Elizabeth Riti

Modeling in New York City with NEXT Modeling Agency

Dumb models, scammers and body issues: Elizabeth Riti, senior, is no stranger to the stereotypes of the modeling industry. After all, she’s been posing for photoshoots and walking runways for the past five years. While some horror stories in the modeling industry have truth behind them, Riti said overall the creative industry is inspiring and a place to grow. 

“Everyone knows about the scandals that can happen in the industry with scam agencies, people critiquing your body, creepy photographers and food issues,” Elizabeth said. “A lot of people fail to realize there’s more to the industry than that. All these people, who are so passionate, have to work together to create something special and [I get to be] in on it.”

Barb Riti, Elizabeth’s mother, shared the same concerns most people have about the industry. She said she decided to give it a shot after meeting with Elizabeth’s agency, Mother Model, and some friends who first recommended Elizabeth try modeling. 

“[Our experiences with modeling] changed our perspective,” Barb said. “I admire seeing people who have stepped up and taken a risk [in a creative industry] and how that world works.”

Barb said having a space to experiment and follow her passion has helped Elizabeth grow as a person. Hanna Johannsdottir, who has modeled with Elizabeth for five years, said she’s always been an outgoing and positive person but has seen similar changes in Riti’s confidence throughout the years. 

“Whenever I first met her, her hair was always straight and she was always wearing makeup,” Johannsdottir said. “Now she wears her hair naturally and rarely wears makeup. She’s more confident and sure of herself.”

Elizabeth said she wanted to be a teacher growing up and never intended to model. However, she said modeling is the first career option she’s truly passionate about. After graduation, Elizabeth will pack her bags for New York to continue modeling instead of going to college.

“The more I modeled, the older I got and the more people I met, the more I fell in love with it,” Elizabeth said. “I don’t think this is something I can do for the rest of my life, but I know if I go to college and skip this opportunity I’ll always regret it. College will always be there later, but this chance won’t.”