Posing for Success | Casey Dandridge

Tell us how you became a model:
Modeling was definitely a situation where the universe was pushing me to pivot. I was working at a pharmacy in New Jersey and a retired talent agent came to the counter to let me know I need to start modeling. I didn’t take her seriously until she came back months later and was wondering why I was still in the pharmacy. After that moment I quit my job. I would not recommend that to anyone who is following their dream. But what I will say is, if you feel an intense force telling you it's time for you to elevate in life, follow it. Always follow your gut feeling.
Following my gut, I started modeling and submitting my pictures to agencies in Philadelphia, PA. I was working with a smaller agency in Philadelphia when I landed my runway job at Urban Outfitters Headquarters. I eventually started going to New York City every weekend, going to castings and walking in fashion shows. I was blessed to have met and connected with like minded individuals all the way to when I became signed with Wilhelmina. 

What is your routine before a photoshoot? 
I usually prepare by practicing my poses and understanding what the mission is for the creative concept of the shoot. When I first started off modeling it was honestly so weird to me. I used to just stand there but now I think I have a good rhythm with photoshoots. I love listening to good music to put me in the right energetic headspace I need. I prepare mentally by making sure I am well rested, silencing any distractions, and focused. Physically, I eat healthy and workout consistently. That's a must.

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How do you stay ready in such a competitive industry?
I had to come to the realization that I am not in competition with anyone but myself. Staying ready for me includes maintaining a healthy diet, working out, and mentally, going to therapy. It's so important that everyone in the industry is stable mentally.

Tell us about your training and techniques.
There are so many! But I would say practicing in the mirror on my poses and facial expressions has been a life saver for me. Also, doing the inner work is a major part of my mental training. Therapy has honestly saved my life in so many ways. I would recommend it for everyone! My process of healing and working through my traumas is so important to me.

What is it about you that makes you most marketable?
My authenticity and transparency attracts individuals who are meant to be in my life. I dont think it's so much about being marketable. I think I am a genuine individual that others can relate to because of how open I am about my mental health and life experiences. I have a podcast called ‘Catch Your Life’ on all major platforms where I discuss mental health as well.

What are three goals you would like to accomplish?
Keep evolving & healing, Lead with excellence, and spend some time creating in the overseas. I can see myself going overseas to the UK for model work.

Where do you see your career in five years?
I see my career really expanding in 5 years, I have projects coming out soon that show different sides of who I am. I don't ever want to be labeled as one thing because I don't label myself as one thing, I'm a multifaceted individual who loves to create.