We had the good fortune of connecting with Brandi Shonté and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brandi, what habits do you feel play an important role in your life?
I practice in the mirror almost everyday ! Everyday it’s something different, one day it might be my facial expressions and figuring out what works best for me. The next day it could be posing and finding different angles ! The biggest habit of all is just being comfortable with looking at yourself in the mirror, and loving everything that you see. Self-love definitely played a huge part in helping me succeed.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I initially got into modeling as a member of Black Millennium modeling club (BMMC) on the campus of Fayetteville State University, years ‘11-‘14 , after my 2nd year I was named the Vice President. I gained a lot of my background and confidence from being a member!

Once I graduated in ‘14 I decided that I wanted to get into doing photo shoots more in depth! As a member of BMMC, our focus was more so choreography in heels, and modeling competitions. So because of that , a photoshoot was always something that I had very little experience in. I lacked confidence in front of the camera! I was always overthinking!

However , I was still up for the challenge I pushed myself and got back on the scene in 2015 starting my portfolio from the ground up and doing shoots every weekend! I started with a portfolio on Instagram, and followed local models, famous models, photographers, videographers, MUA’s, and entrepreneurial portfolios. This way I’d build an audience, and also clientele (when it pertains to branding opportunities) . The goal is to be noticed enough that businesses and entrepreneurs will want to inquire about collaborating with you to promote their brand. I’ve had the chance to work with many local entrepreneurs, and branding shoots are always fun !

There are different routes to take when it comes to modeling! (I.E. print modeling/publications.) I’ve also had the opportunity to be published in various magazine publications. One of my biggest accomplishments to date that I am tremendously proud of is the May 21’ VOGUE ITALIA publication ! I’d like to thank the amazing and lovely photographer Mariah Tyes | IG: @_ratedretro for blessing me with such a great opportunity !

I’ve learned many lessons, and the biggest is that networking will get you further than you think. At the moment, I am a freelance model, I love the freedom of being a freelance model because there aren’t any limitations on what I want to do with my modeling career.

As time has passed , photo shoots are the equivalence to a therapy session for me. I’m able to get cute, throw on a cute outfit, and take pictures ! An instant mood booster!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The support in Fayetteville, NC has been amazing! I’ve been able to collaborate with so many beautiful models, and talented photographers. I’m beyond grateful for every experience!

Instagram: Cocoalocz

Facebook: Brandi Shonte

Other: Email: Brandishontebooking@gmail.com

Image Credits
Photographers: Mariah Tyes, Lemar Divens, James Thomas, Antionne Duane Jones, Thomas Crankfield

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.