NYC fashion photographer, Visual art videographer, and Digital marketer Seth London captured the amazing model Joel Ramirez, exclusively for OTSMAGAZINE UK Interview.

Absolutely! Consistency is the foundation of anything and modeling is no different. If I wasn’t consistent with knocking on doors, getting to know people, showing up on time(early that is), I wouldn’t be here right now. Consistency also means exercising regularly, sticking to my skincare routine, eating the right food, and practicing kindness as much as possible.

Fashion has always played a role in my life. During my darkest times, it helped express my mood and state of mind. I have been through so many styles people wouldn’t assume a man of color would go through. I’ve had a side bang, Mohawk, blonde, orange, and even blue hair at some point. Safe to say I burnt most of those pictures, haha! 

The most spontaneous thing I’ve done was pause in the middle of the street and sing “Stop in the Name of Love” to the oncoming cars. I was a teenager, it was a dare; forgive me, haha.

My opinion of the industry has changed drastically over the years. Before I became a model, I used to think it must be 'The life'. When I’d look at cover models I assumed they must be well off, fulfilled and everything came easy to them. Now? I know the reality. Behind every photo, every model, every magazine is a team of dedicated creatives, giving their all to create something magical. When I see a cover now, I see the hardworking model, the makeup artists, the photographer, the agents that put it together. It’s bittersweet. It’s truly WORK and sometimes all people see is a “pampered” model. The truth is we all work really hard to get to where we are.

I love writing, singing, and cooking. I’m such a sucker for a good read that I’ve been inspired to pen my own novel. Think about it, you can create worlds and inspire others through writing. Don’t doubt the power of articulation. I’ve written two novels so far, I hope to publish them eventually.

I keep in shape by eating right, meaning, I limit the amount of sugar and salt I consume, I include as many greens as possible and generally bake over fry. I exercise regularly and use any excuse to stay active. The elevator’s taking too long? Stairs it is! Cycling, group fitness, dancing, and lifting are some of my favorite ways to pass time.

I do have a beauty routine! Although I believe less is more because whenever I use too many products, I break out. So I stick to exfoliating every few days, cleansing and moisturizing daily; nothing more. I’ll occasionally treat myself to facials(cause we all need a little TLC) and even less, micro-needling.

Hm... I don’t think that’s completely true. I’ve seen models with only 300 followers be signed and working. It all boils down to their look and if they’re bookable. If you find an agency that believes in you, the rest will follow. But it is fair because we are the future and it makes sense that fashion is incorporating technology and social media. If I never posted photos on my platform, I would’ve never had that initial exposure that got me where I am today. Even this interview came about because of social media. It’s a game-changer, it’s totally fair. People are getting opportunities they never had before.

The most common stereotype is that we’re egocentric and hyper-masculine. I noticed sometimes we as men, don’t’ move as much as female models do because we become so stiff from trying to be the hot ‘mystery’ guy. Once I let go of that type, I’ve been having so much fun and moving effortlessly, which in turn, produces better images. Confidence is key.

The advice I have for aspiring models is to be realistic and never give up. Continue to work on yourself and your relationships. The more everything goes well and makes sense outside of fashion, the better model you will be. I say be realistic and understand you’re not likely to become an overnight sensation, that takes time and handwork, and feeding into that will hinder your growth. Do what makes you happy so you can breathe life into whatever you do.

My plans for the future are to travel more, meet new people and pick up on more hobbies. I want to live a full life, having done many things so that there’s nothing to regret at the end of the road.

The biggest hurdle I’ve had to overcome throughout my career was myself. You are your worst critic and that couldn’t be any truer in my case. Mentally, I always thought I wasn’t doing my best, but I challenged those negative thoughts by doing things that built me up. I’d exercise to feel good about my body, hang out with friends, and engage in activities I enjoy like reading and drawing. Still a work in progress, but I’ve come a long way.

My philosophy is laughter is the best medicine and to never let anything or anyone dim your light.

This one is hard to answer. Everything and everyone. I get so elated and inspired by good news. The best thing my mom taught me is to never feel envy but joy for others' accomplishments. I can look to anyone, whether it’s a friend or celeb, if you can succeed so can I and if I can succeed so can you. When you realize everyone hits a low at some point, it helps to know you’re not alone in that feeling. We are all spiritual beings having a human experience and the goal is to find happiness, so when I feel low I do something that makes me feel connected to others.