Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorali Diaz.
Hi Lorali, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I had no clue what I was doing. I did not know where to start, who to go to, or where to look. But, before I knew it, I was thrown into the world of modeling and haven’t left since. I originally started by looking into modeling companies in Minneapolis.
After a few interviews and learning that a majority of the companies required you to pay to be a part of their company and realizing neither my family nor myself had the money to put me through it, I started looking into TFP shoots. TFP shoots (time for photos) are a great way to dip your toes in the world of modeling while also helping new photographers build their portfolios. Shortly after I began TFP modeling, I was presented with the opportunity to compete for the United States of America’s Miss Minnesota for 2022. I was fortunate enough to win the title and began my reign. After winning the title of USOAs Miss Minnesota, my audience widened and more photographers who were just starting their careers began reaching out to do TFP shoots.
Throughout 2022, I worked with about 10 different photographers, 3 of whom I have to thank for helping me start my modeling journey. As time went on and more photoshoots were done, I was recommended to join a Minneapolis-based model agency called Meredith Modeling Agency. This would not only be a great addition to my modeling portfolio but also a great way to gain experience. Even if I am not chosen for a job, I still take it as I win because I was able to learn from it to do better in the future.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Yes and no. I thankfully have not had any issues with any of the photographers I have worked with as they are all wonderful people and do a fantastic job. However, getting started was very difficult. There is also the fact that there will be months you don’t do any shoots. This can be a nice break, but it can also affect your skills. Just like any other hobby or job, modeling takes practice, so if you aren’t practicing during your off months, it can cause you to fall behind on your skills.
A more personal “bump in the road” I have experienced is body image. Many people look at me and see a tall, thin girl who could never have any body image issues. Well, it’s quite the opposite. Even though I am in the range of society’s “perfect body”. it doesn’t always feel that way. A lot of people think models are perfect and don’t have to deal with acne and weight gain/loss but we do!
I get it on my face and back which can interfere with my shoots. I also deal with body dysmorphia. Though I may look thin and healthy to you, I hate being so thin and dislike how prominent my collarbone is, but the moment I gain any weight, I feel as though I’ve gained “too much”. This can put a damper on one’s mental health and in turn, affects your modeling.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
While working full-time and modeling, I am also working towards my LPN degree at Saint Cloud Technical College.
After doing so, I hope to continue to my RN and finish with my BSN specializing in pediatrics. After the start of Covid the diner I worked at closed down, which led me to work at my first Nursing Home. I started working in memory care and I really enjoyed my job as I was there to take care of the residents, and some of them even became my best friends, which continued onto my next job as well as at the current Health Care Center I work at now.
However, I made a slight change at the current Health Care Center as I now work in activities rather than on the floor as a CNA. I did this due to burnout caused by working as a PCA and being a full-time college student. Since I have now obtained my CNA certification, I do work one weekend a month on the floor. When doing either position, I thoroughly enjoy my job. Many people say “I don’t know how you do it, I would hate working at a nursing home doing those tasks”, but they haven’t experienced the joy it brings. You could be doing something as simple as coloring a picture, or just having a conversation, and you see the smile on your resident’s face proving the joy it brings them, it’s an unexplainable feeling.
One thing I am very proud of is overcoming a spinal fusion at 13 years old. After my first-year check-up, we found out I had a 52-degree curvature of the spine which was also twisted. This is called scoliosis. The spinal fusion included the insertion of 2 titanium bars and 12 screws into my back surrounding my spine. Though this surgery benefited me physically, at times it had a negative effect on my mental health. Having a near foot and a half-long scar down your back is very noticeable and people tend to see it and ask you questions. At first, I took it almost as an insult. I hated when people could notice my scar because I didn’t want that to be all I was “known for”. I felt as though it made me weird or different in a bad way.
It wasn’t just my scar that made me feel this way. After surgery, I unfortunately began breaking out in acne all over my back and I still deal with it to this day. It also caused me to be very self-conscious because I started getting acne scars on my back as well. Although, instead of seeing it as a negative I turned it into a positive. I began using it as a way to show my strength and perseverance. I began showing it off as a way to say “Hey! Look what I went through, look what I survived, look at how strong I am for going through something like this at such a young age and coming out 10 times stronger”.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Follow other models!! Scout out photographers through other models. Not only does this make things easier, but now you have seen the photographer’s work and can ask the model if she felt comfortable and safe. Though you should never judge a book by its cover, your safety is the top priority. This means, the first few times you start working with a photographer, bring someone with you!
You can also ask these models questions about modeling. All of the people I have met within the modeling world so far have been wonderful people who have no problem sharing experiences and giving advice. We are a community all about unity and helping each other out. What you put out in the world will come back to you!
Pricing:
- $75 an hour with a minimum of two hours
- Willing to lower the price or do TFP if the location is closer to the St. Cloud MN area.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @uniquely_lorali
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ss.scoliosis.21
Image Credits
Benny Lego Photography, David Stark Photography, Quarter Horse Photography, Jean P. Bour, Jr, Katina Elizabeth Photography, Ken Cheung Photography, and Ravi Photography
