Utilize ModelWire Network

We get a lot of people asking what to do with ModelWire Network once they sign up.  The answer is actually quite simple - use it.  MWN is an excellent tool to network and make connections within the fashion industry.  On our site, you can connect with hair stylists, makeup artists, photographers, agents, wardrobe stylists, fashion bloggers and producers to collaborate on projects and truly make a great portfolio and career.  The purpose of the site has always been to get together and collaborate.  In the process, you expose yourself to the industry and gain experience to get more work.  You can't expect things to come easy - you really must work hard and truly go for it.  MWN is the perfect site to do that.  The site is what you make of it.  There have been many success stories of people getting scouted through MWN.  So get out there and utilize MWN!  To check out information on our collaboration project, click HERE.   

LAURA HIDROBO
I have been a part of an agency here in San Francisco for about 2 years.  I heard that once you have an agency, you get more modeling gigs and exposure.  For me it has not been the case.  I haven't even had one modeling gig since signing with the agency.  Is it important to have an agency while being a model?  Should I pick a different agency to represent me?  I am not sure how to start.  Before, when I was with an agency, I was getting a lot of work.  When I joined this agency I have been paying for training sessions, two photographer shoots (the first shoot was so terrible that the agency made me pay to retake them).  I have found my own modeling gigs and the agency says I can't take them.  I have been paying them a monthly fee for an online portfolio but the agency has yet to give me any further experience than what I have done without them.  What do you recommend? 

 

 Laura, it sounds like you have been scammed for the past two years.  They have not sent you out on any auditions and they charge you for pictures and training.  Don't you see it??  Get out and do your own thing.  If you need new pictures, reach out to photographers and do them yourself.  Look for another agency, this just screams scam!  You shouldn't have to pay for anything, agents are usually willing to work with you if they believe in you which is what usually happens when you are signed.  What is the name of the agency?  Let us know so we can warn others.  Again, this is a scam - remove yourself from this situation immediately.

ALIX KAT
I would love if you could check out my portfolio and let me know what I could add/do differently.  Any constructive criticism is more than welcomed.  I have a few of my best photos uploaded here.

 

You only have one look in all of your pictures.  You need a variety of shots.  Get rid of the black dress.  You are a commercial model so you need a lot of different photos in different situations/locations.  Do some sporty looks, business looks, etc.  I would connect with photographers on MWN and work on your portfolio.  I'm not getting anything special from any of your photos.

KIA B
I was wondering if I could have your honest opinion about my port.  What do you think of it?  Also, if I could have your advice about submitting to be a Wilhelmina "Curve" model.  Do you think someone like me would have a chance at that agency or another one?  I am really trying hard to seek representation for modeling and acting.

 

Wilhelmina Curves is an excellent place to start.  But first and foremost, you need more pictures.  You only have two in your portfolio.  That is not enough.  Use MWN to connect with photographers before you start going out to agencies.  Your pictures don't stand out.  

SCARSTENS
I have accomplished some small background work in New York using only a headshot portfolio by Susan Shacter.  I would like to peruse more print and commercial opportunities going forward and am considering representation or other avenues in this field to do just that.  Do you recommend a more broad portfolio to achieve these goals or will headshots suffice?  Any next steps you can advise will be greatly appreciated.  Based on my headshots and physical stats, what is your opinion?

 

You are too tall for fashion modeling at 6'5".  You have a great commercial look which means you need more types of pictures.  Headshots are great, but having more variety in your photos will only expand your client base.  Take more photos - not just headshots.  It will only help you. 

CAMERON RIBERIO
If you look at my profile, it's pretty obvious that I'm new to modeling.  In fact, so new that I am just looking for a start.  A photographer has sent me a request here on MWN and I socially don't know how to respond.  When they add me, does that mean they're interested in working with me in the future?  Should I just greet them and leave it at that or should I let them know that I would be willing to work with them? 

 

I like your look.  It's absolutely crucial that at the beginning stages of any modeling career that you make connections, build those relationships and get some work.  Obviously, if someone wants to work with you, take that opportunity!  MWN is a great place to network and collaborate with stylists and photographers to create a great portfolio.  From there you can visit agencies and get represented.  MWN is an excellent tool to get a jump start your modeling career.  Use it.

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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Choose the right agent!

It's time to get specific.  When you go to an agency, there are all types of agents.  It is absolutely crucial that you choose the agent that best suits you.  If you are a commercial model, why would you waste your time trying to get meetings with a fashion agent?  Be specific - agents don't like wasting their time.  Go for agents that are the right type.  Also, make sure to see agents face-to-face.  If you are one of those models that constantly sends your photos to agencies, you will end up in a huge pile of others doing the same thing.  In order for you to somewhat stick out, visit an agent face-to-face.  Give them a piece of your personality.  Don't just be another modeling submitting photos.

ALYSSA BEACH
I have a lot of trouble finding modeling jobs because I am a full time student and work part time.  Do you have any advice for finding jobs?

Do not leave school.  Just find an agent who will work around your school work or put your career on hold until you finish school.  I high believe in achieving your modeling goals, but school is very important.  And at the end of the day, modeling should be able to fit into your schedule. 

SG
Hope all is well!  My name is Sade and I'm a model looking for representation.  I wanted to visit some agencies this week.  Do you have any advice to offer me for my visits?  Thank you!

 

You have all the right attributes.  Just be yourself and make appointments to see New York agents.  You have the fashion look, so hit fashion agents first but be prepared to adjust accordingly.  I would definitely suggest adding more photos to your portfolio.  Agents like to see a variety of looks.

MELISHA
I am an aspiring commercial model.  I also look younger than what I am.  I am trying to sign with agencies and have no luck.  I am sad.  Do you think I have potential based on my photos?  I need all the help I can get.  Please advise me!

 

You definitely have a commercial look.  You need more pictures though!  Three is NOT enough.  You should test with photographers, I really like your look.  But just be forewarned - at your age, it is much harder to start.  Most ladies that you will be competing with have been doing this all their lives.  So focus on getting on more pictures and getting out there.  You have a lot of catching up to do!

BRENDAN TROY
I am loving the site, great job!  I just started modeling here in LA about 6 months ago and have been freelance thus far.  I would love to hear your feedback on how my portfolio is so far and what tips you may have for me to get signed with one of the bigger agencies in the near future.  Thanks.  I'm looking forward to hearing back with your expert advice!

 

I don't see any problems with your look.  You seem to have everything going for you.  I'm not sure what issues you're having, just get out there and see those agents.  One will for sure sign you.  Work with an agency to customize your book and to better represent you.  Again, you seem to fit the bill - just go out there and go for it.

NIKKINI
I have been sending my pictures to modeling companies and I haven't been getting much luck.  In my pictures, I make sure I look as natural as possible.  Are there any tips that you could give me that would make me stand out from me just being another person sending out pictures?

 

You are a commercial model.  Make sure you are approaching the right agents.  Try to get appointments to have face-to-face meetings with agents.  I know it's hard, but don't give up.  Face-to-face works best.  Also, your pictures are all one look and the same outfit.  Boring...get more photos.  Variety is the best.

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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It's time to get serious!

It's time to get serious folks! If you are serious about your modeling career, then do something about it. You need to put the time and effort into your work. This includes your photos, your portfolio, going out and visiting agencies, etc. Most people fall under the Commercial modeling category - do you know how competitive it is? How will you stick out if you only have one look and 4 photos? Get with it! Constantly update your portfolio with new looks, collaborate with photographers and actually make an effort to go out there and get work! Speaking of putting more effort in, please fully fill out your profile - this includes your About Me section. You will stick out with your personality. Offer something that makes you unique!

CORBIN MCCARTHY

I am new to modeling but have had several shoots in my first few months here in LA and really enjoy it. I was wondering if I am going in the correct direction for my "look"? How should I market myself to agencies here in LA? I feel like I could do both high fashion and commercial.

I really like your look. You pictures tend to be on the more "edgier" side. I would suggest doing more test shoots and main stream fashion shots. I can definitely see you with a fashion agency more than a commercial agency. Definitely get out there!

KARINA NOELLE

I'm 5'7", 22 years old and know Commercial is my niche (albeit a rather large one). I've had representation for a little over a year and a half and have never once been sent out. I've gotten the note that people 'don't know what to do with me' and I chalk that up to my portfolio not going in the right direction. If you can take the time to look at it, I would truly appreciate any notes you can give me. It's such an incredible resource to ask someone of your experience for advice and I'm so glad I came upon this website to be able to do so.

I love your look. It's a very commercial one that should be able to sell. It's been a year and you haven't been sent out? It sounds like your agency is just being lazy! Dump that agent. Do more test shoots with different looks - sport, fitness, business, bathing suit. Get serious about getting commercial work. I wouldn't waste my time on your agent. Get more photos - 6 is not enough!

BRANDEN MITCH

I was wondering what makes a person a commercial model compared to a fashion model other than a thin body. Also, based off my look, what market do you feel I should market myself to?

From your pictures, it looks like you can do both commercial and fashion modeling. But based on your height at 5'11", you will have trouble getting fashion gigs. All of your other stats hit the mark though. I would definitely take more fashion shots in your portfolio. Your portfolio looks weak. Use ModelWire Network to hook up with photographers and get some more photos. You have a chance, but you have to work for it.

STEPH G.

I read your About Me section and I see you're very experienced. I was wondering if I could get your opinion on my portfolio - strengths, weaknesses and anything else you feel is necessary. I value your opinion and look forward to hearing from you soon.

You are definitely commercial. Your book has only one look - it's a very weak portfolio. You need more photos! Agencies like to see variety. I think you should take acting classes to try to get more commercial roles. Again, more photos! You can expect to go anywhere in this business with two mediocre photos in your portfolio.

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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McKenna Bird: New Face for Wilhelmina Denver

Meet Colorado beauty, McKenna Bird.  When she is not modeling she enjoys being behind the camera as the photographer.  She would absolutely love to move to New York after she graduates from high school this summer.  Wilhelmina Denver is really excited to see where she will go!

 

 

 

Height: 5'10"    Bust: 33"    Waist: 25"    Hips: 34"
Dress: 2    Shoes: 7    Hair: Light Brown    Eyes: Blue

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The Male Model

Before men's fashion, male models were solely used as accessories to the female models.  That has since changed.  Men have come into their own.  Rates are almost the same for male models and female models, but not really.  There are standard rates that both male and female models will get but the big money goes to the females.  My point is that if you want to be a male model and you are the right sizes and have the current look that is selling, back it up by studying acting.  Take a TV/Commercial class.  All actors are potential commercial/print models.  Female models are taking the big paying jobs doing just fashion and beauty.  But the male model has to be able to do it all in order to keep up. 

KENNY BORCHARD
I would greatly appreciate it if you could look at my small portfolio and give critiques.  I am pretty new to the modeling industry.  I would love to do runway and I think my extensive training in dance would make an easy transition to this area.  I do not know how to start doing runway, so please give any information you can.

A male model has to be able to do it all.  There is no money for male models to just do runway.  From your pictures you have a very commercial look.  You have the right sizes for modeling, but you have to find a commercial agent.  Your dance will definitely help you more in doing TV commercials and Print. 

CHRIS A.
I am aspiring to be a model and am starting to get my portfolio ready.  Are there any tips that you can give me when searching for agencies and making my portfolio more presentable to various talent agencies?

You have a great look but you definitely need to work on your portfolio more.  Fashion is about the clothes.  Fashion modeling is about showing off the clothes, not the lack thereof.  Stop showing so much skin.  I would hook up with some photographers on MWN and a good stylist - that would definitely point you in the right direction.  

JEREMIAH MARTIN
I hope this finds you well.  I have questions on how to market myself to potential agents?  My dream is to be in a Ralph Lauren Polo campaign.  Do my pictures serve me well?

How can I advise you when you didn't post any of your sizes?  If you want to work for Ralph Lauren you have to let your pictures reflect that work.  Have you seen a Ralph Lauren ad?  I would suggest starting over and taking new photos.  And please write down your information - this is crucial for anyone scouting.

DANIEL EHRLICH
My portfolio is crap.  I don't have the money right now for anything more.  I do think I need to resize some photos though because they make me look different - my face looks longer than it really is.  What do you honestly think about my chances for success?  My work ethic and determination are never in question by those that know me, but most things in life are not under our control.  What do you think?

My advice is if you don't have a burning desire to be a model, then I would channel my energy elsewhere.  Your photos aren't necessarily bad, but it sounds like you are questioning your role in the industry.  There are people who live and breathe modeling.  You will get what you put in. 

 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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S U S P E N D Magazine

SUSPEND Magazine, an online based magazine, recently debuted their first official issue.  The digital issue which features art, writing, music and fashion is making its way around the internet getting rave reviews from its readership.  We had the pleasure of speaking to Lovelin Descalso, the art director and one of the founders of SUSPEND.

What is Suspend Magazine?

Launched in August 2011, Suspend Magazine became an independent online based magazine that features a wide range of individuals, groups, organizations and/or companies of all sorts.

 Where did the concept come from?

Diane Abapo, my partner in crime and co-founder of SUSPEND, and I were in the car off to a random photoshoot and we were both trying to brainstorm for a name to brand our idea of our magazine.  I had her express what our magazine would be like and she went off of how she felt about photography and how within magazines, she gets zoned in - her mind suspended within the pages and images.  Sure enough, the lightbulb lit up and SUSPEND was born.  What is it that suspends one's mind?  Photos?  Paintings?  A place?  That feeling of being on stage?  The possibilities are endless.  We just love hearing, seeing and watching what our contributors and featured people have to say and share.  

How do you find content?

The reason we started the magazine was to feature those who have inspired us both as artists ourselves.  We started with people we knew that are artists/musicians and from our features, friends and contributors, our network blazed a fire!

Where do you find the artists to collaborate with?

I went to The Art Institute of California - LA where I gained most of my network here in LA and my partner Diane works within the entertainment industry.  We began showcasing with Collective Aesthetics, an artist collective, in 2010, and that introduced us to a whole new community.  A year later, I began coordinating artists for RSI Wreckon Productions, a bi-monthly hip-hop/art showcase production.  Therefore our artists we collaborate with are from all over the place and from mutual friends. 

 What is your favorite feature so far?

I'd have to say it would be Maria La Rosa, whom most call The Rosas Lady in West Hollywood.  She's featured in our first digital issue based around love.  Our writer, Minerva Contreras, definitely captured her expressions and emotions during the interview.  I've always seen Maria around for years and wondered what her story was.  Finally we were able to hear it ourselves.  She's such a beautiful lady and so full of love.  You should it read it yourself!

What's in store for the future?

Oh my.  I don't what to mention!  I guess I could share that our next upcoming issue will be based around Identity.  It should be interesting.  Everyone is hyped and juiced up for production!  Hopefully we'll be releasing that in April/May 2012.  There's so much we want to throw out there but we're still in the process! 

SUSPEND Magazine - http://suspendmag.com
RSI Wreckon Productions - http://rsiwreckon.com
Facebook:  The Lovelin (Graphic Artist) - http://facebook.com/thelovelin

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Meet Our Featured Members for March 2012

We are excited to present to you guys our Featured Members for March!  We have selected a very talented group who are all active members on ModelWire Network.  Remember - stay active on the site.  It definitely pays off.  People are getting scouted, making connections and getting to work.  If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to contact us at support@modelwirenetwork.com.  Have an amazing March!

Model of the Month:  Morgan O'marro

Who is your favorite model of all time?

I am a big fan of Marissa Miller.  She is from my hometown in Santa Cruz and one of my dreams is to work for Victoria's Secret someday.  She knows how to work her body and face and she is definitely someone I admire.

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

I absolutely love black and white photography.  If a photographer has a lot of b&w in their portfolio I am already interested.  I also love high fashion/editorial work.

What product can you not live without?

I can't live without my favorite perfume!  Laugh with Me Lee Lee by Benefit Cosmetics.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

My favorite project I have worked on was quite recently actually for Fashion 5.0 Magazine in San Diego.  The issue will be released in April!

What is your favorite band or song of all time?

My favorite band of all time is Maroon 5 - Adam Levine is just so sexy!

Photographer of the Month:  CFK Photography (Chris Fox-Kelly)

 
Why photography?

I started my artistic career in drawing.  As I entered high school, I grew tired of drawing.  So I wanted to start a new chapter.  My father had tons of cameras laying around and one day it hit me.  How could I capture art without drawing and still be creative?  The answer was photography.

Who is your favorite photographer of all time?

A friend of mine named Shamel Washington.  He doesn't know it, but his approach to photography is very personal and raw.  His use of angles, lighting and timing allows him to capture the true essence of ones soul.

What inspires you?

Life.  Everyday I wake up and hit the outdoors and I observe something worth being photographed.  Life is forever changing, moment forever happening and inspiration constantly passing you by.  From the innocent kiss before a couple departs on the train to the look in a child's eyes as the giants in the world surround them at a stop light.  The unique fashion in Soho.  What doesn't inspire me would probably be an easier question!

What kind of camera/equipment do you use?

Canon 5D Mark II with an array of lenses.

What genre does your work focus on?

I love fashion editorial.  I love telling a story with my images which is why personality is so important to me.  When people see my images, I want to convey the emotion and feeling that took place during the shoot.  I'm still working to achieve this seamlessly, but it's a wonderful challenge. 

Wardrobe Stylist of the Month:  Taylor Sheridan

Why wardrobe stylist?

As a kid I always wanted to enjoy dressing up my younger sisters, which led to me dressing my friends as a teenager and eventually opening my closet in the model apartments and dressing my friends for our castings.  It was pretty much an ah-ha moment when I realized that styling was an actual job and I could get paid for doing something I already loved and was so passionate about.

Who is your favorite wardrobe stylist of all time?

My favorite wardrobe stylist of all time would have to be Diane Aiello.  She has such impeccable taste, always maintains a graceful demeanor and really truly is an inspiration to work with.

What inspires you?

I am inspired daily.  The people around me inspire me, my boyfriend definitely inspires me, nature inspires me, music, movies and photos inspire me.  Old books, vintage clothes and even their labels are also inspiring.

What is your favorite store to shop in?

My favorite places to shop are the Pasadena Rose Bowl, the Melrose Trading Post, Zara, Opening Ceremony, Last Chance, Dolce Vita, my mother's closet. I could on and on...

Describe your personal style?

I would describe my personal style as boyish, but still feminine.  My favorite outfits are usually blacks, denims, whites and grays paired with a hat or a statement jewelry piece and boots.  My mother taught me "if you don't love it, then don't buy it," and I have always stuck with that motto when shopping for myself.  So I am happy to say that there isn't anything in my closet that I will put on that I don't love!

Makeup Artist of the Month:  Jacqueline Fancher

Why makeup artist?

It's always been fascinating to me - to transform a face, enhance features.  It's all very magical.  I've been memorized by it since I was a little girl. 

What inspires you?

Fashion.  The design of an outfit.  I play off the garment itself and the color or prints I see.  The feeling the piece gives me and of course the setting of which I'm shooting/filming in.

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

A unique face, exotic features.  I look for clean, clear skin and groomed eyebrows.  Amazing bone structure is always a plus.

What product can you not live without?

Highlight concealer (Radiant Touch by YSL).

What is your most embarrassing moment professionally?

I wish I could say I had a juicy story to tell you but I don't.  Maybe communicating via text with a client and SIRI on my iPhone added some expletives.  Thankfully my client got a good laugh about it and I was able to regain consciousness.  I was mortified.  I learned a valuable lesson - read what SIRI types before you hit send.

Hair Stylist of the Month:  MichaelCartier (Michael Onsouvanh)

 

 
Why hairstyling?

Hairstyling to me is so rewarding because I get to change the way people look and feel about themselves and it can be a life changing experience for them.

Who is your favorite hairstylist?

  Oribe.

What product can you not live without?

My L'oreal Infinium hairsprays.  You can do anything with it when you don't have anything else!

What genre does your work fall on?

Beauty and editorial.

What your favorite song of all time?

Unbreak my heart by Toni Braxton.  I don't know why, I just have an obsession with that song and her!

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