Mitzi Venus for as long as I can remember. Hmmmm since 2019 has shared with me the idea of creating videos together, making a youtube channel due to our outrages antics and ideas. We had the skits, the ideas, characters, and jokes to do something, but while I didn't take the step the create that didn't stop Mitzi. Mitzi had the dream to be a "star" to be "seen" to be an actress. Years later coming being in works directed by Joshua Kennedy and various short films! Hell we went to the premiere of The Innsmouth School for Girls that released earlier this year!
Speaking on her acting endevours she collaborates with various photographers along with her partner Fidel @goldtriggerphotography whose chemistry as photographer and muse bring forward creativity, ideas, and the duo that they are in their work. Moving forward with the recent abstract and artistic sets Mitzi has released she has really grown as an individual and an artist.
We have seen each other grown and pushed each other within our endevours. Here's to my special friend, Mitzi Venus @mitzi.venues
Speaking to Mitzi we begin conversation by asking what she has been enjoying as of recently? "Recently I’ve been having a grand time watching some classic cinema with my partner. I’ve been interested in directors shooting styles and wardrobe/costumes. Currently, I've been enjoying my time with my partner and focusing on other artistic outlets & myself." There's a couple things in theaters that I want to go watch, but I haven't gone out to do that. I want to watch The Holdovers, Dream Scenerio, Godzilla, and some other things in my personal collection. I did watch Gremlins this past Monday for the first time. We continue by asking Mitzi if she has any shoutouts they'd like to give out "Fidel Reyes for always supporting me. You are my rock <insert heart emoji> My parents and friends who are always sending me acting/modeling opportunities, ideas, and tips. A huge thank you to all the photographers and film directors who worked and believed in me. It means so much to me. Of course, the universe always blesses me, sending opportunities and divinely protecting me."
We begin the interview by asking Mitzi, as an artist you dabble in modeling and acting. How would you explain the art within these mediums? "Free and expressive. I enjoy performing whether it's for a photographer, my phone, or on film. I love
being able to express myself. Especially when I do a good job. As a model and actress, it feels amazing to bring someone's vision to life. That’s literally what I aim for in all my projects. I strive to be the best in all I do, and I always look for ways to improve my craft." I remember being at your movie premiere and seeing the look on your face. I remember seeing your name on the poster and the credit scene. Seeing YOU on the screen and YOU two seats away! Being a part of a project and as you mention being in "someones vision" must be pretty cool. With the experience under your belt and projects associated with your name there's more to come y'know.
With your history with modeling and acting, what would you say pushed you to pursue these endeavours? "I believe I am one of the few people who came into this earth knowing exactly what they want in life. From a very young age I was attracted to the theater. I love acting, getting into characters, rehearsals, makeup and costumes. It's all rather exciting, I got the same thrill when I started to model back in 2019. Being in front of the camera gives me the same excitement, I didn’t think about pursuing either profession only because it was beaten into my mind that I needed to get a real job and start thinking/working like everyone else. It wasn’t until my therapist told me that I should follow my dreams. She really opened my eyes and probably was the first person who encouraged me. Going to therapy
helped me so much with a new mindset and helped get my life on track. 10/10 Highly recommend." How very interesting. I am glad we are both doing what we longed for. You in front of the camera and me behind the camera? computer? Using a character/cartoon logo personification lmao to do what I longed for after graduation. While Mitzi's therapist pushed her, it was my college graduation conselour that encouraged me to do continue what I was doing in radio at school, but now in post-graduation. We've seen each other grow since 2019 and it's been great! The idea of needing a "real" job what constitutes a job being "real." Bro is literally getting PAID to be in shorts, movies, and photoshoots!
How have you seen yourself grow? What stands out to you about yourself when it comes to acting or modeling? "I’ll be raw, I’m very tough on myself and my work. I always feel that I can do better. I guess most artists feel this about their own work. For modeling, when I look back on old photos, I think about how far my
confidence has come. I guess the same can go for acting as well. Confidence is key. If you believe in yourself then you’re literally unstoppable. I’m a very optimistic and determined person. In this industry you need to breathe and sweat it! Its not always easy to have that constant mindset but I’m thankful to have a partner who believes and pushes me to be the best." The difference is very noticiable especially in the addition of more "artistic" and "abstract" projects Mitzi is involved in as she experiments with her photoshoots and ideas brought forward by those she works with. She's continuing, from the valley to ATX. I wonder where she'll go next or what she'll be in next as well.
When it comes to modeling, how do you let yourself give what the camera wants per say? Let yourself be the piece to the theme, the shoot, the moment? Would you say that it comes naturally to you? "Well, when I work with a photographer, it's because I love the concept they have in mind for the project. When we have a concept down, I try to ask questions on what exactly they are aiming for. What
emotion do they want me to display? Are there certain poses they absolutely want? When a photographer knows exactly what they want to the very last detail, it helps me as a model to start planning poses and emotions. I get into character as well. I make sure to always communicate with the person I’m working with. Especially when they like a certain pose. I always tell them 'Anything to get the
shot' whether it's me staying still in a difficult pose or having to re do poses." I wonder how Mitzi trains outside of photoshoots? Any research via magazines or other models? Then again her experience with events such as Let's Stay Creative, friends, her own ideas and years of work continues and prospers.
Being the duo of model and photographer with your partner Fidel. How do you both work together? Do you plan projects together, do you brainstorm together? I'm curious about the dynamic duo process working together. The artist and the muse. "We do plan projects together, especially when we get influenced by a film! We try to do projects based on mutual interest or if one of us wants to experiment with an idea. We both have our own mood/idea boards on Pinterest. Honestly though the shoots that I love and what I believe to be the best ones are
the unplanned shoots. Those are the ones that get the best response from our friends, family and supporters. I’m very lucky to not only have great chemistry with Fidel but work ethic and creativity. We really work off each other." Fidel does fantastic work as you can read more about himself and his work on this blog post.
I tend to call them the "duo" since they're together and they certainly have great chemistry working together. It's fitting. They certainly the artist and the muse. I really enjoy the photos Fidel took when they went to Chicago!
How is it working with other photographers and directors for the movies you've been a part of? Is there anything you take away from these moments?
"I absolutely love it. I enjoy learning why this person pursued/or interested in photography or film directing. Getting to know them as a person and what their creative process is. I enjoy working with new people, but I love working with people who I’ve worked with in the past. Already knowing what the person is looking for and having that flow during the shoot is the best thing ever. I’m blessed to have an
overall great experience so far with film/acting/ model/photographer projects. Its always a great time when I meet other actors and models. I really love to network and connect with people. It’s so much fun!"
Out of curiosity. How did you become part of the f10 casting agency? What does the f10 casting agency entail? "Back in 2021 I saw an ad on Facebook and Instagram. A model call was being held at a vintage clothing store named 'Back Door Modern Vintage'. I met Fish Fiorucci (Navarro) @fishnavarro for the first time. They introduced me to their friends/crew, explained to me their vision for F10 and its mission, then took my photos. It was a fun experience, especially since it was my first model call for an agency, boy was I nervous haha. I’m very happy to be a part of F10. I don’t know what's in store for me and others F10 members, but it feels good to know I’m part of a community that’s based in the RGV and its run by someone who knows and has experience in the modeling industry." I ask because I remember seeing a post on the F10 @f10casting page and scrolling through the images and seeing a picture of YOU! I was so thrown off and filled with JOY that I sent you the post asking "bro is this YOU?" haha. It was just so unexpected, but again congrats! I'm curious to see where F10 casting agency leads you.
From their website
F10 CASTING AND MANAGEMENT is an agency based in BROWNSVILLE, TEXAS, founded in 2021 by FISH "FIORUCCI" NAVARRO, a non-binary model and casting director. the agency champions diversity, prioritizing latino and POC faces, as well as nonbinary, gender-nonconforming, and transgender talent.
F10 stands out as a unique and innovative modeling agency that is revolutionizing the fashion landscape in SOUTH TEXAS. the agency is firmly committed to sharing valuable casting and industry insight with marginalized talent across the world.
What is it about acting and modeling that you enjoy the most? Is there any significant part that brings you the most joy? "Performing. I love the thrill of being in front of an audience or camera. Being able to bring life to someone's vision is so much fun for me. I also love dressing up! It is so much fun when there’s a theme
to a shoot/film. I recently did a photoshoot and the theme was grapes. I had a grand time having grapes draped over my shoulders and posing with them. I was able to eat some too after we finished the shoot. Another thing that I love too is seeing the final product. Seeing the film or photos brings so many emotions to me. I take pride in all that I do." Seeing the final product, yes as I mentioned we watched your movie premiere. That was super cool especially hearing everyones reactions, their outfits with pieces of clothing inspired by the movie as well (the fish bone earrings). The clapping the cheering every time someone came up on screen was heartwarming. I can understand how the payoff may feel. You ate the grapes? I always wonder if the props are real or fake, but at least the grapes were real.
Do you have any advice you'd like to give to those involved or wanting to involve themselves in modeling or acting?
"I’m going to be raw. Just like every other job it's very competitive. If this is something you want to pursue then please do your research. Know exactly what type of actor/model you want to be. Don’t wait around, find your own opportunities, they are everywhere! Social media is a great way to find castings, sometimes you’re going to have to subscribe to websites to find castings. Take a risk. I recently moved to Austin for opportunities. I’m glad that I did. We’re born with one set of fingerprints. Don’t ever forget that. One set of fingerprints. That’s all you get." It's how they say or maybe not, but we have to do what we can with the life currently given, there is no other chance. Take the risk.
When someone pitches a photoshoot what calls your attention? What pulls you in? "It needs to be creative and unique. I’m so done with the whole 'fashion' modeling. I want to do weird artistic work and to create art in all sorts of ways. I did a photoshoot just the other day with a photographer who shoots with an Infared camera! It was so cool to see how the photos came out. My skin, the trees, the sky and other things were a different color. I’m a creative and open-minded person.
It’s just neat to work with other creatives. Seeing things from a new perspective is fun. Honestly, I want to feel inspired by the person I work with. When they have passion for their work it ignites a fire in me as a model and actress." A shoot with an infared camera? That is pretty cool. There is always room for experimention and doing something new past what was done before and that is growth. To know what you want and not settle for less what you're striving for because then that would be a waste of time would it not?
What photoshoot projects would you say shifted your aim for more abstract and art like photoshoots? Honestly it wasn’t a shoot that made me want to do more art like photoshoots. I’m always looking for ideas on the internet. Pinterest does a hell of a job for inspiration and moods. It’s so awesome to see outrageously amazing editorial photos. I save photos on an album for shoots that I want to do. Actually
this year I was able to do a few from the album, I’m so happy about that!
Any final comments you'd like to make? To new models please do your research on the people you work with. Ask around, see who they tag on photos and reach out. Please always take a friend or family member to your shoots, if you must go alone
then share your location and have someone check up on you. Set boundaries, you’re a model, not a casual friend. To Actors join Facebook groups to look for casting calls and auditions. Network with other actors. Sit
down and think what type of actor you want to be and what type of films you want to participate in. Invest in yourself, buy that acting book, get great headshots, purchase that membership on www.backstage.com. Also if you get an agent remember you don’t pay them upfront. That’s a scam. A real agent gets a percentage of your earnings depending on your contract with them." I would recommend not taking this advice/information lightly. The amount of times that Mitzi has shared advice to models due to certain situtations happens more often than not. It's crazy, its ridiculous. From artist to artist, model to model, actress to actress/actor the danger is there, but together you can keep each other safe as well!
Since your departure of the RGV, any final words to those back home?
"Mom and Dad, thank you for your support and encouraging words. I’m very grateful to have y’all as parents and I love you very much. Thank you for everything! To my sisters I love and miss you both very much! Thanks for letting me spam you with tiktoks. Aimee, Ram, Mando, the homies. I love you all very much! I’m very blessed to have such great friends. Thanks for the support you’ve given me. I look forward to seeing you all and giving y’all your presents! You better like them >:^(.
Hilda, Elena, Mariah, Cassie, Stephanie, Valerie, Dannie, Cassidy, Jammy and Clarissa. Thank you, girls, for being such amazing women. Your love, positive vibes and support means so much to me, I cherish the moments we had together. I look forward to seeing y’all again soon! Finally to my sweet Fifi (my family dog). I miss you my sweet Fifi. You’re never far from my mind when I help photograph senior dogs. I love you a tons and miss you very much. Baby Addison, give my Fifi some
good company while I’m away!"
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