So this Model Monday we’re mixing things up a bit, instead of us telling you about a model we’re coveting, we went straight to the source for insights and I know exactly what you’re thinking…Who’s the handsome model above? Well, It’s none other than Adrian Cardoso and we can’t get enough of him at MyFDB (and by the looks of it, the feeling is mutual). You might remember Cardoso from this playful “Tutti Fruitti” editorial or perhaps you caught him walking the Givenchy F/W 2011 runway show? If you’ve been missing out on this face, we’re here to bring you up to speed as we recently talked to Cardoso about his work.

Isaac Weber (left) and Adrian Cardoso (right)

How did you get your start in modeling and where are you originally from?
Well to make a really long story short, my father works in the hotel industry and we had just moved from Playa del Carmen (Mexico) to Aruba the “Happy Island!” One of the co-workers of my father told him about a modeling competition that occurred on the island. My sister and me signed in and it was about 2-3 months of preparation, and the final 20 got to meet scouts from agencies all over the world. I won the competition and went off to sign with Wilhelmina Models in NY.

Where can we see you next? Any exciting shoots or features in the works?
This month I’m waiting on a couple editorial shoots from Paris, Milan and NY. Campaign season is about to start and hopefully I’ll be able to be in NY and make the best of it! As of right now, I’m working in London next week and flying back to NY by the end of the week.

Which photographers have you enjoyed working with the most?
It’s hard to pick, because thankfully I have had the opportunity to be with the best agencies in the world and they always make sure the people we work with are going to be professional, and that means it’s always fun to shoot if it’s a great crew! I would still have to say the big name photographers are always a treat, big budgets, awesome locations! To name a few: Bruce Weber, David Roemer, Ellen von Unwerth, and Xevi Muntane. I hate leaving any of them out, can’t remember one that I disliked working with!

What are two of your most memorable photo shoots?
I would say my first ever editorial was for French Vogue with Bruce Weber so that was nice, and then if I have to choose V Magazine with Xevi, I flew to Spain for the weekend from New York and shot with some of the biggest names in Spain as far as male models.

Do you feel there are certain expectations for a male model vs a female model in the industry?
I feel like it’s a different perspective, because female modeling is a much bigger industry and the competition is so much stronger. Nonetheless, male modeling can be very competitive and it is a fast growing industry so expectations are always high, but it’s a much more relaxed branch of fashion that’s for sure.

What city has been your top destination work in?
New York.

Lastly, what advice do you have for aspiring fashion industry hopefuls?
It’s a surprising industry and in it one can learn a lot, especially starting young it allows you to grow up fast and have to learn many things that I think are very valuable for life. Give it a shot, you won’t loose anything and if somehow you get the opportunity enjoy it, I feel very grateful to have been given this opportunity!

Make sure to check out Adrian’s work on MyFDB and be sure to follow him on Twitter @AdrianCardoso.