Meet Kayla Jones | Modeling Coach and Photographer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Jones and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing about the modeling industry that outsiders are probably unaware of is the amount of work, training, skill, and traveling involved. Modeling is more than taking pictures or walking the runway. Yet, with all of the modeling shows and competitions on television there is still this notion that models do just that. Modeling requires skill. Real models know how to pose. They know their best angles. They know how to work the camera and do a variety of head tilts and facial expressions. They know how to model clothing and work the set. They inspire the photographer. That takes practice. Some models are born, others are made. I always advise aspiring models to research the industry, know what area of modeling they want to pursue, and be prepared to train and travel.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What keeps me busy professionally is my love for what I do. My interest in modeling began at the early age of ten. I grew up watching Tyra Banks and pageantry. By the age of 16, I would model clothes around the house, and would beg or pay my sister to take pictures of me. I practiced nonstop. At the age of 18, I applied to a casting call. I trained at Barbizon School of Modeling and later signed with the Zoom Agency. Ironically, during shows and practices I found myself encouraging and helping other models in technique. I soon realized I enjoyed coaching modeling more than I enjoyed being a model. I took additional training in modeling and etiquette to become a certified trainer. I worked as a modeling instructor for several years before working myself up to a director at the Barbizon and Ice Agency in North Carolina. During my time in college, I was encouraged to start a modeling and etiquette program for girls within my community. It went well and the feedback from parents really inspired me to continue my work. A run for homecoming queen during my senior year encouraged me to start a pageant for plus size women. I was the only plus size candidate for homecoming and I came up with the title of “Voluptuous, Intelligent, and Pretty.” I turned it into an opportunity to provide opportunities and safe spaces for plus women to shine and be seen. The plus size pageants and modeling competitions have been some of my proudest moments. I find great joy in taking what I have learned and sharing it with others. Transitioning from working with an agency to starting my own thing was challenging at first, but my competitive drive opened a lot of doors. I made a name for myself and begin to book my own contracts. I have been in the industry now for over 20 years, worked with countless celebrities, and most importantly my modeling students have gone on to do great things on their own. What sets me apart from others is skill and dedication. I can train anyone to become a model. I love what I do, and I do not see myself slowing down any time soon.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my friends were to come to visit, I would take them to eat at Pita Fresh downtown Denver. They have the most amazing humus that I have ever tasted. The food is always extremely fresh, and they have great customer service. I love tennis, so I would take them to Washington Park, where I play often, and then probably hit up some of the other amazing parks for pictures. I am a bookworm, so I would definitely take them to the Front Range Library, where they have the most amazing book sales.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to dedicate my shoutout to my great grandmother Nellie Ray, who was, and still is, my biggest inspiration in life. Her positive affirmations spoken over my life as a kid still motivates me to this day and is the drive for my success. And my awesome circle of friends, who supported my efforts from day one, encouraged me every step of the way, and have been there for me during by successes, as well as my failures.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Kayla-The-Modeling-Coach-Jones-335993893587147

Other: Plus Size Page https://www.facebook.com/plussizemodelingintn

Image Credits
Image 1 – Photographer: Josiah Bell Image 2 – Kayla Jones Image 3 – Kayla with her first group of modeling students and supporters. Image 4 – Kayla and her great grandmother. Image 5 – One of my modeling students walking the runway Image 6 –Kayla and some of the plus size modeling contestants. Image 7 -Model: Brigitte Marie Simone Photographer: Kayla Jones (Me) Image 8 – Model: Charice Sinclair Photographer: Kayla Jones (Me)