Andre Mckie! The Life of a Model In London...Part 2

There is nothing this man can't do! A model, actor, singer, chef...the list is endless. The secret to his success is not just his amazing good looks but his kind and generous personality.

Our interview began in the ice cream parlour, Gino's, which is decorated in pastel shades that are as sweet and sugary as the ice cream it serves. His calm and easy nature allowed us to talk for hours about the demands of the modelling industry, balancing the different jobs he has planned and what the future of modelling would bring.His portfolio is outstanding with photo shoots from Pop magazine amongst many gracing it's pages. We easily spent twenty minutes browsing the endless modelling shots that he has acquired over his career so far.

There is one thing that really stood out and it is something that has maybe contributed to his success. In every photo of Andre, there is a different side to him that only appears in front of the camera. It is this versatility that has made him a top model, endorsing products for Topman and appearing in numerous retail campaigns.

Have you always been interested in modelling or has your interest come from working as an actor?

Yes, I have always been interested in modelling-it has always been part of my life. I was a trendsetter before my time! I always wore my hair differently to everyone else and I remember one time, I had tight blonde ringlets. It is this sort of attitude that gets you noticed but it can also make you feel like an outcast which can be lonely at times. You have just got to remember that you are modelling because you love it and for no other reason than that.

Every model has a 'professional look', how would you describe yours?

Clean cut, sharp, smart and presentable

Does this differ from your off-duty look?

When I am off duty, I still like to look presentable but I like to have fun with fashion and experiment with different looks. If I was going to a fashion party, I would push the boundaries a little, whereas if I was going to a friend's house I would go dressed in smart/casual clothes. It is all about how your clothes make you feel, you have to be comfortable in your clothes otherwise you won't feel confident.

This year has been an amazing year for you. Being involved in so many shoots and shows, what has been the highlight for you?

It is so hard just to pick one highlight as I am grateful for everything that has happened this year. My work has been so consistent with everyday bringing new challenges my way and I have enjoyed every second. My favourite projects have been walking in the Brett de Jager show, appearing in Pop magazine and flying to Prague to film Red Tails which is directed by Anthony Hemingway and is due to be released in 2012.


Who is the model you most aspire to be like?

Tyson Beckford is an amazing model

How did you find the demands of modelling? Do you have to be careful about what you eat and what you wear?

I don't struggle with the demands of modelling at all. I guess I am used to it. My mum brought me up to always look presentable, to exercise daily and to eat a balanced diet. I haven't changed the way I live because of modelling.

If you had one piece of advice for anyone trying to break into the industry, what would it be?

You have to make yourself known to all the agencies that are on the AMA list of modelling agencies. Be brave and visit everyone on that list, if they don't like you they will always suggest other agencies for you to look at. Also, never pay for any portfolios. If someone wants money for a portfolio it will be a scam.

How would you compare life as a signed model to that of an unsigned model?

As a signed model, your agency will find you work and organise everything for you whereas if you are unsigned, you have to do all the work yourself. There is a also a higher level of support both financially and mentally that comes from being signed. If you are with an agency, they are more likely to charge higher rates which gives you more money from a job. Agencies are also dedicated to supporting you mentally and physically through your career as a model, after all, they need you to be healthy so you can work for them.

Where do you see yourself in five years time?

Ideally I will be taking over the world but in reality I would love to be an established model and actor. That is my dream.



Follow Andre on Twitter: @AndreMckie