Kristy Gronseth

Photo by @pbaldonado

Modeling with Confidence

Tell us a little bit about yourself?

I am a strong and resilient woman who has found joy, love, hope and peace through my faith and my relationships. I am a mom of 5 beautiful children and I am more loved than I ever thought possible by my amazing husband. I am an overcomer of an abusive marriage of 13 years. This helps to make me who I am. However, it does not define me. I have forgiven, healed, and overcome. I am healthy, happy, and fulfilled.

What would you say is your sexiest feature?

My intelligence, humor, and my husband says that I have a beautiful smile.

Photo by Dallas Morgan

How did you get into modeling?

I was interested as a young lady, however I never had the confidence to truly pursue it. As a grown woman, who had been through many trials, overcoming them. And then coming out on the other side strong, mentally, physically and emotionally, I felt that I had substance and experience to contribute. I wanted to show that real women, women with age and experience, could be beautiful. So, I reached out to a few photographers and started with TFP (Trade For Photos) work. I then reached out to an agent and she was so excited to mentor me and here we are.

What steps do you take to maintain your physical appearance?

I always ensure that I eat breakfast, usually consisting of a protein shake. I eat a pretty well balanced diet and drink lots of water. I work out 4-5 days a week in yoga, HIIT training, and weight training. I also choose to take the stairs at work, park further out at stores, etc. I love to cycle and I also work in my yard. I stay active in life. I think that a positive physical appearance emanates from the inside out. So, I also maintain a strong spiritual life.

How do you hold uncomfortable poses for extended periods?

I feel that my physical health and strength really helps me to do this. Without physical strength, it would be difficult. Mental strength is also very important. You have to be mentally strong to maintain anything difficult in life, be it a long awkward pose, to working through life’s struggles.

How do you build good working relationships with other models?

Be a good person yourself, have a strong emotional intelligence, and work on being empathetic. You need to try to meet people where they are. You never know what others are going through. Kindness goes a long way

How do you deal with photographers making inappropriate comments toward you during photoshoots?

I kindly remind them, that I expect to be treated with respect and like a lady.

What was the most difficult photoshoot you have ever done, and how did you handle it?

I think my first one was the most difficult, I was scared to death and felt so inadequate. I was honest with my photographer and asked for help. He was gracious and understanding, and really helped me to loosen up and not take myself so seriously.

Being a reliable model is of utmost importance. How would you describe your work ethic?

I have a very strong work ethic. My mom and dad instilled in me the fact that integrity is of the utmost importance and that being on time, showing respect and gratitude are paramount. I also believe that I work for God and not for man. With this attitude, I feel that I am obligated to show up and do my best in every situation.

How do you handle a situation where a photographer does not properly direct you?

I think you need to come prepared to know your poses, what the shoot is supposed to convey, and do your best. You only have you to blame if a shoot does not go well. Study, know yourself, your strengths, and work to be the best you can be.

What is your greatest weakness, as a model? What are you doing to improve on it?

Lack of experience and confidence. We all doubt ourselves at times, don’t you think? I want to constantly learn and work to become better at every shoot I do. I don’t think we ever “arrive” in life. We should always be on the journey to learn more and strive to do better.

Photo by Dallas Morgan

What sorts of settings/clothes/brands do you prefer to shoot for, or wear?

I like edgy, but classy style. I prefer not to be too revealing as I feel that hints of bare skin are more alluring than revealing the whole package. I think mixing many brands and styles make for a more interesting look. I love outdoor shoots with natural light, beautiful architecture, etc. as they lend for some stunning pictures. However, studio work is really fun as well. You have more control over lighting and effects in the studio so it can be just as stunning.

What motivates you the most in this job?

I am motivated by wanting to represent strong, resilient women to be the best they can be. I want people to see me, my white hair and my curves and know that all kinds of features are beautiful. I want to emanate light and love and inspire others to reach for their goals and I feel that this medium allows me to reach more with this message.

How would your best friends describe you?

Outgoing, funny, fun loving, loyal, faithful, honest, joyful, loving, kind and a great hugger.

Where do you see yourself in ten years from now?

I would love to be modeling internationally, allowing me to include my family in travel and culture. I would love to be helping more people through philanthropy, as well as inspiring them through my work. I would love to be retired from my current full-time work as an Occupational Therapist so I can spend more quality time with my beautiful family. I have 5 children and the best husband that anyone could ever ask for. They are my whole world.

Do you have a website or social media?

www.facebook.com/kristy.gronseth www.instagram.com/KristyGronseth70 www.instagram.com/otkristy70