From shooting TikToks to shooting campaigns, Travis Owens is charting his own creative course. The model and aspiring actor opens up about culture, confidence and carving out space in the fashion world—on his own terms
For Travis Owens, modeling isn’t just about striking a pose—it’s about reclaiming identity, rewriting expectations and leaning into the unknown. With a background that spans continents and careers, Owens is the kind of talent who doesn’t wait for permission to evolve. Half Thai, half American and wholly himself, he’s not only breaking into the fashion industry but also breaking the mold, one shoot at a time, while growing his collection of self-taught skills.
DAMAN: First and foremost, tell us a bit about yourself—how would you describe who you are today, in and out of the spotlight?
Travis Owens: If I were to describe myself today, I’m a former collegiate athlete trying to navigate and find my place in the lucrative and creative world of entertainment. In the spotlight, I’m a fashion and film enthusiast who works in modeling and is a student actor. When I’m not shooting or in class, I’m picking up as many part-time jobs as possible while also trying to improve my skills in photography, cinematography and acting. Although it may not seem like it on my social media, I’m naturally an introverted person who values my personal time and enjoys reading, learning music and watching movies alone. I also come from a mixed background—half Thai and half Caucasian American—while growing up moving from cities like Kuala Lumpur, Shanghai, Seattle and Tokyo.
DA: What initially drew you into modeling? Was it a goal, a happy accident or a bit of both?
TO: What initially drew me into modeling was the freedom and ability to express myself in ways I didn’t see possible in my former corporate route. Modeling was something I always wanted to try, but I wasn’t sure how to get started. So, the summer after I graduated, I started paying for photoshoots, posting TikToks and submitting to agencies. Then one day, a scout from Next Models Miami discovered one of my videos, and the rest was history.
DA: What has modeling taught you about yourself that you might not have discovered otherwise?
TO: Modeling taught me that there was a creative spirit inside me that had been hiding in a quiet, timid and shy kid. It was the push I needed to discover the world of fashion, entertainment and creativity that I had never put much thought into. Through modeling, I gained the confidence needed to embark on this journey of someday having a career in the world of creativity.
DA: What’s something about the modeling industry that still surprises you—even after all this time?
TO: Modeling had always seemed like an independent and lonely path in my head, but I was surprised by how much of this industry relies on teamwork and collaboration.
I was so ignorant of the fact that modeling would allow me to meet and work with some of the most talented, friendly and inspiring people I never would have met otherwise. Now I’m so grateful for the friends and connections I’ve made so far in my career.
DA: You’re known for embracing both Thai and American influences. How do those cultural backgrounds shape your identity and your work?
TO: Being Thai and American is a big part of my identity. It’s given me a broader perspective on the world, a deep appreciation for culture and the privilege of being multilingual. As for how it’s impacted my work, I’d say it makes me think deeper about how to best represent both sides of me, and how I can stay connected with both when I’m not in Thailand or the US. The biggest impact has been how I now think about inspiring future generations of mixed kids, the way my idols inspired me.
DA: We’re curious—how do you prepare mentally before stepping onto a set or runway? Do you have any pre-shoot rituals?
TO: I always try to get an early workout in to clear my mind and, if I have time, a short meditation session. I try to be present, relaxed and focused so I can do my best work for the client. Most importantly, I always try to be enjoyable to work with and show that I’m grateful for everyone’s time. This industry is already tough—I never want to make someone’s job harder than it already is.
DA: Modeling can be expressive in its own way. How do you bring a piece of yourself into each project?
TO: The best way to show who I am in each project is by relaxing and having fun. I still take the work seriously, but when I’m relaxed and having fun, I’m able to be the most truthful version of myself—and that shows on camera.
DA: Do you have a “pinch-me” moment from modeling so far—something that made you stop and say, “Wow, I’m really doing this”?
TO: Honestly, every moment in my modeling career is a pinch-me moment. It’s a privilege to be working in this industry, and I’m grateful for every moment of it. Whether it’s an editorial, runway job or e-commerce work, I’m just so happy to be a part of it. Never in my wildest dreams did I see this in the cards.
DA: Is there a dream project, collaboration or campaign you hope to land one day?
TO: It would be a dream to land a designer campaign or an AAPI project in Europe someday. I’ve yet to set foot in Europe, and traveling there to model for historically iconic brands would be a dream come true.
DA: On the flip side of the glossy shoots and glitzy runways, what keeps you grounded?
TO: What always keeps me grounded is spending time with my family. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that because of my nomadic upbringing, the only consistent thing in my life has been my immediate family. I’m incredibly fortunate to have such amazing parents and a younger brother. They’re my why, they also keep me honest and they’re my support system. Even though I live far from them now, even a ten-minute phone call is enough to bring me back down to earth.
DA: How do you approach building your personal style? Is it instinct, mood or more of a curated vibe?
TO: A lot of it is instinct and trial and error. Through that, I’ve found my style is a mix of different vibes, just like my background. Some days I wear streetwear, other days it’s vintage, and sometimes I’ll go formal or lean into that old-money aesthetic. Like my identity, my style is constantly changing. I do want to start incorporating more traditional Thai clothing—I’m currently looking for modern takes on it, so if you know any brands, send them my way!
DA: Your job often demands long days and lots of travel—how do you stay consistent with your fitness routine amid the chaos?
TO: I find exercising first thing in the morning is the easiest way to stay consistent. I don’t have to think too hard about it—I just get up and go. When travel gets hectic, I try to work out as soon as I can and not overthink it. Even a thirty-minute ab workout is better than nothing. Those small wins make a big difference.
DA: Beyond the gym, what activities or habits help you stay physically and mentally in shape? Do you have a go-to workout or is there a wellness ritual you swear by?
TO: I’ve found that golf and basketball are great ways to clear my mind when I want something more playful. To keep my mind sharp, I try to read as much as I can, learn new skills like playing guitar and meditate when things get really hectic. I don’t have a set ritual—I just follow whatever my gut tells me I need in the moment.
DA: Social media plays a big role in modern modeling. How do you balance visibility with authenticity?
TO: That’s been a personal struggle for me as I get deeper into this career. What works best is letting your heart guide you. Even if you’re posting something imperfect or vulnerable, post it anyway—those insecurities often come from fear of judgment, not your own view of yourself. That said, keeping some separation between what you post and your private life is key for your sanity. Social media is a tool, and you should use it however feels best for you—and have fun with it.
DA: And what’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from social media?
TO: You are your own biggest critic. At the end of the day, you have to do you and block out other people’s opinions—no matter how cruel they may be. The less power I give others’ opinions, the more freedom I feel in expressing myself. Funny enough, once I adopted that mindset, I started attracting more genuine, caring people into my life.
DA: If you had to name a playlist after your current mood or phase in life, what would you call it?
TO: I’d call it “The Development Phase.” Even though it feels like I’ve been doing this forever, I’m still a baby in this industry. As I keep learning and growing, I need to give myself the grace of being a beginner and just keep putting one foot in front of the next.
DA: Looking ahead, what kind of legacy do you hope to build—not just as a model but as a creative entity and as an individual?
TO: I hope that when it’s all said and done, I’ve inspired someone like me to take a chance on themselves. I want to encourage others to feel proud of their weirdness and quirks—and not count themselves out because of them. If my legacy helps even one mixed-background kid carve their own path, not just follow the one they think they should take, that’s more than enough.
Photography Tadeo Paras
Styling Bongbong Buan
Model Travis Owens/ Wilhelmina Los Angeles; Next Models Miami; J.I.M Model Bangkok
Grooming Bongbong Buan
Production A.C. De Quina
Location Los Angeles, California