How did you get involved with modeling? Where are you based now?
Being a model was my childhood dream, but I had not been able to gather the courage to start modeling before and there was never such an opportunity. I started my career as a model about 3 years ago when a professional fashion photographer in Athens said he want to shoot with me. After that, I worked with many photographers in Greece. Currently, I live in San Diego, but I mostly travel to Los Angeles for shoots.
What was your first job as a model? How did it feel?
My first modeling job was a nude shoot and it was a strange feeling to pose so boldly with no experience. But I believe that the photographer-model relationship is very important. The photographer I worked with, Panos Panic, made me feel very comfortable during the shoot and I can say that my modeling career started after the positive interaction between us and those nude pics.
Besides modeling, what else are you passionate about? What are your hobbies?
Besides modeling, I am a very good cook. I love to cook dishes from all around the world. My other passion is writing. I have taken a break for the last 5 years, but I am getting back to it again.
Who is someone you feel has really influenced you? Why?
I don't have a role model. I believe everyone embarks on their own journey.
What keeps you excited about life in general?
Meeting new people and exploring new places excite me. Essentially, innovation and renewal. I don't like people or things that are fixed ot static.
What is your advice for people to be happier, healthier and more full of love?
Let them love themselves first, then people, nature and animals. Let them embrace living with differences and embrace differences that are truly beautiful. They will see how happy they are with the power of love. In order to be healthier, they should eat real food, move their body and consume plenty of water.
What is the most courageous thing you have ever done?
I have done several courageus things regarding reinventing myself and my career. But, I can say that leaving my career behind and moving to America for modeling was the most courageus one since it had implied many uncertainties.
Is there an artist you are fascinated about or you would like to work with in the future?
After meeting and having the opportunity to work together, I can say that I admired Greg Gorman.
What kind of life would you like to have?
I am actually happy with my current life. I just want to spend more energy on advocating for transgender people, especially for trans children. That's why I became a member of the San Diego LGBTQ Center and will spend more time there.
If you could change something on the planet, what would it be?
I would like to abolish visas between countries. Why do we need to be more successful and fulfill the financial conditions for our right to live in more developed countries? A fairer system is needed.
What are your goals for the near future and do you have any exciting projects you want to share with us?
I'm starting runway modeling as well as photo modeling. Walking on the runway is very different from posing for a photographer, but both imply dedication and serious work. Next month, I will be appearing at 3 different designer's fashion shows. I will be doing more runway shows and fashion shoots.
Model: Era Bayrak @erabayrakofficial
Photographer:Patterson Lawson @pattersonlawsonphoto
Studio: Greg Gorman s Studio Hollywood @greggormanphoto
Model Booking: Andrzej Lawnik @los_anjayles
Make up:Melanie
Hair: Platin Peruk Bursa @platinperukbursa
Nails: Bliss Nails&Spa @blissnailsspa1