M1: You’ve been with Models1 for some time now and in the past year, you’ve been on an incredible high. What, if any, were your expectations before becoming a model?

EM: I didn’t really have too many expectations. I was at University at the time and I thought that I could perhaps just earn a bit of money while I studied – I never dreamed that I would become a model full time and travel the world.

 

M1: Growing up, what did you aspire to be and what do you see yourself doing in the future beyond modelling?

EM: Growing up all I did was play golf, so I aspired to be a professional golfer when I was young. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve been drawn more towards wildlife conservation and would love to pursue that more in the future.

 

M1: What would you say are the pros and cons of modelling?

EM: Travelling for me has to be the best thing about modelling. All of the new sights are what I always look forward to. The worst thing for me is the lack of routine; for example, one week you might be working everyday, and the next week you won’t be working at all. That’s just how the industry is but it makes me appreciative for everything I’ve done so far.

 

 

M1: Who have been some of your favourite people to work with?

EM: Craig McDean’s team were so easy to work with when I shot the Vogue Hommes cover and I also had a great experience working with the team at Balmain Hair. I also love working with the team at Moss Bros. and Tommy Hilfiger.

 

M1: Who in fashion would you love to work with?

EM: Donatella Versace.

 

M1: Do you ever have people criticise what you do as a model? If so, how do you handle it?

EM: Criticism is normal in every industry. I always listen to what my bookers and clients have to say and do my best to reflect on advice given to me  – within reason of course.

 

M1: What, if anything, has modelling taught you?

EM: Maybe not so much of a lesson but it’s made me mature a lot. Having to travel around the world on my own and live and take care of myself has made me grow up and be more organised.

 

 

 

 

 

M1: What have been some of your career highlights so far? 

EM: I’ve got a few career highlights! Shooting with Mario Testino in 2017 was a great experience, and also walking for Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana during my first ever show season in Milan. Obviously my ultimate highlight was shooting the Vogue Hommes cover, which was just a dream come true. I still have to pinch myself every time I look at it.

 

M1:  Is there a male model that you look up to or whose career you admire?

EM: In terms of my generation, I love what Trevor Signorino has achieved in a relatively short space of time. I also admire David Gandy immensely.

 

M1: You’re always back and forth between London and Milan. How has the experience been for you socially and as a model in Milan?

EM: Milan is great because it’s a small city so it’s easy to get around. I’ve modelled for some nice brands there, including Giorgio Armani and Dolce & Gabbana, so my modelling experience is one of pride. I have a lot of close friends who live in Milan and they are always inviting me to dinners and parties which is nice. Travelling for work can be isolating but Milan feels like a second home to me now.

 

M1: What are some other countries/places that you hope your modelling career takes you?

EM: I would love to shoot a swimwear campaign on one of the Greek islands or in the Caribbean.

 

M1: Outside of modelling, what are some of your hobbies/passions?

EM: I love playing golf and football with my friends, and I also train at the gym pretty much every day. Health in general is a big focus of mine so I’m into reading books about good-living and wellness.

 

M1: What are some values/lessons you’ve learned growing up that you think help you as a model?

EM: I was always taught to be polite and have good manners, which is a good thing in this industry because it’s important to make a good first impression.

 

M1: Do you ever find yourself needing a boost in motivation?

EM: I take my work very seriously and I’m always very motivated to stay in shape and keep pushing to make my career as prosperous as possible.

 

M1: A model’s life often means spending a great deal of time away from family, how do stay connected with yours?

EM: When I’m away from home I call my mum every single day to tell her I’m okay and to ask how her and the rest of the family are doing.

 

You can find Elliot’s portfolio HERE and be sure to follow him on Instagram @ElliotMeeten