Why did you want to become a model?
I have always been interested in acting and modeling. For as long as I can remember I have had a desire to perform. As early as 5 years old I performed Beatles songs with my younger brother on the fireplace which doubled as our stage! It is something that I truly believe is in my blood. Modeling is a natural extension to my main focus of acting.
How did you get started in modeling?
I don't remember exactly how I got first started in modeling but I guess I would say it really began officially for me in junior high when I performed in a school play. I had a very small part, but it was enough to get bitten by the bug! I never looked back! Modeling and Singing came shortly after that. I was always looking for opportunities to "perform" and now I look for opportunities of exposure. Modeling helps that. Plus as an actor you are always doing promotion so modeling and being good at it is important.
What are your likes and dislikes about modeling?
I like lots of things about modeling, specifically that unlike film the goal of modeling/photography is to catch one second of life. I like the idea that it is only one moment in time and that you work (sometimes for hours) to create a second! Who knows what happened before or after�and really who cares? It is all for that one moment. I also like the idea of a stylized shoot or extreme shoot using costumes, props, and makeup. I like that in modeling you can really "cheat out" and create an illusion of almost anything.
Who are your influences?
I tend to be influenced by people I consider to be "greats" in their lives or careers. While I am of course inspired by people in film like Steven Spielberg, James Dean, Christian Bale, Nicole Kidman, Alfred Hitchcock, Christopher Nolan, and Jodie Foster. I am also influenced/inspired by musicians like Michael Jackson, the Beatles, George Michael, and Madonna. Additionally people like Martin Luther King Jr., Princess Diana, Abraham Lincoln, and JFK inspire me. I would say Walt Disney is probably one of my tops!
What types of assignments are you attracted most?
I am always attracted to projects that are new and challenging. I am uninterested in repeating myself (or anyone else for that matter). I would say that is the first factor for me. Will I be challenged? Will I be pushed and grow from this? Or then that I am usually attracted to "darker" and dramatic projects. Again, usually because those projects have characters that are rare and challenging.
What was the hardest challenge for you?
Doing it all!
Oh, and being patient! I always want to do more and do it faster and better!
What would bring a smile to your face?
Many things bring a smile to my face. I actually am very easily impressed with life so a lot of things make me happy. An animal, an episode of the Simpsons, a friend's joke, a chat with my mom are all things that tend to bring smiles to my face. I guess it's because I love living and learning. Every day is precious! I try and always remember that!
What projects are you currently working on?
Many of my current projects are listed at my website, on my update page (www.GetPaulHoward.com/blog). Some of the most recent are the Films Another Kind of Valor and Cold Heart Canyon, both of which are available on DVD. Additionally I just shot a fun photo shoot entitled "Allegedly" and was featured on the website Next Hottest Model (http://nextmodelmen.typepad.com/hottestmodel/2008/09/allegedly-with-paul-howard.html)
I'm always working on the next thing and use my website to keep everyone updated!
What's the best advice ever given to you?
To not wait till I'm 40 to be happy and comfortable with who I am. Again, because life is too short not to enjoy it!
What sort of tips or advice would you give somebody who is looking to modeling?
The best advice I can give anyone looking to get into modeling or acting, or really anything in life is to be true to who they are. Never listen to others first, always listen to yourself. 9 times out of 10 you'll be right if you really listen. Be who you are and own it! There is only one of you, and that makes you the best and truly special�never forget that!
Thank you . We've enjoyed talking to you.
Thank you so much! I appreciate your time and all the support on your website!