How I got into modeling

If you’d told me years ago that I’d end up in modeling, I would’ve laughed it off. Growing up, confidence wasn’t exactly my strong suit, and modeling seemed like a world reserved for other people. But then, I hit a certain height, and a small part of me started wondering… what if?

It all started back in 2014. Back then, it was rare to see Asian men in the modeling world, so I wasn’t seriously considering it. But then one of my closest friends asked me to model for their t-shirt company. I agreed, not thinking much of it—and honestly, I tried to cancel at the last minute. It was my junior year of college, and I’d gone out the night before, so let’s just say I wasn’t in peak form. I was in that half-awake state when I got the call: they were already outside waiting for me. With no time to spare, I threw on some clothes, skipped washing my face or brushing my teeth, and dashed out the door.

Once we started shooting, something shifted. Even though I had zero experience, the photographer saw potential in me and suggested I seriously consider pursuing modeling. The whole thing felt surreal. I was a finance major with dreams of running my own business someday, used to brainstorming ideas and crafting strategies — not striking poses. At one point, I even had to take some shots in my underwear, which felt like another level of vulnerability. I remember laughing nervously behind the scenes because I had no clue what face to make or how to pose. At one point, a model called me out, asking why I was laughing. But honestly, being in front of the camera felt so raw, like I was exposing a side of myself I wasn’t used to showing.

Right before my first shot, I actually ducked into the bathroom to crank out some pushups—just trying to get a little pump going. It was strange to be in this world where attractiveness and confidence were on full display. Growing up, I never saw myself that way. There were always insecurities about whether I looked the part, whether I was “enough.” But in that room, surrounded by people who owned their looks and presence, I started to wonder if maybe I could do the same.

After that, I began working with photographers and friends, inching my way toward feeling more comfortable in front of the camera. By 2019, as I was finishing grad school, a photographer friend encouraged me to submit to a modeling agency. I took the leap, signed with 10MGMT in Chicago, and found myself on a completely unexpected path. Not long after moving to Los Angeles, I signed with LA Models and spent the next three years working with some great brands. I even ended up signing with a hand-modeling agency and booking hand gigs—definitely not something I saw coming!

Looking back, modeling has taught me so much about self-image, confidence, and being open to the world seeing you as you are. It’s a journey that’s reshaped how I see myself and given me a chance to represent Asian men in a space where we’re not often seen. For me, that’s been the most powerful part of it all. I was given an opportunity and I did not take that for granted.

Content Creation

In addition to modeling, I connect with audiences through engaging and relatable content. From brand and product reviews to fun challenge videos with friends, I enjoy creating experiences that entertain, inform, and inspire.

My work also includes educational content and personal insights that resonate with viewers, fostering genuine connections and building trust with my audience. Whether it’s showcasing a product, sharing knowledge, or simply having fun, my goal is to bring value and authenticity to every piece of content I create.

Let’s collaborate to bring your brand or ideas to life in a way that connects with people!

Brands I’ve Worked With

Contact Me

Phone
(312) 209-2288

Email
kevin@soulstice.io

Location
Beverly Hills, California