An Exclusive Model Interview with Tamiko Lee: From Business to Beauty
Read the inspiring journey of model Tamiko Lee, blending beauty and brains, as she shares insights on her modelling career, passions, and life goals.
Adam Delgadillo
Use The Share Buttons Above The Image To Share This Story On Socials
Order Your Printed Car Magazine From Our TikTok, Amazon or Etsy Stores!!
Tamiko Lee
Instagram: @tamikoleeofficial
Photographer: Adam Delgadillo
Instagram: @oadam7
Tamiko Lee: From Beauty to Business and Everything In-Between
Who Is Tamiko Lee?
Tamiko Lee is a woman of many layers. At 28, she’s already making waves as a model, but her life goes far beyond the glamour of the camera. Tamiko is half Vietnamese, with European roots tracing back to Poland and Ireland. The most intriguing part? Her name is Japanese, meaning "child of many beauties." Born and raised in California’s Bay Area, Tamiko has also called Northern California and Seattle home, though she now resides in Dallas, Texas.
What sets Tamiko apart is her combination of beauty and brains. Graduating Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management, Tamiko has shown that intelligence and ambition are at the core of her success. "You need to be educated to know how to make your money and make successful business moves," she explains. As the youngest in her family, with two older brothers, she has always been the adventurous go-getter.
Beyond the Lens: Hobbies and Passions
While modelling is a big part of Tamiko’s life, her interests extend far beyond it. A true fan of pop culture, she loved Hello Kitty and Sailor Moon long before they became mainstream icons. Her passion for gaming makes her a self-proclaimed "secret nerd," with Pokémon being her all-time favourite game. "The originals will always be the best," she says, but she admits to enjoying the remakes like "Let’s Go Pikachu/Eevee."
In her downtime, Tamiko indulges in anime, K-dramas, and playing The Sims. "It’s an addiction," she admits, revealing her excitement about starting a Twitch stream once she gets her PC set up. Additionally, travelling is another passion, especially tropical getaways and snowboarding in a cosy cabin.
The Drive Behind Her Success
Tamiko’s passion extends to building a successful life where she can care for her loved ones and enjoy life’s luxuries. She credits her mother, a Vietnamese war refugee, for instilling in her a strong work ethic. "Nothing comes easy," Tamiko notes, "I love being able to give back and take care of the people who love and support me."
Why She Chose Modeling
Tamiko’s modelling journey began as a child when her parents introduced her to commercial and print modelling. Once she turned 18, she took her career into her own hands, signing with small agencies and eventually freelancing. Modelling became an outlet for her to overcome insecurities. "I wasn’t the popular girl in school, but modelling helped me build confidence, create lifelong friends, and transform myself."
Getting Into Automotive Modeling
Tamiko’s love for the automotive world is deeply rooted in her upbringing. Growing up during the rise of Fast & Furious and the street-racing scene, she was drawn to cars from a young age. "My older brother worked on cars after school, and I loved going to the street races," she recalls. Her first car at 16 was a 2000 Honda Civic EX, which she and her brother modified.
Attending her first Hot Import Nights event in Seattle in 2013-2014 was the turning point in her modelling career. "I knew I wanted to be part of the import scene," she says. A year later, she joined HIN’s tour and became one of their top models, travelling to Portland, Southern California, San Jose, and more.
Tamiko Lee’s Modeling Journey
Experience in the Modeling World
With over a decade of experience, Tamiko has modelled in fashion, bikini, automotive, lifestyle, and boudoir shoots. She has competed in numerous bikini competitions, securing multiple titles, including 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place. Her modelling career has taken her to car events like SPOCOM, Tuner Evolution, and SEMA.
Through it all, she’s had the privilege of working with some of the industry's most renowned photographers, expanding her reach to cities such as Honolulu, Houston, Chicago, San Diego, and Las Vegas.
Facing Challenges in Modeling
The modelling world isn’t without its obstacles. "Staying relevant with the ever-changing social media landscape and new faces every year can be challenging," Tamiko says. However, she sees this challenge as an opportunity to adapt and evolve, ensuring she stays engaged with her audience.
Her biggest accomplishment? Being sponsored to tour with multiple companies early in her career and, of course, her experience at SEMA. "It’s not just a car show—it’s an exclusive event, and attending it is a huge milestone."
Memorable Photo Shoots
One of her toughest shoots was a fashion set for Riche Magazine in Seattle during winter. "It was freezing! Temperatures were in the 30s, and I was wearing an outfit that was far from winter-friendly," Tamiko recalls. Despite the harsh conditions, the photos turned out stunning, and no one could tell how cold she was.
Preparing for a Shoot
Tamiko’s preparation for a photo shoot is no joke. "Eating healthy, a consistent workout routine and proper rest is key," she says. Feeling and looking 100% is crucial for getting those top-tier shots. "If you don’t feel your best, it shows in the photos."
Working With Photographers: A Collaborative Effort
Tamiko believes that a strong model-photographer connection is essential. "Photographers need an eye for detail," she explains. A slight tilt of the head can change the entire shot, so it’s important that both the model and photographer work together to capture the best angles and expressions. "Anyone can take a photo, but getting the winning shot takes teamwork and creativity."
Advice for Aspiring Models
For those just starting in the modelling industry, Tamiko offers simple but powerful advice: "Be confident and be yourself." She emphasizes the importance of not comparing yourself to others and building genuine relationships with fellow models and photographers. "Not everyone has your best interests at heart, but being your true self will take you far."
Overcoming Obstacles in Modeling
Tamiko’s biggest challenge has been competing with models who have larger social media followings. However, she’s learned that numbers don’t determine success. "I’ve worked with models with massive followings and even secured opportunities that they didn’t get. It’s about branding yourself and staying true to who you are."
The Future: Modeling and Beyond
Although she would love to model full-time again, life’s priorities have shifted. "I once modelled full-time, and it was both exhausting and rewarding. Now, I’ve slowed down to focus on other aspects of my life." Tamiko is currently working in corporate finance and studying for her real estate license. Her ultimate goal? To succeed in her modelling career while travelling the world and living life to the fullest.
Useful Links for Further Reading:
If you’ve been inspired by Tamiko Lee’s journey or have a story of your own to share, we’d love to hear from you! Comment below or submit your story to Stance Auto Magazine.
Please leave your comments on my story in the comments section at the bottom of the page, it helps the story get more views and reach the Printed Car Magazine, Thank you.
'The future is bright as long as we can still Smell the Fumes'
Take A Car Quiz: So you think you know all about Cars prove it,
Do you Need A Freelance Photographer? Our Photographers Are Available For Hire
UKTM no: UK00003572459
