Tom Scholtes is a model and influencer from Eindhoven, Netherlands. I hope you’ll enjoy the interview;
How did you fall in love with modeling?
Really it just started somewhere in my late teenage years after I got contacted by a few photographers. Wanting to shoot TFP (time for portfolio) I thought i’d give it a go. The first few shoots went pretty horrible haha. After a lot of research on the internet and contacting and engaging with other models and photographers I received some good insights. And with that created my own style. After a while, with the right support from my modelling company things just went naturally.
How were you discovered?
It all started on social media. I subscribed to a modelling competition with no expectations at all. And what turned out is that I was one of the finalists. We (the models, MUAH’s and photographers) have gone through a 6 month period of working out, shooting, catwalk-training and entertainment assignments. During the competition I made sure to get a lot of media attention and interaction. And that is how I eventually got scouted for bigger brands
What’s one of the most interesting shoots that you’ve done?
One of the most interesting and maybe remarkable shoots i’ve done was outside the helicopter hangar at an airfield. It was in March so it was a shaky cold day. When the helicopter landed there was so much wind that came from it. And you had to stand there, trying to be relaxed, not feeling cold. Afterwards the photo’s turned out pretty cool.
How would you define your personal style?
Fashion aware, daring and with a raw edge.
Where did you grow up? How have your roots influenced your sense of style?
I grew up in a city called Eindhoven, it’s in the Netherlands. At a young age I learned to always be yourself, no matter what. ”I got it from my momma”. When I was around the age of 18 I had a very tough childhood up to my 21st. The thing i’ve learned and will never forget is: You are the one creating your own luck, people are going to hate anyway, best be yourself and push your own ambitions. So I dug into how you personally develop yourself the best version possible, and haven’t stopped since. Along the way, through the years, my raw and daring style got created.
Who is your style icon and why?
Ali Gordon. I love the vibe he’s sending into the world. He’s got insane editing skills on his YouTube Lifestyle video’s and has a very inspirational blog with content full of charge.
Who is your favorite photographer and why?
My favourite photographer(s) must be Sam Kolder and Nick Pescetto. They definitely live the life to the fullest. Crazy video montage and insanely inspirational travelling content.
What advice would you give to aspiring models out there?
Many people DM me with this question. I’d say the best wat to start is to just do. I know clingy huh? But really, just practice in front of the camera, a lot. Practice facial expressions in the mirror. Do research to find some good photographers. Invest some money for good Portfolio shots. Then create the portfolio with only the best photo’s. Interact and especially network within the modelling/ photographers network to get your portfolio at the right places. Get your face seen over and over.. and so on. But most of all, have fun!
Do you edit your own photos? If yes, which programs do you use?
For editing photo’s I use Adobe Lightroom/ Photoshop.
We would like to express our gratitude to Tom Scholtes for this great interview.
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