To retouch or not to retouch, that is the question

When it comes to retouching your photos, I always suggest keeping things natural.  Why?  Because when a client sees you in person, they're going to expect you to look like what you look like in your photos.  Unless you have a retoucher that travels you, you should probably keep things as natural as possible.  Don't go Photoshop crazy on your portfolio, it will only hurt you.  It's those little quirks that make you unique and will ultimately determine whether or not you land the job.

LAUREN CHRISTINE
Thank you for the friend request.  When you have a moment please take a look at my portfolio of pictures.  I'd like to get your advice on which ones you think are stellar before I have them retouched.  I just finished this shoot so I have a lot more to choose from as well.  Thank you!

Don't retouch at all.  Natural photos are better.  Also, you have two different looks going on .  It's confusing.  Choose a look and stick to it.  Get rid of the wigs.  I like the real look a lot more.  There is more work for that look. 

COURTNEY B PINCUS
Thank you so much for answering my question.  Do you see potential in my pictures?  Of course I'm too short for runway, but I would really appreciate a professional opinion.  I seem to only be getting responses from scam agencies. 

You have a great look.  It's definitely a commercial print and TV type of look. The problem is that actors are all competing for the type of work you're right for.  They have the edge because they know how to act.  I would suggest taking some acting classes and going out for auditions.  You live in New York City - it's all there. 

MATTHEW THOMAS WARD
I'm just getting started in the modeling/acting thing.  My "port"is from my first session which mostly focused on an "All-American dad" and "corporate" look (this is what my agent wanted).  So we'll see what comes out of it.  I am a single dad, so that should be an easy look for me.  I would like to do something more artsy and classic.  Maybe a little sexy, but nothing over-the-top.  I'm in great shape these days.  I'm just a little confused about what I should be focusing on and what a realistic goal should be for someone like me.  I figure you'd be the guy who would know!

You have to go with the look that you're comfortable with and the one you see when you look in the mirror.  If the casting people see you differently, let them book you and make you over the way they see you.  The industry is about being yourself and what you're comfortable with.  That's what will get you jobs.

BETHANY S
I recently emailed The Rex Agency and Jed Root inquiring about representation.  I sent my resume and my online portfolio.  Both responded that they weren't looking for new artists to represent but if I was interested in testing or assisting.  Is this a good response from an agency?

Bethany, yes - that's a GREAT response.  They must love your work.  You should definitely take advantage of this situation and work with them.  Remember, build relationships and they'll constantly want to work with you.  You have to start somewhere and this is an excellent place to start.

JUSTIN MYNEAR
My biggest question that I've wanted answered for some time is how does a model get from the beginner spot to being a full fledged model.  I would love to get some print work under my belt and I also think I'm ready for it.  Feedback would be greatly appreciated! 

I like your photos, but they are all the same.  I'd suggest putting some clothes on and trying out different looks.  Your photos will predict what kind of jobs you get and the type of agents that will go for you.  I guess the next step is to decide where you want to be in this business.

In the meantime,

Have a successful day!
JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

*Have a question for me?  Ask away on my ModelWire Network Profile

 

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Sh*t Fashion Girls Say...at New York Fashion Week

There are so many videos like this, but this is just too perfect - especially for New York Fashion Week.  Love it!

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Clothes from Oscar Nominated Films at FIDM

Running through April 28, FIDM in Los Angeles is showcasing clothes from Oscar nominated films.  With all of the Oscar buzz surrounding The Artist, you can check out the beautifully themed costumes from the actual movies.  This is the 20th Annual Exhibit of Costumes.  There are 100 costumes from over 20 movies.  The Artist was filmed in black and white - go see what the real clothes look like!

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How to produce your own outdoor photo shoot!

Last November I produced my own photo shoot for my jewelry line!  I had little idea what a large undertaking it was!  I decided to do a gypsy/vagabond theme, so I wanted to shoot outdoors, and get the story across with the location, prop and wardrobe styling.  First things first, if you would like to shoot at a local park or nature area, call the park in advance to find out what days they are available for shooting.  Many places are incredibly busy, like Vazquez Rocks, so you will need to know what days they have open.  I opted for Placerita Canyon in Santa Clarita.  Make an appointment at the park, and do a walk-though with the park ranger to let them know exactly what and when you are planning on shooting.  If approved, the park ranger will sign an approval form for you to move ahead and get your shooting permit.

Now, to do a shoot at one of these parks, you will need a permit.  To obtain one for a Los Angeles county park (full list of LA parks here), you must contact Film LA.  You will then be assigned a coordinator for your project.  You will need to get insurance for your shoot, short term insurance is available locally, or if your photographer already has insurance, that will cover your shoot as well.  Film LA needs a COI (Certificate of Insurance) from your photographer, they will not issue you a permit without insurance.  Luckily, my photographer Marilyn Nakazato already had insurance available for my shoot!  Film LA typically needs about 3-5 business days to issue you a permit, so be sure to give them as long a lead time as you can. There are fees involved--for the permit, it's about $60.00, and if you shoot at an LA County park, it's an additional $100.00.  Also keep in mind that the park you choose will also charge you a separate day rate, and depending on the park, it could be anywhere from $80.00 - $250.00 per day.

At the same time, while coordinating between Film LA and your location, you must coordinate with your photographer, hair stylist, make-up artist, models, and assistants to find out which day is available for all of them to shoot!  Sounds easy, right?  LOL!  But first, before you coordinate with your team, find out which days the park is available to shoot! 

I chose Placerita Canyon since it had a beautiful rock formation, overhanging trees, lush green meadows, and an amazing dry creek bed.  Also, the park had an available prep room with electricity (for hair/make-up), and adjacent bathrooms!  There were other beautiful nature areas, close to Lancaster, but they have no restrooms and electricity.  (Unless you're bringing a trailer!)  Park ranger Frank Hoffman was very helpful, and kind enough to even share some of his food and beverages with us!  Below are more images from the Placerita Canyon shoot.

Now if you don't want to do the whole "shooting with a permit" process, you can always go "shoot guerrilla-style!"  Just find a place you want to go to, and start shooting!  But keep in mind, park rangers and cops CAN enforce you to leave, since it's technically illegal to shoot anywhere public without a permit.  However, it can still work if you go somewhere remote enough, where no one will bother you.  For my shoot's second location, we shot "guerrilla-style" at Franklin Canyon park--although we had to keep hiding from the ranger trucks that were always patrolling the grounds.  Below are a few images:

 Best of luck with your own shoot!  Images courtesy of Marilyn Nakazato, hair and makeup by Emily Christison, models are Tashina Hunter, Tyler Batson, and ModelWire Network member (and my intern!) Jamie Nocher.  Prop assistant:  Jodie Guirey.  Photo assistant:  Michele Rivera.  Wardrobe provided by Tashina Hunter (dresses),  Madisonpark Collective, and Cityzen Green. 

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Hairstylists and Makeup Artists Need Representation Too

Just like models and actors, hairstylists and makeup artists need agents too.  The thing with hairstylists and makeup artists is that it's all about your personality - you need to be able to get along with the models, producers, photographers, etc.  A lot of you ask what's the best way to get out there.  My suggestion is that you work closely with a specific agency and build that relationship.  Ask to work with their fresh faces or kids department.  Don't be afraid to experiment with agencies - show them everything you've got.  In due time, they'll be asking you to do more jobs.  Just make sure you work well with everyone; your personality will be your key to success!

LADY LISA
I am a hairstylist currently working in a salon, however my main goal is to do mainly editorial work (print).  I am in the process of networking and building my portfolio.  If you have any advice for me, I'm all ears! 

You already said it - you definitely need to build your portfolio.  You have nice work.  Go out and work with small agencies and become their 'go-to' hairstylist.  You should also consider adding more photos to your portfolio.  Perhaps some professional ones from the shoots you've worked on.  Again, I like your work.  Keep at it.

JACQUELINE FANCHER
Hi Joey.  I'm a makeup artist and I'm just breaking into the world of plus size modeling.  I would love to hear what advice you have for me.  Your critique and guidance is much appreciated.  Thank you in advance.
 

I'm confused of what you're asking - are you a makeup artist or a plus size model?  If you're a makeup artist for plus size models, you should be able to do makeup on any face, plus size or not.  I'm just unclear of what you're asking.  Looking at your pictures, I like what I see.  You should work with all different types of people.

BIANCA MCMILLAN HAIR/MAKE UP
Hi Joey, I just joined ModelWire Network and enjoyed reading your article providing feedback to models.  I am a hairstylist and makeup artist living in Los Angeles and would appreciate any suggestions on venturing into high fashion, editorial and more runway work.

I suggest you get friendly with an agency.  When you work with an agency you get to meet models and photographers and people who are behind the planning of a shoot.  In return, you can build your portfolio with more photos.  It's important to build that relationship.  That relationship is how you'll get an agent.  It's important that you focus on working on that relationship.  Good luck!

MARIE WOOD
I just wanted to know what exactly do agencies such as Ford look for when hiring a makeup artist?  What are the standard requirement for a portfolio book to be accepted by a major agency?  Is there a certain look or a particular style that seems to stand out above the rest? 

Work with different agencies.  Ford (like all agencies) is looking for a makeup artist that gets along with agents and models harmoniously.  Everyone works as a team and they promote each other.  If a team of agents, models and photographers like your work and enjoy working with you, they'll ask you to keep coming back.  I would start small and work with a local agency.  From there you can move to bigger agencies.  

 In the meantime,

Have a successful day!
JOEY

Follow me @TheJoeyHunter

*Have a question for me?  Ask away on my ModelWire Network Profile

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M.I.A.'s Bad Girls

Loving EVERY outfit in this video.  If you haven't seen it yet, you will not be disappointed!  Not to mention, this song will get stuck in your head.  Just a warning...

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Marni for H&M

Here's the recently released commercial for Marni for H&M.  It's directed by Academy Award winner Sofia Coppola and is beautifully done. Very excited about this line...

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Super Bowl Fashion

 There was some sort of huge football game yesterday...but to be honest, the real show was the Halftime show featuring Madonna, MIA, Nicki Minaj, Cee-Lo and LMFAO.  Did you check it out?  53 year old Madonna showed us that she is still on top and the best part was she looked amazing doing it!  Probably because her outfits were by Givenchy and Bulgari!  Check out some of her jaw dropping outfits during her show!

 

 

 

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Meet Our Featured Members for February 2012

This month we are proud to announce that we have over 5,000 active members on ModelWire Network!  Thank you for continuing to use the site - don't forget to reach out for collaborations.  Remember, the site benefits everyone - go out there and get to work!  Here are our featured members for February.  If you have any questions, concerns or comments please don't hesitate to reach out to us at support@modelwirenetwork.com.  Have a good February!

Model of the Month:  Alanna Gilbert

What do you look for when selecting a photographer to work with?

When selecting a photographer to work with I pay special attention to how they showcase their models.  I like them to pick images which the models are strong and graceful, not only showing off the photographer's artistic eye.  I also like fashion photographers who have a dark and edgy quality to their work, and that special something that hold viewers attention.

What genre does your work focus on?

My modeling is definitely on the fashion side, but I would love to pursue more editorial looks.  I also have to force myself to get some commercial looks in there, it's essential in Los Angeles.  Soon I want to work in New York and focus on fashion and editorial if I can.

Describe your personal style.

My personal style has evolved to a more adult version of the rocker girl I was as a teenager.  I always rock my torn leather jacket and dirty Chucks with band tees.  Lately I've been incorporating some bohemian to mix it up, anything with a cool edge.

Why modeling?

It's either being a model or photographing them.  Either way it's going to be in my life.  It is my life.

What inspires you?

What inspires me the most in modeling is following a young upcoming model during her ride to the top.  It makes me feel as if I could do the same.

Photographer of the Month:  Bruce Gilling

 

Bruce Gilling is an English man who has traveled worldwide for the last 25 years and lived in 9 fantastic countries including Italy, Germany, Spain, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, UK, New Zealand and Australia.  He bought his first DSLR camera in 2005 when his son was born and that has opened up a whole new world!  His new passion and goals are to create a famous name for himself in photography.

Wardrobe Stylist of the Month:  Envieux Style (Christianne Lefebvre)

 

Why wardrobe stylist? 

I love using clothing to help bring a story to life.  Whether it is in a photo, on the runway, or in someone's personal collection, it's all about the visuals.

What inspires you?

Old movies, vintage glamour, travel, music, etc.

What is your favorite store to shop at?

I love local boutiques that I can mix affordable style with vintage designer pieces.  One of my favorite stores right now is Sofia Vintage.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?  

I really enjoyed my latest Chicago Fashion Focus week series with 5 nights of local designers and boutiques.  We had some great collaborations and all teams involved in each show were amazing!

What genre does your work focus on?

My work mostly focuses on commercial, editorial and runway.

Makeup Artist of the Month:  MROD Hair & Makeup (Michelle Rodgers)

What do you look for when selecting a model?

I look for a model that can handle any type of makeup, facial features and bone structure.  Whether it's for beauty, editorial, fashion, etc.  Can the model pull off a clean makeup and kill it with a strong high fashion look?  What hairstyle can the model handle?  The model's body type and how well she or he can showcase wardrobe.  When I see that the model can bring it all together, then I know I have done my job in finding the right model.

What inspires you?

I'm inspired by different colors and textures.  Looking to see what I can do to bring my next project together.  Watching a classic film, or viewing a fashion show, looking at the latest fashion magazines.  And of course, keeping my eye out for the next latest trend!

What product can you not live without?

My all time favorite product that I must have on set is Make Up For Ever HD Foundation.   It covers beautifully, sets fast and works well in any environment.

What is your favorite band or song?

Well that's a tough one because I love music!  I mostly listen to house and alternative rock.  My two favorite bands right now are Oceanlab and Three Days Grace.

What is your all time embarrassing moment professionally?

I had just gotten off a long flight, was heading to the studio, and the photographer introduced me to the wardrobe stylist.  I went to go and set up my gear and then told the girl that I had just met that I was ready to start working on her.  She looked at me with confusion and reminded me that she was the wardrobe stylist and not the model!  I went to have a cup of coffee and the REAL model showed up 30 minutes later...

Hair Stylist of the Month:  GlamMe Beauty (Jontynise Smith)

 

Why hairstyling?

Design has always been a part of my life.  My grandmother was a craftsman and my mother is the most creative person I know.  So I think it's always been in my blood to do something artistic.  I didn't choose hair styling, it chose me.  I've been doing this since before I even knew what I was doing.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I think my favorite project so far has been the "Presenting Ana" photo shoot I worked on with Erin Delsigne Photography.  I think it was because the model Ana was amazing looking, very young and fresh.  And also because I, with Erin, had the opportunity to do some fashion styling and that really excited me because I love fashion almost as much as I love hair!

What is your personal style?

My personal style, just like my beauty style is very versatile.  I like to do various looks depending on my mood, location and surroundings.  But most of the time, no matter if it's bohemian, classic, retro, trendy - my look is definitely Glam!  I love big superstar hair or a sleek and sassy cut and definitely glamming it up with some makeup and heels!  Heels are a must.  If I had my dream closet, I would only want two pairs of flats and a room full of heels!

What product can you not live without?

The styling product I cannot do without is 'It's a 10 Miracle Leave-in Conditioner.' It really is a miracle in a bottle.  It provides so many benefits to the client's hair like heat protection, control and moisture.  I use it on every client!  The makeup product I cannot do without is Mary Kay Medium Coverage Foundation.  I love this foundation the most because it offers great coverage with a lightweight feeling and it comes in so many skin tones.  And best of all, it's under $20 and lasts forever.

What genre does your work focus on?

One of the great things about my company is that we don't focus on a particular genre.  I always say that my 'specialty' is 'everything'.  I do commercial, editorial, beauty, glamour, set and headshot, and I'm also open and ready to learn something new and be involved in other avenues.  I really don't like limitations, so I try not to limit the scope of my opportunities.  I love having the variety in my life and my work. 

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