In Front of the Lens: Getting to know Liz
It’s always so fun meeting people in real life after you’ve been friends on social media. I’m not sure how long Liz and I have been friends online, but one of things I found notable about her is that she had such a positive and supportive energy. When we met in person, I instantly knew that she was exactly who she was online. Real, honest, warm, and so supportive. Her true self.
I was lucky enough to work with Liz twice last year - The first time was at my fall mini sessions in Saskatoon, and the second time in Regina at my portrait sessions. During our shoots, I would learn little snippets about her dance and modelling background and I was curious to learn more, and I’m so glad she agreed to be featured today! She has a very inspiring story, and I hope you enjoy learning about Liz as much as I did. Send her some love in the comments below, and be sure to follow her journey on instagram @littlebitzduarte.
Q1 - Tell me about yourself!
I was born in Calgary AB, lived in Cranbrook BC for several years before I settled in Regina SK. I was raised by a single Mom who worked several jobs to raise her 3 children. That’s where I get my work ethic from, I’ve worked more than one job for nearly 30 years. I currently live with my husband Brent and two furry critters Jaxon and Crosby. My day job is with the Provincial Government in their IT Branch, I’ve worked in Government for over 23 years. I feed into my creative side and actively work as a model/actor with Edge Agency. Fun fact * I have worked with Edge Agency for over 23 years too!! I’m what they call a “Lifer”. I love to travel, try new food and obsessed with Saskatchewan sunsets.
Q2- What does a day in life look like for you?
I’m a night owl and run on little sleep. I work full time so when I come home I like to cook fresh ingredients (so you’ll see me at the grocery store a lot). I try to make it to the gym at least 3 times a week for Zumba and strength training. I love listening to TedTalk and GoalCast for inspiration on the daily. I’m a homebody, in the summer you’ll find me outside in the garden, on the deck reading a good book or walking the dogs.
Q3- What is one thing that most people don't know about you?
I started ballet at age 30 at Youth Ballet of Saskatchewan. I took intense summer sessions at the U of R and was in pointe within a year. I studied flamenco, belly dance and hip hop! I started singing competitive barbershop just to add to my busy schedule. Three years later a thyroid tumor and illness put a stop to my singing and dancing, radiation treatment caused right vocal cord paralysis. This is why I have such a soft, at times raspy, hypnotic voice with no highs or lows. I still dance at Zumba and sing in the car. Haha
Q4- If you could fix one thing in the world what would it be?
To end abuse, physical, mental, sexual, verbal etc. Every human and animal deserves to feel safe.
Q5- Would you be willing to share a couple of your goals for 2020?
Continue to pave the way for diversity and inclusion in the model industry. I’m a visible minority, I’m shorter, curvier and older than the typical industry standards. You don’t typically see the everyday woman model clothing, jewelry, bathing suits, makeup, shooting editorials or walk the runway but give me the opportunity, I won’t let you down! I love representing a different version of model, I feel it creates a more relatable experience for the average woman. Times are changing, I’m happy to be a part of that change. I’m turning 50 this year, I’m proud of my age, how I take care of myself mentally and physically. I’ve worked hard to build relationships and a professional reputation. This mind set and the support of my amazing agency Edge Agency will take me to Vancouver in 2020 to Faces West International to compete and hopefully catch the eyes of agencies that share the same vision and passion.
Q6- What inspired you to book a photoshoot, and what do you plan to use the photos for?
I was inspired to book a photoshoot with Nicole because she has a strong fashion style, clean esthetic and she’s cool as heck! I love to model fashion and knew she was a perfect fit to capture those images. These photos were sent to my agent to for my portfolio and shared on my social media. I feel these images have helped me book work and show my diversity as a model. It’s important to stay current with your portfolio and keep the images true to how you look.
Q7- What is your favourite photo, and why?
This is my favorite photo because it shows off my JLo-like ankles! LOL
Nicole has photographed me on two occasions, both very different settings. It was very hard to pick just one photo. I knew I wanted to show more of a lifestyle look. Anyone that knows me knows I’m a smiling machine, I love how genuine and authentic this image feels. Do you know how many times I could have sold this sweater from this photo?! That’s exactly what I wanted, to show how great clothing can look on a different type of model. I love the movement and clean, professional look. My agent says it shows my inner spirit. I’m so happy Nicole captured that moment.
Makeup by Sara Lindsay + hair styling by Tyler Caragata
Q8- Where can people follow you, and get in touch?
My Instagram @littlebitzduarte
All inquiries and bookings go through my agency Edge Agency in Regina Saskatchewan.
Website: www.edgeagency.com
Instagram: @edge_agency
Anything else you'd like to share?
Dream big and ignore the naysayers.