We bring you another great interview. This time we feature Colby Melvin who has been modeling for a few companies over the years. Its amazing to see how his career has progressed over the years. Read the interview and find out more about him and what he’s doing behind the camera now!
What was your first modeling job and how did you come to get it?
It was for Bayou Beau Underwear in Houston, TX. I had just recently come out and they came to me at a pool party and asked if I would consider modeling for them. A few weeks later a was on the cover of the local magazine in their underwear. It all took of from there! That was back in 2011.
What made you want to pursue modeling?
Well I never considered it before Bayou Beau approached me. After, I just kept getting more requests for work. I was trying to figure out what I wanted to do next so it started as just a temporary side job and turned into something bigger than I could have ever imagined.
Do you have a shoot that you consider your breakthrough in your career?
My shoot with Patrik Mark for Cover Male was my first national campaign, but once I shot “Jockstrap Cowboys” for Andrew Christian things really took off. That’s when I moved to Los Angeles.
Which shoot has been your favorite? Why?
Splatter shot by Gabriel Gastellum. There was just something about getting messy in that paint where I felt like I was able to bring so much more energy and personality.
Which shoot has been your most challenging? Why?
A shoot I did in the Palm Springs desert for Freedom Reigns. I was wearing a jockstrap and there was a lot of wind. Every had your ass sandblasted? It’s not fun. Trust me, don’t try it.
Are there any brands or photographers you would like to work with that you have not worked with yet?
I think I’ve worked with a ton of brands and photographers, but I am always looking for more collaborations. Recently I have decided to work more behind the camera. I am now working with Marco Marco as the marketing director. His underwear are so fun and full of personality and I can’t wait to bring my creative ideas to my mentors brand. I think people are going to be blown away when they see what we come up with.
What is something our readers don’t know about you outside of modeling that you want them to know?
I never expected any of this to happen. 5 years ago I was living in Mobile AL and still thought I liked girls. Once I allowed myself to be myself, all of this happened. So I encourage everyone to never be afraid to be yourself.
What kind of diet and exercise do you do to prepare for shoots?
For me the key to staying fit includes finding a way to make exercise fun. For instance, I literally dance around ALL day lol. Obviously working out is involved, but I’m not as strict with my routine as I’d like to be. Travelling non stop makes it pretty difficult.
Favorite cheat meal?
I love pizza…and gummy bears, cinnamon rolls, chicken wings, and thanks now I’m hungry.
Were you a fan of underwear before modeling?
Ever since I came out I’ve had a thing for underwear.
Looking at your underwear drawer, what is it made up of?
70% briefs 30% jocks 0% thongs (I hate the feeling of my hole being flossed by a thong)
The craziest pair of underwear you have ever worn?
Petit Q (I don’t even know how to describe it.)
What are your goals for your career?
Underwear modeling for me has always been a platform to bigger and better job opportunities. Luckily that time has come. I am doing a lot more marketing work. Launched a clothing line earlier this year, and will soon be launching another one on my own.
What is the best advice anyone gave you when you started your modeling career?
Authenticity always wins. Be you and the rest will follow. If not, then it wasn’t meant to happen. That being said, if you want something bad enough, you will find a way to make it happen.
Thanks Colby for answering our questions. Find Colby on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
