GlamModel Jett Ray, Revisited

For our one year anniversary issue, GlamModelz Magazine, has asked me to interview our  own Beauty Editor Jett Ray of Dallas, TX. After one year, since the first issue we thought it would be interesting to take catch up with Jett. Working closely with Jett over the past year has been a pleasure and an honor.

GlamModelz Magazine: Hey Jett, what have you been up to since appearing in our premiere edition one year ago? Jett: So very much! In general, I’ve been working on taking my career to the next level. I’ve been featured in several online magazines – (SOULemag and Urban News Warehouse); I will begin shooting for an Independent film this December, kicking off my acting career; I was recently selected as a VJ for the new online resource for the hip-hop community, SwaggerCountdown. This afforded me the opportunity to be video hostess for the Dirty South Hip Hop Awards and the Texas Summer Music Conference. I will also conduct interviews this weekend on the Red Carpet for Dallas Urban Fashion Week. Future projects will include background and lead vocals with local and national known artists/bands. You can visit my new website for more updates as they happen – www.jett-ray.com.

GlamModelz Magazine: Due to the current state of the economy in the U.S. have you noticed any major changes in the industry in your geographical area? Jett: Yes, I have noticed changes. There are fewer companies, agencies and clients spending marketing and advertising dollars, thus the photography/modeling industry is suffering a bit. In response, many have reduced their rates or have decreased the amount of time they devote to their passion in an effort to make ends meet. I have great hopes that the economy will improve and we may all get back to the business of creating great art.

GlamModelz Magazine: Do you plan on expanding and booking photoshoots across the U.S. and with photographers from other states? Jett: Yes, absolutely! As a matter of fact, I have shoots tentatively scheduled with photographers on both coasts! The states I am to visit soon are NY, CA and GA and I am always available to travel with expenses covered.

GlamModelz Magazine: We have noticed you seem to be branching out into other areas in your modeling. Do you have a style or category you really enjoy shooting? Jett: I believe diversity and openness to change is essential to longevity as a model, especially as we age. We must constantly improve upon ourselves and our work. My favorite style(s) of modeling are artistic and glamour. I feel a great sense of freedom with artistic work and glamour – well, I love feeling sexy, too.

GlamModelz Magazine: You get many compliments on your makeup in your photos. Who are your favorite MUA’s? Jett: The MUA in most of the photos you will see in my portfolio, is me. J However, I have worked with and greatly admire the work of Tiffany Diamond. She is the MUA on the more dramatic and artistic work in my port. I also like the work of Nifique, Kay Castro and C. Reese, in the Dallas area. I think it would be awesome to be a Model/MUA/Photographer…but that’s a goal for the distant future.

GlamModelz Magazine: TV reality shows have created quite an interest in modeling these days. Can you offer any advice for those interested in making their big break and anything for models wishing to make it big sooner rather than later? Jett: That is so true. These shows have created a great interest in modeling and other artistic ventures; however, what an aspiring model needs to realize is TV reality shows are sometimes not truly based on reality. They can be scripted and rehearsed, dramatized for increased ratings and simply “good entertainment”. What will help anyone get closer to where they want to be is: Hard work, persistence, optimism, a great love for what you do and even a lil’ bit of good luck. You should never give up on your dreams…keep reaching, keep growing, and learning. Teach others, be kind to all and leave a good and lasting impression with everyone you meet. One day, your reputation will precede you, so make sure what is spoken of you is not only truth, but they are words you can live with.

GlamModelz Magazine: What can we expect to see in 2010 and the days, months, years to come, Jett? Jett: You can expect to see me more often! My desire and strategy involves increasing my exposure in the US and abroad to make my name and persona easily recognizable and in demand. In doing so, I will found and build charitable organizations that benefit those in need. As my plans become more developed, I will definitely share them with the GlamModelz Family.

Tiera, Music Editor, GlamModelz Magazine: Thank you, Jett for taking time to talk with us. We are looking forward to seeing all you do!