Conversations with Namicka François

Today we’d like to introduce you to Namicka François. 

Hi Namicka, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Modeling was always encouraged through my parents at a very young age, but growing up shy it’s hard to put yourself out there. My senior year of high school a photographer Ashley Howland was taking my pictures for senior year. Through her, I discovered a love for modeling. When I’m behind the camera everything else doesn’t matter, it’s so easy but challenging at the same time. My best friend Willow Rutter (also a photographer) and I love to push the boundaries of photography and try new things that could be deemed as “weird” or “unusual”. I have modeled for a small clothing business called “Guilty Mindset” by Heather and Kaleb Fulton. It was my first time in an actual studio in a professional setting. Seeing the professional studio setup, the lights, and being able to connect with people who had the same passions as me was truly amazing. It really made me feel like I knew where I wanted to be. Modeling is a way I can express myself without using words, it’s so much more than standing in front of a camera and saying “cheese!”. For me, it captures parts of me that no one else knows about or sees. I am currently still trying to climb the social ladder and find connections throughout the modeling industry. 

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
For me it definitely hasn’t always been easy, all the connections I’ve made have been in my own. I don’t have an agent helping me get booked, I’m not currently signed with a modeling agency. These tools are a big help within this industry. I lived in Greenville Tx, I very small town most people don’t know about. In Greenville, it’s hard to make connections with the right important people to get where you want to go. My biggest struggle is definitely trying to get my name out there. 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a model, specifically interested in editorial modeling, but I love all styles! Editorial modeling to me is not a style that everyone can do. I think it’s quirky and weird in the most beautiful way. I love photography that makes you a little bit uncomfortable, the kind that makes you wiggle in your seat but can’t stop looking at it! I would say I’m most know for my creative ideas within photography, I love trying to come up with quirky fun ideas for me and my friends to try. I am most proud of modeling for a Guilty Mindset. I am grateful for them taking a chance on me, and having faith in my work! It was truly a star-struck moment being in a studio for the first time. Something that sets me apart from others is I would say my willingness to be uncomfortable! Sometimes I’m asked to do a pose that’s a little weird sounding or just straight-up uncomfortable but I love trying new things and if it doesn’t work, we all get a good laugh out of it! Whether it be costumes/clothing, hair, makeup, concepts I’m always open to try new things and explore new genres of photography! 

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
Be prepared for the lack of diversity within the modeling world! I have been in theater, modeling, color guard, dance, and many of them have asked me to straighten my hair or hide it in some way. I have been to shoot and had to show up with my hair done because the stylists do not know how to do my hair, while other models get their hair done. I’ve been told I look prettier with straight hair than my natural curls. I have been called many names. I have so many other “horror stories”. If this is what I experience as a biracial woman, I simply cannot fathom what darker-skinned people face. I have had to have a thick skin within this industry. 

Contact Info:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/namickaa/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kylee.francois
• Youtube: https://m.youtube.com/channel/UCvOMOu1Ql0SjsiiPoBNtSlA
• Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/TTPdBGnoFk/ 

Image Credits
Willow Rutter
Ashley Howland