“Dumb and bitchy models do exist, but I haven't met them yet.” – Samantha Alexander

 

  There’s a lot more to modeling than meets the eye. And there’s a hell of a lot more to the models themselves than just fit figures and shiny hair. Welcome to Face Time. DFW Style Daily’s new series gets personal with some of the most recognizable faces from top Dallas runways and glossies. Today, we’ll meet a local up-and-comer who sees each job as an opportunity for artful collaboration (with a playful twist). Click here for more Face Time model interviews!   Name: Samantha Alexander Hometown: Dallas, Texas Agency: The Clutts Agency Notable Clients: Tracy Popken, Inner. Orbit. Systems. by Yasmina Johnston, Jorge Rivas  

  DFW Style Daily: At what age did you begin modeling? Tell us about your first job. Samantha Alexander: “I began modeling at age 18, but my first paying job wasn't until I was 21. The first time I ever worked with a professional photographer was with Jorge Rivas. It was basically us, the stylist, and the makeup artist, playing around with different looks that came to mind. It was a lot of fun, and the pictures were awesome.” What do you think is the biggest misconception about models? “That they're dumb and bitchy. Granted, those dumb and bitchy models do exist, but I haven't met them yet. Most of the girls and guys that I've encountered are sweet and smart, and while they take their job seriously, they don't take themselves too seriously.” Describe your most exciting job so far. “Not only was I honored to walk in the 2013 Fashion for Compassion event, but my mom was there for the first time to see me work.”  

  How do you prepare for a job? “I shave my legs and listen to Madonna.” What is the craziest, silliest, or most unusual thing you have done on a job? “I worked on a video where I was actually playing a model who had a cooking show. For the opening shot, I had to pretend to be doing a photo shoot with a rolling pin, which got pretty ridiculous. ...Which happens when you have to get creative with a rolling pin.” What is your dream modeling job, or who would be your dream client? “I’d love to work with fashion photographers Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin somewhere in the Netherlands.” Name a model you admire. Why is she a role model to you?  “There are two, actually. First, Crystal Renn is just amazing at modeling. She has a great talent for morphing her body and face, and is always creative in posing. Take a look at the shoot she did for Interview Magazine with Karolina Kurkova. “Second, Omahyra Garcia was one of the first models I ever saw who made me want to try modeling. I remember reading an interview with her in which she talked about how shoots were a collaborative team effort - which is [an idea] I really believe in.”  

  Are there any "deal breakers" for you when it comes to job requirements? “Full nudity.”  What did you have for breakfast? “Buttered toast! (Ed, Edd 'n Eddy, anyone?) But seriously, I did have toast and an apple.” What do you like to do when you’re not working? “I like to find new places for my dog to run free, visit my mom and sister in Austin, and plan for my escape to England.”     All images courtesy of Samantha Alexander.