Meet Melissa Diaz Carcases | Fashion Model

We had the good fortune of connecting with Melissa Diaz Carcases and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Melissa, what do you attribute your success to?
I would say the fact that I’m always trying to improve my craft even if it looks great, there is always room for improvement.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been a freelance model for almost 4 years, the journey has been hard but really rewarding. I started modeling because it gave me the opportunity to be someone different every time, it gave me confidence, and it made me feel beautiful. The hardest part for me was starting, I didn’t know how to walk, how to go to castings, what to wear, or how to take pictures. So my first year I definitely focused on learning these basics well, slowly but surely photographers and brands started to reach out. Because I didn’t have experience or an agency to back me up it was impossible to charge at the beginning, but the more I worked the better I got at my craft. Some of the things I learned on the way was to research the people who want to work with you, and always bring someone with you if you feel uneasy about a casting or job. The following year I started to charge for my time and craft. I still remember my first fashion show, I was so excited and the clients were pleased with my work. Since then I’ve worked for fitness brands, skincare, fashion designers, etc.. And I can’t wait to keep working this year and keep on improving.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would say that the museums in Houston are my favorite places, and all of the architecture I get to see in parks near downtown. I definitely have a sweet tooth and I love pasta, so you’ll see me eating those all the time. One place in particular that I recently went to is Seismique, this place is considered an interactive Museum, is really fun for kids to go, but also for adults. there are so many rooms and experiences that is definitely a place to go.

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?
I’m really grateful to the modeling teachers I had that really prepared me to be good at my job, and all of the photographers that helped me when I was just starting out. And also my mom who has always been there for me since day one.

Website: https://mdiazcar.myportfolio.com/

Instagram: @model.mels

Image Credits
Tai Barnes @images_by_tai Philip @philipephotography Mai-Anh Vo @maitakepics Darien @shotbydarienb J.Smith @blacksmithphoto