Eleven years of persistence in the modelling industry has finally paid off for Noosa local Elke Kahler as her career has just taken flight to America – on Qantas Airways to be specific.
The 26-year-old recently made the move to the US – one that many models only dream about – after three years of being the face for Qantas helped her take her career from national to international level.
“I’ve worked for Qantas on three different occasions over the past four years in numerous digital and print ads, however, the most recent, and my favourite, was an ad shot in Perth which is currently airing,” Elke said.
The 2013 Sunshine Beach State High School graduate hoped the move would help take her modelling career to a new high and she was ready and excited to “make a splash” in the commercial market in Los Angeles.
“I’m excited to see what opportunities arise for me in the US,” she said.
“At this stage I see myself based here for at least three years and I definitely hope to keep working with Qantas in the future, they’re one of my favourite clients.”
It’s been a long road to the limelight for Elke though who started modelling from humble beginnings on Noosa’s picturesque beaches to relocating to Bondi Beach just a few years ago.
“My parents put me into modelling from about six and I’ve loved it ever since,” she said.
“I think my very first job was a print ad in a magazine for the cinema at Sunshine Plaza with my brother.
“From there I’ve done a lot of fashion, fitness, swimwear and lifestyle modelling, as well as now having done countless TV and social media ads including being splashed across buses for a national Amazon campaign.”
Elke said her key piece of advice for others aspiring to follow a similar path to her own was to never turn down an opportunity.
“My advice would be to try and get in front of the camera as much as possible.
“It’s all experience so the more you can shoot with whatever photographers you can, the more comfortable and confident you will be and that definitely resonates in the images.
“Also get a solid portfolio together and send it out to agencies. Always take advice from agents and keep persisting.
“For me it’s been a long journey to get to where I am but definitely rewarding.”
