Specs Addict gets up close and personal with gorgeous Chadwick model, Mark Jackson.

Mark discusses his favourite sex positions, the key to the perfect physique and whether it’s ok to eat hamburgers.

Mark stars at the centre of the Specs Addict advertising campaign where you can see him in all his glory wearing aviator and wayfarer style sunglasses and cat’s eye prescription glasses. Mark is also an eyewear brand ambassador, but of course he is, what with those chiselled features and killer smile.

Enjoy the first instalment of Specs Addict’s interview series called “Up Close Down Dirty”.

Specs Addict: You are fairly new to modelling, why the late career change?

A few reasons. Through modelling I meet people all the time. I like meeting new people. The money can be good. And it provides extra incentive for me to take care of myself and stay in shape. It’s like the carrot dangling in front of the donkey, willing it forward…me being the donkey. Okay maybe not a donkey, let’s say a horse. But most of all because it’s something I enjoy doing.

I did some modelling work a few years ago but I didn’t have the proper desire at the time. I then had some time away from it and partied a lot. Then a few years later with a more ‘mature look’ than the first time around, the desire was back, the body looked good, and it felt like time to get involved again. And Chadwick was really enthusiastic about representing me, which I am very pleased about. I love them there. They’re a great agency.

Specs Addict:  What sort of modelling work would you like to do? Shirt on or off?

I swing between high end fashion and commercial work. As a model your ‘look’ dictates what kind of work you are suitable for. Thus commercial is more my thing I suppose. But I would enjoy doing more editorial, left field, moody, edgy, artistic type stuff, sort of like the Specs Addict shoot that I did. Shirt off is fine with me. I stripped down with those aviator sunglasses in your photo shoot so that proves my bravery! I’ll do whatever is required to make a shot special.

Mark Jackson from Chadwick Models

Specs Addict:  Things can get pretty crazy being a male model (I suppose), what do you do to relax and stay calm?

I enjoy surfing. I take an interest in the arts, I listen to a lot of music – I have a diverse taste from hip hop to classical. I love educating myself – I read a lot of books on outer space and history. I never stop marvelling at the awesomeness of the universe that we are privileged to be a part of. When you understand how good this life is, you are more appreciative and being relaxed and calm comes a lot easier.

Specs Addict:  What’s the secret to your perfect physique and do you ever eat hamburgers?

Mum used to always tell me growing up, “You are what you eat”. And it’s so true. 80% of staying in shape is what you eat, drink and at what times of day. I am pretty strict with diet. High protein, low carb, low sugar, low fat and drink lots of water. To tone and cut up I do a lot of core exercises, with a good level of intensity (intensity is really important). To burn fat and cut up I do weights. (*Editor’s note: I think “cut up” means having amazing abs and being super hot). I also do high intensity interval cardio. Breaking a sweat is good for you. At the end of the day staying disciplined to eat the right things and work on your body is crucial. Hamburgers? Yeah sometimes! Cheat meals are ok every few days.

Mark Jackson, male model

Specs Addict:  If you could be any woman, who would it be?

Good question. I don’t know. Hmmm…  probably any current female astronaut. I imagine the view they experience from up there would be beyond words.

Specs Addict:  What’s your favourite movie?

I don’t think I have any single favourite movie. I like anything with Johnny Depp in it, all of Stanley Kubrick’s work, most sci-fi and anything quirky. Some that come to mind are: The Abyss, 2001 A Space Odyssey, The Imaginarium of Dr Parnassus, Donnie Darko, Into The Wild and The Bourne Supremecy trilogy.

To book Mark Jackson for modelling work please contact Chadwick Models. To view Mark’s portfolio please visit: http://chadwickmodels.com/models/marco/

The next instalment of Specs Addict’s interview series is with the talented London based photographic duo Gentlemen Take Pictures. Watch this space!