Meet our Featured Members Members for April 2012

Here are our Featured Members for April!  Spring has quickly approached us and we are pleased to share with you our latest featured members.  We also have a very special announcement in the upcoming weeks, so make sure you stay tuned.  And we can't stress enough to constantly check your MWN profile and projects page - there are tons of opportunities.  If you would like to be featured or have a project, don't hesitate to reach out to us at suppor@modelwirenetwork.com.  Have a great April!

Model of the Month:  Eric Isaiah Weldon

What is your personal style?

I'm pretty relaxed and laid back - jeans and t-shirts are dressy for me.  Working as a model has definitely changed some of my taste and taught me to appreciate designer apparel.  In the past I was really, really casual. 

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

Lighting of shots is really important to me, whether artificial or natural.  It can really show the photographer's ability to observe and what they allow the camera to expose.  I also like photographers who use a variety of angles and interesting compositions.

What genre does your work focus on?

Personally, I love working out and keeping an eye of my physical condition.  But most of the work I'm chosen for is with my clothes on, so I guess I'm okay if I just take care of my smile!

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I've been lucky enough to book some pretty cool jobs, but working on Germany's Next Top Model with Heidi Klum and all the girls on that show was a great experience which produced some outstanding photos.  Although, working the Academy Awards as a trophy presenter was an unmatched experience that I will never forget.

Who is your favorite model of all time?

Elle Macpherson.  She was the first person I can recall that I identified with the word "model" and I've been a fan ever since.  She seems to be rolling pretty strong!

Photographer of the Month:  Allen Henson

 

Who is your favorite photographer of all time?

Helmut Newton.  I prefer black and white photos and I love anything with a noiresque feel.  And the sexuality - it's perfect.

What kind of camera/equipment do you use?

Right now I'm shooting with a Nikon D3s and a D300.  I consistently rotate between an 85 and 50 prime lens and a 70-200.  If I light, I use Profoto heads.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

I'm currently in South America.  It's wild.  There's not really any rules here, so it's perfect for creativity.  I don't like rules.

What genre does your work focus on?

Editorial.  I don't really like "pretty" pictures.  I get bored easily.  We have to take pretty picture a lot in this line of work.  With the pretty ones I always feel like I'm boring myself.  The editorial is exciting and it's interesting to me.

What is your most embarrassing moment professionally?

I leave the lens cap on a lot.  I notice immediately but it gets a chuckle out of the models.  I'm absent minded like that.

Wardrobe Stylist of the Month:  Lauren Nakagawa

 

Why wardrobe stylist?

Growing up, I loved history, film, fashion and art in general.  If you combine those 4 things, you get my dream job which is Costume Design.  I hold a BFA in Costume Design from CalArts and having that ability to design for all forms:  dance, theater, film, fashion - I realized the business behind the art of Styling.  You can have great designs, but if you can't create new trends and can't pair them with new and old pieces, you won't stand out.  And that is what Styling is to me - it's taking existing pieces and creating new looks from head to toe.

Who is your favorite wardrobe stylist of all time?

I personally love June Ambrose and Rachel Zoe.  They really are the reigning queens of the Styling world.  They dress the stars but also from do so they become stars in their own right.  I also admire Jeannie Mai who is currently changing the face of Asian American women today.  Her funky style and personality is what makes a Stylist a fashion icon - and an attainable one at that.

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

If they have an interesting look (everything but commercial), I'd be interested in dressing him or her.  They need to really want to play and have fun and be open to different looks.  I want a chameleon because I want them to use the clothes and accessories as props.  My styling is only as good as the model that wears them at the end of the day.

What is your favorite store to shop at?

My favorite stores become warehouses.  They are also called Sample Sales at the different showrooms in LA.  I love CC Skye for their jewelry, Michell Kim for 213 Industry and MK2K for feminine pieces, Linea Pelle for her handbags.  And if I'm shopping online, Shopbop.com is my go-to site.

What is your favorite project you have worked on?

Right out of school, I was given the opportunity to custom make Rebecca Hall's brown and turquoise diner uniform for her feature film A Bag of Hammers starring Jason Ritter and Amanda Seyfried.  It was so fun to see something you made on a star and she was so gracious. 

Makeup Artist of the Month:  Lisa G Artistry

 

Why makeup artist?

I LOVE everything about it!  It is like color therapy!  I am always meeting new people, making them more beautiful, plus I get to travel!

Who is your favorite makeup artist of all time?

Oh this is a hard one - I have many.  I think you can always pick up a new trick from working with or watching another makeup artist.  Billy B and Kristofer Buckle make my top three.  But my number one all time favorite is Kevyn Aucoin.  I remember when his first book came out.  At the time, I had no idea that I wanted to be a makeup artist - yet I begged my mom to buy the book for me.  I just thought his makeup work was gorgeous!

What inspires you?

Almost anything can prompt a creative a foray.  I love anything from the 60's and early 70's.  I love big, bold colors.  Nature can inspire me.  I think my latest obsession for inspiration has been Pinterest.  Can we say obsessed with Pinterest!  I love the visuals.  There are so many creative people in the world shooting amazing images and posting the most exquisite photos on this site. 

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

I work with all sorts of models.  Some experienced, some not.  I think the best models are the ones that can really "turn it on" for the camera.  I love it when a model can show confidence while having a friendly personality and a good attitude.

What product can you not live without?

I can not live without Giorgio Armani Foundations, Costco baby wipes (best makeup remover ever!) and Shu Uemura brushes. 

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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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