it really is the best of both worlds. 

How do you prep for a photoshoot?

You want to feel and look your best the day of the shoot. I always like to do  a face/lip mask in addition to my regular skincare routine the night before.I always try to pack all the things I need to bring if I have to beforehand as well and go over the call sheet. I also like looking at the moodboard for the shoot or inspiration on pinterest to get a feel of types of poses and the vibe of the shoot. By doing all these things prior, I don’t have to rush and am well prepared for the shoot day. 

What is your go-to casting outfit?

My go to casting outfit would be a black bodysuit with straight leg jeans and black booties.Casting outfits can vary depending on the brand but for majority of my castings would usually be with a bodysuit and form-fitting jeans/pants that are slightly baggy or straight leg. I like to wear bodysuits for castings and digitals because I think they elongate you and are flattering. For castings, you want to wear form fitting clothes but also show your style, this can be by wearing a cool leather or fur jacket or by the shoes you wear. 

How do you hope to inspire others?

I hope to inspire others by not giving up on their dreams and to be resilient. I think that working hard and being kind will go a long way. I hope to make a positive impact toward others and that young girls who have similar Eastern features as a Filipina-American like me will feel seen in the industry. 

What are your tips for someone who aspires to be a model?

Just be yourself, work on your self confidence, believe in yourself and work hard.

“It will all fall into place.”

Connect with Bryll!

@bryllbautista