Antonia Eden: Molding the Modeling Industry

Her photos are breath-taking, captivating beauty and grace in every image. Coming into the modeling scene when she was thirteen years old, Antonia Eden has made a strong name for herself throughout the modeling industry as well as with the thousands of fans who follow her on Myspace, Facebook, Twitter and Tumblr. But who is she behind those amazing images? She's everything that you would never expect, but Antonia Eden is a woman who carries herself with class and stands strongly by her convictions even within an industry that can often seems chaotic and full of stereotypical beliefs.

Where do you find your inspiration?

My grandmother has been my biggest source of inspiration throughout everything. I push myself to do things in her memory. Anytime I accomplish something, I quietly thank her and I promise her that there is much more to come. Within the industry, my inspiration comes from Kate Moss and Eva Pigford. They're amazing women that have made names for themselves inside the modeling industry even at heights of 5'6" and 5'7". It's admirable to see women who are strong and determined to achieve their goals in this life.

What is the biggest misconception when it comes to modeling and the way that society views the industry?

The misconception that peeves me the most is the belief that models are "dumb and useless." We don't just sit around looking pretty for money and this is not an easy job. Surviving in this industry is a hell of a struggle and you have to be smart, you have to be strong to handle all of the harsh blows that you're going to get. We all work very hard.

What do you hope to accomplish in this industry?

I want to kick ass in all areas of the modeling industry. I'd like to be able to do runway and fashion modeling at 5'7" and be recognized for being good at what I do.

Tell me about an average day of shooting.

I start the night before by setting my hair (it creates volume) and doing a face mask. Shooting usually starts in the morning if it is location because that's when lighting is at it's best. I meet with the photographer and hair/makeup artists, go over ideas, get my hair and makeup done and start shooting! On average, shoots last about 3-4 hours.

What sets you apart from other models that you've encountered during your career?

I'm humble and I'm always willing to learn. I'm confident but not cocky and as Marilyn Monroe said, "I'm dreaming the hardest."

Who would you most like to collaborate with in the future?

JMT Photography, Chris Cooke and Deelite Photography. I'd also really love to work with Michael Vincent.

What have you learned throughout the years while modeling, and how does it play into your everyday life?

As Chris Gardner said in 'The Pursuit of Happyness': "You got a dream . . . You gotta protect it. People can't do somethin' themselves, they wanna tell you you can't do it. If you want somethin', go get it. Period."
It plays into my everyday life because I feel like I can handle the 2,000 'nos' and still believe there is a 'yes' out there which keeps me hopeful and optimistic. You can't bring me down for long.

Becoming successful in any industry is nearly impossible without support from the people around you. Who has been your biggest source of support?

Steven Ness. He has been the glue that has held me together. I don't know where I'd be without him.

Tell me about some of your most memorable moments within the modeling industry.

I've gotten to travel to some amazing places. I went to Europe with the phenomenal Steven Ness to shoot, it was one of the best times of my life! I've also shot in Nassau, Bahamas and up and down the east coast. I love traveling!

You're such a real and down-to-earth person. How do you maintain your outlook on life?

My grandmother instilled a lot of great qualities in me, such as humbleness and passion. I try to put these things first and not get caught up in everything else. The industry does not make me.

What would you say to other young women who are aspiring models?

If it's what you truly want, believe in yourself and don't let what others say break you. Passion and determination can take you anywhere you want to go.

For Antonia Eden, modeling is much more than simply producing beautiful photos. It's about passion, drive and determination in taking the industry by storm and altering common perceptions. Antonia has worked with artists such as Steven Ness, Nick Tarlton of Tarlton Photography, Julie Harnage, Martin Hieu and many others.