We were lucky to catch up with Dominique McNeil recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Dominique thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. If you could go back in time do you wish you had started your creative career sooner or later?

Of course I wish I started my creative journey sooner than I did. I picked up modeling all on a whim. I had finally got my life back on track after uprooting and leaving my toxic 8 year relationship. I was living at my best friend’s house for months before and then I was finally was able to save up and get my own place. I felt like my whole world had crashed around me but at the same time I wanted to pick up the pieces. For so long I had felt so insecure about my weight and my appearance. In fact, I don’t think I had ever felt content with myself before modeling. I wanted to build my confidence, so I booked my first photoshoot with Christa Dickson in 2020. I really wanted to try step out of my comfort zone. From that first shoot I felt so powerful and felt like I had finally got my niche. Christa and Jesse Luxe were so incredibly supportive and kind of shocked that I haven’t modeled before. That was the boost that I needed. Since then I have been full of confidence in so many aspects of my life.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I am a freelance model in Cincinnati, OH. I have multiple publications including some international magazines. I even got to be one of the very few plus sized models at Shutterfest. I like to focus my modeling on conceptual/themed art or boudoir. I try to think of myself as a resourceful model since I usually provide my own hair, makeup, and wardrobe. I love to think outside the box but I also love to feel sexy (which is where the boudoir comes in). I have not signed with any agency, but would be open to it. I’m always looking for anything high fashion, sexy, creepy, and/or quirky. I am such a versatile person and am always willing to do different styles of photoshoots to give variety.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

I think the most rewarding aspect of my art is representation. For so long the modeling industry had a look, which was usually very thin. I’m so glad that the industry has started to accept plus size modeling. I have always been plus sized for as long as I can remember. I would love for anyone to look up to me and see themselves and get the confidence to wear or feel however they want.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

Networking, networking, networking. I will admit that I am quite a shy person most of the time, but I do feel like over the past couple years I have really come out of my shell. Networking and advertising your brand is what’s going to keep the drive going for work. I’ll admit as an introvert, I can feel exhausted. I wish I would have known how active on social media you have to be. Even if it’s just putting your name out there. Facebook modeling and photography groups have helped me a ton along with posting on Instagram. I am still trying to learn reels as I’ve realized this is a newer trend that can really help you get noticed.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://stayydomii.wixsite.com/domiimodel
• Instagram: @domiimodel

Image Credits
Photographers: JRD Designs & Photography/JRD Boudie Babes Paige Pederzani Photography/Roar Boudoir 33 West Studios/33 West Boudior Joseph Stevenson Photography/513 Boudoir HMUA: @domiimodel @Brittanywiththebrushes @beautybysarahelisabeth @Touch.of.glam.by.magali