We recently connected with Andy Humphries and have shared our conversation below.

Andy, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

All across my social media platforms, I have written “You are loved. You matter.” in my bio. I do this not only as a reminder for everyone that comes across my page, but also as a reminder for me. I’ve often found it hard to see my own beauty both internally and externally at times throughout my life, so I want that constant reminder that I am loved, I do matter, and I do have a purpose on this planet.

I recently shot with one of my favorite photographers who also happens to be a friend, John Andrus. He and I have worked together many times over the past few years and we always have so much fun being creative and creating art together in our shoots. Not long before the last shoot that we did, I had an idea to paint “You are loved. You matter.” on my body and do a shoot to create something that I can be proud of, that’s also artistic. The pictures turned out amazing and it was really cool to be able to post these beautiful photos and also write the deeper meaning behind them on my social channels. It was so rewarding to see the response from people and being able to make my little idea, a reality. I shared my struggles with self-esteem issues, depression, and anxiety that have followed me most of my life. It was such a good reminder that whatever you’re going through, you are not alone. There are so many people that feel the same way and the more that we share with other people, the more that we can connect with them on a deeper level. Being vulnerable can be terrifying, but in the end it is also very rewarding as well.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My name is Andy Humphries and I’m an actor and model from Albuquerque, New Mexico. I first got interested in modeling when I took my senior pictures in high school. I did a photoshoot and just fell in love with being in front of the camera. I moved to California 7 years ago to pursue my dreams of being a model and an actor. Never in a million years did I think that moving out here would be some of the most difficult, but rewarding years of my life. I’ve been able to work with some extremely talented individuals in both San Diego and in Los Angeles. I’ve worked with well known brands such as Express and JJ Malibu and it’s hard to believe all that I’ve been through to get to where I am. I’ve struggled with body image issues, self-confidence issues, depression, and anxiety most of my life and it has been difficult at times to overcome these issues and continue to do what I love.

I’ve been modeling professionally for the last 7 years and as much as I love doing photoshoots and working with other creatives, I’ve started transitioning into more of the acting side of the industry. As a child I was in melodramas and plays and I always enjoyed performing so it’s been really fun getting back into it. With all of the time that has passed, I forgot just how different acting and modeling are. With modeling I was so used to staring right in that camera and giving my best “blue steel” pout, but with acting, one of the number one rules is to not look directly into the camera unless directed to do so. So it’s been an adjustment to say the least (LOL).

Lately, I have been mostly doing background acting and it has been a really good way to network and meet new people, but also it has been very good practice for me to get used to being on set and being in front of the camera without the added pressure of having lines to deliver. I’ve been really happy with my experiences doing background acting and I recommend it to any aspiring actor. Sure, it’s a lot of early mornings and 15 hour work days, but it has been so beneficial for me to work that part of this industry and to get a taste of what it’s like to live in the life of a working actor. To sweeten things even more, I’ve had the opportunity to work with actors and directors that I’ve watched and looked up to most of my life, so it’s been an amazing journey.

Last month, I signed with an agent-GAT Management and I’m so excited to see where they take me in this industry. So far, I’ve just been updating my headshots, getting my video reel polished up, and getting ready to start booking some work, but I’m eager and ready to work! I’m still going to be pursuing modeling when I can but right now my focus will be on commercial and television work both in the United States and internationally.

I’m so proud of how far I’ve come in a short time of acting and I’m excited to see what the next few years hold. My family was never very supportive of my entertainment career, but it’s helped drive me to be the best that I can be and prove to myself and to them that I can make a lifelong career in this industry. I’m so grateful for my “chosen family”, my close friends, and my wonderful husband who has supported me through all of this. I know that I wouldn’t be where I am with all of these amazing people in my life. Thank you for taking the time to read about me and if you’d like to follow my journey, follow my Instagram-@andyland55.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

For me, being able to do what I am passionate about and work with other like-minded people like me everyday is the most rewarding part of this whole experience. I often felt like I didn’t know what I wanted to do with my life growing up. I felt lost and a little panicked whenever anyone would ask me what my goals were, but I know deep down in my heart now, that this is what I want to do with the rest of my life. I’ve had the opportunity to work with some of the most creative and intelligent artists in this industry and I’m just getting started!

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

Being able to pivot in this industry can make or break your career. I’ve had to pivot multiple times throughout this journey and it’s made me a stronger human and a stronger artist for it.

When I first moved out to California, I was working at Starbucks and modeling a bit on the side. Over the years, I’ve had to put my dreams on hold to pay the bills and that was always hard for me. I’ve worked these different jobs that paid the bills, but were not fulfilling to me at all. Unfortunately, I think that is just part of this industry. You have to do what it takes, even if that means stepping back for a bit, to make your dreams come true.

A few years ago, I attempted to start my own clothing line and it did alright at first, but the more I dove into it, the more I realized just how much work goes into starting your own business of any kind. I knew that I was going to have to choose between acting/modeling and doing the clothing line, so I had to pivot and follow my heart. It was heartbreaking at the time to stop making clothes, but it has lead me to where I am today, so I regret nothing. As much as you may try and plan out your career path, life has another plan for you so you have to take what life gives you and make something beautiful out of it.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andyland55/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andy.humphries.12

Image Credits
Photographers: Lester Villarama, Tommy Flanagan, John Andrus