Eliana at CMTC
This year, I had the opportunity to sponsor Eliana at CMTC Toronto. From the start, it was clear she had something special. Her mother reached out to me through word of mouth, looking for sponsors, and after hearing about Eliana’s potential, I agreed to help out. It was the best decision I could have made.
When working with aspiring models, you never know exactly what to expect. Some take time to grow into their confidence, while others seem to have an innate understanding of their presence in front of the camera. Eliana, without a doubt, fell into the latter category.
Natural Ability Behind the Lens
The moment she stepped in front of the camera, it was obvious she had the drive and the natural ability to make an impact in modeling. Even with limited experience, she had a solid grasp of how to work with the camera. As a result, she adapted quickly to every shot. After a quick rundown on lighting, she nailed every shot. There was no wasted time, no second-guessing—she just performed. Every session felt smooth, efficient, and professional.
Expanding the Portfolio with On-Location Shoots
To build a strong portfolio, I wanted to get more variety. Therefore, we hit downtown for a location shoot. Once again, she delivered. Her poses were sharp, confident, and well-practiced. She barely needed direction. Moreover, she seemed to instinctively understand how to adjust to different backdrops and lighting conditions. That kind of instinct is not something you can teach; it is something you have.
Shooting in a studio provides control, but working in real-world environments adds a new challenge. However, Eliana was completely unfazed. Whether it was dealing with shifting natural light or making sure her expressions matched the mood of the location, she handled it all with ease.
The Essential Shots for CMTC
I shot a headshot, a cover shot, a commercial print, and extras for the Go-See. Each image was carefully paired for her portfolio book. In addition, I will be putting together comp cards for her soon. These essential shots will help her make a strong impression at CMTC.
A strong portfolio is crucial for any model attending CMTC. It needs to showcase versatility, professionalism, and a presence that stands out in a competitive industry. By selecting the right images and making sure every shot told a story, we created a portfolio that will give her a strong edge in Toronto.
Looking Ahead to CMTC
Eliana has serious potential, and I have no doubt she will make an impression at CMTC. She has the talent, the presence, and the work ethic to stand out. This is just the beginning for her. Furthermore, I am excited to see where she takes it. Best of luck, Eliana! You are going to do great things.
With CMTC just around the corner, I am confident that this experience will open doors for her. She has everything it takes to succeed in this industry, and I am proud to have played a small role in her journey.
A Sweet Surprise
One of the unexpected highlights? The apple crumble she and her mother made for Kim and me. I wanted to snap a picture, but we tore through it before I even had the chance. It was that good.
Beyond the photoshoots and preparations, this small gesture of kindness really stood out. It reminded me that while talent is essential, character and the relationships you build in this industry matter just as much. Eliana and her mother have been an absolute pleasure to work with, and I look forward to seeing where this journey takes her.