Shel DonDadda

Website: sheldondadda.com

BMW: Shel Dondadda!! It's simply true what they say about people's names matching their size and look... lol!! Where are you from and how was it growing up?

Shel: Where I'm from... the appropriate response is; "They cut the cord in Kingston, Jamaica"... hence the name "DonDadda." But most of my life I lived in Brooklyn NY. Either way I might rob you! Let me hold somethin'! I'm an illustrator and designer and in college I had my first ever photo-shoot helping a student work on his photography book. I had no idea where this thing would take me. Still not sure. Growing up is tough for any inner city kid drinkin' quarter waters but my parents put some Ackee & Saltfish (Jamaica's National Dish) on the table metaphorically speaking.

BMW: More into creative photography... How long have you spent in both industries? Which one have you found more lucrative to you?

Shel: I've never been a REAL photographer. My background is in Graphic Design so Modeling has been the more lucrative of the two. I'm still just at the beginning though... least I hope. Some of the same practices as a designer are taught to photographers though so maybe that is what helps me work well with them. Or maybe it's the casting couch... Just playin' mom!

BMW: What aspects of photography place you at a competitive advantage over your competition?

Shel: The talent I work with for sure. I have met some amazing photographers and I don't mean the type who brought a point & shoot claiming to be incredible. I mean people who have talent and consider this their passion/craft/mission. Sorry Ashton, I think your wife is hot though =) lucky bastard.

BMW: Challenges in this industry... What has been the biggest challenge so far that you've come across?

Shel: Probably coming to terms with the fact that I'm not in total control. Sometimes the dreams you have don't turn out to be part of the script written for you. I'm learning to go with the flow. I'm a shitty swimmer though.

BMW: Any major credits so far...

Shel: ...my parents for guiding me, my brother for Riding with me and my lady for not gettin' tired of me! I can be a handful, or nuts....um or both! Of course a shout out to all the Photographers & Crew who help this thing happen.

BMW: What words of advice do you have for the upcoming genius of male modeling?

Shel: Work out regularly, be on time and get used to changing in front of random people! If you rock underwear like these Prince pants you might wanna leave them at home. No but seriously, leave those at home. Get a good agent, a good website and research. I google everyone, I bet your name is in my browser's history... shoot!

BMW: Thanks for spending time with us Shel and BMW wishes you the best in all your endeavors.

Shel: You're welcome, thanks for having me!