GO SEE: NYC
Words and photographs by Tony Tran. Makeup by Ta Ming Chen.
"I came to New York City to start organising meetings as I would like to make the move to the Big Apple -hopefully- in the next couple of years. Whilst in the city, I reached out to a few model agencies to set up some go-sees with their models but a job suddenly came in and I had to shorten my stay and fly back to London soon. The day before my flight, my Makeup Artist friend, Ta Ming Chen, was happy to let me use her flat as a base and get access to an amazing rooftop to do these go-sees.
Britt Bergmeister came around 13.30h. She was wearing an all-black suit and had a very strong aura. We started on the rooftop with not much posing, it was more about her and the gaze. By the end of our time together, we ran down the street to get a few more options which I loved! Then it was time for Maia Hannemann, she has been modelling for only two years but I did not get fooled by this. As soon as the camera pointed at her, her eyes and expression became super strong. We took some pictures on the rooftop as well and had a quick outfit change before hitting the street where I could not take any bad pictures of her!
Whilst I was finishing with Maia, Joony Kim arrived at the rendezvous location. Ta Ming helped us with a quick hair and makeup refreshment. If I am being totally transparent, Joony was and still is in my must-shoot model. Because the sun was a little strong at the end of the day, we lost so much time chasing the light but then we found this amazing car a couple of blocks away, and this probably became the highlight of my day. I am looking forward to coming back to New York. The models have a je-ne-sais-quoi that really speaks and inspires me. I would love to say a huge thanks to Kristi at Wilhelmina and Cody at The Industry NY, who took the time to make this with such short notice."
Britt, where are you originally from and where are you based?
I’m originally from Toronto however I spent most of my childhood growing up in Tokyo because of my stepdad’s job. I’m now based in NYC and have been for the past 10 years.
When and how were you scouted? What has been your biggest achievement in the industry?
I actually went to the agency myself. I was 13 and back in Toronto for the summer. My mother agent, Elmer Olsen however wanted to wait until I graduated high school and moved back from Japan to sign me. It was hard to be patient but waiting until I was 18 was a blessing in disguise, especially considering how tough this industry can be on your mental health.
What is the most you like most about the industry? And what would you change about the industry?
I love how much travel I get to do… there’s nothing more I love than walking around a new neighbourhood by myself and seeing how the locals eat, drink, and have fun. I think experiencing another person’s culture is one of the greatest gifts of life. After a shoot abroad I’ll find a local coffee shop in a funky neighbourhood and people watch/read a new book while drinking an oat milk latte.
I’d change how wasteful our industry is and ensure fast fashion became a thing of the past.
In 5 words, how would you describe yourself?
Empathetic, emotional, reliable, inquisitive, and creative.
Whom would you propose for this Q&A?
One of my friends is Sinead Bovell, who never fails to amaze me with what she’s up to and is someone I look up to and learn from daily. She is a model and founder of WAYE (weekly advice for the young entrepreneur) and gives advice so we can ensure the right people are in the room making decisions about tech advancements. From listening to her, I feel empowered about the future.
Maia, where are you originally from and where are you based?
I am originally from Hermosa Beach, California but am now based in New York City!
When and how were you scouted? What has been your biggest achievement in the industry?
I was scouted on a flight from Hawaii to California two years ago by Hudson and Serena Taylor. I was attending the University of Hawaii on scholarship for beach volleyball, which is what I pictured myself doing for my whole life until I met these two wonderful people that helped me realise this could be an amazing career for me!
What is the most you like most about the industry? And what would you change about the industry?
My favourite part of the industry is hearing how everyone got to where they are and getting to travel to amazing places! If I were to change something, it would be the timing of things and the scheduling. I’d like to be able to know my jobs a week or so before instead of a day or two.
Whom do you admire?
I admire my parents for being so dedicated to creating their best lives for all of us and for taking risks because it taught me I can do things I never thought possible.
In 5 words, how would you describe yourself?
Family-oriented, dedicated, grateful girl.
Joony, where are you originally from and where are you based?
I am from South Korea and I am currently based in NY.
When and how you were scouted? What has been your biggest achievement in the industry?
I took a course at a model academy in Seoul and they offered me a contract after training. Then I started doing runways, editorials and also working abroad. I was very fortunate to get to work with the greatest artists and brands like Mert and Marcus, Gordon von Steiner, Dolce & Gabbana and Burberry, but the biggest achievement I’d like to say is that I’ve built my own life in NYC because I LOVE NY!
What are the peaks that you want to reach in your career as a model?
Well, that is going to be my secret, but more importantly, I just want to do and enjoy modelling as long as possible and see how far I can go.
What is the most you like most about the industry?
I love that you get to collaborate with people from all around the world. Not just international people but who’s with strong artistic passion. It’s just a beautiful feeling to be around those people.
In 5 words, how would you describe yourself?
Curious, spontaneous, slow, classic and sweet? :)