We were lucky to catch up with Asia Mcfarthing recently and have shared our conversation below.

Asia, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I never thought about being a model. I came from a small town where we did not have those opportunities in Junction City, Kansas. Modeling sort of fell into my lap here in Kansas City. I had so much fun in front of the camera and decided I wanted to pursue it. I did not know many people, especially other models.It took me two years before I earned my first paying gig simply because i did not know the right people or go to the corect events. I had to go to many shoots alone, networking events alone, and just throw myself out there into the world. Most of the opportunities I came acros came from the people I met along the way. You can do all the right poses and look like a “model” but it is really the networking that is going to get you far. I decided after gaining a little bit of exsposure, I wanted to create a safe way for other models to connect and learn together with fellow photographers and aspiring models. This market in Kansas City can be a competive market due to the fact that opportunites are slim especially for freelance models, meaning other established models were selfish with their knowledge of how the industry worked and where to find those resources. I decided to become THE source.

Asia, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I moved to Kansas City off of a Jazz music singing scholarship in 2014. Back home in Junction City, Kansas I was really into the arts, musical theater, acting, and choirs. During my time in College I mainly worked as a forklift driver and would go to school. I did not particip[ate in any other hobbies since the scenery was so new to me. I have always had a little bit of a social media following so somehow a photographer reached out to me and said he would love to set up a photoshoot. I have always been photogenic but never did muc professionally. I had a blast and the photos did numbers on the photographers instagram. That moment I realized I wanted to continue to model and shortly after many other photographers reached out. I expanded into modeling for clothing brands, music videos, and fashion shows by consistently putting my work out there to the public and showing face. After awhile in 2018 I started my own business Tsion Modeling Prep LLC and started mentoring aspiring models and setting them up with upcoming photographers to build portfolios both ways. I teach criteria used for all types of modeling. Posing, facial expressions, model safety, runway, tax write offs, modeling ettiquette, applying for agencies, networking, the list goes on and on. I also provide models with a start of a portfolio creating a versatile portfolio and not limiting them to one type of look. I am proud to say i have serviced over 120 models in the Midwest region. I believe with my success as a freelance and published model I have been able to help others models become just as successful. I love seeing models go on to walk in KCFW, or NYFW, get signed to agencies and managements, and booked for commercial roles or major music videos. I really take pride in creating a safe space for all walks of life.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

My most rewarding aspect is being able to tell my story and express myself through art. I believe modeing and creating is a healthy way to manage my mental health. It is amazing to seehow many people relate to you through your creativity. Art saves lives. Being able to make someones day who may have had a heard time or give someone else aboost of confidence or inspirtation is what I continue to strive for.

How did you build your audience on social media?

I have always chose to simply be myself. I share the good, the bad, the ugly but still try to keep negativitiy away as much as possible. I love to give a insight on my daily life so other people can relate to my journey. I always trell my models that I wouldrather book the person who can do the job, and give me a postive work experience and enjoyable experience rather than someone who just looks good. A model is not only just a face of the brand. You must have the personality and persona as well to match it. Show everyone your personality and never let anyone dim your light.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: @aaiko__
• Facebook: @Tsion Modeling Prep LLC

Image Credits
Cliff Scott Savannah Malev D&B Studios Carter Gaskins Raymond Jackson