We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Maisie Lay a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Maisie thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. What’s the best or worst investment you’ve made (either in terms of time or money)? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

If you have ever tried getting into the modeling industry – you may have learned how oversaturated it is. You never know who to trust, you get taken advantage of. And you get scammed.

In 2020 I wa scammed from over $2,600 to join an agency that was not what it said to be or do. It was corrupt and they ran away with my money. It was all I had to my name at that time as a broke college student trying to chase their dreams of becoming a model. In that moment I think I would deem in the worst investment of my career. Moving to Utah now, I looked into more agencies and I learned not to trust any agency that try taking money from you. Even after my previous 30 weeks of training from the first agency this new one claimed I should start completely over with the training they work with. It was after that meeting I decided that if I can’t find a trustworthy agency that is in my interest, I will do it myself.

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

That’s when I started taking my own photos. I had been working as Photographer since 2014 and started taking my own for a change using a tripod and setting timers on my camera. This took a lot of trial and error learning how to work it and get the best images. After a few years of posting my creative photoshoots I landed an internship that got me a modeling job for a Women’s safety purse company in Indianapolis. It was not paid and building your resume and experience usually starts with unpaid compensation until you really learn what you are doing.

Fast forward, I moved to Utah from Indiana which has opened so many doors for me. Now that I have so much experience and a large portfolio I feel as though I am actually being valued for my work which is all I could ever ask for! I enjoy creating a fun and professional atmosphere getting to create in front of the camera with whatever brand or photographer wants to work with me and helps me pay some bills along the way. It’s a great life and I am so grateful for anyone who has supported me along the way!

I am able to model for long distance brands being able to take photos myself or hire a local photographer or come in person to get the job done with the importance of reliability.

Please take this as your sign to chase your dreams! If you get out of your own way and focus on yourself and have a passion you can go so far.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

Spread love, messages, and grow!

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

When no one seemed to believe in me, I decided to focus on myself and keep quiet. No one needed to know what was going on behind the scenes. Nothing is better than the feeling of watching their faces as you prove them wrong.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/a.maisie.ing

Image Credits
aliedenphotography