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

Hi Kamden, what role has risk played in your life or career?
On one hand taking a risk can be super challenging and very scary! On the other hand taking a risk can be one of the most amazing things to do, and it can be so rewarding. One of my first big risks was starting modeling. Before my first shoot I was so anxious that I couldn’t eat or sleep; I was nervous I wouldn’t be able to preform well and give the photographer what he wanted from me. I ended up having the best time and sparking my intense love for modeling and being in front of the camera. I have done so many shoots since then, and I have met so many incredible people during my journey so far!

My second biggest risk was applying to agencies. I was very anxious about rejection and harsh criticism. Before my interviews, I would pace in my room and do anything I could to calm myself down. Somehow every interview I have done has gone amazing! Taking this big risk for myself and my career ended up getting me signed with three agencies and getting to work with some more amazing photographers and meeting even more incredible people! I have been blessed and thankful for all of the opportunities I have been presented with so far.

Taking these risks that seem so monumental have completely paid off for me! I could not have been more lucky and grateful for this. I have learned now that no matter how extreme the risk may seem to me, it can’t hurt to take it. The worst thing that can happen in my career is rejection, and that’s okay! SO if you are hesitant or on the ledge of not knowing to take a risk, I say go for it because it might lead you to the next step in your career as well!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My art is expression. I am a model so I get to express myself through pictures, clothing, facial expressions, etc. I am an extrovert so putting myself out there hasn’t been the hardest thing for me. I have enjoyed getting to share the work I collaborate and create with friends, family, and through social medias. I have learned so many lessons through my journey and I will continue to learn more. The biggest lesson I have learned is not all critism is bad. I used to take critism to heart but now know that most of the time it is used in a kind not malicious way to help you improve.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend came to visit, we would 100% have to go to the botanical gardens! I have done a couple of shoots there and visited multiple times. Every time I go I am amazed by how beautiful it is! After that we would go to lunch at Marker 7! Marker 7 is one of my favorite lunch or even dinner spots! It is known for its oysters and they are so delicious! After lunch we would go on a walk and just explore and get to talk and catch up! Shopping would come next! We would go downtown Athens and shop at all of the shops! After our evening of shopping we would grab some dinner downtown at either Jinya Ramen or Porterhouse Grill!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many deserving people that deserve recognition but I would have to say Will Belcher and Rylan Write! These two very special people took a chance on me, and did some fun photo shoots and have pushed me in the best way possible and we have made some incredible work! They have both became some beautiful friendships and I could not be more grateful to have them in my life!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kamden_cotton?igsh=bHAzZGNyb3A3bHVj&utm_source=qr

Image Credits
Will Belcher Photography, Rylan Write Photography, Jordy Toscano Photography, Kelsey Reed Jr. Photograhy

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.