When you think of beautiful plus size models, we have to include Courtney Lundin.

She first captured the attention of PLUS months ago with her stunning images and work with one of Mexico’s most popular magazines Veintitantos. This month Courtney shares with us her personal beginnings and tips for aspiring models.

[Maddy] When did you decide to become a plus size model?

[Courtney] When I was in my late teens, I found successful clothing companies centered around Plus Size, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. All the women seem to be so strong and beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin. I knew if I had a chance to make a career in this industry, I would be very lucky.

[Maddy] Many aspiring models find it difficult to become comfortable in front of the camera, how did you overcome the jitters in front of the camera?

[Courtney] I first started in the business with small acting parts, so I was familiar with being in front of the camera, but it was an adjustment to it being so direct to you. When I model I think of it as acting, and I have a stage personality that comes out when I work. I can usually hide any fears behind it.

[Maddy] How exciting is it for you to be signed with one of today’s most notable agencies, Dorothy Combs Agency?

[Courtney] It is very exciting to be represented by Dorothy. She is an amazing booker and a wonderful person in general. Dorothy knows the business from the inside out and I am very lucky to have her handling my career. I know I am in the best position for success with her, and if anyone can help you succeed in this business, it will be done through Dorothy.

[Maddy] Tell me about your career in the very beginning and what you have learned about the modeling industry since then.

[Courtney] In the beginning I was very intimidated by everything that was happening around me. I felt like I was out of my league. I took losing jobs personal, and I struggled for bookings. I started with small clients and worked hard to re-book with them until one day I started direct booking with larger companies. I still feel out of my league with all of the beautiful and successful women I work with, but I am now realizing we are all working to represent a beautiful image of curvy real women. At the end of the day it comes down to a look the client wants, and it’s not personal to you. When you are the image, it can be hard to separate that.

[Maddy] You’re in incredible shape; how do you maintain your fabulously fit figure?

[Courtney] Well that makes me blush! I know I can still use some work, but I try and keep what I am doing fun; otherwise I lose interest, and will find reasons to not exercise.  I usually play sports or games and I do construction work with my father, so moving concrete and 2×4’s all day is what really keeps me in shape.

[Maddy] Tell me about working for Veintitantos Magazine.

[Courtney] Veintitantos is an amazing magazine that I was thrilled to be part of. My shoot started as a small editorial booking that turned into an 11 page spread and interview. I really connected with the company, even through the language barrier, and they allowed me to speak to their readers about the Plus Size industry. Working with them reminded me that other countries see our size as normal, and truly embrace it. They did a beautiful job with the story, and I was proud to represent the image.

[Maddy] What has been your favorite modeling experience and why?

[Courtney] I would have to say Veintitantos because I was so involved with the entire job. It was not just taking pictures; I had a voice, and expressed myself. I have been lucky enough to have responses from it, and there is no greater feeling to me than knowing you connected with someone else.

[Maddy] If you could work with any one client – who would it be and why?

[Courtney] Lane Bryant. They are an amazing company that brings Plus Size to the general public. Without knowing about the Plus Model industry, most people recognize the brand, and look to the models. They use beautiful women, and showcase how beautiful curves are.

[Maddy] Can you give aspiring models reading your interview your top ten tips about the plus size modeling industry?

[Courtney]

1) Be confident in yourself, what is on the inside shines through.
2) Don’t give up, you will lose more jobs than you get, but it is worth it in the end.
3) Be healthy and natural. You are your product, represent it well.
4) Personality is as important as beauty. You can’t have one without the other.
5) You can’t please everyone, so just please yourself.
6) Never settle; fight for what you want. No one else can do it for you.
7) Your portfolio is what represents you; test often and keep current.
8) Take every opportunity you can get, no matter the size.
9) Don’t expect success quickly. It is a slow and steady process
10) Practice, practice, practice!  Know you body, shape, how you move and watch your expressions.