by Maddy Figueroa-Jones

We decided to make the January 2009 issue of PLUS special by scouting for a new face from the Directory, someone we think will be making a mark in the industry! While there are many models in the PLUS Model Magazine Directory that we think are on the brink of great careers, we decided to feature Katie Reed, an aspiring model who is about to take the industry by storm. We will be following Katie's progress throughout the year as she visits agencies, goes to casting calls and tries to reach her modeling goals.

Get to know Katie...

[Maddy] When did you decide to become a plus size model?

[Katie] When I finally realized that my body is beautiful the way it is and came to know that it's not a tiny body that makes an editorial photo, it's the attitude. Modeling is my passion and I didn't want to ruin it by constantly trying to lose weight.

[Maddy] Tell me about the steps you took once you decided to become a model.

[Katie] Well, I was raised in Tucson, Arizona where modeling jobs were hard to come by. I was 14 years old, always on the internet, trying to find opportunities for fashion shows or contests going on. I didn't know of any professional photographers so I had friends do mock shoots with me, which got me really comfortable in front of the camera and taught me which angles worked best for me. I read books to learn how the industry worked and studied the poses in magazines like W and Vogue. I practiced my walk a lot and would record myself so I could critique and improve it. My best friend, Julie, had done modeling before. She gave me advice and helped me get the ball rolling. I auditioned for America's Next Top Model and made the semifinals, but unfortunately didn't hear back after that.  Last year I created an online modeling profile, which lead me to working with a lot of photographers, not to mention PLUS Model Magazine! Finally, in October, I made the move to LA and here I am.

[Maddy] How many times have you tested with photographers?

[Katie] Wow I've never counted, but over the past 5 years I've shot a little over 50 test shoots. 

[Maddy] Did you ever consider trying to become a straight size model?

[Katie] Yes, in fact up until I was about 16, I was considered, by industry standards, a straight model. When my "woman body" showed up, I freaked out! I thought my dream was over unless I lost the inches. I was in a Weight Watchers meeting when I thought, "What am I doing here? I love my body!" In the end I got to keep my dream and my butt.