Every week, Team TTM interviews one of our models, from newbies to industry established. This week, we turn our attention to new face Merran Steed. Watch out Cara, she’s coming for you!
What do you enjoy most about being a model?
I wouldn’t consider myself a full model yet, I still think I have a lot to learn to deserve being called as such however, I do enjoy the experiences I have had learning. Modelling is enjoyable because its a challenge despite what people think. Imagine putting all the things that should endue an anxiety attack and make them happen all at once, that is modelling.
New people, probably in a place you have never been before, looking at you and judging you on the way you look. Then you have to quickly figure out what is expected from you when you might of had little to no idea before that day. You have to be quick on your feet, personable and adaptable.
What is your career highlight to date?
Definitely working with the Dutch Designer and my dear friend Nada. Nothing will ever beat the moment where I evaluated the situation to realise I was pretty much fully nude covered only by a sort of towel poncho styled with stripper boots. As I was taking this in I looked to my left hand to see I am wheeling a Samari Sword and to my right was a girl with her face painted red sitting on what could only be described as a very large clutch bag. It didn’t stop there, we were also in the wilderness in Belgium up a hill which I climbed in said boots and it was slowly reaching night. I was then asked to scream in a violent manner however I kept missing my que because the photographer kept speaking to me in dutch… All and all just a normal day at the office!
What would your dream job be?
I would die to work with Nadia Lee Cohen, I don’t even mean as a model, but I mean if as a model well… I would just be happy to bring her tea and paint her toe nails. But if she ever wanted to take my picture I would tear up, I am tearing up thinking about it. I hope one day she reads this when we are friends and is flattered.
What advice would you give to an aspiring model wanting to start working in the modelling industry?
Its not easy, don’t let people make you think otherwise. Everyone involved works really hard for one picture or 2 mins on a catwalk or a 30 advert. However, just be yourself. Being likeable and friendly means a lot. Yeah its sounds like a clique, but its not all about being pretty and perfect and serious… so have this one for free. Don’t bother if you can’t make fun of yourself.
Who is your inspiration for being in this industry?
I don’t know about inspiration for being in the industry but I will tell you who need to watch out! Cara Delevingne check the brow game mate… I am coming for you.
How do you prepare for a booking? What do you make sure you know before you arrive on a shoot? Physically and mentally?
Physically, I make sure I am clean and dressed comfortably. Mentally I put myself in the right space to be either told what to do or improvise. At first I also would prepare for meeting new people but I think I am used to this now and just be myself from the get go.
