Fashion: Exclusive Interview With Fashion Model - Carlos Jose Torres.
Hey Carlos, Tell us more about yourself and what was life like growing up?
I was born and grew up in San Juan, Puerto Rico and I’m the oldest of three boys. I’d say I had a normal childhood as I was raised in a middle-class family and attended a bilingual school.
I was always into sports like basketball and outdoor activities such as Bike riding, Motocross, and Cars.
In Puerto Rico, the weather is nice most of the time so there was a lot of time for all these activities!
So when did you decide to go into the Modelling industry?
I’d actually never thought about modeling, it never crossed my mind, I thought of it as something more for women.
Who would have thought right? Modeling “found me” about 8 years ago. I was with a bunch of friends going to get a bite to eat at the local mall when we walked past a Booth where people were casting men and women to be in some fashion competition. I must have caught their eye because they approached me and asked me to participate.
Initially, I felt both flattered and embarrassed; but I also thought it was funny! “Anyway, you guys are probably wondering if I won the competition, well sorry to disappoint but I had to drop out in the end”.
It didn’t matter because through that process I met some good people who helped me get to know and fall in love with the fashion industry. It has been a blessing for me and like I said earlier I never saw myself become a model, but here I am!
How would you describe your personal style, where do you pull your inspiration from?
I consider myself a conservative person but at the same time outgoing and fun. I love to joke around with my friends and family, dance, laugh, and have a good time. I think my best trait is that I get along with everyone! You might see me in the street and even if we don’t know each other if you shout my name I’ll be waving back like I already know you. Haha. I think of myself as a family man; family comes first with me, now and always.
So while most models like to look like models all the time and wear fancy clothes I focus on just looking my personal best and being comfortable. My style is simple; just give me a nice t-shirt, some jeans, a good pair of shoes on my feet and I’m ready to go. Easy and relaxed.
What is your Philosophy in life?
My philosophy in life would have to be “do what you love”. I see so many people studying their butts off in an area they don’t like just to please someone or make money fast, but when they graduate, they find themselves empty and lost.
On the other hand, we have people who study because they really want to, because they enjoy what they do, those people are the ones who are successful, they wake up early every day to do what they love and nothing stands in their way. I know the times are tough, but I believe that if one really wants it one can be successful in whatever one decides to do in life.
What were the Major Milestones that gave you that extra motivation boost?
Well to tell you the truth, my motivation doesn’t come from any milestone I achieve. I mean don’t get me wrong, it feels incredible to have accomplished something big, but I have to say It comes from the people. Every time I get a positive or negative comment on a photo or any work I do it gives me that boost. It makes me want to work harder and it makes me feel good knowing that people notice all the hard work and effort I put in anything I set out to do.
What are some of your tips and advice for aspiring Models?
It’s a tough business and you meet all kinds of people along the way; you have to be able to handle criticism and handle yourself in all sorts of situations.
My best advice is to have a great attitude. You never know when there is an opportunity waiting for you in a simple handshake or in a friendly conversation. It’s all about how you portray yourself and make your presence felt. Make people notice you for the right reasons and they’ll want to work with you. Another tip is to use your strengths, you might not have the height, but if you have the body, the hair or something “unique” to compensate, then use it! Every person has something that makes them special, the trick is finding that and using it to your advantage.
How often do you Work out and what are some of your best Health and Fitness Tips?
I work out about 6 times a week, I try to divide it into a way that I have my weight lifting, my cardio, and the most important thing, “my diet”.
I honestly didn’t believe in it but when I tried it, there was nothing more to say, “you are what you eat” and that’s coming from a guy who has a real sweet tooth.
Honestly, I could eat just about anything! But I don’t because I realize that you need the discipline to sustain the way you want to look. Diet is key.
What are some of your latest and upcoming projects?
What I can tell you for sure is that I’m working very hard to put myself out there so that other agencies around the world can see me, that’s my main goal right now, to get signed outside Puerto Rico and hopefully do well for myself.
Since the start of your career what has been the biggest hurdle you have had to overcome?
I’d have to say my shyness, and some insecurity, when I got into this whole fashion business I was incredibly shy around crowds and new people. If I know people I love to joke around and spend time laughing and having fun, but those insecurities, killed me, I was always worried about what people thought I was just looking for a way to fit in.
One day I just decided to stop worrying, I let myself go and that’s when everything changed for me, everything was going my way, I was meeting new people, and making a name for myself. In a way, this whole modeling experience has helped me come out of my shell.
I’m even acting in commercials, TV shows, and movies, which is something I never thought I’d get to do! Modeling has transformed me, helped me grow, and prepared me for new adventures to come. Bring it on!
Name a few of your favorite Designers and Photographers you have worked with from the beginning of your career?
I’ve worked with many great fashion photographers during my short career, each with its own unique style and flair. Some photographers I’ve worked with are Edwin J. Lebron, a great photographer, and friend, Jaime Rivera, Abnel Gonzalez, Felipe Torres, Eliezer Hernandez, and Christobal Berrios who is a great friend of mine and has helped me out tremendously!
I’m sure I’m forgetting some (sorry guys!!!) but everyone I’ve worked with has been an amazing professional and a good person.
Anything Else you'd like to add?
I'd like to say a huge thank you OTS Magazine UK for giving me the chance to share my story with your audience.
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