Preparing for Your Photo Shoot Pt. 3 – Get Ready!

You are well on your way to having a successful shoot! You've researched the industry and found a great photographer that meets your needs as well as some fabulous aesthetics professionals to complete your shoot team. That's a lot of work in and of itself so congrats on getting it done AND on budget (that's important too, right?!).

Below is a standard checklist of things you want to do several days prior to your shoot date:

• Wardrobe: If you haven't done so already you should begin compiling all the clothing and accessories you will need for your shoot. If you are using a designer/wardrobe stylist this element of the preparation phase should be a breeze as he/she will handle most of the details based on the type of shoot being conducted. If you can't afford a wardrobe stylist simply speak with your photographer and makeup artist to decide what would work best for the shoot. The color background being used as well as the makeup selection will be heavily influenced by what you wear so choose wisely.
  
• Hair & Skin: Make sure you do any waxing required 2-3 days before your shoot to allow any redness to subside. Areas of major concern are your lips, chin, legs, forearms and, if shooting swimwear or lingerie, your bikini area. As for your skin you want to exfoliate to remove any dead skin and use a moisturizer to soften your skin.
  
• Nails: Be sure to only use clear polish or a French manicure on your nails. Absolutely NO colored polish! Also, if you anticipate shooting barefoot make sure you get a pedicure and exfoliate your feet so they look their best and remember that you want both sets of nails to look the same; don't wear a French manicure and use clear polish on your feet!
  
• Your Smile: VERY important! If you are a smoker or regularly drink coffee or other beverages/foods that stain your teeth you should take time and undergo a full cleaning so your smile is at its brightest. Also, when smiling, make sure you smile just wide enough to show your teeth but not so wide as to show your gum line. This may take some practice and now's as good a time as any to get in front of the mirror and perfect your winning smile!
  

By now you should have also mapped out how to get to the shoot location and relayed it your Aesthetics Team if they are unfamiliar with the photographer's studio site. Remember, you don't want to tarnish your reputation by being late so plan ahead to ensure you arrive in a timely manner. In Pt. 4 of this series on preparing for your shoot you will learn what to bring with you in your model's bag and why it's important to have one. Don't miss it!

Preparing for Your Photo Shoot Pt. 2 – The Aesthetics Team

OK! So you've locked in a photographer, discussed all the details for the shoot such as location (In Studio or Outdoors), deliverables (Quantity of images on CD, number of edits, delivery of the disc, etc.) as well as the model release form (click the link and scroll down for info on what a release is). So what's next?

In order for your images to have more a professional appeal and provided it's within your budget (be aware that some photographers will not shoot you without at least a makeup artist present) I highly recommend hiring an aesthetics team for your shoot. The team members would be comprised of a makeup artist/hairstylist (some makeup artists do both) and a wardrobe stylist.

Just as you did with while searching for your photographer perform your due diligence and check references to ensure you are hiring someone that is reliable and professional. TRIBE! has a diverse listing of such professionals available for you so that you can make an informed choice that's within your shoot budget. Simply submit an email to glam@whosinyours.net for a complete listing of these professionals.

Now that you have the entire shoot team assembled you van begin organizing what you'll need for your shoot which we'll cover in Pt. 3: Getting Ready!

Preparing for Your Photo Shoot Pt. 1 – The Research

A Model's images and book are the single most important tools in getting work. A strong book filled with images that show the model's ability and diversity is crucial to his or her success.

Eventually, you will need to seek out a professional photographer to begin or update your portfolio. Below are a few guidelines to effectively finding the right one to fit your needs.

• What Type of Modeling Do You Do/Aspire to Do? – This question is paramount to the selection process as it will "narrow the field" of choices and focus your search on only those photographers relevant to the type of images you will need based on your needs. For example, if you are interested in commercial print modeling you wouldn't want to include photographers that shoot in the fine art genre. Even if you're dream is to be a Victoria's Secret model you would want to confine your search to commercial print photographers with experience shooting catalog work for intimates/swimwear as opposed to say commercial print for couture/ready-to-wear fashion.
  
• Where to Look? – There are plenty of sites out there where you can connect with photographers in your area such as ModelMayhem.com or Musecube.com. You can also contact TRIBE!™ for a comprehensive listing of professionals in your area that have been verified as providing quality service. For more details send an email with Service Provider Listing in the subject line to myshoot@whosinyours.net to promptly receive a list of available providers. We can have a shoot set up for you in no time!
  
• Who to Choose? – If you make use of our Verified Service Provider Listing we can contact the photographer on your behalf and set up a shoot for you! If you use one of the online networking sites like those above I suggest you send a email or make a call stating your first name, the purpose of the email/call (to discuss the set up of a shoot), your budget for a shoot or request for TFP/TFCD (More on this in an upcoming post) and a request for at minimum three verifiable references to ensure the photographer is on the level.
  

Once you're set on the photographer you want and you've set a date it's time for Phase 2: the Support Staff which includes such people as the makeup artist, hair stylist and wardrobe stylist. We'll talk about how these people complete your photo shoot team and why you need them in Preparing for Your Shoot Pt. 2 – The Aesthetics Team!

Featured Product - Performer Track from Holdon Log!

Just for All Our Actors/Actresses Out There! Get the must-have answers you need to help steer your career towards success!

· What is your Callback Rate?

· What type of Projects do you Book most often?

· How much did you Invest in your career in the last 3 months?

· Which of your Representatives gets you out most often?

· Which Submission Services are working for you?

· How many times did you meet that Casting Director last year?

· What did you Wear to the 1^st Audition?

· Was the income deposited into your young performer’s “Child Trust Account”?

· Have you received payment for that Invoice you submitted?

· How much of your Income did you put towards your “Performer Trust Account”?

Welcome to PerformerTrack (www.PerformerTrack.com): The Most Important & Powerful Tool for Your Performing Career!

PerformerTrack is the cutting-edge webware tool created to empower you and keep you focused ~ ONLINE, ANYTIME, ANYWHERE!

Manage your important Career Details like Submissions, Auditions, Callbacks, Bookings, Income, Expenses, Contacts, Classes & Workshops, and a whole lot more!

JUST FOR YOU!!!! Enjoy 2 months of FREE service as a PerformerTrack Member on your first year of Membership!

Go to www.PerformerTrack.com, join for the year and enter in the following COUPON CODE at checkout: STAGG

Be sure to check out their other products at www.HoldonLog.com and enter Rep ID # 851 when you order!!!

Actresses and Models Use Extreme IV DIE-YET for Weight Loss

It's a shame. It really is. I'm in total shock about this post over at Stylelist. I understand that as models you must maintain a certain level of "thinness" to remain competitive in the industry but I draw the line when it comes to starving yourself just to get work! According to the blog, actresses and models are using an IV drip dubbed a "bannana bag" (because of the color of the liquid) filled with essential nutrients for WEEKS at a time to lose weight and be skinner than their competitors. WTH!!! I don't know what's worse - the industry that demands that women risk their lives for the sake of fattening their pockets or the women that WILLING troture themselves and sometimes DIE just to be in the limelight.

It's one thing to want to lose a little weight to slim down because designers want you to loose an INCH or two to fit their garments but I cannot and will not agree to a model losing a drastic amount of weigh in an abnormal timeframe using ridiculous methods such as this. I don't normally request comments but I'd really like to know your thoughts on this. I don't want to just hear from the models I want to hear from ANYONE with an opinion on this - whether you agree or disagree with this IV DIE-YET!

TRIBE! Launches New Boutique Agency

OK, OK! This post is WAYYYY over due! LOL (Or maybe I did post this and subconsciously just want to toot my own horn again - LOL!!!).

Back in March 2008 TRIBE! launched its model development and management division - TRU Model Management - in an effort to provide a fresh new outlook on the agency experience for models - launched TRU Model Management. Our focus is on offering our models maximum exposure while providing clients with knowledgeable skilled professionals capable of delivering quality results every time.

The agency boasts a gorgeous assortment of models as serving as a testament to Chicago's diverse ethnic makeup and our commitment to offering diverse modeling talent to the masses! To date our models have appeared in magazines, on websites and strutted the catwalk of countless designers and continues to grow its clientele daily! For more information on TRU Model Management check out the site here: Official TRU Model Management Site.

ANTM Winners: What They're Up To

For all you ANTM fanatics check out this post over at TRENDY. They give a play by play account of what the ladies of America's Next Top Model have been up to all the way up to cycle 10. As an after thought check out the ANTM blog here for more on Tyra and the show: http://www.antmblog.com

Enjoy!

October Featured Event – Chicago Latino Fashion Week

Latino and Caribbean designers continue to assert themselves in defining and influencing the world of fashion and the Windy City becomes the talk of the fashionistas at the 2nd Chicago Latino Fashion Week, October 27- November 2, 2008. This seven-day event will include educational seminars, retail trunk shows, celebrity appearances and VIP parties at some of Chicago's hottest venues.

The Industry

Latinos have always been a significant part of fashion as avid consumers and with the coveted looks of designers Oscar De La Renta, Carolina Herrera and Narcisse Rodriguez just to name a few.

Chicago Latino Fashion Week celebrates unity and diversity in the town known for its architectural beauty and offers creative show production and mutually beneficial marketing partnerships with some of the most affluent decision makers, buyers, retailers, and associations including the Great North Michigan Avenue Association, the different Chambers of Commerce, nightclubs and members of the national and International press from around the world and television media coverage.

We invite your company to become a sponsor partner of the most talked-about event in Chicago that will further market your brand to a coveted multi-cultural audience that continues to grow. Visibility within the 2nd Chicago
Latino Fashion Week will radiate with top-class choreography, show design, and a high-impact video montage projecting designer and garment details with sponsor logos.

To learn more about Chicago Latino Fashion Week visit their site at http://www.chicagolatinofashion.com.

October Featured Designer – EightTwentyEight Collection

Three words to describe Suzette Opara: Alluring. Beautiful. Charming. They are also synonymous with her clothing line – Eightwentyeight Collection! Suzette strives to make each piece an extension of her client's personal style and never leaves them disappointed. She has attended numerous fashion events that have increased her popularity among Chicago fashionistas and is always in search of valuable connections to make Eightwentyeight Collection a household name. Not only is Suzette an accomplished designer but a skilled fashion stylist as well! Visit her on MySpace or shop Eightwentyeight collection at SoulFly Boutique In Chicago located at 11614 S. Western Ave. to get your own Eightwentyeight Collection masterpiece!

October Featured Professional – Hair Stylist Smile

Zion Amo Dio, affectionately known by his clients as Smile, is an enigmatic hair stylist with creativity to spare. He began his styling career at an early age grooming male students in grade school in effect becoming the school’s barber. Then, during a conversation with a close relative Zion, albeit with some hesitation, embarked enrolled himself in beauty school with the idea that if he could enhance the self esteem and style of his male clientele surely he could the same for the fairer sex!

To date Zion has worked with prominent Chicago agencies Elite and Ford as well as styled for prestigious publications such as Chicago Social Magazine. He continues to develop his craft and while Zion couldn’t lock a singular long term ambition rest assured that whatever he involves himself with will be a success!

To find out more about this amazing stylist visit him on MySpace or Model Mayhem. Zion also has a model profile viewable here.

Reckless Runway

Check out this brief video showcasing some of the world's top models taking a spill on the catwalk. This should serve as evidence to all models that runway is WORK and not to be taken lightly!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFo_hyEAmHw

Just Say No...to Size Zero?

South African designer StephG is combating against waif thin models with his "Say No to Size Zero" campaign.

“Many designers around the world, even the likes of legendary American designer Marc Jacobs, allow skinny models onto their ramps and make a fortune out of them,” argues StephG.

He hopes to assist models that are struggling with weight issues and is planning to open a crisis center for models suffering from Anorexia

Personally, I think the focus should be on healthy models and not necessarily the size dress they wear... eh, maybe it's the same thing. :)

Read more about StephG and the Say No to Size 0 campaign at http://www.stephgfashion.com.

JLo is Red Hot in White Dress at D&G Event in Milan

OK, this has absolutely NOTHING To do with modeling directly but I just thought - for the male readers out there - I'd post this Hot, Hot HAUTE image of JLo at Milan Fashion Week. This woman is SCHMOKIN'!!! Click the title to find out who else was rockin' it during Milan Fashion Week

TRU Model Management to supply models for Chicago's Prestigous Latino Fashion Week

TRU Model Management is all about community and diversity. That's why we were so pleased that Cesar Rolon, Jr., Executive Director of Latino Fashion Week, will be using our models for several of it's shows!

"It's truly an exciting time - for both the agency and Latino Fashion Week - and we look forward to the experience!" comments TRU Model Management founder and CEO, MIchael Stagg.

CLFW takes place October 27 - November 2 here in Chicago and will feature designes from the likes of James De Colon, Orlando Espinoza and Anna Fong. Also in attendance will be special honorees Jaslene Gonzalez of ANTM fame, Freddy Rodriquez and Veronica Zepeda!

For more information on Latino Fashion Week please visit http://www.chicagolatinofashion.com.

Fashion week features few black runway models

This is part of the reason why I started TRU Model Management - To increase the level of diversity in print, on the runway and everywhere else models of color have been denied the opportunity to excel.




http://www.reuters.com/article/email/idUSN1145982120080912

Affordable Comp Cards Spotted!!!

Greetings TRIBERS!

You know I'm always looking out for you when it comes to saving money. Well, comp card prices can get to be pretty outrageous IF you don't know where to look!

I've posted before with a list of affordable comp card companies and I'm adding one to the list! The company's called Spotlight Printing (catchy, no?!) and they offer pretty competitive pricing (view their price list here). On top of that, you can get custom layouts, rush orders and UV coating for FREE when you order! How cool is that!

So go check out Spotlight Printing and let them know you heard about it on TRIBE! Official!

September Featured Makeup Artist – Stacy Renee

Stacy Renee is nothing short of a phenom in the making! Her love of make is only surpassed by the love she exhibits to her clients. Her attention to detail in conjunction with her creativity is utterly AMAZING! Additionally, her work ethic is something that her peers should take note of; she never leaves a shoot unless she is SURE both the client AND model are satisfied. Beyond being a fabulous makeup artist she's a great person with a huge heart always willing to lend a helping hand at a shoot. To see more of Stacy's work or to contact her for bookings visit her on MySpace.

September Featured Model – Nik’ol Garcia

Nicole, AKA Nik'ol, Garcia began her modeling career while attending Loyola University Chicago on a full basketball scholarship. She just recently completed her B. A. in Visual Communications at the institution and launched Nik'ol Design Studio, a full service graphic design firm. She's a VERY charismatic model just as quick to provide a little comic relief to a shoot as she is to strike a fierce pose! Her long and slender physique coupled with her sharp wit keep her in high demand for print and runway projects. Nik'ol is currently a Signature Model for our model management division TRU Model Management. View more of Nik'ol here or visit TRU Model Management for booking!

September Featured Photographer – Jessi Tetzloff

Jessi is a Chicago based freelance photographer and image enhancement specialist. After graduating from Harrington college of Design with an Associates Degree in Commercial Photography Jessi's focus has been primarily beauty and fashion imagery with an artistic twist though she occasionally dabbles in commercial and stock photography as well. She's considered an "awesome photographer" by her clients – one look at her portfolio will display why. For more information on Jessi visit her site here or shoot on over to her MySpace page.

Polaroid still in the game with the PoGo!

Looks like Polaroid has found a new way to give you your instant print fix! Introducing the PoGo! The device is simple to use - take a pic with your camera phone and then transmit it via Bluetooth to the PoGo and presto! You've got instant images! You can also use a USB cable to connect your digital camera to the device and because it uses Polaroid ZINK photo paper you never need to worry about ink!

At $149 it's a great way to get instant prints. I'll be picking one up for use at model calls and photo shoots where we can use the prints in place of the traditional Polaroids. You can find the PoGo at Best Buy and Target.

TRU News

OK here’s the skinny (no pun intended) on what’s been happening with our model management division - TRU Model Management™.

1. New Email Address and Pending Website – Please note that my primary email address has changed and is now tru@trumodelschicago.com. We have secured the domain name for the site and will begin production of the site soon. The official URL for the site will be http://www.trumodelschicago.com/.
2. New Intern – A lots been going on since march and it’s become increasingly difficult to keep up. SO, to ensure that things run more smoothly I have hired an intern. Her name is Theresa Siaw. If you receive a call or email from her it’s no joke; she works for us! LOL
3. Submissions – Letters of Interest have been sent to several high profile fashion events here in Chicago, specifically those previously mentioned (Fashion Focus & Gen Art’s shows) as well as a special charity event for Spina Bifida. We anticipate that our agency will be well received and that our models will be gracing the catwalks for these events!
4. Addition of 4 New Models – In an effort to increase the diversity of our Standard Women’s Division we have recruited four additional models: Fatimah, Irene, Selma and Nicole AKA Nik’ol . Both models tested well and will make fine additions to TRU Model Management™
5. Submission Packet Update – We will begin submitting the actual runway books beginning September 1st. Only the Standard Women’s Book will be submitted. Prep for the Men’s and VOLUPTUA books are underway.
6. MANDATORY Runway Practice – All Standard Models 5’8 and up MUST attend the MANDATORY runway practices scheduled for September 6th, 13th and 20th ; please ensure that you are available. Practice will be held tentatively from 2pm -3:30pm at 1741 N Western Ave., Chicago, IL 60647 on the 2nd floor. Models must be prepared with 3-4 inch heels and a pair of tank/tee and skinny jeans or FORM FITTING dress. Form fitting tops and skirts are also acceptable. PLEASE BE ON TIME. You will have a 5 minute grace period after which a fine of $2.00 will be owed by the model. If you do not show you will be fined $5.00 and removed from submissions for 30 days. Once we are satisfied with your walk practices will be conducted once per month.

Again, we will begin making preparations for both the Men’s book and the VOLUPTUA Women’s Book in approximately one 30-60 days. Until that time please continue to perfect your craft, keep shooting with quality photographers and contact me with me with any and all questions. Regarding anything in this email (or what’s not in the email!). Thanks for your continued support and just wait – BIG things are on the horizon for everyone that sticks with us and are TRU to their passion for modeling!

TRIBE!™ Happenings

Greetings TRIBERS!

I know some of you have been wondering what's been happening. Well, let me tell you – a LOT has been going on! We are making changes to our main site over at WhosInYours.net such as increasing interactive capabilities, preparing to add a forum and so on.

Additionally, you will be able to not only find local and regional listing of fashion and modeling professionals but you will be able to RATE them as well! So if you work with a photographer and you don't like their professionalism or turnaround time you will be able to voice your opinion on the site (obviously, you will be able to give your favorite professional the "two thumbs up" too!). This will allow others to make an informed choice about who they work with. Think of it as Angie's List for the fashion world!

On top of that, we are working to solidify business relationships with a few choice promoters and event planners to fully launch our event services division Taurus Event Services™. This is going to be HUGE for TRIBE!™ allowing us to introduce our style of interactive events for a discerning crowd of fashionistas and marvelous model friends. It's going to be SOOO HAUTE!!!

On top of THAT, we just completed the first in a series of shoots for our model management division – TRU Model Management™! The Image above is from our shoot with Joe Branske; I'll be adding images soon. All our models did a wonderful job and have proven themselves worthy of the title TRU Models!

That's all for now but stay tuned…we are about to rip the industry a new one!!!

Image Credits

Photographer: Joe Branske

Model: Cindy Loving

MUA: Stacy Renee

So So Sorry!

Greetings TO Fans!

I humbly apologize for the lack of content lately; the business has had it's grasp on me and I'm just now able to take a breather! Fear not though! Fresh new content will be back in effect beginning Monday August 18th.

August Featured Designer – Veronica Ariel!!!

Site: Veronica Ariel

This design star recently graduated with a Bachelors in Fine Arts from the Illinois Institute of Art! She's been designing for the last 6 years and has 20 plus fashion shows to her credit. From concept to final design Veronica meticulously sews ALL her pieces by hand! She received 2^nd place for Excellence in Women's Sportswear during a fashion show in which Project Runway's Mykel Knight was a featured judge!

Her current line - Socialite - is inspired by classic B&W movies of the 40's and 50's as well as young Hollywood (i.e. Jessica Alba, Beyonce and Paris Hilton. "My biggest inspiration is definitely Kanye West. I love his image, his message, his delivery and his style and drive. I would love to be the female fashion Kanye!" says Veronica. If you'd like to find out where you can purchase Veronica Ariel Designs contact her HERE.

August Featured Professional – Joe Branske/Branske Photography!

Site Link: Brankse.com

Joe is one of those rare individuals you meet along life's journey that truly inspire you. Not one for wasted speech Joe says what he means and means what he says. He has a sharp eye for what does and doesn't work for a shot. The result is an image that is lasting and a testament to his ability to effectively brand his client. Click the site link to view more of his work. To contact Joe to discuss a concept or schedule a shoot email him HERE!

August Featured Model – Katie Ellis!!!

Site Link: Katie Ellis

Katie got her first taste of modeling while attending Illinois State University. A group of the school's students got together to produce a fashion show and asked her to participate – she was instantly hooked after the experience! Like many models she longs to be featured in magazines and on the runway for top designers. She also has a desire to be a decision maker in an agency that caters to models outside of the "norm" now recognized in the industry. Outside of modeling Katie holds aspirations of being a nurse. "There is a shortage of nurses in the US; they are very much needed," says Katie. If you are interested in booking Katie for your next fashion shown, photo shoot or promotional event please contact Michael at TRU Model Management.

VOLUPTUA MODEL OF THE WEEK – TESLYN!

Model: Teslyn

Site Link: Teslyn on Model Mayhem

Teslyn is a local plus model on a mission. Although she wants to change the way society views plus women she understands the importance of eating healthy and staying in shape. She is an academic advisor assisting low-income, first generation high school students to attain their goal of attending a four year institution. She is very dedicated and works diligently toward her goal of becoming a successful plus model. Teslyn is part of Project: VOLUPTUA™ which showcases the beauty of plus professionals in entertainment and media. To book Teslyn please contact TRU Model Management at TRU@whosinyours.net.

3 Simple Ways to Get Organized

It's imperative to stay on top of things in this business and that means getting organized. Missed castings, forgotten meetings and late arrivals have no place in the world of fashion and modeling. Below are three things you can do to get organized quickly.

PURCHASE A PDA OR SMARTPHONE – In today's digital world it's a must to be able to receive important information on the go. A Wi-Fi enabled PDA such as the Palm® TX handheld
will keep you organized with its calendar and task features while you're sipping on a latté at your favorite café (must be a Wi-Fi HotSpot). Do yourself one better and pick up a Smartphone such as a BlackBerry, iPhone or Sidekick. Each of these devices allows you stay connected with your email, calendar and To Do lists with the additional bonus of being a mobile phone. You can get an email about a casting or big fashion event, call/text your inner circle with the info and add it to your calendar – SWEET!

USE OUTLOOK TO YOUR ADVANTAGE – Microsoft® Office Outlook® is personal information management (PIM) software allowing you to take charge of all your email and contacts in one convenient location. It also has calendar and task functionality that you can "sync" with most PDAs and mobile phones (like the ones mentioned above). In my opinion, there is no better way to keep track of key contacts or check ALL your email accounts than Outlook®.

USE SPECIALTY ORGANIZERS – Sure you can go to an office supply store and pick up one their boring organizers but it won't allow you to keep track of information specific to your field. That's where the great folks at Holdon Log come in! They offer solutions for actors, models and more including career management software and their pride and joy the Holdon Log Organizer. Stop on by HoldonLog.com today and use Rep ID 851 when ordering and be sure to let them know TRIBE! sent you!!!

Smartphone Image Courtesy: Free Foto.com Outlook® Logo Courtesy: MicroSoft® Office Outlook®
Holdon Log Image Courtesy: HoldonLog.com