In-depth Interview with Camille McDonald

Life After America's Next Top Model

Camille McDonald Cover shoot

We sat down with the lovely Camille McDonald as she flew into Miami, FL to host one of her many events; and discuss Life After America's Next Top Model, current ventures, and what  motivates her to keep going. 

How are you feeling today?

Camille McDonald: I’m feeling great thank you, life is grand!

What age did you start modeling?

CM: I started modeling around 14.

Do you feel this is something that comes naturally to you?                                                                      

CM: Yes, modeling comes naturally to me because it’s something I've alwayswanted to do. But the word “modeling” is subjective it changes by the second; one should never assume what they are doing doesn’t need professional guidance and instruction.

Who were some of the models you saw coming up; you wanted to emulate?                                                                                                        

CM: Naomi Campbell, she was one of six models of her generation declared “super- models” by the fashion world. I LIVE for this woman she is Fierceness magnified! Naomi is of Afro-Jamaican from Chinese decent. Like me we share the Afro-Jamaican heritage so I totally identify with her. Naomi’s walk is “sick” she “kills” it every time. She exudes confidence and power I love how she owns what she does and says with no apologies. Linda Evangelista, a Canadian model who has been featured on over 600 magazine covers. She coined the phrase “We don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day.” She is a chameleon; she can wear any hair color and be radiant. I identify with her because I to can wear any hair color and strive for those ever changing facial expressions! Beverly Johnson she made history when she rose to fame as the first black mod- el to appear on the cover of American Vogue on the cover of American Vogue in August 1974. I love her because she is a business woman first; she helped opened the industry for women of color. She has class and sophistication just “iconic” yes that’s the word that comes to mind. Tyra Banks a television personality, producer, author, actress, and former model. She first became famous as a model, appearing twice on the cover of the Sports Illustrat- ed Swimsuit Issue and working for Victo- ria’s Secret as one of their original Angels. Banks is the creator and host of theUPN/ The CW reality television show America’s Next Top Model, co-creator of True Beau- ty, and was the host of her own talk show, The Tyra Banks Show. I am grateful for her decision to have me on two of her TV shows. She sees potential in me and that in its self is amazing. All of the above women came in this industry before me and are still more relevant if not more powerful today than ever. So the future is extremely bright for me with such mentors.

How did you get the Signature Walk moniker?                                             

CM: The “signature walk” was developed at Howard University! If you know anything about HBCU’s Howard takes the cake for beautiful women and fashion. My univer- sity’s fashion shows are one on a colossal level like NY Fashion week! It’s one of the only schools that potential models from other places come on campus to audition! The audience is filled with A-listers and the stage with high fashion and budding student designers.  Auditioning and begin beautiful does not secure you a spot in this amazing show that takes place during Howards Homecoming where over 100-thousand people and growing attend. When my audition came I said a prayer as I always do before my foot hits any runway. I opened my brown eyes and said what makes me different from all the other glamazon’s around me wanting the same opportunity? At that moment it dawned on me. Yessss I have a “signature walk” no one can walk like me... well ok Naomi ok well not like me lol! So as soon as I turned that corner from back stage I “served it” My “signature walk” was born! I embodied Naomi’s kick ass confidence, Linda’s undeniable facial expressions, Beverly’s business women strength and Tyra’s team spirit coupled with my personal feistiness. Yup it was over I got the job!

So how has life been since America’s Next Top Model?                             

CM: Life after ANTM has been great I traveled the world got an agency in Mil- lan and NY. Finished my higher educa- tion. Graced several magazine covers! Had hair and make-up campaigns.

Many people felt you were a diva on the show; is that an accurate assumption?                                                                                                     

CM: “Na Na Na a DIVA is a version of a female hustler.

You're still in amazing shape. What is your secret?                                     

CM: I do everything from TRX, Ket- tle Bells, Cross FIT, Yoga, Palates, Swim, Run with my dog Charmer, Boxing to keep in shape. It’s all about muscle tone for me so I like weights. You can see some of my work out vid- eos on line with my trainer Brandon Carter.

Camille McDonald leather jacket and heels                                                                     

Do you consider yourself a role model for younger girls; who look up to you?

CM: Yes, I am a role model that’s why I chose my jobs accordingly. It’s tough out here for these young girls they are bombarded by overly explicit sexuality that it distracts them from the art and integrity of the work. In Europe you see more nudity in fashion but it’s just tastefully done. The fact is sex sells so you put it out in the universe but once you have the attention of the youth use is to direct and guide to be better ladies and women. As Steve Harvey said “we are not here for the sex trade”

You're constantly on the move, when do you find time to unwind?

CM: I make the time to unwind. I am a big spa junkie and I love to travel to exotic Caribbean destinations. Has long as I have sand in my toes the sun in my face I am good.

What things do you enjoy doing when you’re not in front of the camera or working?

CM: I enjoy eating lol! I do enjoy cooking, entertaining friends and family, exploring city museums and painting.

How do you handle it when you’re out relaxing and people approach you?                                                                                                

CM: I love it, it flattering! As long as they don’t try to cuss me out for being a diva lol!

Camille McDonald Swing


What are some of your biggest turn- offs?

CM: In terms of the industry “The casting coach” Men in positions of power who try to solicit your models for sex or sexual favors. Making them believe they have to do that to be successful or get the job. Unfortunately it’s real. That’s why professional representation is important. Research reputable agencies before you make your decision.

Would you rather go out to dinner or stay home and cook a meal?

CM: I would season up my food for the next day letting all the flavors soak overnight and go out to dinner that night (smiling) I want it all!!!

 

For full article click here.

Photography credits: Artcrazy Photography
Wardrobe provided by Azzurro Boutique
Styled by Charles Reynolds
Hair provided by Dion

MUA MJ