Ask Joey: Make Sure They Are Legit

I am excited to see that everyone this week is gearing up to seek out representation, but just because someone says they are an agent does not mean they are legitimate. There are so many unethical establishments out there. Before any of you start setting up meetings and especially before you sign any contracts, make sure you have done your research. Find out their history. Who do they represent? What clients do they work with? Have any of their clients achieved any kind of success? If you don’t have time to do that then at least go to ModelWire’s fashion directory. I can contest that all of these agencies and managements are all the real deal. If a place doesn’t feel right then it most likely isn’t. Just because you want an agent doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be picky.

That also goes for any other networking sites. I know a lot of MWN members are members on other sites, but you need to be careful. Most places claim that they have ties with agencies, but I talk to our agents everyday and most agencies are not allowed on social networking sites – especially MM. Why do you think we created MWN? We did so our agents had a place to scout talent and industry professionals could actually gain genuine exposure.

Tim W.

My manager/photographer sent in an application to One Source Talent. They gave me a call saying they were interested and gave me an appointment time. I went in for the appointment; it was fun and went well. The young lady that interviewed me seemed very interested, and told me some things about OST. She put me down for another appointment for a photo shoot. I need advice on how to be when I go back.

First of all, I am not familiar with One Source Talent. I tried looking them up but there are a couple different companies with the same name and they all sound like other social networking sites. In this industry is all about networking and I understand why some of our members have accounts on multiple networks, but most of them are not legit. I am not sure why a networking site would make you do an interview – especially if they don’t even have agencies using their database. MWN has over 150 agencies with access to the database and we don’t require interviews.

If they happen to be an agency, are they making you pay for the photo shoot? If an agent wanted you to sign with them they would try to get you a free test shoot. You should know that you are more commercial than fashion – don’t throw your money away. Also if your manager is also your photographer have him take more photos of you. Or better yet, get rid of him because he does not sound legit either. I don’t know many photographers who are also managers. They are either a manager or a photographer not both.

Jasmine Coussinat

I am currently seeking representation in Los Angeles and New York. I am with Marla Dell Talent now in San Francisco, I would like for you to view my profile and tell me what you think. I would love to hear your feedback.

If you are looking to embark in the modeling industry I would start by getting yourself more photos. I like the one you have in your profile, but there is only ONE. You need to have a book when seeking out agencies. Hook up with a couple different photographers on MWN then get out there and find yourself an acting and TV agent who also has a print division. Make sure your resume is up to date.

Chelsey Procino

I am definitely seeking representation & I've updated my portfolio. I'm from Delaware & it's a little more difficult to get my foot in the door in this industry. I'm hoping this network will give me the exposure I need to get a connection. Please feel free to look at my link at http://www.modelwirenetwork.com/ChelseyProcino If you have any other recommendations, I would really appreciate it! Thanks so much!!

Try calling T.H.E Artist Agency or Patricia Baker of FHG Management. Both of them are great places for representation and are in your area. I think your book is ready for you to start getting yourself into those meetings.

Nomi

Please review my portfolio. Thank you.

I think it is good enough to go out there and find you an agent. You live in NYC so start knocking on some doors. Make sure you are going to agencies open calls, even if you have been before. I hope you know that you look more commercial than fashion. Maybe that is why you haven’t found an agent yet.

Bryan Imperial

I was wondering if I could get some advice from you as to what you think about my portfolio. I'm very new to the industry and any advice would be wonderful.

I also think your book is good enough to start looking for an agent. Don’t spend any more money. There are a few in Las Vegas. Otherwise you are close enough to look in Los Angeles. Start doing your research! As I said before, agents like looking at your photos but then will have you test with their photographers so they can say they created your look.

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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Style.com/Print

It's very rare that a website decides to go print - usually it's the other way around.  Leave it to Style.com to do things differently.  The famous website will be launching their new print magazine Style.com/Print on Monday and they offered a sneak peek into what you can expect which includes a top 10 of readers' favorite Spring 2012 shows, Q&A's with designers, features, and my favorite - DIY!  And check out who's on the cover, one of my favorites, Lindsey Wixon!

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McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Prada and Moncler make Edible Fashion Beautiful

Lettuce by Alexander McQueen

Photographer Fulvio Bonavia shot some "Food Dresses" for Garage Magazine.  What was the inspiration?  Food and Fashion!  Check out dresses made from lettuce, oranges, anchovies and walnuts.  The best part?  They're designed by Alexander McQueen, Louis Vuitton, Prada and Moncler.  You can check out Fulvio's other work (he loves photographing stuff made from food) in his book A Matter of Taste.  I'm loving the way these look - they look absolutely stunning!  But I really don't know how I feel about wearing a dress made out of fish...  

Anchovies by Moncler

Walnuts by Louis Vuitton

Citrus by Prada

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Rachel Zoe HQ x Who What Wear x The Coveteur

Having been an avid fan and admirer of Rachel Zoe and her amazing empire, I couldn't wait to get the insider's look at her headquarters here in LA. We've all seen glimpses on her show, The Rachel Zoe Project, but this petite tour lovingly shot by Who What Wear and The Coveteur was a different ball game. First off, how amazing is her office? It's like a fashion fairy tale: the kind I dreamt of when I was a wee child. Shoes upon shoes upon bags and the most covetable designer and vintage pieces. RZ headquarters is officially one of the chicest offices I've seen to date. And seriously, what fashionista wouldn't want to work there?

Pics via The Coveteur 

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Ask Joey: Top Ten Excuses Agents Will Give You

1. You are too short
2. You are too tall
3. You are too commercial
4. You are not editorial enough
5. We already rep a model that looks like you
6. Your look is not selling its out dated
7. You are too exotic looking
8. You are not exotic looking enough
9. You need more pictures
10. We love your look! You are amazing!!! But….we can’t take on any new models at this time.

Those are just some of the excuses that an agent will give folks that they do not think should be in the modeling business, but are better suited for telemarketing.

Jamia Eaton

I would love some constructive feedback on my portfolio. I am actually in search of representation and if there are some things I should tweak it would be greatly appreciated.

Your book is ready to present to agents. You have all the right stats. Start making appointments. If you do find an agent know that they are going to have you re-do your book, only because agents like to believe that they ‘create’ models and are God.

  

SHAN JAYSIO

Can you please look over my pictures I am currently working on 5 more projects until Sept and then I want to look for an agency to sign with.

What are you waiting for? Get out there! I really like your look and your book is great! Use our fashion directory to make meetings for yourself. It is always best to meet in person.

Jon de Vanderbilt

I am new to the industry and would like some guidance as to agents, casting agencies, etc. I am looking to get into print and commercial.

 Jon, you live in the largest commercial market in the world. At the same time it is the toughest market, as every actor/model in your age group is also looking for work. Another disadvantage is they have been doing this their whole lives. It is hard to break in at your age, but if you have the desire, go for it. There is always room for one more.

Get the Ross Report for actors and casting directors and go to the MW directory and find yourself a commercial print agent.

CA Nushi

I have inspired to be a model since the age of 10 - I am 25 and I am still trying. I’m working on my portfolio right now. I really wish I could freelance and get jobs with clients directly because it’s been so hard for me to land management with an agency. I want this full time and to make a name for myself. I feel I have what it takes. May you look at my portfolio and tell me what I am lacking? I would appreciate any feedback you have. What do the agencies need that I am not providing them? How do I get signed? How do I get jobs?

 You are too short for fashion.  Your portfolio is going in the wrong direction. Your book is too glamorous, when it needs to look and feel commercial. I love the pictures, but they will not sell you. I know you see yourself like this, but get real and do more lifestyle shoots.

Henry Nwachuku

I am actively seeking representation and employment as a model. Based on your experiences, I know you can definitely help me get work, as well as keep me in the industry

First of all I can’t help you in the industry, only you and you alone can make this happen. I would advise you to test, test, test and test some more. You live in NYC and have no excuses for why you aren’t working all the time. You are more of a commercial type than fashion. Once you have a solid book then you should start making appointments with some commercial print agents. You should also take some acting lessons.

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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Social Networking Shoes

Keds has created a series of social networking shoes for Twitter, Facebook and Google Buzz.  Yes, Google Buzz (I didn't know people used that EVER).  Currently, you can't purchase them - they're just a concept idea by graphic designer Lumen Bigott.  What do you think?  Do you think people will "Like" these?

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Annette Dana: New Face for Scout Model & Talent Agency

Annette Dana: New Face for Scout Model and Talent Agency

Height: 5'7.5" (171cm)     Bust: 33" (84cm)     Waist: 25" (64cm)     Hips: 34" (86cm)     

Dress: 2     Shoes: 7.5   Hair: Light Brown     Eyes: Blue

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Fall 2011 Model Casting Look

The look has arrived for Fall 2011. Casting calls will increase this season and models should be prepared to go out in fall weather. The look this fall is: sleek hair and all black attire. I recommend black skinny jeans, a long black cami, and nude stiletto heels. Hair should be worn in either a ponytail, bun, or clipped up. No jewelry and no make-up – keep it simple. 

The best hair product for getting sleek hair is from Fructis Garnier ‘Sleek & Shine’. For fragile curly hair I use Fructis Garnier 'Length & Strength'. For long hair I recommend a ponytail if it is naturally straight and a bun for medium hair if it is wavy. Please keep in mind that casting directors tend to ask that you take out your hair clip/ponytail/bun, in order for them to see how long your hair is.

The best black skinny jeans are Joe's Jeans. I prefer the Joe's Jeans jeggings in black grunge. The jeggings are very comfortable and easy to walk in. They do run long which is great for tall models and they come in my different styles and colors. The Joe's Jeans jeggings show off your model figure perfectly! This is great when casting directors see you in person aside from your portfolio and/or agency site.








The best long black cami is from American Apparel. I prefer the long cami because it covers your midriff and lower back when you are walking. The long length also prevents figgiting and tugging.

Nude stilleto heels are up to you, you never want to get cold feet. The heels should be comfortable enough for you to walk in them for a long period of time. My nude stilleto's are mesh material, very comfortable and stylish. I managed to find them at a thrift store in downtown Manhattan. Here is another great pair of nude pumps that I recommend from Sole Society called, Charlotte.

Remember: Modeling is simple, so when you dress for a casting  - make it simple!

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VENIUS - A Chic Solution to a Bad Hair Day!!

If you are a woman of style but has to deal with endless bad hair days and never has enough time to deal with it. Then stop stressing because Venius was created just for you!

Venius is a distinct collection of accessories specializing in fashionable unique turbans, scarves and headbands. Their turbans are designed to protect, seal, and empower that Bohemian Spirit that defines CULTURE, STYLE, and FASHION!

More importantly the collection is fashionable yet functional for all aspects of your lifestyle. 

 

MWN models: Carley and Dana Tonnone can testify to the quality as they recently collaborated on Venius' Look Book photo shoot.

Carley

Dana Tonnone

Tomorrow, October 19, 2011 Venius will be hosting their LA fashion week show, ‘An Evening of Fashion Bohemian Royalty’. Venius’ collection will be featured with various designer looks.

To top it off DanaTonnone, Caleb H, Aksana Guzman and Shan Jaysio all who are MWN members will be the featured runway models.

When:  Tomorrow, October 19, 2011 at 7:30pm

Where:  Tiara Cafe 127 East 9th Street, LA, CA 90015

They promise drinks and cupcakes will be present to entice and satisfy your palette. The event will also include a Pop Shop so you can leave with your very own turban.

Make sure you RVSP via http://www.facebook.com/turbansbyvenius

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Spring 2012 Beauty- Models in the Street

The spring 2012 shows brought us stunning runway beauty. Soft, feminine hair. New, chic ponytails. Bold colors on the eyes and lips. As someone who usually focuses more on the clothes and shoes, I found particular interest in the SS 2012 beauty for it's effortlessness and natural touches. It was an ease of wearing accented by the models looking gorg in their own clothes, with the show make-up and hair still glowing with perfection. I'll definitely be trying some of these looks soon and hopefully come close to the runway splendor.

Pics via Vogue.com

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