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How did you get started modeling?

It’s been a pretty exciting year for me when it comes to modeling. Like a lot of girls growing up, I had always wanted to model. In the beginning, I was fortunate enough to participate in a few “mixer” events that put together models, stylists and photographers for some theme-based shoots. That got me started but truth be told, Model Mayhem is the perfect place for new models to start – just be careful out there and make smart choices. The rest, as they say, “is history” and, believe me, I’ve worked a lot in my year or so in the industry. It’s honestly only taught me that I’ve really got much more to learn.

What excites you about modeling?

These days, working together with higher caliber models and photographers is what excites me. I’ve recently had the opportunity to work with a few of my modeling “idols” (and look forward to working with more of them) and watching their level of professionalism and talent is amazing. It provides incentive for me to work harder. It’s a constant challenge to get better and better with every shoot.

What are your favorite types of outfits to model in?

I’ve worked hard to become a versatile model… shooting in all types of genres and themes while attempting to keep my own “style” or “look” throughout. So, the politically correct way to answer your question is to say “all types” – but, in truth, I have to say I love modeling in latex… there is just something about putting a great set of latex and getting “polished”… it’s the least restrictive thing I’ve shot in (short of wearing nothing at all.) I also adore doing pin up… there was something ridiculously sexy about the pin up models and images from the 40’s and 50’s.

What are your least favorites?

This is an interesting question… I can’t really say there is one thing that I dislike… I guess I’d say that modeling in ballet heels is super challenging, I can’t stand for more than a few minutes in those things. But, if pressed, I guess I’d say I’m personally not very fond of the “camera guy” images with the naked girl in the hotel room… more power to them but that’d never be me.

What kind of shoots would you like to work on in the future?

I’d personally like to break into representing more alternative designers (latex, pvc, etc.) and model for some of the retro or vintage lingerie companies doing some high-end pin up… there are some super talented people that I’d love to work with someday. Whatever it is, I’m a big fan of the concept shoot. It’s fantastic to work on a shoot that morphs from concept into reality…like a passage in time if done well.

How did you become interested in fetish modeling?

I’d call myself an alternative glamour or glamour fetish model at best, to be honest. I think models like Mosh and the like have helped pave the way for those of us who don’t fit the prototypical physical attributes of a runway model… I’m 5’-2” on a good day and have some curves to me… I’d never be on America’s Next Top Model or model Vera Wang… but I can throw on some fetish heels and some latex and hold my own. Alternative modeling has provided opportunities to a whole different demographic and I’ve been fortunate to be accepted by the genre.

Do you think pinup and fetish are becoming part of the mainstream culture?

I do... there is a subtle sexiness to pin up images. I think these days when there is so much sexuality and brutality in our face (on TV, in the news, on the Web) it’s easier to escape to a softer world even if only by staring into an image. Some people forget that Bettie Page, who could be considered one of the queens of pin up, also shot bondage. There is a fine line separating pin up and fetish. It’s a release of some sort, I think. So, whether it’s pin up lingerie or a well tied knot… if done well, they take our minds off of the noise and troubles of today.

Are there any other creative mediums you work in?

I’d have to say I’m not much of an artist actually. I’m much more analytical, even nerdy, in my thought pattern. If you’d consider applying physics algorithms to load stresses or differentiating values to solve dynamic tension as “creative”, then I guess I’d have to say that… by the way, I’m a mechanical engineering student suffering through my junior year… it’s hard to have time for much more than my homework these days.

What do you like to do for fun?

Fun? Hmm… refer to that last answer… ;o) I’d have to say that modeling is really my outlet away from school and life. It gives me a chance to become someone different for a little while, something that we all need from time to time just to keep our sanity.

See more of Erika Arvizo:

http://www.modelmayhem.com/arvizoerika

http://www.facebook.com/erikaarvizo