We all have our ideas and stereotypes about models, they’re beautiful, they’re skinny, they’re rich and they live a life of luxury but most fail to realize the true reality of the modeling industry unless the are really in it. Contrary to popular belief, modeling is an actual job and it requires a lot of hard work, a lot of sacrifice, and a lot of personality. Anyone can be a pretty face, but in this ‘tough as nails’ industry known as modeling it’s every man for himself. Modeling requires a whole lot of preparations. For instance, some photo shoots require waking up at 3 a.m. just to catch the sunrise or running out of breath underwater and having chlorine burn your eyeballs–or try even standing in below freezing temperatures in a swim suit! But many set their hopes on becoming top models only to come to the true realization of how “real” it truly is.
I recently had the opportunity to speak with now seasoned model Dan Luna, native of Peru. His rich accent and passionate conversation radiated so much love for his craft and he expressed experience in his demeanor. He first started modeling in Peru in 1999, he was then sent off to New York City for the very famous fashion week. There he acquired more calls to attend other shows and went on to attend photo shoots for Dolce & Gabbana and many more high profile designers. What really draws Dan Luna into the fashion world is his love of the camera and his love of people. He loves meeting new people, especially from different countries and cultures, and if he wasn’t a model he would definitely be in the service business. Having worked at the Four Seasons Hotel and a manager in an Italian restaurant, he loves the camaraderie of people as he has fantastic interpersonal skills.
As for fun, you won’t find him club hopping or hanging out in the bar, he’s more of a homebody that enjoys cooking or going out to restaurants or the gym in which he keeps his excellent physique up by exercising five times a week for one or two hours. His favorite clothing brand is Marc Jacob. “I like classic,” he explained, which goes with his genuine and reserved personality.
Dan Luna plans on being in the industry for the long haul. With his next fashion show next coming up in September during New York City’s Fashion week he’s nothing but smiles, as he has become quite the staple in the event. So what kind of advice might he give someone pursing a career in the modeling industry? “You have to be able to do a little bit of everything, smile, be friendly, concentrate on what you want and what you do. Modeling has many demands and it’s very difficult to be successful but with hard
work anything is possible.”
