Today we’d like to introduce you to Makalyn Barnes.
Hi Makalyn, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
My story began as a sophomore in high school when I started to see specific models showing up in ads on tv and on my Instagram page . I was watching ANTM a lot and was very intrigued with what all came with modeling and how one could evolve within the industry. My mother was adamant about me not being tall enough to model, which naturally decreased my confidence, until one day a friend of hers contacted her to use me as a muse in her project . From then she and I continue to work together regularly. With her help I was published numerous times on blogs such as Cincy Chic & Purplei Potion and on the cover of Realm Magazine. I began to navigate the city’s local talent and worked with many other photographers, expanding outside of the city and working with others around the tri state becoming experienced in runway, beauty, editorial, catalog, feet , commercial and boudoir modeling. I’ve been published in multiple occasions now and been featured in many magazines and music videos. My next accomplishment is to sign with an agency I’ve been in communication with as I am looking to expand my talents, so we shall see what the future entails
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Being an independent model has its pros and cons but most importantly I had to prioritize my safety, especially being a young lady out of high school, traveling around Ohio, Indiana & Kentucky to do photoshoots with people I was meeting in workshops , virtual groups and networking events. There are also the dangers of scammers who would pose as well known photographers and contact you for financial gain without any intention to work with you, risking the possibility of sharing your personal information with total strangers. Finding an agency is highly recommended due to all of the risk that comes with managing yourself. You want to make sure you do your research on the agency you sign with and make sure they have your best interest in mind as well.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am known for wearing many hats as I am not only a model but have been singing since elementary school. I’ve been apart of choirs, ensembles , & musicals. I had the enjoyment of playing cello growing up too. Singing has been a passion of mine since before I could pronounce my own name. I recently began studying metaphysics around 2019 and have become a professional card reader in cartomancy as I receive many calls daily through a hotline for Oracle and tarot readings , however it could just be apart of my bloodline as I do have family that originate from the French Quarters of New Orleans . Then, to stay active and keep myself moving, I began teaching myself pole and advancing in that field as well. I enjoy reading books as I am very philosophical, I studied business , psychology and anatomy in school and find myself intrigued by the idea of man and his evolution on the planet . It allows me to appreciate my existence & the skills and talents i possess as an extension of source in this universe .
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
My advice is to be open to change and have a student mentality at all times . You should never have all of the answers in the room and if you do you’re in the wrong room. You want to always put yourself in a position to learn from someone doing better than you or who is in the position you’re working towards achieving. Also, use your mistakes as learning curves to strengthen your understanding and skills.
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