AQ: How were you discovered? What was your first photo-shoot like?

Xalaura: My first photoshoot was technically my High School Grad Photos. I was going to Dr. E.P. Scarlett senior high in Calgary Alberta Canada and we had Jostens come out for our graduation photos. The photographer was a chic, petite, yet gorgeous Asian man, with a slick get up and black alligator hide shoes. There was just a neat connection there, and he remarked that he liked my work and giggled that the rest of the students just "sat" there, where as I was using the camera for its intention. When I got my photos I knew that it was an opportunity I would want to go for again (but my mom just said they were to sexy for grad pictures haha)!

AQ: Who is or was your idol in modeling?

Xalaura: I don't really have an "IDOL" however Marilyn Monroe's struggle and the problems she experienced during the fight for her career is very real to me. I spent a lot of time in my younger years studying High Fashion, and much less time studying the industries "idols", and as an adult the various arts as a whole. As an Artist, I have always been intrigued and inspired by contortionists, mimes, acrobats, and the general theatre/musical/performing arts... so I think that it is more genre or perhaps historical/period elements/movements that have most inspired me. Theme, feeling, the moment, not so much the figure/person.

AQ: What do you think your best feature is currently?

Xalaura: I believe my best feature is my spirit but physically I believe it would be my back shoulders and neck... I Have a statuesque body type that is very muscular-so that brings variety-all depends on the shoot.

AQ: Is there something you aspire to do professionally that you have not done yet?

Xalaura: I would like to be able to tailor some specific shoots in a few select remote locations from my past and re-create my autobiography through a series of photos and locations. I would like to, one day, publish a biography of photographs. I have a desire to push the limit without going overboard. I think that's hard, walking the line, showing nothing and everything at the same time.

AQ: What is your pet peeve regarding a photo-shoot?

Xalaura: When photographers are short or cruel with their words or direction in the depiction of their vision for the shoot. I am still a person, in fact a very creative type, so I do not respond very well with that kind of behavior from a photographer. I do not allow physical contact during before or after a shoot, unless it's for the adjustment of a prop, so handsy photographers are a huge no-no.. Also likewise, when a photographer continues to push or ask about, or speak of illicit photo shoots in the future with me, or alludes to erotica or similar genres. I am VERY clear about my boundaries, and believe they are reasonable.. that's my call and despite what they think, they aren't any closer to convincing me the 15th time than the 1st time they ask.

AQ: Have you ever been bullied as a model?

Xalaura: I model for some unique reasons.. My family and friends aren't always supportive of the work I do. It often results in difficult relationships whether personal or interpersonal. Even right now writing this, I am sure that it will cause some turbulence one way or another. Psychological bullying is difficult to deal with from the people we love and confide in. It is something I do for me, so it's definitely a challenge for me to fight or give up on myself...my happiness for theirs? On the other hand, women in the industry (in general really) they have a tendency to be quite Catty and Cruel. I typically avoid those situations. I am kind of old school in a lot of aspects... and prefer to think that the scars I have and earn are simply character, stories, and no different than if an old building were to get scrapes scuffs and dents. That being said, most models avoid direct confrontation with me... They prefer to speak behind my back... which is fine, because, evidently... they don't know what they are talking about!

AQ: What is the best and worst experience you have had modeling?

Xalaura: The worst experience I have ever experienced I suppose, has yet to happen. I choose my photographers carefully for all of my shoots. I think that bringing an escort to a shoot has innumerable benefits, even if it's just comfort for the model. I bring one for many reasons, primarily to help with my bags, props, or poses. I don't think there is anything wrong with that, and personally believe that if a photographer CAN'T have another individual there to help (the model), there may be a reason and the model should have a right to question that exchange. My escorts, many a time have assisted the photographer more than I, in fact. That being said, there are always complications, even if ever so minute, that arise when two creative people put their heads together to create something. There will always be. I do not view this experience negatively, but rather embrace the awkward nature of its feeling and try to use it and beautify its reflection in the shoot. I think that awkwardness has its place and can be utilized. Unless you're a mind reader, it's impossible to know what the photographer is thinking- but you are still your own person and there for a purpose and "job".

AQ: Is there anything you would change about modeling at your level?

Xalaura: I would like to start shooting more frequently, and move into more sustainable work financially. It would be fantastic if I could use my passion and presentation for the Art I create by modelling for supporting my art in my life. Right now has just been a major personal adventure that has been a character builder as well as a phenomenal teacher. With additional Resources I would just bring it all to the next level.

AQ: Please share something people don't know about you.

Xalaura: I am a professional dog trainer, tattoo artist, canvas artist, and model. I have moved 40 times, lived in Canada and consider HOME to be a tiny island off the coast of Labrador. Newfoundland Canada has had the most significant impression on me as an artist, as a model, and most fundamentally, as a person... but I am a Colorado Native by Birth Right. I am primarily German and Scottish with some Native American on my Mom's side, and on my Birth Fathers side, a pinch of African American.

AQ: What would you change about yourself if you could?

Xalaura: Physically I would heal some damaged parts, but besides that I have learned a great appreciation of life, and the journey that I have been on and currently taking... Thusly, I would only change the negative aspects of my personage and strive to be more understanding, compassionate, giving, and humble. .. Oh yea, and less body hair ;-)

AQ: What is your favorite image or images you have modeled in to this date?

Xalaura: My current favorites are my Infrared and UV, Black Tape, Painting with Light, The Skulls, and my Trees.. The shoots in the trees are always so much fun

AQ: What is your next upcoming project if you have one?

Xalaura: If I told you that, I would have to kill you.... ;-) HAHA!

AQ: What is one additional thing to say?

Xalaura: I just want to say that you are the only thing that holds you back, and if its worth doing, its probably not going to be cheap or easy... but the only time it becomes impossible, is when you stop trying.

AQ: Very appreciated and we look forward to more of your creatively intoxicating work in the days ahead!

AQ: For the audience head over and check out Xalaura's current paintings and other works at http://ethins.com/