Interview with Stephen Mackintosh

Stephen Mackintosh

Meet The Wolverhampton Model and Support Artist

As a seasoned model , I’ve had the privilege of experiencing decades of iconic style and cultural evolution. Growing up in the 1970s, I witnessed the hippy movement —a time of expressive fashion, from mini skirts to flared trousers. Inspired by that vibrant era, I proudly rocked highlighted, long, shaggy permed hair, bright-coloured tops, Oxford bags, and, of course, the quintessential moustache.

I am an experienced Support Artist, I have worked on the crime/thriller under salt marsh & Casualty, Silent Witness , feature film "The day the Moon Fell" plus others

**Personal & Career Journey**

Can you tell us a little about yourself and how you started your modeling career?

My name is Stephen Mackintosh, aged 62 from the Uk, I have been modelling for 4 years. I started modelling following:

■A serious health scare, 5 years ago, on my recovery I was chosen for promotional shoots for NHS volunteering and for a Karate club.

■I have also developed a TV/Film Support Artist career and currently rehearsing for a commercial for a restaurant chain.

■Credits – TV/Film – Casualty, Silent Witness, Industry, Under Salt Marsh, Crimewatch and others…

What inspired you to become a model?

Following positive/complementary feedback from my first ever promotional shoots for the NHS and the Karate club.

Was there a defining moment that made you realize modelling was your true passion?

Being invited to a modelling shoot from a successful casting opportunity for the first time against other models and being approached by the Aesthetic magazine for an exclusive interview , which was published and increased my profile and opportunities.

**Industry Experience & Challenges**

What has been the most exciting or memorable shoot you’ve worked on?

There are two memorable shoots I have worked on :

■Working with the well know model and photographer JeffMaranodaylightfilm – B/W photo shoot which enhanced my reputation within the industry

■Working with a new up and coming photographer – Melissa Weir, fantastic shoot , so professional and excellent photos (published). We also did a behind the scenes video of the shoot.

Have you faced any challenges in the modelling industry? If so, how did you overcome them?

■Yes, being rejected and not taking it personally was difficult to accept, however, the industry is competitive , and as a model you must accept you don’t always satisfy the client’s vision.

■I have decided to focus on the mature model opportunities.

How do you prepare for a big shoot or runway show?

■Reflection – What is the brief ? what are we promoting ? and getting into character, from serious to light-hearted , I use music during the process of preparation, for the right mood.

■Read and understand the brief and prepare in front of a mirror or using my phone on a tripod and play back.

■Use learning from previous shoots – what went well and what can be improved.

**Creative Process & Style**

How would you describe your modelling style?

■ My modelling style is relaxed, calm and fun, as I was born in 1963, during 70/80/90’s I had the privilege of decades of iconic style and culture evolution, fashion to me has always been about bringing “vision to life”, this phase resonates deeply with me.

■ Focus – On what is expected and deliver to the best of my ability.

Do you prefer editorial, commercial, or runway modelling, and why?

I prefer commercial and editorial modelling, due to my flexibility restrictions caused by a left knee replacement some 6 years ago, impaired mobility – walking (limp), turning and kneeling.

What role do you think storytelling plays in modelling?

■ I believe that the wearer of the clothes is the Storyteller in the fashion industry, draws out reactions and communicates directly with the audience.

■ Fashion - years ago, the aim was to look good, however the modern era it is about themselves, telling a story and sending out a message.

**Influences & Inspirations**

Are there any models, photographers, or designers who have inspired you?

Showing my age:

■Models - Lesley Lawson (Twiggy), Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell ….

■Photographers - Followed David Baily , lord Snowdon and recently Georges Antoni and Jeff Marano.

■Fashion - Love Vivienne Westwood. Giorgio Armani.

**Future Goals & Advice**

What are your biggest career goals for the future?

To appear on a billboard or on significant social media campaign to promote age and wellbeing – promoting “no barriers”. Although, I prefer commercial and editorial modelling due to my flexibility, to be accepted to take part in a runway assignment would be a massive honour.

Do you have any dream collaborations or brands you'd love to work with?

■ To be the face of promoting volunteering would be an honour, which is very close to my heart, without the medical care given to me , the future could have been so different.

■ I would love to work with NIKE and the NEXT chain, that would be fantastic and would cap my ambitions and make my dream come true.

What advice would you give to aspiring models looking to break into the industry?

■ Why? Are you serious? It is time consuming, and you will receive rejection. However,

◎ Being a model is glamorous together with

 The prestige associated with a successful modelling career

■ I would confirm/set realistic expectations

◎ Hard work and dedication to succeed

◎ The importance of self-awareness and market research in modelling.

■ The modelling industry is a very competitive field requiring toughness to make it.

Spare time and hobbies

■ In my spare time I play the drums, sketch and volunteer at the local hospital as a clinical volunteer.

■ I am a Sensei at 3 DAN grade in Shotokan Karate; I instruct students from beginners to black belt at all ages.

■ Sensei Stephen, a sketch, volunteering and drumming.

How do you stay motivated and continue growing as a model?

I love the interaction, meeting new people and I want to promote age is no barrier – if you want to do something – go for it – have no regrets. My ambition is to appear on a billboard promoting age and wellbeing – no obstacle.