Franco betti

Franco Betti built his career from the ground up — no shortcuts, no safety net. Stepping in front of a camera, it’s not just about angles — it’s about energy for him. The model-photographer has built his own path in an industry that often says no before it says maybe. From losing 56 kilograms to walking New York Fashion Week, Betti’s transformation is nothing short of radical. His story isn’t one of overnight success but of discipline, faith, and a refusal to stay down. Whether behind the lens or commanding it, he represents a new generation of models redefining resilience, masculinity, and ambition — the kind who manifest New York or Nowhere and make it real.

Journey & Inspiration

Dimitri: You’ve said modeling was something you always wanted — what was the deeper reason behind that dream?

Franco Betti: The main drive behind this ambition was constantly being told I can’t do it, I’m not good enough, or I’ll never be a model. Even when I started my previous business, which I owned for 10 years, you’re constantly dragged down by those closest to you. It must be an Australian thing to hold you back, because I have never experienced this in Paris or New York. Now that I’ve walked runway in New York, I’ve proven anything is possible.

Dimitri: Who were the first figures in fashion that inspired you to believe this path was possible?

Franco Betti: I have always admired Tyson Beckford for his work and his drive — he’s an incredible human being. I also respect Ralph Lauren himself; he’s built an empire and a brand that is now a lifestyle.

Dimitri: Walking your first runway is a memory that stays forever. What do you remember most from that moment?

Franco Betti: I wished my wife was there to see me walk. She has been by my side through all my struggles and sacrifices, so to walk runway in one of the biggest fashion cities in the world was not only for me — it was for her.

Dimitri: Rejection is part of every model’s journey — how do you handle it, and how has it shaped your resilience?

Franco Betti: I have been rejected by most agencies in Australia — Chic, Viviens — I’ve been told I’m not good enough, I’ve been ignored. One thing I’ve noticed in Australia is that these agencies tell models they need to be successful in Sydney to make it. So when I received no help or support here, I used that as motivation to bypass all the politics and was signed by Tandem Management in New York City. Rejection is a part of our industry; I channelled that into my body and launched my career in New York.

Dimitri: When the pressure builds, what keeps you moving forward instead of giving up?

Franco Betti: I know I’m destined for Paris, Milan, New York. If I can achieve the NYC dream, I can push for something bigger. So I keep reminding myself that my future is there, not here, and I constantly manifest New York or Nowhere. This keeps me focused and driven.

Transformation & Discipline

Dimitri: Your physical transformation has been remarkable. What changes did you make to reach that level of discipline?

Franco Betti: Building habits, staying quiet, journaling, and the quality of food — these are the main fundamental changes I made.

Dimitri: Training, nutrition, mindset — what’s your formula for staying at such an impressive BMI with a defined six-pack?

Franco Betti: Sacrifice. The industry is about beauty and fashion, so I needed to change my body in order to look a certain way. Eating healthy became part of my normal everyday life. Society has accepted that it’s ok to eat processed foods to make us feel better. I stand by one non-negotiable rule: if God didn’t make it, I won’t eat it. This changed my life entirely.

Dimitri: Do you see your fitness as part of your artistry, or more as the foundation that allows you to perform?

Franco Betti: One hundred percent. I have so much respect for models and what their bodies go through. It’s a part of who we are and where the work is done. Runway, magazine covers, campaigns — those are the rewards for what we do in the gym. We all start as a blank canvas, so to create something magical is art; we are painting the best versions of ourselves for the world to see.

Dimitri: Was there a turning point when you decided to commit fully to this lifestyle?

Franco Betti: One of my dear friends, Lovisa Fahræus, once said to me, If you don’t listen to the universe, it will channel that energy into someone else. If New York is calling, then you need to go. This was the moment I decided to commit. God puts people in your path and opens doors for a reason — it’s up to us to walk through. Make no mistake, the journey has been hard, but there is no going back now. I’m all in.

Modeling Meets Photography

Dimitri: Being in front of the lens and behind it gives you a unique duality. How do those two perspectives inform each other?

Franco Betti: Being on both sides of the lens is certainly a bonus. I’ve always had an incredible eye for capturing the perfect shot, so you know what to expect when it’s your turn to shine. It helps having world-class photographers such as Michael Creagh directing you. You pick up new tricks and ideas on what he looks at — it really is the best of both worlds.

Dimitri: When you photograph someone, what’s the one truth you try to reveal that clothes alone can’t show?

Franco Betti: We all have our own individual look. If I can capture this through their eyes, then I’ve done my job. These shots don’t lie, and as they say — pictures say a thousand words.

Dimitri: Has being a photographer made you a sharper, more aware model — and has modeling changed the way you shoot?

Franco Betti: Absolutely. Believe it or not, it’s opened my eyes to an entirely different world. I see so much more now in terms of how I’m shot versus how I shoot a model. Modeling I enjoy more — it’s not about being the centre of attention.

Fashion & Style

Dimitri: Outside of work, how do you define your personal style?

Franco Betti: Honestly, it’s quiet. I spend all my time with my wife. We have a beautiful home, our fur baby. We love to travel, cook — and, more importantly, we love to stay fit and active. With so much noise in the world, you appreciate the quiet.

Dimitri: If you could collaborate with any designer or house right now, who would it be and why?

Franco Betti: My dream has and always will be Ralph Lauren. It’s who I am, it’s how I dress, and it’s a lifestyle choice. From my home to my wardrobe, I’ve always been a Ralph Boy.

Dimitri: Looking ahead, do you imagine yourself leaning more toward modeling, photography, or blending both into a single creative identity?

Franco Betti: Modeling — it keeps me focused and disciplined. Photography is more of a hobby than a career.

Fashion Week Experiences

Dimitri: New York Fashion Week has a certain energy — what was your most memorable experience walking or working there?

Franco Betti: The energy is incredible. I lost 5 kg in the month from eating and training — you haven’t experienced anything until you’ve experienced New York. Walking runway was by far the most incredible experience. When I casted for Marcel Castellano, I went in with no expectations other than the opportunity to cast. A day later, he messaged to say I’d been selected. This was five minutes after my wife got into a taxi to JFK. That moment I bawled my eyes out because it all became so real — it was no longer a dream. I was going to walk runway in New York.

Dimitri: Milan is considered home turf for elegance and heritage — how does it feel to be part of that tradition as a model?

Franco Betti: It’s an honour to have experienced Milan Fashion Week. My aunty works for Fendi, and she’s an incredible artist. The dream now is to walk in Milan with her there to see. I’ve lived in Milan — it’s a part of my DNA and will always be the fashion capital of the world.

Dimitri: Paris brings the drama and artistry. What’s the one Paris runway moment you’ll never forget?

Franco Betti: I’ve only spectated Paris Fashion Week, but one thing that really stands out the most is its beauty and elegance. You simply cannot replicate this anywhere else in the world.

Dimitri: The pace of Fashion Weeks is intense — how do you keep your focus and energy across back-to-back shows?

Franco Betti: Through an intense and non-negotiable schedule — from training to nutrition, who I spend my time with, etc. It’s not the time to holiday and eat, that’s for sure (laughs).

Dimitri: Of all three fashion capitals, which city feels the most like home to you in terms of style and spirit?

Franco Betti: It will always be New York.

Dimitri: You went through an extraordinary 56 kg weight loss and now you’re on magazine covers. How does it make you feel?

Franco Betti: It’s a dream come true — words cannot describe how hard it’s been to get to this point. The self-doubt, the negativity from others, the emotional and mental challenges I’ve faced over the years. I decided to change my life, and now I’m on multiple covers around the world.

Dimitri: What message would you like to give our readers who are making changes to be more fit or are still looking for motivation?

Franco Betti: If there is one message that I can share, it’s that anything is possible. If you have a dream, a vision, a goal, and the universe is talking to you, then you need to pay attention. God leads you down paths for a reason, and all the struggles I’ve been through have prepared me for this journey. So when it gets tough, I remember where I started — I remember why I started. These two factors keep me focused.