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Sunday, May 29, 2011

Promoting Yourself as a Model on Social Networking Sites


For freelance models, social networking sites are great for self-promotion.
Some sites are more appropriate for promoting yourself as a model than others.  (Please note that this post is based on my own personal experience with social networks).
A few things to remember before joining a social network as a model:

~Your modeling goals.

~Who you would like to meet.

~Why you want to model.

~Be realistic in your expectations.


The biggest issue with joining social networks as a model is that sometimes you will get offers from people that you don't want to work with, which will end up wasting your time.

Another thing is that anyone can be anything on the Internet, and it is very important to test the legitimacy of every job offer that you get by doing a Google search of the person who sent you the email. You should also Google that email address to see what comes up. Legitimate people usually have email addresses in the format of name@companydomainname.com and not joeblow@yahoo.com (or gmail or hotmail).

Also, remember that legitimate fashion agencies do not send modeling offers via Facebook, Model Mayhem, Myspace, or other networking sites. You have to submit yourself to such agencies, and they have hundreds or even thousands of people like you submitting every day.

Two of the most popular social networks for models/photographers/clothing designers/make-up artists are ModelMayhem.com and OneModelPlace.com. Additionally, there is also Ujena Talent (although there are not a lot of Canadian models/photographers on there).

There are also many websites which attempted to take the design of Model Mayhem and reproduce it. However, Model Mayhem is one of the first, and it has about 2 million members, so if anything, that is the one to focus your efforts on.

The idea of social networks is that you have to be...well, "social". Which means that you should comment on people's portfolios, pictures, use the forums (but don't troll or create drama), express interest in working with people, and add them as friend.

If you join a networking site expecting that people will flock to you like crows to a piece of bread without any effort on your part, you are highly mistaken. These sites have a lot of members, and you have to stand out (in a good way) and be active to be noticed.

Myspace is, at this point in time, pretty useless for promoting yourself as a model. It worked for Christine Dolce when it first began, but that time is done. Now, Myspace is flooded with bands who spam your comments/messages and girls doing the duckface with self-shot pictures saying "Look at me! Add me!". I have a Myspace account, but I can tell you that I have not booked any work through it. However, it has brought a little bit of traffic to my blog, so that's why I haven't deleted it yet.

DeviantArt is good for checking out other people's work for inspiration and having a large watcher list means that your work gets seen by many people each time you upload something new. Although you may not book high paying shoots off it, it is OK for growing your web presence.

Facebook now allows almost anyone to create a "Business Page" where other Facebook users can "Like" it. (It used to be called a "Fan Page" but I don't like to call it that). When you have a business page on Facebook, you will get a lot of traffic to your website and/or blog (which increases your search engine ranking, making it easier for people to find you), which can result in more shoots. For example, I saw a huge spike in blog traffic as a result of having a Facebook page, which is just one more place for my photos to get seen.

With a Facebook page, one of the key things that keeps people coming back and clicking on your links/pictures is frequent updates. When I say "frequent updates", I don't mean that you have to post every detail of your day on there (it's not Twitter). One or 2 updates a day is good, or even one every 2 days. When you post an update, and a "fan" likes it, it will show up in all their friend's news feeds, which creates more exposure for your page.

Twitter is very interesting because you can send out short, frequent status updates, and if your updates are interesting and appeal to the masses, then you can certainly develop a large following. With a large following, there is a greater potential that your portfolio links will get seen and clicked. Don't just follow everyone on Twitter though. When you are looking for people to follow, make sure that you only follow people who have similar interests to you or who already follow some of the people that you are following. The reason for that is that they are more likely to follow you back.

Then, there are also niche-specific networking sites that can help you move in the direction of modeling that you would like to take. Some examples include sites that are dedicated to fitness models, bodybuilders, fetish models, bondage, and so on. I don't know much about niche networking sites, although I do have an account on Bodyspace.com, just so I can read all the fitness and dieting tips, and see what's new in the world of fitness.

In summary, with social networks, you get out what you put in. Just make sure that you are channelling your efforts into profiles that have the highest potential of being seen by whatever your "target market" is. I can't tell you what your target market is, because that varies between models (and businesses in general). Use good judgement, and communicate with people who shoot/do what you want to shoot/do, and most importantly, have fun with it.

Do you have anything to add? Want me to expand on something? Let me know by commenting on the article.

Aviva

The Body Shop Coupons for beginning of June

The Body Shop(aff) is having a sale! I had to post these here, because I think that this is a great deal.

The Body Shop is known for it's great quality products. So, here it is...enjoy these :) The Body Shop Canada

The Body Shop Canada

The Body Shop Canada

These coupons are only good until June 5th!

Cheers,
Aviva

Thursday, May 26, 2011

Such a funky and stylish necklace from STYLEBOP!

This Silver/Black necklace from STYLEBOP really caught my eye, because when I was going through all the photos...I had to do a double take on it.



I have seen some pretty funky and interesting stuff, but this is just cool.

I can definitely see myself wearing it with a plain white shirt and jeans to enhance the look.

It definitely stands out, don't you think?

***Image from STYLEBOP Website (aff)***

Monday, May 23, 2011

Practical Lingerie Set from the Playboy Store

This is a very practical lingerie set from PlayboyStore.com.


The reason why I say that this is a practical lingerie set is because I think that the colour combination is just right for regular use, as opposed to photoshoots/etc.

I also think that this is a very flattering set, and appears to push up the cups a little as well for extra support. I definitely like it.

Do you like this set? Would you wear it?

***Image is from the Playboy Store Website (aff)***

Saturday, May 21, 2011

It's Not About the Money-Jessie J - Price Tag ft. B.o.B.

When I heard the song "Price Tag" by Jessie J, I was amazed by both the lyrics and her voice. I think that the girl has a great voice, and that there will definitely be many more amazing things happening in her career.

"Price Tag" is one of the tracks on Jessie J's debut album Who You Are.
Apparently, the album took 6 years to record.

I listened to other songs on this album as well, and I would have to say that Price Tag is my favorite, so I embedded a YouTube video to share with you. Enjoy :)



The album was well-received by critics, and I can certainly understand why. I think that Jessie J did a great job on it, and I definitely look forward to seeing what she will come out with next.


If you would like your own copy of Who You Are, you can purchase it HERE.

**Note: this post contains affiliate links to Amazon

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Featuring 17 Year Old Model Julie Caballero from Vancouver


Above Photo By: Mark Guilaran

Julie Caballero is a model based in Vancouver. At just 17 years old, she has worked with very many talented photographers, make-up artists, and hair stylists. Julie understands that it takes dedication, drive, and hard work to succeed as a model, and is prepared to bring her "A" game to every shoot that she is a part of.


Above Photo by Joon Koo

AVIVA: So tell me a little bit about yourself, why you model, what your goals are, how you got started?
JULIE CABALLERO:
My name is Julie Caballero and I’m 17, yet I feel like I’ve accomplished a lot at my age. I currently work with Ring Card Girl & Fitness Model (International) & do some modeling for talented photographers. How I got to modeling was from people always telling me that I should get into the modeling industry. I also wanted to make my parents proud of me. I never thought I could model because I was only 5'2", yet I learned to position myself and make myself look 5'8". I’ve been rejected a lot in the past, saying I didn't meet the height requirements and because I was too young. I felt like I wasn’t good enough to achieve my goals. Now lots of photographers want to shoot me and some are waiting until I’m older so I can travel to Toronto and New York to do photoshoots and events. As of right now, I’m hoping to be in Urban Wedding Magazine when I’m a bit older, and Ink Magazine. It took a lot of practicing, time, and effort to get to where I’m at and I’m still not giving up my dream to be an amazing model. I want to prove to everyone and myself that I am good enough and show I have potential to go big. Even though it’s a rollercoaster in modelling I always think good things fall apart so better things can fall together.


Above Image Credits: Photographer-Rob Piazza, Makeup Artist-Marissa Jotie


Above Image Credits: Photographer-Kent Wingerak, Makeup Artist-Faye Smith

AVIVA: Do you have any shoot experience that you would like to share?
JC:
A funny thing happened to me in a shoot. While a photographer was taking my photos he decided to use a ring light. This is the light that would put a shadow around you, although brighten your features in the pictures. Every time he took a picture, I would stare into the light and would be practically blind. After 5 shots taken I could hardly see. I put on the weirdest and unusual expressions on my face that I thought would make the photographer mad. It turned out that the photos were stunning. My eyes looked sharpened and focused, my posture was fantastic, and my facial expressions were perfect. Who knew the most awkward moments can turn to picture perfect.


Above Photo by: Mark Guilaran

Above Image Credits: Photographer-Lee Kembel, Makeup Artist-Jenn Little


You can check out more of Julie's work on her Model Mayhem account.

I wish Julie all the best of luck in all her endeavors! :)
Aviva

***Note: Images were submitted by Julie Caballero, and are copyright of the photographers who took them. Answers on this page are the views of the person being featured and not necessarily Aviva (the blogger).***

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Results of Suzanne Sagmeister, Lauren of Vixen Hair Studio, Sasha Andrews and Aviva Collaboration



Hey guys,

A few weeks ago, Suzanne Sagmeister contacted me in order to collaborate on a shoot in Victoria, BC. I have always liked Suzanne's work and I was happy to work with her. :)



The hair stylist was Lauren from Vixen Hair Studio and the make-up artist was Sasha Andrews




Victoria has a lot of very cool and interesting locations to shoot and in the beginning we had some questions as to where we should be shooting. I was a little bit worried about my hair getting messy


Monday, May 16, 2011

My Disclosure/Disclaimer Policy!

Valid May 16/2011-Ongoing

According to the Federal Trade Commission, bloggers are required to disclose the ways in which they (try to) monetize their blogs.

Although FTC rules apply to blogs based in the USA, and mine is not (so legally, I don't really have to disclose anything), I feel that it is only fair to my readers/users/visitors that I am transparent and honest when it comes to the ways in which I use this blog to make money, and/or/if/whether I receive free products/services or other forms of compensation.

1. Affiliate links. The majority of the links on this site that relate to products or retailer sites are affiliate links. From now on, I will be stating whether or not a link is an affiliate link at the bottom of each post. Be assured that every link to Amazon is definitely an affiliate link.

It does not cost you any more money (and you probably would pay less than retail) by using my Amazon/affiliate links to purchase whatever products you want/need.

Also understand that by using my Amazon Affiliate links, you are helping me improve this site (so that I could be able to pay my contributors, and afford to buy GIVEAWAY items for my readers), help fund my university education. So, your personal online retail therapy helps in many ways and any help is greatly appreciated. :)

2. This blog accepts forms of cash advertising, sponsorship, paid insertions or other forms of compensation.
The compensation received may sometimes influence the content, topics or posts made in this blog. That content, advertising space or post may not always be identified as paid or sponsored content, although I will do my very best to make sure to identify any link/post that was compensated/sponsored.

3. Even if I received free gifts/products/services for review, I will not always be giving a positive review to the entity/company/person who sent/gave me them, nor am I obligated to do so.

4. Aviva, AH Life and Style, hold no liability for any negative consequences for the users as a result of any purchase or action taken after reading the content. You are reading the content at your own risk. I am not a doctor, so you should consult one before starting any serious weight loss/diet program.

Any tips that I post on any part of the blog are based entirely on my experience, education, and that of my contributors (and neither I nor my contributors are to be held liable for any unfavourable results).

Should you have a negative experience with any product/service mentioned on this site, you should take it up with the company/entity/person who provides such, and not AH Life and Style.


5. Copyright/etc. Images on this blog are copyright of the photographers/entities who own them. I do not claim ownership of any image on this blog, unless I specify that I took the picture. Articles are copyright of Aviva, or the contributor(s) specified in the byline credits. Contributors retain copyright of their own articles/images/other forms of content.

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PS. Feel free to use this disclosure/disclaimer on your own blog and modify it as you see fit, just be sure to link back to AH Life and Style as the source.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

I started an account on Technorati

After hearing several good things about Technorati, I have decided to start an account there and find more fashion, fitness, and art blogs to follow, as well as read tips on blogging, search engine optimization and more.

It is required that I post a unique code within the new blog post,
so here it is: QZP723XHYQ92

I have heard of Technorati being a good resource for bloggers, and who knows, I might even submit a couple of articles there too. :)

Upcoming posts include: interviews, product reviews, and more. Stay tuned for that!

Cheers,
Aviva

Leonisa Swimsuit: Push Up Bikini with Tanga Bottom

I think that this swimsuit from Leonisa is gorgeous!


Light blue is one of my favorite colours.

I also like how the top of the bathing suit has a pattern on it, and the bottom does not. The pattern at the top draws all the attention to the upper body and away from the lower body.

The bathing suit also has removable air pads to adjust the level of push up at the top, which is great! It is also adjustable in the center of cups & in the back.

I have always liked swimsuits that have adjustable sides on the bottom too.

What do you think of this bathing suit?

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Leonisa Discounts/Clearance:
See all styles marked 10% to 30% off at Leonisa.com

Friday, May 13, 2011

Interview with Toronto Fashion Model Kelleth Cuthbert


Above: Marc Anthony national ad campaign

Kelleth is a professional model working out of Toronto, specializing in fashion, beauty, commercial, and runway modeling. She is currently represented by Next Model Management.

As a model, Kelleth is talented and versatile, in addition to having a great look. With several magazines and ad campaigns already under her belt, there is no question that her current success is only the beginning.

It is my pleasure to interview her for this post :)

AVIVA: How long have you been a model?
KELLETH CUTHBERT:
Four years.

AVIVA: Have you always wanted to be a model or did you have other career options in mind when you were younger?
KC:
As a child, I vacillated endlessly between being an actress/writer or a veterinarian. After high school, I pursued a degree in Social Work. I remember the first time I ever considered the possibility of modeling: I had just turned 16 and found myself appraising my appearance in the mirror differently one day. I had finally stopped wearing ten inches of chalk-white Halloween makeup a few months prior and had returned my hair to one uniform colour. I remember REALLY examining my face in the mirror (perhaps for the first time ever) and thinking “Interesting…so this is what I look like.”


Above: Urban Planet national ad campaign


AVIVA:What do you think is the best part about being a model and why?
KC:
The opportunity for travel is a huge perk of the job. To be able to explore the world (and my place within it) while doing what I am most passionate about it is prodigious.

AVIVA: What achievement(s) are you most proud of? (publications, ads, etc.)
KC:
I’m really proud of my campaigns for Urban Planet, Square One and Marc Anthony, as well as my covers for Auxiliary Magazine and Sessions Magazine. I also really loved my spread in the June 2010 issue of Plaid Magazine.


Above Image Credits: Artifice Clothing-Clothing Designer, Eusebia-Wardrobe Stylist, Richard Dubois-Photographer, Giancarlo Intini-Makeup Artist, Kelleth-Model

AVIVA: Other than your look, what else do you believe has been crucial to your success as a model?
KC:
In an interview from 1980, Janice Dickinson talks about how it is vital for models to be well-educated. I used to harbour a slight sense of remorse over having pursued a degree at seventeen instead of immediately immersing myself into modeling. It is only in retrospect that I can really appreciate how much my education has actually helped me to bring more to the table as a model. My business savvy and my ability to network (as well as my embracing of social media) have been invaluable. I have developed a nearly unshakable self-confidence and have an enthusiasm for every job I work. I think that the respect that I have for everyone else’s job on set is apparent and helps others, in turn, to respect what I do.

AVIVA: What do you feel is the most important piece of advice to give to aspiring models?
KC:
If I had to chalk it up to a single piece of advice, it would be to not fear looking silly. Take chances! Nothing ventured, nothing gained!


Above Image Credits: Alyson Gough-Makeup Artist, PhotoByWayne-Photographer, Decadent Designs-Clothing Designer, Kelleth-Model

AVIVA: Do you have any favorite models that you admire? If yes, who?
KC:
My favourite models are mostly those of the 60’s and 70’s: Janice Dickinson, Lauren Hutton, Apollonia, and Gia Carangi. My favourite current models are Lara Stone, Jourdan Dunn and Crystal Renn.

AVIVA: What would you do if you won the lottery?
KC:
Save it for my post-model life! Complete my Masters of Social Work! Drop off the face of the earth and write and publish a terribly gauche model memoir! Donate some to charity! Travel! Invest in real estate! Divide the rest between my family.


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You can see more of Kelleth's work on her NEXT Models Canada profile and Model Mayhem.
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I would like to thank Kelleth for the interview, and I wish her all the best for many years to come!

Aviva

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Lovely Mini Dress from the Meghan Shop

Hey,

I was looking around on the Meghan Shop Website, and found this very sexy summer mini dress.


When it comes to this dress,what caught my attention is the way the back is done.

I am a fan of unique elements in clothing and I believe that this is what separates this dress from some of the other ones that were there.

It is also great for photographing because for the most part it is just one colour, and it is a lot easier to photograph a uniform colour as opposed to patterns.

Although mini dresses are not for everyone, because they are quite short and may not be appropriate for certain occasions, I believe that it would look good with black leggings and high heel shoes.

Thoughts?


***Image from the Meghan Shop Website***

Meghan Shop Coupons & Deals:
Take 20% off , Including New Styles. Sexy Dresses, Special Promo Code

Buy Meghan Fabulous sale items, up to 70% off retail price. Free international and US shipping.
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