Today we’d like to introduce you to Amanda Knight.
Amanda, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
My journey of self-discovery began about six years ago. It was an unexpected life changing event that made me realize this was something I needed to do. Modeling always interested me but I had never tried partly due the fact I have always been more of a shy person and don’t like being the center of attention. I took a risk and booked my first shoot. I had a clear vision of what I wanted to do but did not know what to expect. I had an amazing opportunity to re-invent myself, to step out of my comfort zone and really find myself. That was it, I was hooked. I fell in love with the way it made me feel. To be able to express myself in this way has been incredible. I felt empowered and confident as a result of this new creative outlet. But I wanted to do more. I continued to learn and ask questions in an effort to improve and gain knowledge of the industry. I began really networking which lead to me more opportunities to shoot, to participate in local fashion shows and secure a role in an independent film. I enrolled in a couple of classes centered around acting and photo movement and continued pushing forward. I have had the opportunity to meet so many amazing, supportive people along the way who share similar creative interests. All of these people, models, photographers, stylists, makeup artists, directors, teachers, designers and so many more have all impacted me on some level.
As I continued to learn about myself I realized I wanted to help others to do the same. I began encouraging people to embrace themselves, the good parts and the parts they wanted to improve, all of it. Through my modeling I hope to promote positivity, acceptance and self- awareness. I also have a passion for supporting worthwhile causes and enjoy teaming up with local organizations to raise awareness of certain issues.
Has it been a smooth road?
The road to getting where I am has definitely not been easy. There have been many bumps along the way. I have tried to use each as a stepping stone, a way to improve, learn and evolve, not only as an artist but as a person. There is a great sense of community in and around Boston and many people have been willing to give advice and support. Modeling wasn’t something I knew. I went to school for Fashion Merchandising and Marketing and although they overlap in ways with this industry, it was all new to me. Learning more of the business side of things was equally as important as improving my technique and approach. I was and still am at many times out of my comfort zone but that makes me work harder. I love learning and each new challenge presents an opportunity to push myself to the next level.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Amanda Knight story. Tell us more about the business.
I think what sets me apart from others is my approach. My overall mission is to embrace yourself so my work typically reflects that process for me. There is a level of authenticity to my work, a vulnerability, which I think is relatable. I have learned to really be open to the creative process which has resulted in becoming very versatile as an artist. I think it’s just as important to capture everyday life as it is to shoot with intention. There’s almost always a reason or an experience that becomes the inspiration for my photos, both in front of and behind the camera. There is something to be said for owning where you are right now and I hope through my modeling, photography and writing that more people will begin to really embrace that. Some of the best moments aren’t captured on camera. The craziness that goes on behind the scenes, the planning process, the mentoring, and the connections you make with people, that’s what matters and that’s what I hope to help people understand. Sure the finished product is great but the interactions and all the things leading up to the end result is where you really evolve.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I think there’s great potential for growth and change within the industry in the next 5-10 years. I foresee the Boston market growing and evolving with even more opportunities for artists of all types. I hope the sense of community continues to strengthen and move forward in a positive direction. I’m curious to see how photography in particular continues to adapt to changes in technology and the ever evolving advancements to cell phone cameras. Social media platforms are also major contributors to the success of this industry and I don’t think that will be going away anytime soon. These outlets have to ability to bring so many people together. It is important as artists that we show respect for and credit each other’s work. I am hopeful that going forward we, as a community, will be able to keep this as a priority and maintain good ethical standards.
Personally for my business, I’d like to continue to evolve as a model through creating more opportunities for myself as well as other people to express themselves. I’ve been venturing into other areas such as photography and assisting with different aspects of photoshoots and participating in some charitable events and I’m excited for where that takes me. I started out doing portrait/lifestyle and boudoir type shoots which has been so much fun. I am very interested in doing more editorial work as well as street photography in the near future.
On a broader scale, I’d like to close the gap a bit more on the idea that modeling is solely a physical/superficial industry. Modeling is a great way to reveal different sides of yourself and can be a very positive experience, even therapeutic at times. I hope to continue to partner with and promote worthy causes and raise awareness to issues important to me. Ultimately I want help people step out of their comfort zones and be happy with who they find there. True beauty comes from within. We are all beautiful in our own way and that’s the message I will continue to promote through my work in the years to come.
Contact Info:
- Email: amanda_knight_model@yahoo.com
- Instagram: @amanda.knight
Image Credit:
1. @jsinphoto – blue long exposure
2. @sangeeta.people – black outfit sitting on railing
3. malktime_photography – b&w on bed
4. @photographybymichaelduguay – editorial with black lace bodysuit
5. @anothersideofwillie – b&W near beach
6. @lightsourcemedia – purple dress
7. @simcommedia – striped dress
8. @simcommedia – floral dress
9. @photographybymichaelduguay – pink dress
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