Ask Joey: Photo Approvals Are Getting Stringent

Heads up folks! ModelWire Network’s photo requirements are getting more stringent. The agencies love the scouting feature and are requiring the MWN team to up their game on photo approvals. We understand that there are a lot of folks on here that just started out and we want them on here, so they can build their portfolios and find connections, but at the same time this platform is for professionals.

Some people are going to get hurt feelings and we are not saying you can’t be a part of the modeling industry, but we will not approve any photos that could be detrimental to your career. There are enough sites out there that don’t care and we will not be a part of it. Yes professional photos are hard to come by in the beginning but if you are serious about this business then you should have them. If you are a model who is looking for representation then you should also have Digital Polaroids in your portfolio. Anyone can take those for you with any digital camera, but they have to follow strict guidelines.

sanjayb

I've been shooting for a little while now out here in LA and have made some connections here at the boutique agencies (Q LA, Pinkerton, etc). My goal is to eventually move into well paid ad campaigns. My understanding is that, if you work with an agency you can develop a relationship with the bookers (which I'm already starting to do), and they eventually help you out by recommending you to their paid clients. The current sentiment among photographers (on ModelMayhem at least) is that this is a myth. While I do love shooting with agency models, I'm really looking to push into ad campaigns sooner as opposed to later. Any advice on that?

Also, do paid tests actually occur in major markets? It seems every agency I reach out to wants free tests.

Finally, I'd love to hear what you think of my portfolio. I keep my website more up to date, it's www.sanjaybelani.com. 

It is not a myth that if you work with agencies they could pass you along to paying clients, but I wouldn’t count on that. I am sure it happens, but in order to get well paid gigs you need to have representation. It is by having an agent that you get big projects.
 Working with the agencies is how you can build your portfolio and prove that you can work with high profile models. So continue to work and build your portfolio.
 I do like your photos, but you need to categorize your book. You should have editorial, beauty, fashion and commercial sections – not all of them mixed in with another. Start there and then start pursuing agencies that rep photographers. I think you are ready.

Chance`Jordan

I really do need help and advice. I don’t know what to do at this point. I feel like I have done all I could to get noticed and live my dream but it doesn’t seem like anything is working. I most defiantly would love to use your advice and help! 

I see why you are having a hard time finding your fit in this industry. You are kind of in-between standard sizes for modeling. You are not tall enough for plus size but your portfolio feels like you are a standard plus size model. What time of advice did your former agents give you? I would classify you as a commercial print model.
 You need to get a background in acting so you can start auditioning for commercials. I would also advise you to build up variety in your book. Start reaching out on MWN and find some photographers, makeup artists, stylists and hairs stylists who will help you punch up your portfolio. Then check out ModelWire Fashion Directory and start reaching out to local Toronto agencies.

Renee Shaeffe

I appreciate your offer to glance over my portfolio. I would love any feedback I can get. I haven't been modeling for long and kind of just fell into it through my girlfriend. I am just now looking to try to work on my portfolio and get some more work. 

You have a great commercial look and I am surprised that you just started modeling, because already you have a decent portfolio. You should team up with some professionals from MWN and get some more variety of shots in your book. You have the beach lifestyle photos covered so move from there.

I think that you are good enough to start working in LA, so get out there and find yourself some representation.

Janelle Amor

I'm interested in connecting with NYC agencies for representation. Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated! 

I am shocked that you are not represented - you have a great look. Have you seen any of the agencies in NYC yet? Because there is no reason why you shouldn’t have an agent. You have a great portfolio. Make sure you fill out your About Me section. Everyday our agencies are going on MWN to scout for new talent and they read those. I am sure someone is going to pick up soon. 

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @thejoeyhunter

*Have a question for me? Ask away on my ModelWire Network profile http://www.modelwirenetwork.com/joeyhunter

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Tip of the Week: Digital Polaroids

Here at ModelWire Network, we ask that all photos be professionally shot, with the exception of Digital Polaroids. These are important photos for any models who currently do not have representation. Anyone can look amazing when their hair and makeup has been done and the photo has been touched up.

Agencies require all models they are inquiring about to take Digital Polaroids, as they need to see how they look like in real life - with NO Makeup on and with their hair NOT all done up.

If you are seeking representation then improve your portfolio by including professional Digital Polaroids that abides by these guidelines:

Headshot: Close-up of the face, clean without makeup and no smile

     Profile: Side view of the face with hair pulled back

Bodyshot: Full length photo showing the form of the body

-        All photos need to be taken by someone else – NO self taken photos.

You should wear form fitted clothes or swimwear – NO Lingerie.

These photos require NO posing.

And finally, the photos need to be taken in front of a plain background – preferably a blank wall.

If you have questions please email support@modelwirenetwork.com

Photos courtesy of Alexis Spoden

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Preview- Rick Owens Spring 2012

I've always loved Rick Owens for his innovation and ability to play with silhouettes and the Spring 2012 collection preview is no exception. Reworked simplicity in amazing hues, combined with sickening wedges. The pillar skirts and jackets with voluminous sleeves add height, depth and richness. Owens gives us ensembles for thought and I'm eagerly awaiting the snapshots from the entire collection.

Pics via Vogue.com

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Mobbed at the L.A. County Fair

 

Photo by Hagop Kalaidjin

Remember when we wrote about an amazing new fashion concept called Fash Mobs a while back? Well chief mobster and L.A fashion queen, Kelsi Smith, is at it again. This past Sunday at the L.A. County Fair, designer Tess Vigil of 50 Dresses, debuted her Spring 2012 Collection to a crowd of fair goers munching on fried foods and waiting in line for fair rides.


We're big fans of this street fashion concept and can't wait to see where the next Fash Mobs! will be. How cute are those gigantic polka dot balloons? Oh, also the models were courtesy of our very own ModelWire agency, Vision Los Angeles. Awesome!

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Ted Gibson Talks Celebrity Hairstyles, The Oscars & The Brand That's Changing Our World

Everyone loves Ted Gibson.  He's good looking, can rock a fitted pink shirt and his vibe is inviting, welcoming and grounded. This is not your typical Hollywood hairdresser.

I met Ted when I first began modeling. His star has continued to rise and now it's about to explode again as Ted makes the astral leap from successful businessman to household name.
If you haven't already heard the name Ted Gibson, it's time to start paying attention. People who follow the art of hairdressing know all about this one.  Ted Gibson is rare in that he has been able to cross pollinate Hollywood, Fashion, Politics in DC and now television with the hit TLC show What Not to Wear.

In the short time I've engaged with Ted, I've learned 3 things about building a successful brand.

1. Engage your fans and audience by treating them with the respect and attention they deserve.

Ted is someone who remembers with pride where he came from and who supported him along the way. He's worked hard to create a brand that allows everyone who comes into contact with it to feel like the VIP they truly are.

2. Use your success to build success for others.
It is rare today to meet someone who seeks out and creates opportunities to positively affect the lives of those around them.  Ted Gibson doesn't just write checks, he's built a brand who's core mission is to support women and hairdressers to feel and perform at their best.  My experience of Ted has been that he is fearless; unafraid to reach out a hand, share the love, spread the word and do whatever it takes to uplift those around him.


3.  Uplift the industry you are in by being a team player.
Currently he's campaigning to bring hairdressers to the podium at the Academy Awards. When I heard about it, I was surprised. I guess I'd never considered that that award was missing but once it had been brought to my attention, I had to agree... how many hair styles have been created for film that have inspired generations that followed? Someone give these artists an award and recognition!
Go to Ted Gibson's Facebook page to show your support.

How did he build all of this?  I reconnected with Ted to find out and in order give everyone here an opportunity to get to know the man behind the brand, Craig Palmer and I asked him a few questions.  I've also placed some of my favorite Ted Gibson products in my store so everyone can purchase and have their experience of Ted Gibson's brand.
Ted Gibson shampoo and conditioner
Ted Gibson lotions 

 Ted Gibson: The Engaged Bridge Builder

How has your definition of success defined you?

I have created a level of success that I’m comfortable with and I am working towards more success in an effort to accomplish some of the goals I’ve laid out for myself in changing the industry.

The Academy Awards recognize achievements in makeup and costume, but not hair styling.  How do you feel about this oversight and what would you like to see done about this?

It’s surprising to me that there isn’t a ballot for hair. It feels like hairdressers aren’t valuable. Social media is a way to reach a lot of people, for instance, it helped Betty White get on Saturday Night Live, and I’m still figuring it out how to use social media to raise awareness about this oversight and hopefully bring about a change. I know hairdressers have raised this issue in the past and brought it to light but nothing has happened yet.  I’m putting a petition together to continue the effort to bring awareness to the Academy that it’s not OK that there isn’t a category for hair.  There have been so many iconic hair styles that came to light through the medium of film, I’d like to see that celebrated and recognized.

At what stage was branding incorporated into your development and how do you further plan to develop the Ted Gibson brand?

I’ve always considered my work as the means for building my brand.  Part of that is staying true to who I am and true to the industry I work in.

Now that you have your own salons, product lines and television shows, what other personal goals would you like to achieve?

The brand of Ted Gibson is not a household name yet. I’m opening new salons, one of which is in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.  I also plan on opening beauty schools to provide a level of service that is not available for many people like it is for celebrities.  My brand is about attainable luxury.  Although my haircut is one of the most expensive in the world at $950, I’m on What Not to Wear helping everyday people look their best. It’s a touching moment to watch people, who consider luxury out of their reach, see that it is indeed attainable with the right information and tools.  I feel like I was put on this earth to inspire and create something special, as well, to inspire the next generation of hairdressers to think outside the box.  I want to raise the level of the profession period.

What message do you want your clients, both current and prospective, to understand about you?

I think what is unique about the brand is that at my salons you have the affordable opportunity to get great hair and the service is five star. When you come to Ted Gibson you get obtainable luxury, something that is lacking with the divide of the wealthy and middle class widening. I created the space in the salons to be like the culture of New York city. You can be standing on the corner in New York listening to four different languages at the same time; standing next to a white person or a black person or a celebrity or dude and it’s very diverse. It’s not intimidating when you come into the space, it’s very inviting, and you know you’re going to get great service and a personalized hair cut; that’s what is different about the Ted Gibson brand. People think it’s uptown and if you come into the salon you’ll be in a snooty atmosphere but it’s not that at all.

How has social media informed the way you conduct business?

I call social media free marketing. What it can provide for a brand or even an individual is the ability to reach people that wouldn’t otherwise know anything about you and get closer to people that already are aware who you are and what you represent.  I do all my own tweets and Facebook updates.
Connect with Ted on Twitter! 

You work in a collaborative art form.  How do you manage, prioritize and validate all the relationships you juggle in a day in the life? 

I feel like I was put on this earth to do this and I don’t treat anyone any different than I would treat someone like Angelina Jolie. It’s the same response regardless of if you are a celebrity or not, and I am who I am regardless of who you are.

You have achieved and maintained relationships with celebrities, fashion houses and regular clients while remaining accessible and not diluting your image. What principals have you applied that have created this rare combination of image and personality? 

It’s worked for me because I’m in charge of my image and I’m so hands on. As well, I maintain an attitude of service. For one, I know that as a celebrity hairdresser it’s important to continue work on new actresses and models, helping them find their best image. I keep myself fresh that way and it’s been the key. 

As a hairdresser my main role the past ten years has been working with celebrities and when I got the celebrity to a certain place then that relationship was over to make room for a new girl. But I still maintain the relationships I invested in in the beginning and that effort has sustained my growth.  My gift is to help women discover who they are and help them focus their image.  Every girl I’ve worked with has been an enduring relationship.

Do you feel that celebrity has hijacked the creative industry?

I did not want to be a starving artist. There’s nothing worse than being a starving artist. Finding the balance between art and commerce is very important to me.  The whole idea about celebrity when I started in the business about 10 years ago was different.  Models were still on the covers of magazines.  When they were on the covers it was dynamic but grew to a point where it was no longer interesting because we didn’t know who they were. I think that’s partially why it went to celebrities. People related to their stories, where they came from, what movie they were doing and there was so much more to it than being simply a model. We thought it wouldn’t last and models would come back on covers and here we are 10 years later and celebrities are still on covers.  I miss my girls though.

The audience clearly loves you. Why did you want to do the show What Not To Wear and why do you feel the women responded to you so favorably?I give the same treatment to everyone.  It’s the same banter and philosophy. Every woman, famous or not, has insecurities and doesn’t necessarily like their hair and if I can help a woman discover how beautiful she is and how great she can feel about herself, I’ve done my job. The medium I work in is hair and importantly, can transform the way a woman feels about herself in an instant.
My publicist asked me to go into an audition for the show and I was surprised and unsure but I went. I remembered Vidal Sasson television and how everything changed for him when he became a household name.  A lot of my growth has come from being on television. What Not to Wear is a great vehicle to showcase my work and myself and how effective a hairdresser can be.  You can’t deny the power of television.

What influence do you think growing up overseas had on your development?

My dad was in the military.  The constant travel helped me develop a wider palate for what beauty is and means.  Moving every two years also taught me skills to easily adapt to different situations. My tagline is Beauty is Individual.  You can be a size 24 or 2 and be beautiful.  It’s about what I can do to help bring out a persons best self.

Can you talk about the power of positive thinking and the effect it's had on your work? 

I believe in the law of cause and effect.  What you put out is what you receive in return. I have to know everything is for my good even when I don’t understand it.  From that philosophy I’ve been able to roll with the punches.  I have a morning practice whereby I mediate, write or read for 15 minutes.  If I don’t have enough time I definitely meditate and read. I read from the Science of Mind by Ernest Holmes. I consider myself to be a spiritual person.

Change is stressful and scary for most people.  You seem to have developed productive and effective skills when dealing with change. Can you tell us about a few of them?

I belonged to a church for a long time that focused on creating your own abundance.  In your world you are responsible for what you create if that’s what you choose and desire.
This question hits on exactly what the teaching was about a few days ago. I hadn’t been in several years and went the other day for the first time with a friend. We sat through the class then had lunch.  Her talk was on change and adapting to change and embracing it. Change is inevitable, it’s how you respond to it.  I love that my career has taken me in many directions because I want to leave a teachable legacy so the next black kid that comes along will have it easier to create something for himself.

Did you envision the life you have today when you began this journey?

Yes and no.  I remember when I was in barber school and said I wanted to work on celebrities.  I always wanted to be famous but didn’t know what that meant.  It was the late 80’s and I went through my training then moved to Austin and around the country then ended up in New York.  I ran the Aveda salon for about eight months then left to enter the fashion business.  The first time I met Angelina Jolie, we did the covers of Cosmopolitan and Marie Claire in London and Patrick Demarchelier shot it. I didn’t know what working with her would do for my career but that’s when it shifted. 

I quickly realized fame was not what I had imagined it to be.  But also, because of it, I was given an opportunity to do good.

What advice would you give to anyone thinking about taking a risk and doing something they love? 

You have to go for it.  There’s nothing worse than living in regret, it’s something you just can’t do.  I don’t think there’s anything I’ve failed at.  There have been mistakes that I consider stepping stones as they took me to the next thing.

Thank you Jenna Abts for help with configs!

 

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Third-Eye Make-up

I was recently introduced to a wonderful make-up artist named Philippine. We did a test shoot together and got some interesting and colorful shots. The whole concept was about a lonely artist who lives in her cluttered studio. She was left at the alter, forcing her to constantly wallow in self-pity as she paints away her sorrows. It was an intense shoot but the images are quite painterly and emotional.


Philippine is currently working on expanding her portfolio, meeting new people and showing off her newly found talent. To look at more of her work, visit www.thirdeyemakeup.com

Model for this shoot was Cecily Alyse :)

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New Faces- i-D Fall 2011

In i-D Fall 2011, New Faces gives us a brilliant and unadulterated look at the up and coming models of today. I love how their portrait of beauty encompasses such a wide spectrum of ethnicities and looks. Each woman has her own distinct story, goals and distinguishing features, making "unique" beauty the new standard. With each passing fashion year, the term "cookie cutter" gets thrown out the window a little more, heightening my excitement to see the new wave of global talent.

Pics via Fashion Gone Rogue

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Marni Spring 2012

Love the new Spring Collection from Marni and so should you!

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Booked for Myspace Relaunch

This week I went to my booking for the Myspace Relaunch at Highline Stages in Manhattan, NY. My booked time was 2:45 pm sharp, it was raining and I still arrived on time. The producer who contacted me about this was very excited to see me when I entered Stage A, my booked studio. I had to create a myspace account because this will be featured on myspace, I actually had to create one on his laptop in Stage A, before I went to Hair and Make-up!  After, I signed in to confirm my showing up for the booking and received my call number. I was number 006.

On to Hair and Make-up - fun fun fun. The MUA was amazing! See was tall and had really long hair, and the best of all she used to be raw and now she's a raw vegan - or as she quoted '60% raw' as well as a vegan. She put a really natural coverage on my skin, the color of my skin is olive so its hard to match the tone(s) of olive skin unless your a very experienced MUA, as she was. I never get to see what she's putting on my face or what I even look like until the finished product or until she's done. When I looked at the finished product I was blown away. Whatever she did to my eyes, they were so seductive, and my lips were like a wine color, and my skin, it was so clean it looked like I wasn't wearing any foundation or concelar. The blush was like wine and desert sand. I say the overall look was romantic beauty.

Then she also did my hair. I went for a dramatic hair style yet classic. It was all down, and she put a curling iron on the ends and parted the front center and curled all around my head, then fixated the curls with her hands until it was perfect. It was very classy, it was like a movie star hair style because I was going to be infront of the camera.

After that I went into the sound stage to get my microphone set up to me. It was put inside my dress around the bra area in the front, and then a tiny black cord was pulled from inside my dress to my back and another microphone was attached to the back of my dress on the inside. I felt like a reality tv star!

I had to do a few photo shots with the clients before I went on camera. It was on a white back drop which was huge like from the ceiling to the ground, with lots of umbrella lightings that were peircing white lights. Then they did some takes of me before we got started, 'Model Nomi Worth take 1', 'Model Nomi Worth take 2', and so on. Finally they were ready, and the show went on.

I gave an amazing insight on my model life, my career goals in modeling, and what the future was for me in the modeling industry. They were so interested, so I knew I was performing well. When I finished, I went over to the catered area to get a little bite to eat and one of the clients from Myspace watched me the entire time while I was on camera and said I did and excellent job. He gave me even more of an idea of what I'd be seeing when this relaunch would go live and featured on Myspace, and told me what a great addition I'd be to their relaunch. He finally said I was an excellent example of what to do when we both went back to Stage A and talked with the producer.

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Ask Joey: Work, Work, Work!

Once again most of these questions could be answered if these members would actively use this site. People – you can’t just join the site and be stagnant on here. This site will only work if you are active members. Request connections/friends, start conversations, get involved! If you want representation, then have your entire profile filled out. Start outreaching to agencies on your own by going to ModelWire’s Fashion Directory. Work, work, work!

Caleb H

My name is Caleb. I am 19 and live currently in Los Angeles. I was wondering if you have any advice on how I could really get into the modeling industry, whether it be a person I could specifically contact, or agency, or a good way to approach both.  

I like your look. Have you tried to make any appointments with any agencies or hit some open calls? You could use more photos in your portfolio. Less sporty shots - get yourself in a suit and tie to round off your book. Hook up on ModelWire Network with a few photographers for test shoots. Then get proactive and hit up the agencies.

Bruno Allegre

I am French and I have been living in NYC for a year, and I am a model with 10 years experience in prints and TV commercials. I work with Bella Agency in NYC, Mega Model Miami, but I am trying to find an agency in LA, with no success yet. I have sent emails to introduce myself, but they never reply. 

You need to ask Bella to find you an agent in Los Angeles, that’s what a mother agency normally would do. They are in on the loop and also collect commission for placing you, so you need to find out who they work with on the west coast. Most agents want to work with talent that live in their market, so it may take some time, but you have a great look, so be patient.

irisleonardo

I would appreciate your feedback on what you think of my look and what you think what type of modeling I should go for. I feel like my short height of 5'5"" has been holding me back from doing much. 

Your height would only hold you back from fashion modeling, but you have a great commercial look and could easily do print and TV work. Take some acting lessons and get yourself an agent to represent you for TV commercials and print.

Alaine Wayne

I wanted to ask some advice from you - basically, I've got everything to be a fantastic model but the height - I'm 2-3 inches too short. I love modeling and fashion - it's one of the only times someone can be "living art," but I've been pursuing this for 3-4 years now with no success. Honestly, should I just chalk this up to an impossibility, due to my height? 

Yes, your book does not make you look good which is one of the biggest reasons you have had no success. You only have one photo in your book that shows that you are a beautiful girl so throw out all of your pics and go commercial. This is not an art form that you can just do as a hobby. If you want to make money then start doing commercial work. You need to start testing with a great photographer, hair dresser and makeup artist and get some beauty shots in your portfolio. You also need to start studying acting for commercials. You have been going in the wrong direction for the past few years.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!

JOEY

Follow me @thejoeyhunter

*Have a question for me? Ask away on my ModelWire Network profile http://www.modelwirenetwork.com/joeyhunter

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Work of Art-- Prada Spring 2012

Prada Spring 2012 is a work of art. It's so pretty, I almost didn't believe it was real. Most collections, I look over the pics once and decide yes or no...but PRADA oh PRADA. Such amazing separates in a color palette that is both feminine and aggressive. A car or hot rod added in here and there with the delicate, soft movement of a knee length skirt and those ridiculously genius heels. Miuccia has been giving us such remarkable collections and such creativity that I find utterly refreshing and rejuvenating. This collection made me giddy like a school girl and I just can't get enough.

Pics via Vogue.com

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Easy Intimates: Loup Charmant

Looking for the perfect slip for that little sheer dress? Loup Charmant, or "The Charming Wolf", is a line of intimates made from 100% airy, Indian Organic Cotton in New York City. These delicate, feminine everyday-basics from the PURE collection range from ruffled bloomers to lightweight tunics in clean whites and blacks. Each Loup Charmant piece looks good enough to put on display for all to see - the signature Scallop dress was inspired by a 19th Century girl's dress, a homage to the designer's ancestry.

I had to stop myself from posting too many pictures because each shot of the collection looks gorgeous so just check out the website for more. Look out for the PURE COLOR collection for an introduction of a little color from natural plant, vegetable and insect dyes.

To purchase on the web, check out BARNEYS or some of the links below.

LOUP CHARMANT: WEBSITE :: STOCKISTS :: BLOG

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