Why Nude Modeling

Perhaps the question I am most frequently asked: Why nude modeling?

I've always prided myself on being an honest person. No sugar-coating here. Brutality does not have to be involved. A very simple, soft truth is almost always possible, despite what you may believe. There is nothing more simple, more soft, more honest than nudity.

I remember on my first day of basic combat training, I was the first to hit the showers. Other girls reluctantly ventured in wearing their underwear and bras. One of the only other girls as bold as myself commented that I should be a nude art model. At that point in my life, I had been modeling nude for a year already.

But I've always been fairly comfortable in my skin. Sure, there are some things I don't like, such as the all too soon lack of "perk" in my bra, the annoying lower body shape that makes all my jeans tight in the hips and loose in the waist, and while we're at it, the butt could use a boost, too. But I'd long ago adopted the philosophy that there is no sense in worrying over the things you cannot control. In the words of Mary Smich: "...Know that worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum." In the meantime, you might as well make the decision to just be happy with what you've got.

I originally wanted to be a SuicideGirl. I saw a special on HBO about these fabulously naked, beautifully modified women and I wanted to be one. When I turned 19, I contacted a photographer via MySpace and did my first photo shoot. I was completely comfortable being nude in front of her and I was immediately hooked on nude modeling. It's been the majority of my work since.

Thankfully, I never sent in my pictures to SG and although I have toyed with the idea since, I have come to realize that there is a huge difference between what they do and fine art nude photography. And I most certainly prefer the latter.