Laucas Garcez: The Interview

Lucas Garcez: “I like to work with photographers that let u free to express your atitude, your feeling toward the cam”

Hello everyone, I'm Lucas Garcez, 23 years old. I was born in São Paulo, Brazil, but I grew up in Vinhedo (famous for the good quality wines), a small town 1 hour away from São Paulo and I also visit my dad in Santos, the city where he lives, located in the coast of São Paulo State. 

I think u guys are familiar with this city cause that´s the place where my bud Ed (the brazilian editor of World of Models) lives too. Since I was a kid I´ve been into the fashion world. I remember my first job when I was 6 years old for Fathers Day ad in Iguatemi mall São Paulo, I still have this picture ! My dad used to be a model before, so he used to tell me to keep doing that. He helped me and taught me so much about modeling. And he always support me about my decisions.

Making good friends around the world

I´m in New York now working and the best thing about modeling is to travel around the world and have the opportunity to live in different countries, see different cultures and also meet so many people, not just meet them, but also make good friends that u can keep for the whole life. There is no better experience than this.

Working with photographers? posed naked already?

I like to work with photographers that let u free to express your atitude, your feeling toward the cam. A picture is not just the model, you have a teamwork behind working to achieve the best result.

My previous preparation is a good night sleep the day before and focus on what I have to do, a previous talking to photographer helps a lot!

A funny story? Maybe not funny but something that happens sometimes when I arrive in the studio or in a shooting location. There are lots of models and we start a conversation in english. After 30 minutes talking we realized that we were all brazilian guys! lol lol

 

Male models X Female models

Women still rule this business (of course, they are beautiful lol!), but a picture shows a story. Behind a beautiful woman, there comes his man, so we are the half part of their image.

The catwalks experiences

In Asia I´ve walked for Tommy Hilfiger, Y-3, Burberry, Michael Kors.

A fashionista?

Not at al, but I like to read about the fashion world and I always wear what makes me feel good and comfortable. For a dinner Im gonna wear something more formal, elegant. "
When I´m with my buddies in Brazil, probably flip-flops, shorts and maybe not even a T-shirt lol.

Imagine u a famous model surrounded by a huge crowd!

Well this is a funny situation, I am very friendly and I always treats well who treats me well, sometimes people ask for a picture after a show or a shooting and I always accept it, but if I were a celebrity I think that it would be hard to attend all people. But, like I said, the most important thing is to be nice to everyone, after all, the fans are the main reason for your success.

Show biz, fame, success and the most important things for his life

Show business is the toughest business in the industry. I believe that fame can be both good or bad, u have to deal with gossips but also people recognize your hard work and effort that lead to be succesful.
Most important things for me are health, family, love and good friends ! o /

Sports

I love to watch and play soccer.

Having fun and enjoying life

I love nature, I love go to the beach, surfing and hanging out with my buddies

The craziest thing in a summer time season

The craziest thing I`ve ever done was trying to drink a snake`s blood and snake soup when I was in Taiwan.

Favorite body part and why

Smile because it shows the truth of a person

In his Ipod

Bob Marley, Jack Johnson, Pete Murray, Donavon Frankenreiter, Matisyahu, Marcelo D2, Emicida and some others.

Favorite food

Seafood

If you weren´t a model, u'd be…

An actor, because I could play many different roles feel how to be someone else`s life.

Guilty pleasure

Chocolate

Motto

To be successful and happy in whatever I do in life.

Brian Shimansky: World Premiere Male Model

Eight years ago, Brian Shimansky’s life took a sharp and unexpected turn, and he has John Mayer to thank for that. Then a recent college graduate, Shimansky was all set to start a business advisory job in the fall of 2008, looking ahead to a life of weeks on the road shuttling between offices, when he was scouted at a Mayer concert and decided to go all in. “About a week after that, I met Jason Kanner [then at Major Models, now of Soul Artist Management (New York)], he immediately said yes, and I never looked back from there,” Shimansky recalls.

Shimansky quickly picked up attention from major photographers like Mario Testino, Milan Vukmirovic, and Giampaolo Sgura, and went on to become a favorite of Bruce Weber and Steven Klein. In 2012, he booked a fragrance campaign, the industry’s peak, for Versace Eros shot by Mert & Marcus, a moment of validation that made the risk he took all those years ago really worth it.

“I sat in Jason’s office in 2008 thinking, ‘Ok, I’m giving up a serious salary to pursue this complete uncertainty,’” Shimansky says. “I knew as well as he did there’s no guarantee. You’ve got to work hard, put in the time, be patient, and trust the process. Four years of doing that released when I got the call that it was going to be used.”

With his place in the modeling world secured, Shimansky has lately been turning his attention to an old passion, woodworking. An avid fan of construction toys like Legos and Lincoln Logs from a young age, he discovered the woodshop in high school in suburban New Jersey, where he would put in hours every week making projects from baskets and cutting boards up to benches, minibars, and even a foosball table.

His hobby has turned more professional recently with the establishment of Shimansky Design, his personal design and construction studio which offers everything from built-in shelving to standalone furniture, including all the tables and benches shot here. “I have a need to just stay busy and work with my hands,” he says.

Shimansky approaches his designs organically, often working with salvaged wood—oak flooring from an apartment renovation, shelving from a defunct store, discarded desks and drawers—or with leftover lumber from tree disposal companies. “I put everything aside in my garage in my little brainstorm pile that I go to when I have projects,” he explains.

Currently working mostly on commission, Shimansky does almost all the construction work himself by hand, keeping a focus on the individual aspects of each piece of wood he works with. Metal components are a common feature in his designs, giving them an industrial feel along with a sturdiness that he says many pieces can lack. His business has grown through word-of-mouth and, of course, social media, where pictures of his products can often lead to new customers.

For Shimansky, his carpentry offers the perfect complement to his modeling career, a meaningful project that he can work on during his own time and by his own sometimes-hectic schedule. He sees room to expand, however, and says that even a major dream project—say, fifty tables for a boutique hotel—would still be manageable on his own. And there is a part of Shimansky that, perhaps, might even want to keep the work all to himself. “If I’m not getting blisters on my hands,” he says, “I don’t feel like I’m fulfilled.”Thank you Brian!

Ric Wersig: Sizzling Male Model

Ric Wersig

Nationality: German

Profession: Fashion model and actor

Agencies: M4 models Hamburg, Nevs Models London, I Love Models Management Milan, Art Room Models Istanbul, Fusion Models Cape Town, Look Models Vienna

Milestones: Abercrombie and Fitch Campaign, JPI (Camp David) Campaign, Gabbiacci Milano Campaign, Ermenegildo Zegna runway, LC Waikiki Campaign (Istanbul), GQ Magazine, Cosmopolitan Italy etc.

Current location: Based in Hamburg, Germany

How did you start modeling?

Originally I’m from Kiel, a city in the north of Germany, one hour from Hamburg. I moved to Hamburg for a dual study. Education as a consultant in an advertising agency and besides I was studying business administration.

I got recruited on the street by Abercrombie & Fitch. Since I was working so much already, they gave me a special contract with less working hours so I could work twice a week as a shirtless model (greeter) in the flagship store in Hamburg. It was very new in Hamburg, so a lot of people came to see us standing there showing our muscles. Also a lot of modeling agencies came to recruit me but I wasn’t really interested at that time.

One day the CEO of A&F Mike Jeffries showed up in our store while I was working. He told me I looked beautiful. The next day I got booked for the Abercrombie & Fitch Campaign in America with one of the best photographers in the world, Bruce Weber.

After one week of shooting I got invited for several Abercrombie store openings for representing the brand in Amsterdam, Munich, New York, LA, Hong Kong etc.

Since each opening takes at least a week. I always had to take holidays. After a while I had to choose if I wanted to keep studying or become a model. I felt like I have to take the chance and see how far I can get in modeling. To that point of time I already had some experience in acting including some television jobs (TVCs, documentations etc.) After I quit my education I went straight to one of the best model agencies (m4 Models) in Hamburg and introduced myself. I signed the contract the same day. From then on I was officially modeling. Soon I did it fulltime because a lot of jobs came in. There was no time for anything else anymore.

What does your career do for you?

My career allows me to travel so many nice countries and cities, which I haven’t been before. Also to meet so many cool people all over the world. Learn about the culture etc. Earning money by doing what I like is one of the best things and to still have enough time to explore the cities and doing other things like pursuing my hobbies.

What’s your most memorable shoot?

I’m modeling one and a half years now and I already had a lot of great shootings. But the most memorable one next to the Abercrombie Campaign was a shooting in Tuscany Siena, Italy, with Jose Villa, a very famous photographer from America. Our shooting location was a huge villa called Villa Cetinale. The last owner was a pope and only Vogue and Elle were allowed to shoot there before us. It was the biggest villa I’ve ever seen.

The whole estate, including a garden area, was about 10 hectare big. We had our own cooking team, serving 5 star meals fort he whole crew.

We had two shooting days and even spend the night in this wonderful house.

What do you think Modellist-­‐ID can do for the model community?

I think it can help to get in contact with other models, especially when you’re in a new city. I also like the fact that people share their favourite places, products etc.. In my opinion this is a big chance for not so experienced models to get in that industry easier and safer.

Who do you admire and would you like to meet?

I’d love to meet Megan Fox! Wouldn’t mind meeting either Leo DiCaprio, Johnny Depp or Brad Pitt to talk about our next movie cooperation!

What’s your favourite book/movie/music?

I listen to hip-hop mostly but I’m open to pretty much everything not too special.

I loved the books and the movies of Lord Of The Rings and Harry Potter. Also Fight Club, Wolf of Wall Street, Transformers, The Beach, Zombie and war movies as well as movies like Warrior and so on....

What do you do to stay in shape?

To stay in shape I try to hit the gym at least 5 times a week. Also I eat healthy with low carbs mostly but I need at least one day where I can eat whatever I want. My „cheatday“. I drink a lot of green tea and for my muscle regeneration I use a special low fat/carb protein called Iso-­‐Protic 2.0

What cosmetic products do you use?

I don’t really use beauty products except body lotion if that counts.

What are your favourite hangout spots in the city you live in?

One of my favourite hang out spots in Hamburg is the Sternschanze. I live very close to it. It has many nice cafes and restaurant. I like the atmosphere there.

Also I like to be in the centre of Hamburg. And around the Alster.

What’s your favourite city and where do you like to hang out there?

I have a lot of cities I like to hang out at. For example Cape Town, Milano, London, Melbourne, New York etc.

Lately I was in Mykonos a little island in Greece. One of the best spots there is a restaurant called Namos.

Do you have any advice for those who want to start modeling?

Yes, the model business is a tough one. You really have to believe in yourself and shouldn’t take rejection personally!

A top model that is very successful once said, 99% of her castings she got rejected. So get used to it and don’t give up!

What are your plans fort he future?

My plan fort he future is to visit as much beautiful places as possible, enjoying life, make some important contacts and book some more important jobs which hopefully bring enough money to be financially secure fort he future.

Also I want to switch to acting Step by Step.

One more thing…

Every male model probably knows that it’s sometimes necessary to have a good protein product to gain or keep muscles. I found a product, which I’m using more than 2 years now, Iso-­‐Protic 2.0 by Bodies. It is perfect for fat free muscle building and tastes fantastic. In my opinion the best product on the market.

Since I’m 100% convinced by it and can really recommend it and know everything about it i got in contact with the European sales manager, who was immediately keen to support me with all their products.

We have a little cooperation now which means for me that i just go with what i was doing all the time anyway, promoting their products…

Interview With Dennis Klaffert

From London to Los Angeles to New York, male model Dennis Klaffert has conquered the world. He has been modeling full time for the past 10 years and has caught the attention of many great designers in the world. Besides, if you are looking for a cool vintage car, this is your man!

Nationality: German

Agencies: Wilhelmina, La Models, Kult, Ice Models.

Milestones: Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Abercrombie & Fitch, Armani, Gant.

Current location: New York

 

How did you become a model?
I was a student in Germany and needed money. A friend of mine was modeling with a small agency in Berlin and told me I should meet up with them. They liked me and signed me. From there I was scouted by a bigger agency in Hamburg who sent me to do the shows in Milan and Paris. After that I made my way to London, Los Angeles, Miami, Cape Town and New York, which is where I am based now.

In your own eyes, what was the moment that your career really took off?
When I booked an exclusive show with Calvin Klein. I would say the next moment was when Bruce Weber saw me sitting on a curb in Miami and booked me for the Abercrombie & Fitch campaign and later for a Ralph Lauren fragrance campaign.
What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done?
I shot a video where I had to brush a models teeth and then make out with her while the toothpaste foam ran all over us.

Who’s your favorite photographer you’ve done a shoot with and why?
Guy Aroch and his wife Anna Palma, I’ve shot with them a few times, they are both such amazing people and so great to work with.
Are you working fulltime as a model or do you also study/work next to it?
I have been a full time model for the past 10 years. Of course there have been ups and downs which is why its important to have side projects/hobbies. I am really into vintage cars. I buy them, fix them up and then sell them.

You have several agencies worldwide. Please tell us a bit more about your modeling agencies and what you like most about them.
My favorite agencies are always the ones where I get on with my bookers. Every time I walk into Wilhelmina it feels like I’m visiting friends. I am greatful to have great agents.

What’s your favorite place to hangout in New York?
The Bowery Hotel and Soho House are always cool places to meet friends for drinks.

Where is home for you and why?
Home is New York. I can’t really explain it but since the first time I got here I knew that I belong here…


If you could travel anywhere right now, where would you want to go?
Space.

Which five words would your friends use to describe you?
A plant loving lucid dreamer.


What do you think MODELLIST-ID can do for the model community?
I think it’s a fun way to follow what other models are up to.

Gabriele Merli: Male Model from Perugia

Italian male model Gabriele Merli has been modeling since 18 and now gives the inside scoop on what his career does for him and male model misconceptions.

Agencies: Ad Sphera, Fashion concept
Current location: Perugia
How did you first get into modeling? And how long have you been modeling?
I got into modeling when I was about 18 years old, I’ve been modeling for about 3 years!

What does your career do for you?
Well, I can say that it makes me more confident of myself. And it’s very important to me also for the relationship with other people. My work made me travel too, and that’s nice.

What’s your most memorable shoot?
Well, I think one of some years ago, it’s a shoot I made for Wella’s billboard in my city.

What are the pros of being a model?
I think that one of the pros of being a model is that enhances you as a person, it’s considered a cool job and it’s easy to have fun while you’re working!

What’s the biggest misconception about the male modeling industry?
Maybe that it’s easy to earn a lot of money; the male modeling industry is absolutely more difficult than the female modeling industry.

What are your other passions outside of modeling?
I love cinema, videogames and to practice a lot of sport.

What do you do to stay in shape?
I’ve practiced waterpolo and I swam for many years; it helped a lot to build a good body! Now I go to the gym three times a week to stay in shape.

What are the top five items every man should have in his pantry?
Sunglasses, watch, different bracelets, rings and of course a jacket.

What are you doing when you’re not modeling?
I work as an agent for some companies, like for Wella. I study too and I’m about to graduate!

What is your advice to aspiring models?
Believe in yourself and the results will come.

Any specific plans for the future?
In the future I want to do a different job, I’d like to become a manager.

Adam Loebbert: Swedish Male Model

20 year old, Swedish fashion model, Adam Loebbert, talks about his most memorable photo shoots and the pros of modeling in this new exclusive interview.

Agencies: Elite Model Management Stockholm, D’Management Milan, Sight Management Barcelona

Milestones: Fashion week Stockholm, Sthlm FW Magazine (Cover)

Current location: Helsingborg, Sweden

How did you first get into modeling? And how long have you been modeling? 

It all started when I was in America as an exchange student at the age of 16. I was approached on the streets of Miami and Dallas from different agents who saw interest in me. At first I had no idea what they were talking about, although it intrigued me. I was there to go to school and play American football, and had no ambition of doing anything else. When I returned to Sweden, my family convinced me to apply to an agency. That’s when Modellink/Elitemodel took me in.

I’m 20 right now and have been modeling part time due to finishing school for the last two years now. I just graduated this summer and I’m now able to continue with what I want, work full time and have more freedom for traveling than ever.

What does your career do for you? 

Being a model helps me enjoy life like I want it. It has really given me lots of opportunities and makes me work even harder and set higher goals in life. To just be able to travel the world like this and explore new locations every time is truly an adventure for me.
It also strengthens me as a person in my social life.

What’s your most memorable shoot? 

There has been both some weird and exciting shoots that are very memorable. Some shoots are very manly but others challenge my feminine side. One of my most memorable shoots was also a breakthrough for me. Two gay guys dressed me in very feminine clothes with a lot of fur, flowers and big hats. It was pretty weird at first and I didn’t have very high expectations but the result turned out to be good and got me thinking differently. One of the photos actually made the cover of Stockholm Fashion Week Magazine.

What are the pros of being a model?
The industry is huge, there is so much to experience and it gives you an opportunity to travel the world, which is something a lot of people want to do. I just think it’s something fun that you can enjoy, even if it’s tuff work and not everything might be fun but everything is definitely an experience that you can learn from. That is something that I like very much, I want to know the world and travel to all the cool places, meeting new people and learn everything I can from it, and modeling gives me that. I’ve learned a lot from doing what I do.

What’s the biggest misconception about the male modeling industry?
That it’s not just a photo, it’s not just looking good, it’s hard work. Models have to train hard and eat healthy to be able to work. We can’t just eat a pizza when ever we want or drink a bunch of beer if we want to get the jobs. There are sacrifices to do in every job, even in modeling which people don’t understand. A lot of people also think it’s very gay, at least from what I herd in the beginning but when they see you on billboards or in magazines they wanna know you and if they don’t, heaters gonna hate.

What are your other passions outside of modeling? 
I’ve always been in to sports, ever since I was little I wanted to become a sports star. Love playing American football, snowboarding, longboarding, riding my motorcycle and do the extreme things in life. I love adventures and hanging out with my friends.

What do you do to stay in shape? 
I work out at least 5 days a week, sometimes two times a day, either at the gym or running in the woods. I am always very active and can’t sit down for too long without doing anything. When it comes to food I get all crazy and tired if I don’t eat every few hours.  I eat very healthy, but sometimes it feels like I’m shoveling food down my throat every minute. This gives me the energy to work out and keep my body in form. I like to experiment with different kind of juices and shakes because finding a balance between healthy and taste can be difficult sometimes. But I do pretty good with that actually! 😉

What are the top five items every man should have in his pantry? 
I like to have juice, fruits, muesli/oatmeal, chocolate and water, because these things make me feel goooooood! I know it only says five items… but I have to add popcorn!!!

What are your favorite hang out spots in the city you currently live in? 
Just north of my hometown Helsingborg a place called “Mölle”. In Mölle there is a small mountain called Kullaberg, where one can find big cliffs by the sea. Cliff diving, climbing or just find a nice exclusive spot with friends or a date, are some of the things one can do up in Kullaberg. I like to just chill and enjoy the view and atmosphere.


What do you think MODELLIST-ID can do for the model community?
From what I’ve seen and understood, I think it can really help models get around easier and know more about what to do and not to do, since we all can share our experiences we can help each other and new models will easier get in to the industry and get noticed by others. I really think it’s a very good creation and I’m glad that Celine wrote to me so that I can also be a part of this.

What is your advice to aspiring models? 
I still consider myself as an aspiring model but my advice would be to never forget who you truly are and don’t let the media and others change that in a bad way. Stay mentally strong and believe in yourself. Confidence in yourself can make up for a lack of experience.


Any specific plans for the future? 
I usually get many big ideas and I’m very spontaneous which I like about myself cause it makes life so much more interesting, although, one of my biggest goals is to become an actor.