AMY TAYLOR
What first sparked your interest in your creative field?
I’ve always been drawn to storytelling—whether through fashion, photography, or simply how we carry ourselves in the world. As a young girl, I was fascinated by the way style and presence could communicate confidence, rebellion, elegance, or even defiance without a single word. But I didn’t take a direct path into modeling. School and other jobs led me through different industries, breaking barriers in spaces where I wasn’t always expected. When I first stepped in front of the camera, I realized modeling wasn’t just about looking a certain way—it was about embodying something real, something lived-in. At 48, I bring the depth of experience, resilience, and self-assurance that only time can provide. I love that the industry is evolving, making space for women like me to redefine what beauty and presence mean. That’s what keeps me inspired—showing that confidence and expression don’t have an expiration date.
What has been the most challenging project or situation in your career, and how did you handle it?
One of the most challenging situations in my career has been continuing to succeed in the modeling industry at an age when most people assume the door has already closed, with the internet having become a cesspool of foul manners in the last decade. The industry is evolving, but there’s still a deep-rooted bias that beauty and relevance have an expiration date. Social media is toxic, even as I remain happy and booked the public can be really awful. I face skepticism—some sexists and ageists aren’t sure how to place me, as if confidence, style, and presence somehow fade with time and as if women should be quiet and content to be treated foully by others. I handle it by refusing to shrink myself to fit outdated expectations. I seek out photographers, designers, and brands that value authenticity over age, and I make sure that every project I take on reinforces the message that beauty is about presence, not a number. It isn’t always easy—there are moments of doubt, I have stopped reading or responding to almost all social media comments and messages (I let my staff do it now, to save me stress), and I have to remind myself why I do this. But standing in front of the camera as my full, unapologetic self and seeing that resonate with others makes every challenge worth it.
How do you relax and unwind from the pressures of your work?
For me, relaxation is about reconnecting with myself and stepping away from the constant expectations of how I should look or present myself. Flying has always been a passion of mine, so whenever I can, I take to the skies—it’s the ultimate escape, a space where I feel completely free. There’s something about being up there, away from everything, that puts life into perspective. On the ground, I turn to mindfulness and movement—whether it’s a quiet moment with a book, a long walk, or simply listening to music that feeds my soul. I’ve also learned the importance of surrounding myself with people who truly see me beyond the industry. Real conversations, laughter, and moments of genuine connection are the best antidote to the pressures of this work.
How has your creative process evolved throughout your career?
My creative process has evolved alongside my sense of self. When I first started, I was focused on fitting into the industry’s expectations—learning the right angles, understanding the trends, and adapting to what was being asked of me. But over time, I realized that the most powerful thing I could bring to any shoot wasn’t just technique—it was authenticity. Now, my approach is much more intuitive. I collaborate more, I speak up about the kinds of stories I want to tell through my work, and I lean into the depth that comes with experience. I no longer see modeling as just embodying an image—it’s about bringing emotion, confidence, and life into each frame. That shift has made my work more fulfilling and, I think, more compelling.
As a child, what did you aspire to become, and how does it compare to where you are now?
As a child, I was endlessly curious and drawn to anything that felt exploratory and challenging. I wanted to be a pilot, a scientist—someone who pushed boundaries and saw the world from a different perspective. In a way, I’ve done exactly that, just not in the way I first imagined. I worked as a scientist between undergraduate and graduate school. Box checked! Flying is still a part of my life, but modeling became another way for me to challenge expectations and redefine what’s possible. Like scientific experimentation and aviation it also requires confidence, adaptability, and a willingness to step outside of comfort zones. As a model at 48, I’m still breaking barriers, proving that beauty and presence aren’t tied to age. So while I may not have predicted this path, in many ways, I’ve stayed true to that childhood dream of living with curiosity and challenging my body and mind.
Which project in your career do you feel has had the most impact, and why?
One of the most impactful projects in my career wasn’t just about glamour—it was about shifting perceptions. I was on the cover of Playboy (it’s not nude anymore, relax folks!) at age 44, not as an exception or a niche, but as a powerful and relevant force in the industry. Seeing images of my mature self wirh sensual appeal, lived experience, and undeniable presence being embraced for my womanhood rather than erased for not being a “girl,” ick, was incredibly meaningful. The response was overwhelming. Women reached out saying they finally saw themselves represented in a way that felt aspirational yet real. It reinforced why I do this—to challenge outdated narratives and prove that confidence, style, beauty and yes even sex appeal don’t have an expiration date. That project wasn’t just about me; it was about all of us who refuse to be told we’re “too late” for anything.
How does your cultural background influence your personal and professional life?
My cultural background has given me a deep appreciation for resilience, individuality, and breaking barriers—values that have shaped both my personal and professional life. I come from a lineage of strong, determined people who didn’t wait for permission to pursue their dreams, and that mindset has fueled my own journey. In my career, it’s influenced the way I approach modeling. I see it as more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to challenge outdated narratives and represent a broader spectrum of beauty, confidence, and presence. Personally, it’s kept me grounded. No matter where this industry takes me, I stay connected to my roots, carrying forward the lessons of strength, adaptability, and the importance of forging my own path.
Can you describe a milestone in your career that was particularly meaningful to you?
One of the most meaningful milestones in my career was booking my largest major covers as a model over 40. It wasn’t just about landing more success and bigger jobs at an age I’d been told my career would end, it was about what they represented. The fashion and beauty industries have long sent the message that a woman’s relevance has a shelf life, and standing in front of the camera at 48, owning my presence, felt like a direct challenge to that outdated mindset. These moments have affirmed that I’m not just carving out space for myself—I’m part of a larger shift toward inclusivity and representation. Seeing the responses from women who feel seen and inspired by my campaigns makes things even more meaningful. It proves that confidence, beauty, and personal evolution don’t have an expiration date, and that’s a message I’ll continue to champion in every step of my career.
Outside of work, what is a hobby or activity you enjoy that might surprise people?
Flying. Most people don’t expect a model to also be a commercially licensed pilot, but aviation has been a passion of mine for decades. There’s something incredibly freeing about being in the sky, navigating the world from a completely different perspective. It requires focus, confidence, and adaptability—all things that, interestingly enough, also apply to modeling. Beyond flying, I love anything that challenges me to step outside of expectations, whether it’s learning something new, exploring different forms of movement, or just embracing experiences that make me feel fully alive. I think there’s real power in breaking the mold—whether in the air or in front of the camera.
How have you adapted to changes in your industry over the years?
Adaptability has been essential in my journey, especially as a model over 40 in an industry that’s historically favored youth. The biggest shift has been embracing the power of authenticity. Early on, I thought success meant fitting into the industry’s mold, but over time, I realized that what makes me stand out isn’t conformity—it’s experience, confidence, and a perspective that only comes with time. I’ve also embraced the evolution of digital media and social platforms. The rise of social media has given models more control over their narratives, allowing us to showcase our personalities, values, and unique beauty beyond traditional campaigns. Instead of waiting for the industry to catch up, I’ve chosen to carve out my own space—aligning with brands and creatives that see the value in women with depth, stories, and presence. Ultimately, I’ve adapted by staying true to myself. Trends will always change, but confidence, authenticity, and the ability to evolve will always be relevant.
Is there a book or movie that has significantly influenced your personal or professional perspective?
One book that has deeply influenced both my personal and professional perspective is The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. It helped me understand the importance of being present in each moment, a concept that has resonated both in my work as a model and in my everyday life. In an industry that often values perfection and the pursuit of future goals, learning to embrace the present moment has given me a greater sense of peace and confidence. As for a movie, Thelma & Louise stands out to me. It’s a story of women who refuse to be constrained by society’s expectations, taking control of their own narrative. That spirit of independence and unapologetic living has stayed with me throughout my career. It’s reminded me that, no matter the circumstances or obstacles, we have the power to define who we are and what our journey looks like.
What piece of advice would you give to someone starting out in your field?
I would tell someone starting out in the modeling industry to focus on cultivating their own unique voice and sense of self, rather than trying to fit into someone else’s mold. The industry will always try to define you, but the most successful models are the ones who are unapologetically themselves. It’s also crucial to understand that rejection isn’t personal—it’s part of the journey. Learn from every experience, stay resilient, and remember that your worth is not defined by a casting or a campaign. Trust in your instincts, and don’t be afraid to stand up for what you believe in, whether that’s choosing the right projects or speaking out about what matters to you. And finally, take care of yourself—physically, mentally, and emotionally. This work can be demanding, but your well-being should always come first.
Do you have a personal philosophy or mantra that guides your life and work decisions?
Yes, my personal mantra is “Embrace the journey, not the destination.” I’ve learned over the years that it’s not just about the end result but about how you show up each day—how you navigate challenges, celebrate small victories, and stay true to yourself in the process. This philosophy guides both my personal life and work. In modeling, there’s so much focus on looks, trends, and external validation, but I’ve come to value the growth that happens along the way. The moments of doubt, the resilience, the learning—those are what truly shape the work I do. So I focus on the present, trusting that by staying authentic and grounded, the right opportunities will unfold.
If resources were not a constraint, what would be your dream project?
If resources were not a constraint, my dream project would be a global campaign that celebrates the diversity of women at every stage of life—showing the beauty of aging with grace, strength, and authenticity. It would be more than just a fashion campaign; it would be a movement aimed at redefining beauty standards and challenging societal norms. I would love to create a platform where women from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds could share their stories and show the world what confidence, resilience, and power look like at any age. It would involve collaboration with photographers, artists, and activists to tell these powerful, diverse stories and inspire change on a global scale. The goal would be to shift perceptions not just in the fashion world but in society at large—to create lasting change in how we view beauty, age, and the limitless potential of women.
How do you balance your personal life and needs with your professional responsibilities?
Balancing my personal life with my professional responsibilities is an ongoing process, but it’s something I’ve gotten better at over time. At 48, I’ve learned that setting clear boundaries is key. I prioritize my mental and physical well-being, which means taking time for self-care, whether that’s through flying, reading, or simply being with the people who matter most to me. Professionally, I’ve become more selective about the projects I take on, choosing those that align with my values and give me space to thrive both in front of the camera and behind the scenes. I also make it a point to stay organized and plan ahead, which helps me juggle commitments without feeling overwhelmed. Ultimately, the balance comes from being intentional about where I invest my time and energy, and knowing that it’s okay to say no to things that don’t serve me. Maintaining this balance allows me to show up as my best self in both my personal life and my career.
Model: Amy Taylor @amytaylornyc
FB: http://www.facebook.com/amytaylorinla
TW: http://www.twitter.com/amytaylornyc
PT: http://www.pinterest.com/amytaylornyc
TT: https://www.tiktok.com/@amytaylornyc
YT: https://youtube.com/@AmyTaylorNYC
Wardrobe Stylist: Elena Nigmatullina @_nevaneva_
WB: http://holybubble.us
Model: Valeriya Petrova @valeriyakoenig
Photographer: Ceoportrait @ceoportrait
Makeup Artist: Makeup Artist Kim Grabow @kimgrabowmakeup
