Image of ultra-thin Ralph Lauren model sparks outrage

In recent years an ongoing debate has brewed over advertisers and fashion magazines using photographs, particularly photographs of women, that have seemingly been altered, or "retouched," by airbrushing and photo editing software such as Photoshop. The latest such image to cause an uproar is one featured in a new Ralph Lauren advertisement that shows a model, Filippa Hamilton, so emaciated that her waist actually appears to be smaller than her head (see pic on top left/pic on bottom right is another picture of Filippa Hamilton).

On September 29th, Boing Boing's Xeni Jardin posted the ad, which originally appeared on a blog dedicated to pointing out suspected retouched images called Photoshop Disasters, with the comment, "Dude, her head's bigger than her pelvis." Ralph Lauren responded by filing a Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA) complaint against Boing Boing and Photoshop Disasters, claiming that their use of the image was a copyright infringement that fell outside of the Fair Use laws which allow the media to reproduce creative content for the purposes of commentary and criticism.

The Internet service provider hosting Photoshop Disasters (Google Blogspot) deleted the post containing the image, while Boing Boing's (Canada's Priority Colo.) did not. In response, Boing Boing editor Cory Doctorow issued a stern warning to Ralph Lauren yesterday on the website, saying that the company's attempt to silence their criticism has only inspired them to step up their efforts in the future:

"Copyright law doesn't give you the right to threaten your critics for pointing out the problems with your offerings. You should know better. And every time you threaten to sue us over stuff like this, we will:

a) Reproduce the original criticism, making damned sure that all our readers get a good, long look at it, and;

b) Publish your spurious legal threat along with copious mockery, so that it becomes highly ranked in search engines where other people you threaten can find it and take heart; and

c) Offer nourishing soup and sandwiches to your models."

The U.S. isn't the only place where advertisers are feeling the public backlash over retouching claims. Overseas, a recent Olay ad featuring a virtually wrinkle-free 59-year-old Twiggy caused such an uproar in the UK that the British Parliament recently proposed outlawing retouching in advertisements aimed at teenagers. The movement was initiated by the nation's Liberal Democrats, whose leader on the issue, Jo Swinson, said:

"Today's unrealistic idea of what is beautiful means that young girls are under more pressure now than they were even five years ago. Airbrushing means that adverts contain completely unattainable images that no one can live up to in real life. We need to help protect children from these pressures and we need to make a start by banning airbrushing in adverts aimed at them. The focus on women's appearance has got out of hand - no one really has perfect skin, perfect hair and a perfect figure, but women and young girls increasingly feel that nothing less than thin and perfect will do."

In the U.S., many retouched images featuring celebrities have been the subject of recent scorn, including a L'Oreal ad that lightened Beyonce's skin, an image of Jessica Alba airbrushed to feature a slimmer waist in a Campari ad, and an ad for London Fog featuring Gisele Bunchen in which her "baby bump" was removed.

In response to the growing concern over retouching, a website called About-Face, whose stated mission is to arm "women and girls with tools to understand and resist harmful media messages that affect their self-esteem and body image," has sprung up. The site features a "Gallery of Offenders" as well as a "Gallery of Winners" to highlight who the site's editors feel are the advertising industry's best and worst in regards to improving and harming the image of the modern woman. Site visitors can also contribute money to help offset its operating costs as well as expand programs designed to educate young women on beauty and self-image.

Another website to garner attention for its dedication to exposing photo retouching offenses is Jezebel.com. Speaking on the subject of retouching, Jezebel editor-in-chief Anna Holmes told Yahoo!, "I don't see any point in retouching anymore ... The cat's out of the bag." She added, "I think Americans in particular are sick of having the wool pulled over their eyes ... even if it's regarding fashion models and actresses. The more they do this sort of retouching -- and then try to justify it, as the editor of SELF magazine recently did -- the less anyone believes anything else they have to say, or show. They are, in a sense, digging their own (shallow) graves."

Whether or not Holmes is right about the digging of "shallow graves" remains to be seen, but companies like Ralph Lauren certainly don't appear to be helping their cause by attempting to silence their critics, as doing so has only increased the amount of negative attention to their already controversial ad.

This is REAL Modeling

Haute.lanta Fashion Week

Again, this years Atlanta's Haute.lanta Fashion Week was a success. To get in on the fun next year, here are the requirements:

Female Runway Height: 5’8 and taller Sizing: 34-24-34 Proven Runway Experience Required Male Runway Height: 6’0 and taller Waist: 34-36 Suit: 40-42 Proven Runway Experience Required Male & Female Promotional Height: Atleast 5’7 (female); Atleast 5’11 (male) No Experience Necessary All Ethnicities are Welcome to Submit. The above requirements are based on Industry Standard Sizing; however HLFW will consider submissions from all interested models.

Select HLFW fashion models receive written recommendations to local modeling agencies as well as the opportunity to be featured in the campaign, magazine ads, and may benefit from future management offers though the above sponsoring agencies. Models@Hautelantafashionweek.com

MIND FREAK D. Austin...step inside his world

How many can say they've had the opportunity to get inside the mind of a freaking fashion photography genius? Well now is your chance. Read on to get the goods that ONLY EMG can provide you.

1) So D., in regard to the components of a camera, which part would best describe your personality and why? In regard to the components of my camera I am the Lens; visual and searching for the right moment to capture. I think visually, speak in visual terms, and imagine things before I act or decide.

2) Thinking back to the days of the "Supermodel", who would you be honored to shoot? I would love to work with Grace Jones, Iman, Beverly Johnson, Naomi Campbell,Or Alek Wek (although she is a current model). I love their complexion, their personalities, and business savvy.

3) What inspired you to get behind the camera? Travel. A cross-country family vacation from California To New York and back is where I got my training. I haven't put down the camera since or stopped dreaming of shooting in other places in the world.

4) What is your greatest achievement? My daughter...and being able to do what I love to do - take pictures!

5) Who gave you the best gift you ever received and what was it? The best gift I ever received was honest, innocent love from my daughter and true love from my girlfriend. Actual physical gifts I don't know; things break, get lost, or wear out. I value personal experiences more than physical things nowadays.

6) If you could have your work featured in any fashion magazine, which one would you die for to be included in? Lol..I am not gonna ever die if I don't get into some magazine! Although, I would like to shoot for Time Magazine, Vogue (of course), Surface, French, Sports Illustrated Swimsuits, And Zink.

7) So we heard you are writing a book...can we get the inside scoop? The book is a collection of sepia images I take while traveling. It's titled "The Untimely Pursuits Of Pleasure", its a collection of images depicting things people do when they should be doing more important things or situations that seem ironic on the surface....like calling in sick to work and then going to 6 Flags, or a "cougar" couple: the older man with the younger woman. I do this sometimes; when I should be editing images or email invoices, I just ignore it all and go shoot for hours and hours. One time I had a 3 hour layover in Washington DC. I had never been there before, so I left the airport, ran around DC taking as many pictures as I could..that part of the book is called 178 Minutes In Washington DC. Those moments make the best pictures! I like the idea of all the images being in sepia because its a classic quality.

8) Do you think that photographers fall into a stereotype? If so, why? Photographers all have the same skill set and general passion; some people may try to stereotype us because of that. What makes us different is how we see the world and that makes us personally satisfied with an image at the end of the day. Each photographer has his/her own unique "process".

9) Every photographer has their signature...what mark do you leave on your photos? I don't tag or mark my images. My images vary greatly. I don't have a signature or style other than the images being compelling...I sign my name different every time.

10) If you had barbed wire, an unlimited supply of cotton balls, a bald African model with a statuesque stance about her, and a fluffy, cotton red blanket with tons of matching overstuffed red pillows...how would you shoot her? The wire would be leading from my camera like streams of light, the cotton balls would be placed on colorful lollipop sticks in a field, the model would be tastefully nude throwing imaginary bolts of light back at the camera leaping,smirking, gracefully dueling with the camera, wearing the red blanket as a cape, at dusk with the sun behind her. It would be in Black & White..love the classics!

11) So if I wanted to check out you work...where can I go? www.daustinphotography.com

If you truly aspire to be a fashion icon, we suggest you check out the infamous D. Austin!

MAC Cosmetics Friends & Family Sale: 25% OFF Coupon Code!!!

If you missed the one in January then this will surely be like Christmas in June! Once again it's time for the one and only MAC Friends and Family Sale! This time MAC will be having their Friends & Family Sale for three days only from June 16th through June 18th.

To get your MAC fix, enter promotional code SUMO at checkout and you'll get a whopping 25% off your entire purchase (excluding Viva Glam and gift cards) valid on in-stock merchandise at MACCosmetics.com and MACCosmetics.ca Yes that’s right, this 25% OFF SUMO Sale offer is only available through the U.S. and Canadian MAC Cosmetics websites (not valid at MAC stores and MAC Department Store locations).

MAC shipping charges start at $5.00 and increase with the value of your order. However, you can get FREE Shipping when you purchase $60 or more but if your order is less than $60 then I suggest you try coupon code LASH69 for free shipping. You can also pay $5 more for 2nd day delivery or $10 for overnight delivery. Happy shopping!

Photo Movement Tips for Aspiring Models

HOT Photography Specials in HOTLANTA!

Fashion Forward Tips for Hair Conscious Chicks

Your face shape is the starting point to choosing a new hair style. Your hair type is the next consideration. Is your hair naturally straight, wavy, curly or kinky? Is your hair texture fine, medium or thick? Lastly, take the volume of the hair into consideration.

It's hard to be objective about your own face shape, but here's a sure fire way to be sure your not letting bias influence your own analysis. Hair designers are the ultimate judges of your face shape, but if you need a little help try this experiment.

There are lots of suggestions on how to figure out your shape. These include everything from outlining your face shape on a mirror with lipstick to draping it with a towel and asking others to help you guess the shape. But, there is actually a scientific way to determine your face shape once and for all.

To find out the shape of your face, measure it with a tape measure or ruler. You will take the following measurements.

1. Measure your face across the top of your cheekbones. Write down the measurement on a piece of paper.

2. Measure across your jaw line from the widest point to the widest point. Write down the measurement.

3. Measure across your forehead at the widest point. Generally the widest point will be somewhere about halfway between your eyebrows and your hairline. Write down the measurement.

4. Measure from the tip of your hairline to the bottom of your chin.

Oval Face - Length equal to one and a half times width.

Round Face - Your face is as wide as it is long. This may vary a little but generally the measurement is close.

Oblong - Longer than it is wide.

Heart - Narrow at jaw line, wide at cheekbones/and or forehead.

Square - your face is about as wide as it is long.

Diamond - Widest at cheekbones, narrow forehead and jaw line of approximately equal widths.

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Oval

Only slightly narrower at the jaw line than at the temples, with a gently rounded hairline.

Try

A variety of styles. Just about any hair shape looks good on you. Your "perfect" features allow you to wear a wider range of styles than any other face shape. Have you ever noticed the majority of models fall into this shape? Have you noticed how many different hair styles they can wear?

You can wear short, medium and long hair styles. Your face shape is well "balanced", or in even proportion. You will look best when styling your hair off your face. Most oval face shapes can wear slicked-backed looks as well.

Avoid

Hair styles that cover up your "perfect" features with heavy bangs, or too forward-directed styles.

In wearing your hair style on your face, you'll lose your face shape behind the hair. This may appear to add weight to your face.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with oval faces:

Jennifer Aniston Cameron Diaz Mariah Carey Cindy Crawford Jewel Heather Locklear Sharon Stone Uma Thurman Julia Roberts Courtney Cox Arquette Elle MacPherson Tyra Banks

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Rectangular or oblong

Long and slender, about the same width at forehead and just below cheekbones. May have a very narrow chin or a very high forehead.

Try

Styles with short to medium lengths. Fullness at the sides of your face and wispy bangs soften the look of longer face shapes. You'll want to balance the look of a long and slender face. Soft wispy bangs will shorten the appearance of the length. Fullness at the sides of your face will add width to the look of your face shape.

By cutting the hair into a short or medium length, the outline of the cut will also shorten the look of the length of the face. Layers work great with your face shape, as they will add softness to the straight lines in your face. Try side parts, and you may be able to wear straight back styles.

Avoid

Too much hair length . . . this will make your face will look even longer! Too much height lengthens your face. Center parts look great on people with a rectangular or oblong face shape. When your hair grows past your shoulders, there is a good chance it is doing you more harm than good. The models with rectangular face shapes and long hair get by with it only because they have an "on call" hairdresser. This professional is at the models disposal and can usually be found busily primping and teasing, setting and styling to add fullness to the hair. Since most of us don’t have this luxury, my suggestion is keep it above shoulder length.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with rectangular faces:

Gwyneth Paltrow Kirstie Alley Janet Jackson Gabrielle Reece Niki Taylor Stephanie Seymour

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Round

Full-looking face with a round chin and hairline. Widest point is at the cheeks and ears.

Try

Hair styles with fullness and height at the crown. Off center parts help reduce the roundness. Short hair styles with a swept-back direction or hair styles that are longer than chin length. By layering the top to achieve fullness and keeping the rest of the cut relatively close to the face, your round face shape will appear longer and narrower.

Avoid

Chin length hair with a rounded line that mirrors face’s round shape. Center parts tend to accentuate roundness. Also avoid styles with short-short crops, or straight "chopped" bangs. Fullness at side of ears also accentuates the round shape. A rounded haircut ending at the chin will certainly add weight to your already round face shape. Because the widest part of your face is at the cheeks and ears, you need to avoid having the fullness of the cut here, as it will make your face appear wider. I've written more about round face shapes in my article Round Face Shapes can be Slimmed, Hairstyles a round shape and Hairstyles for Round Face Shapes.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with round face shape:

Ingrid Bergman Roseanne Barr Kate Winslet Natalie Merchant Drew Barrymore Christina Ricci Charlotte Church

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Square

A strong, square jaw line and usually an equally square hairline.

Try

Short-to-medium length hair, especially with wave or roundness around the face. Wispy bangs will soften the angular shape. Off-center parts with height at the crown look great on square faces. You want to soften the square look of your face with layers and wispy looks around the face. Height at the crown will elongate your symmetrical shape. If your hair is straight, you may want to consider a body wave, as some curl or wave to the hair will achieve a nice balance to the straight features of your face shape.

Avoid

Long straight styles that accentuate the square jawbone. "Linear" straight bangs or center parts aren't the best choice. A straight bob ending at the jaw line is the wrong thing to do for your face shape. You can wear a layered bob, however it should end above or below the jaw line, not at the jaw. Make sure in styling that you achieve some roundness to the shape and some height at the crown or bangs, and you will be on the right track.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with square faces:

Kristin Scott Thomas Holly Marie Combs Sandra Bullock Demi Moore Isabella Rosellini

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Heart

Face is wide at the temples and hairline, narrowing to a small delicate chin.

Try

Chin-length or longer styles work well with a heart shaped face. Other styles to try: side-parted hair styles or swept-forward layers around the upper face, with gently wispy bangs. A chin length bob is great on your face shape! This creates a balanced look by giving fullness where you need it. You can wear shorter styles; however, if you are a dramatic heart shape you need to leave weight in the back nape area. This will achieve more balance between your dramatic cheekbones and more narrow chin.

Avoid

Short, full styles that emphasize the upper face. Stay away from styles with too much height at the crown. Severe, slicked back looks are too harsh for this shape too. If you are a dramatic heart shape, the short, full styles with tapered necklines, which emphasize the upper face will make you look top heavy. Too much height at the crown will give the appearance of a longer and narrower chin. Just remember if you have a dramatic heart shape face, you have great cheekbones to emphasize! Don't miss the boat by getting a cut which is too top heavy.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with heart faces:

Michelle Pfeiffer Ashley Judd Jennifer Love Hewitt Claudia Schiffer Emmanuaell Beart Juliette Binoche Lisa Kudrow Lucy Lawless Naomi Campbell

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Triangular

Reverse of the heart-shape . . . a dominant jaw line with narrowing at the cheek bone and temples.

Try

Shorter hair that balances prominent jaw line. Styles that are full at the temples and taper at the jaw are perfect for triangular shapes. Off center parts, wedges and shags look great on you, too. You need lots of layers to achieve fullness through the upper part of your face. By wearing styles which are full at the temples and taper at the jaw line, you achieve a balance that can be striking in accenting features otherwise understated. Try tucking hair behind your ears, as this will draw attention to your eyes and add the illusion of width in this area.

Avoid

Long, full hair styles that draw attention to jaw line. Center parts—off-center is more flattering to triangular shaped faces.

Stay away from styles with too much height at the crown. You also want to avoid putting most of the weight of a haircut at the jaw line and below. This will give the appearance of added weight to the face.

If going with long hair, it should be kept tight at the nape.

• Click on the name to see a picture of a celebrity with triangular shaped face:

Kathy Ireland

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Diamond

A cross between heart and a dramatic oval. Widest at the cheekbones, and narrow equally at the forehead and jaw line.

Try

Your face shape is balanced and dramatic. Experiment with a variety of styles. Almost everything works with your face (as long as you are a true diamond). You can wear shorter styles. However, if you are a dramatic diamond shape, you need to leave weight in the back nape area like someone with a heart shaped face. This will achieve more balance between your dramatic cheekbones and more delicate chin line.

Avoid

You can do just about everything, but try not to wear too much hair on your face, thereby hiding your great features.

• Click on the name to see a picture of celebrities with diamond shaped faces:

Katherine Hepburn Linda Evangelista Sophia Loren

The ABC's of Modeling

A

Actor - Performers that act in tv films and/or on stages.

Accessory - 1. A decoration or piece of clothing that adds emphasis to an outfit. 2. A supplementary device such as a make up accessory.

Ad Agency - The abbreviated term for an Advertising Agency.

Advance - Money that is paid before the modeling job is completed. This is deducted at a later time from the model's pay. Advances can be given to cover modeling supplies such as portfolios.

AEA - A union for theater actors and actresses called the Actor Equity Association.

AFTRA - The American Federation of Television and Radio Artists that represents the union of performers that star in television productions.

Agency - A business that acts as an employment agency. An agency helps promote their models, schedules casting calls, and bills the clients for whom the model works for. An agency usually charges a commision of 15-20% of the model's total earnings for that job.

Agency Book - A group of headshots contained in a portfolio.

Agency Card - 1. A small card containing information about the model's agency such as phone number and location. 2. A card that shows a model's personal information such as height and weight.

Agency Contract - A model release or other written agreement that explains the obligations between an agency and a model, or a photographer and a model, this usually comes from the agency.

Agency Director - A person or individual that has a management position inside an agency.

Agency Party - A social gathering, party, or celebration that is sponsored by a model's agency. These can include, but are not limited to birthday parties, and holiday parties.

Agent - A person or individual who arranges jobs for a model that they are representing.

Agent's Trained Eye - The skill of an experienced person to spot potentially successful models.

Age Range - An age group of individuals ranging from any age whether it is young or old.

B

Beauty Shot - A headshot from the shoulders up, where the main focus is on the model's face, including make up, hair, and accessories.

Body Shot - A full length photo of a model, where the main focus is on the model's body.

Book - A model's portfolio containing composite cards and photographs of a model that is representing a certain modeling agency.

Booker - A person or individual who arranges jobs for a model that they are representing.

Booking - A job that already been scheduled and confirmed for a model.

Booking Out - When a model indicates times that he/she will be unavailable for work by crossing out time on his/her planner or schedule.

C

Callback - A second interview after a model has alredy attended and initial go-see.

Casting - When a business chooses a model for a fashion show, print, etc.

Casting Call - A request made by a business or company for agencies to have the models appear for an interview.

Cattle Call - An audition where a lot of models show up at the same time, and are competing for the same job position.

Catwalk - A term that is used to describe a fashion runway.

Character Model - A model whose appearance suggests a certain character, such as a grandmother or construction worker.

Client - The business that is hiring a model for a specific job.

Collection - Groups of clothing of different styles made and created by fashion designers.

Commentary - A description at a runway show that explains about the garment that the model is wearing.

Commentator - The person who is describing a garment that a model is wearing at a runway show.

Commercial Look - An appearance that appeals to a wide variety of people and consumers.

Commercial Model - A model who appears in commercial advertisements.

Commission - A certain percentage of the model's earnings from a modeling job that is taken out by the agency that is representing the model. Typical commission is from about 15% to 20% of the total job earnings.

Composite - A card with the model's picture, the agency representing them, and personal information (height, weight, etc).

Contract - A legal statement between a model and either his/her photographer, business, or agency that is representing him/her.

Convention/Trade Show - A trade show used to attract agencies who are looking for potential models with talent and poise.

Cover Girl - A female model who appears on the cover of a magazine or other forms of print work.

How Can I Get Down With EMG???

Many of you are wondering how to join the team...check out the EMG FAQS to see how we work!

Are there any fees required to become a part of the agency?
There are no fees involved. We only collect a percentage of what you make which guarantees that we will work hard for you.

Am I allowed to procure work through other agencies outside of EMG?

Yes. You will be required to sign a non-exclusive agreement with the agency. This allows you the freedom to work with as many agencies as you prefer.

What do I need to start working?

If accepted into the agency, you will need to provide a completed Independent Contractor’s Agreement, Registration Form. You must also furnish a copy of your driver’s license and social security card and W9 Form for tax purposes once you procure work. You will also need to furnish your Professional Resume and Will/Won’t Do Sheet in two separate word documents. For models, email a snapshot of yourself in a bikini or swim trunks as well. For actors, email your headshot. All documents and all pictures must be emailed to info@envisagemodelgroup.com. You may fax your Independent Contractor’s agreement to 206.339.9441.

Why do I need to complete these forms?

We need these forms on file to show that you are an independent contractor through the agency. We also need to verify who you say you are and forward that information to the IRS so you can get paid.

Do I need to send the agency hard copies of my pictures?

As referenced before, you do not need to send hard copies of your pictures. We primarily work off the internet but when we meet face-to-face with clients, we do like to present them with comp cards. The agency will help you get your portfolio together so we can present them to our clients. We do offer a comp card service. If you want to furnish us with hard copies of your photos (we will include these in our press kit and give you more exposure) you can send them to EnVisage Model Group, P.O. Box 2370, Decatur, GA 30031.

How will I be notified about jobs?
We will send emails to you about assignments. You MAY NOT forward casting notices to your friends. If we find out, and we always do, you will be released from the agency immediately and without notice. Once your request is received, we will submit you to our client. The client will let us know who has been selected and we will contact the models accordingly. We then send out a
booking agreement. This is a mini contract for that job. All the information including rate, attire, location, contact, etc. are included on the agreement. Fill out the form and scan and email or fax back. After the event, we will need a completed work voucher from you to invoice the client and you must email us a follow up email to tell us how things went.

How soon will I be notified about jobs?

Just because you fill out your registration form does not mean you will start to receive casting notices in your email. You MUST electronically sign, scan and email, or fax your Independent Contractor Agreement to the agency. If you forget to do so, you will not receive casting notices until we are in receipt.

What do I do if I am not receiving jobs?

If you are not receiving jobs, email the agency at info@envisagmodelgroup.com and we will make sure we have all of your updated information.

When can I expect to start working?

There are no guarantees in this business. The needs of our clients will vary daily and by the season. Work can begin immediately, depending if your look is what the client is searching for. Remember, EMG will always work hard for you.

What do I need to take with me when I procure a job?

You will need to bring a copy of your Model Voucher every day you work. If you do not fill out the voucher accurately and daily, you will not be paid. You will be required to fax over every page of your model voucher once the assignment is completed. For certain jobs you will be required to copy and paste your resume onto our resume template. You are required to remove your contact information and take your resume and headshot with you.

What do I do if I’m late for a job or if I had an emergency and cannot work the job?

You must call the agency immediately. We do not tolerate lateness. This can result in being cut from the agency if we are not notified right away. If you have an emergency, you need to call the agency immediately. You are required to CALL, NOT EMAIL. If you simply email, this will be considered a “no call, no show” and you will be cut from the agency with no notice effective immediately. This is nonnegotiable.

What do I do if a client wants to pay me on-site?

Unless otherwise stated before the job, you will ALWAYS be paid from the agency payroll. You should suggest that the client get in touch with agency in regard to payment. If you accept payment on-site, you become liable for the 20% agency fee as well as any other pre-negotiated fees you may not be aware of. You will have to pay the agency…bottom line. It is best to remove yourself from that responsibility and have the client get in touch with the agency directly.

What do I do after a casting?

You are required to email the agency to let us know how each casting went. We all have to be on the same page.

How do I get paid?
After each job you work, you must mail your signed voucher with a SASE (self-addressed,
stamped envelope) to the agency at EnVisage Model Group, P.O. Box 2370, Decatur, GA 30031 immediately after you’ve worked so there will be no delay in your payment. Email the agency for the address.

How long does it take for me to get paid?

Clients have between 30 and 45 days to pay their invoice. Many times it won’t take that long but sometimes it does. Keep this in mind when waiting on your check.

How do I refer a friend to the agency?

Instruct them to send photos and their resumes to info@envisagemodelgroup.com. Just because you were accepted, does not mean they will be to. Make sure they understand.

What is “Model Etiquette”?

Model Etiquette is a manner of behavior that EMG expects you to follow. You are a reflection of the agency. It means to be sociable, assertive, ethical, pleasant to work with, and most of all, responsible. Please act accordingly.

www.envisagemodelgroup.com ◊ 404.313.7413 Office ◊ 206.339.9441 Fax

Ooooh...Shoes!

Whoa! Memorial Day marks the beginning of summer and what better way to kick of the BBQ, grilling and beach season than this sale with up to 50% OFF chic sandals at Chinese Laundry.

Memorial Day Weekend Sale - Kate Spade Up To 75% OFF!

With an additional 20% OFF take up to 75% OFF on all sale items this weekend only through Monday May 25th in Kate Spade shops as well as online. This discount will automatically be applied at checkout and applies to a range of Kate Spade designer clothing and designer handbags as well as oh to die for designer shoes, jewelry and other accessories.

From the Kate Spade designer shoes on sale I'm loving the made in Italy, Sophie classic linen slingbacks featuring a polished wood 4" burl wood heel. This chic shoe, available in Orange (see above) and Zebra (see picture below) was on sale reduced from $295 down to $221 but with the Kate Spade Memorial Day Weekend Sale extra 20% discount this chic designer shoe is yours for $154.70. Whoa!

Audition Tips - How to LOOK Like a Model

An important tip for all models to remember is, when attending a go-see, your pictures must transform to how you look in person. Looking like a model involves more than just pouting and walking the catwalk. Models have a confident mystique about them. Even the most unconventionally beautiful models carry themselves with an aura that exudes style, grace, and health. Here's how to get in touch with your own inner model and book that job!

1. Get fit. Being healthy is a million times more important than being thin. Exercise, eat properly, and drink plenty of water. You are what you eat, so learn to like it in order to achieve the weight you want and be as healthy as you can be. And even if you're already happy with your body, it still might be good to tone it up--turn that flat stomach into a six pack!
2. Mind your style, top to bottom! There are two things that can make or break your look: your hair and your shoes.
   
   
   • Look through hair magazines and talk with your hairstylist about what would look good with your face structure. Always keep your hair clean and styled, and make sure you go back to the salon every 2-3 months as your hair grows. Make sure the shade of your hair is vibrant; there's nothing worse than dull hair.
   • Wear clean, feminine shoes. That doesn't mean you always have to wear high heels (although that does help to send your model look up a notch). Models wear sneakers, too, and they wear them with style. Just make sure your shoes aren't worn out, and that you can walk comfortably in them (a grimace accompanied by a limp from the pain of wearing a torturous pair of shoes is unbecoming). See the Tips section for more advice about shoes.
3. Be fashionable. This one is a given, but a lot of people don't realize how wrong they are in the clothes they wear. Learn about your body type, height, skin tone and preferences. Discover yourself, and fashion will come to you. Rid yourself of any insecurities, because you can look bad in a Gucci & Manolo shoes if your shoulders are slouching and you have a scared look on your face. You don't have to wear designer clothes, especially if you can't afford them. Just look through fashion magazines, pick your favorites and then find look-a-likes. Remember: Clothes don't make you, they complement you.
   • Smile, and do it like you mean it. Models can be happy girls, even though they might look bored or fierce on the runway. They make tons of cash, have lots of beautiful friends, attend the hottest parties, and let's not forget that their job is to walk around in really expensive clothes. So generally, they appear to have good lives. Smile, be merry and people will notice that. It will help you meet people and be talked about. But to smile genuinely, you have to be genuinely happy with yourself. Some models are unhappy, some have eating disorders and use unhealthy ways to lose weight. Just because they do that, doesn't mean you have to. Don't hide behind your smile all the time. The key to being a good model is emotiveness (the ability to convey emotions).
4. Be your own makeup artist. Makeup is amazing, and any fashionista knows that. You can transform into so many different looks if you have the necessary tools and skills. Look through fashion magazines and practice the looks you see on yourself and your friends. Then invent your own looks and perfect them. Being able to apply makeup like a pro is a must for looking like a model. It requires practice, practice, and then some more practice.
   
5. Make sure every part of your body is as flawless as you can make it. We all have this idea that models are perfect human beings with perfect super powers, but they're just girls like you and me. Of course, they have been refined, polished, re-invented, and perfected. You can be all of these as well, with proper maintenance! Hygiene is extremely important.
   
   • Don't bite your nails and always keep them polished. This doesn't mean always have nail polish on just make sure to buff them and maintain them.
   • Keep your feet in impeccable conditions at all times (you never know when you will have to take your shoes off and dance on the tables!).
   • Soft elbows and knees are just as important as matching shoes and belt.
   • To get softer skin, try to exfoliate your skin at least twice a week with something simple like white sugar and aloe Vera mixed.
   • Keep those pearly whites pearly white! Use whitening strips if you need to, and stay far away from cigarettes and coffee, which will turn them yellow.
6. Be seen. What does it matter to look gorgeous if the only one that sees it is your family, and your teddy bears. Go out dancing with your friends, or dining, or whatever it is you like to do. Have fun and live it out. Models are also known for being party girls and amazing party hosts!
7. Educate yourself in culture. Stay on top of the arts, film, music, fashion, news and all things hip. Learn key phrases in various languages from countries with an active fashion scene. Travel the world, or watch the Travel Channel. Professional models learn to feel at home in any part of the world, and so must you--or at least you can pretend!
8. Watch your posture. How you carry yourself affects how people perceive you more than you think! Perk up that chin, throw those shoulders back, and glide through the air as if you just signed a ten million dollar contract. At home, practice carrying books on your head. Move like a dancer. Keep your head back, chin up, and shoulders down and back. Remember that every moment is a potential pose! However, you shouldn't become obsessed.
9. Be nice. Models carry themselves with a smile that tells everyone their friendly.
10. Looking like a model doesn't mean you have to cake yourself with makeup. they don't so you shouldn't either. Moisturize every morning. Curl your lashes with an eyelash curler. Use a bronzer on your body and face, just to give you an extra tint. Foundation should be light. Eyeshadow is nice also but don't over do it. Eyeliner and mascara are better in black. Makeup should be about enhancing your beauty not covering it up.

Exclusive Designer Outlet!

Do you need a new shopping experience? Somewhere to buy chic essentials and those love forever lust-haves? If so then this ultimate chic designer discount shopping boutique might just be perfect for you.





Announced earlier this year, the new online fashion boutique, TheOutnet.com, designed by the team behind the designer fashion site NET-A-Porter.com is now well and truly up and running and I thought that I would check it out here.

This online designer sales fashion boutique is devoted to selling discounted designer womenswear and accessories. It's an exclusive online boutique where you can purchase designer clothing (Christian Lacroix, Zac Posen, Vera Wang Lavender and many more) and designer shoes (Christian Louboutin, Marc Jacobs, Jimmy Choo…), as well as designer handbags (Alexander McQueen, Chloe, Marni. Miu Miu…) and other accessories (Isharya, Kenneth Jay Lane, Bottega Veneta….) at heavily discounted prices – between 40% to 80% off the original price on international designer brands and fantastic savings of up to 80% off on specially selected items. TheOutnet stocks a dazzling array of designer fashions and will guarantee authenticity with each and every item sold on the site.

Hey don’t you just love the Jimmy Choo, Maxine shoulder bag shown in the picture above and these Christian Louboutin C'est Moi shoe boots!!





TheOutnet.com promises to be different and some features that go towards achieving this are what it calls exclusive Flash Designer Sales aimed at keeping things interesting for the true fashion thrill-seeker. These are time-limited Pop-Up Sales, Giveaways and what it calls, Going, Going, Gone Sales that will give the fashionista that "get it before it goes" buzz.

Awww...You Made Me Smile!

Check out Tyra's tips on smiling...a lesson every model needs!

Great Tips For Top Models

It’s a common misconception that naturally beautiful models take naturally beautiful photographs. The truth is—without modeling poses and modeling tips, perfect photographs are harder than you think.

If you are a professional model, a photographer will most likely guide you through a variety of model poses throughout the photo shoot. But if you are an inspiring model and are still working your way up to the top—you may have to control your poses to ensure great headshots and sample modeling photographs.

Live show models, promo models, photographic models, and runway models all rely on professional model poses to succeed. Whether you aspire to appear in print magazines or fashion shows and Hollywood movies; if you want to be a model, pay special attention to this insider guide to modeling poses.

Breathe
Although sometimes concentration enhances a good photograph, obvious concentration can distract and often ruin a good photograph as well. Do not hold your breath for a modeling pose; always remember to breathe and appear at ease.

Posture
Bad posture is an unrecognized flaw in many people. However, for models, posture is a harmful flaw. Always remember to keep your back straight and your shoulders up. Slouching affects the mood of the photograph and enlarges the appearances of your stomach. In addition to your back and shoulders, always remember to flex your stomach muscles. Despite your weight or state of shape, your abdomen will appear more toned if you flex.

Limbs
Symmetry is officially out in the modeling world. When posing, make sure to differentiate your arms and legs with asymmetrical poses. If you have one arm long and straight by your side, make sure the other arm is bent. Whether a big or small angle, the bend will make the modeling pose look more real, less artificial. Continue the asymmetry to your legs. If one leg is locked straight, give the other leg a casual bend.

Camera
Although the camera is the ultimate focal point of a modeling photo shoot, great models do not look directly into the camera. To enhance the quality of your photo shoot, look away from the camera with a mix of head and eye poses. Looking off to the right or left side, or tiling your neck to either side can help you avoid direct eye contact with the camera. In many cases, your head and neck can remain stationary in your modeling pose—and your eyes can do all the work. Head and eye positions, coupled with personable facial expressions make for great model poses.

Sitting Poses
If you are sitting down during your photo shoot—don’t think it’s ok to slack off. In fact, sitting photo shoots require a lot of extra work. If you are sitting down or reclining, it’s important to put your eight on the back of one thigh, rather than distributing your weight equally on both thighs. If you roll one hip up from the ground or surface, shifting your weight will be simple. This pose results in a slimming effect that you don’t want to miss out on.

Cleavage
To make sure your best assets shine, there are a few basic guidelines to follow. Based on two distinct poses, a forward lean and a backward lean, any model with any breast size can maximize cleavage. When leaning forward, either bring your arms together at your waist, keep your arms straight at the elbows and clasp your hands together below your waist, or simply cross your arms. When leaning backward, raise your arms about your shoulders and head, keep your arms apart, and always slouch for the best cleavage results.

Smile
If you have a naturally beautiful smile—show your pearly whites with pride, just not every time. If you smile in each modeling pose, modeling agents will notice your lack of versatility, not your smile. To add variety to your modeling poses, try switching up your smile with a cute frown, a bratty bout, a friendly laugh, or even an edgy scowl. Your facial expressions can make or break your modeling poses. Let your smile show, but make sure to show what else you can do.

In addition to these personalized tips for modeling poses, every model should be aware of the basics of posing. There are 4 main types of model poses: lifestyle pose, movement pose, portrait pose, and body pose.

Lifestyle
The lifestyle pose evokes a sense of everyday living with common body movements and facial expressions. Throughout the day, moments of happiness, love, anger, and hope arise. To succeed at the lifestyle pose, each model must be able to recreate these everyday emotions.

Movement
The movement pose captures a specific action, such as running or jumping. Because this pose is most often used for a marketing photo shoot—the model is used to promote a product. Each model must be able to smile and laugh when using the products in the photo shoot.

Portrait
This modeling pose emphasizes the face of the model—and relies purely on facial features. The model will be in modest makeup and relaxed hair and should pose with a casual, genuine smile. Many portrait photographs are close up and emphasize details of the model’s face. If you are scheduled for a portrait photo shoot, make sure to pay extra attention to your skin and drink at least 8-12 glasses of water a day.

Body
Full-length photographs require body poses. Models are encouraged to shift weight between hips and make arms and lengths into asymmetrical stances. Although many body poses do not require specific facial expressions, putting your entire body into character during full-length poses helps your body find a natural balance.

Keep these insider model posing tips in mind during your next professional model photo shoot to ensure you blow the photographer away. Whether you’re a trained expert or an ambitious beginner, all models have the ability to excel in photo shoots. Focus on your posture, attitude, and facial expressions to succeed beyond your wildest expectations.

EAT Your Way to Beautiful Skin

Strawberries, citrus fruits, red peppers, broccoli
Produce packed with vitamin C is crucial for the production and formation of collagen, skin's support structure. And it's that strong support layer that evens out the top layer and wards off wrinkles. Try to have two 1-cup servings of fruit (Not a fan of strawberries? Try oranges or grapefruit.) and 1 cup of red peppers and/or broccoli each day. Or try applying them directly with this at-home facial recipe.

Sunflower seed and almonds
Edible SPF? Practically. These seeds and nuts are loaded with vitamin E, an antioxidant that, with other antioxidants, works to protect skin from UV-related free radicals. Skin's top layers contain high levels of E that help guard cells' outer membrane, so cells stay healthy. Plus, strong membranes hold water in, keeping skin hydrated. Aim for 2 tablespoons of hulled seeds or 23 almonds daily. Find more healthy snack options from the No-Cook Diet.

Dark orange, leafy green and red vegetables
Squash, sweet potatoes and spinach are teeming with the antioxidant beta-carotene. Your body converts it to vitamin A, which regulates cell production and turnover so skin's surface is smooth. Carotenoids might also lower your skin's sensitivity to sun. Shoot for three 1-cup servings a day of these polishing picks. Try them in delicious, good-for-you recipes like Butternut Squash Pizza, Cheesy Sweet Potato Crisps, and Oatmeal Meatballs With Spinach.

Fortified cereal, lean meat, pork, poultry, oysters
These protein-rich foods are full of zinc and iron, minerals crucial to healthy skin function. Zinc supports cell production as well as natural cell sloughing, which keeps dullness at bay. Red blood cells need iron to carry oxygen to skin, helping give you a glow. Pile your plate with 1 serving of cereal (a cup), 1 palm-sized serving of meat or poultry or 3 oysters per day. Bored with chicken? You just need a new recipe.

Wild salmon, Atlantic mackerel, walnuts
These fish and nuts, plus fortified eggs, are chockablock with omega-3 fatty acids, which fight inflammation in the body caused by sun and stress. Inflammation produces free radicals, and free radicals contribute to aging by attacking collagen. Research still needs to provide solid proof that the anti-inflammatory abilities of omega-3s yield younger-looking skin, but one study found that older people who consumed more fish and veggies over their life had fewer wrinkles than those who ate more meat, the Journal of the American College of Nutrition reports. Aim for two 5-ounce servings of fish per week; on other days, 1 oz of walnuts or 2 omega-3-fortified eggs. Get creative with recipes like a Salmon BLT or a single-serving Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Frittata.

Whole wheat and grains
Clear up your skin with these complex carbs. Australian researchers found that a low-glycemic diet (more whole grains, protein and produce versus refined carbs such as white bread) may reduce acne. One reason why: Low-glycemic foods keep insulin steady, while refined carbs and sugar spike it. The surges may boost production of androgens, hormones that, when boosted, can cause zits. After 12 weeks of a low-glycemic diet, subjects' pimple counts dropped 20 percent, a study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition notes. More research is needed to support the clear-skin connection, but no M.D. will talk you out of eating whole grains and veggies! Try to have three servings a day (one serving equals a slice of bread or 1/2 cup cooked grains). See how a beauty editor cleared up her acne problem.

Water
OK, so water isn’t a food, but you can sip your way to dewy skin! Skin cells contain mostly H20, and if you're dehydrated, skin looks and feel parched, too. But you needn't chug gallons each day: Research from the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia found no studies to back up the recommendation of eight glasses a day. Prevent dehydration—and dryness—by drinking when you're thirsty. Aim for 6 cups a day.

"Alex B-isms"

On a shoot with other kids...

"You're four years old!?!! I thought you were four years new!"

Fuschia Fury!!!

This Wednesday and Thursday only get 50% OFF on Antoinette Lee Designs as well as Carla Mancini and Possé New York designer handbags.

More than just chic and luxurious, they are also unbelievably versatile and functional. I do love the Dolce and the versatile Stella, but this time I’ve gone for the edgy Mia in Pearl Fuchsia.

The Antoinette Lee Designs Mia features curved panels, accompanied by a combination chain and leather strap so that this cutest bag can be worn messenger across your chest or shoulder style. Made from 100% premium Italian leather, this bag measures 7-1/2w x 8h. Yes it’s small but hey, don’t worry about space as you can easily fit the necessary credit card, makeup, blackberry, small wallet and even a camera inside! The petite style of this designer handbag is just the right size for all your necessities for a night on the town!

Versatile and trendy, Antoinette Lee’s Mia is available in pearl pink, pearl fuchsia (shown above), gold and navy shimmer. Originally retailing at $285.00, with the 50% sale discount, Mia is yours for just $143.00!!

Carla Mancini Chic Designer Handbags

My next pick from the range of designer handbags on sale is the Carla Mancini, Spring Postman Clutch in Fuchsia Patent. It’s another perfect bag for a night out on the town. In fact, the Postman Clutch was designed with this specifically in mind. It was designed to fit everything you need into one decent sized clutch.

This moderately square shaped designer handbag has a large triangle fold over piece that secures with a twist toggle. For easy access to lip gloss and your cell phone, an additional zipper pocket was added to the outside for convenience. There is absolutely no way you will be able to resist this hot clutch. It measures 14”x 3”x 9” and again it’s super chic and looks stunning.

Originally priced at $392.00, with the 50% sale discount, the Carla Mancini, Postman Clutch is yours for just $196.00!!

Like all other Carla Mancini handbags, the Foldover Bag with Rivets is made of the finest Italian leather. Like the others, it’s super chic and certainly makes a bold statement in either Lime or Fuchsia.

The over sized fold has a double strung of multi-colored metallic rivets which also adorn the adjustable leather strap. There is also a chain strap which is longer than the leather strap for a different fit. Inside, the bag is fully lined and features a double apron pocket on one side and a zipper pocket on the other. This Carla Mancini designer handbag measures 13” l x 4.5” w x 12” h and has been discounted down to $251.00 from its original retail price of $502.00!!!

10 Ways To Get Clear Skin NATURALLY!

1. Eat more fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds.

You can easily create juices and smoothies using ripe fruit or consume one salad daily, even as just a side dish. You can also pop in nuts and dried fruits in between meals. Brazil nuts have selenium while pumpkin seeds contain zinc – both these minerals are lacking in people with acne. So take in lots of these two.

2. Try to drink at least two liters of still mineral water daily.

When the skin is dehydrated, dead skin cells remain on the skin which may block pores and promote acne.

3. Use a quality pro-biotic.

If you have been prescribed antibiotics to control your acne, remember that antibiotics destroy all kinds of bacteria in your digestive tract – even good bacteria. Without good bacteria,
you will have poor digestion, constipation, and be less able to absorb essential vitamins, minerals and nutrients.

This, in turn, may lead to increased acne production since your body cannot expel waste effectively. Toxins pass through your skin instead. To prevent this from occurring, replace the good bacteria in your digestive tract with a good quality pro-biotic.

4. You may try consuming some supplements since your diet may not incorporate.

Some supplements are really helpful to people with acne, such as:

• Maca – This is a powdered root vegetable from Peru that balances and stabilizes the systems of your body while normalizing hormones. Maca also has a lot of essential amino acids,
phytochemicals, fatty acids, and minerals such as iodine, silica, potassium, iron, magnesium and calcium.

• Manuka honey – This one possesses strong antibiotic, antiviral and antiseptic elements. It is great for the skin, as well as for digestive disorders.

5. Rely only on natural skin-care products.

Many skin-care products on supermarket shelves have chemicals which can worsen your acne. Too many chemicals can strip your skin of its natural oils, meaning the skin will overproduce oil to compensate – thus blocking your pores and causing more acne to show up.

Use only products with natural ingredients or try to use fewer products to allow your skin to naturally heal. Should you wear makeup, use formulas that are listed as non-acnegenic or non-comedogenic.

Some products you can use are:

• Tea tree oil body wash – This product can be used for the entire body, including the face.

• Tea tree oil – This product has antiseptic, antiviral and antibacterial functions. It is remarkable for use by acne sufferers. Use a cotton bud to apply this product to the acne blemishes.

• Neem soap – This product is very good for acne victims due to its anti parasitic, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, anti-viral and antibacterial properties. It also calms and soothes irritated skin.

• Olive or Coconut Oil – Use at night while your face is flushed to moisturize and eliminate eczema.

6. Cut down on stress as this acts as one of the strongest precursors of acne, especially after puberty.

There are different ways you can reduce stress and aim for relaxation:

• Exercise – Moderate exercise such as Yoga and Tai Chi improve skin blood flow and support the healing process. It also boosts the condition of your internal organs which allows them to
eliminate waste more effectively.

• Try relaxation techniques including meditation and breathing exercises.

7. Cut down on your consumption of sugar and refined carbohydrates.

Recent research has shown that eating these foods triggers a process which leads to a production of too many male hormones. In turn, the skin is moved to excrete huge amounts of sebum which fosters the increase in skin bacteria - that triggers acne.

8. Lessen your consumption of caffeine.

It hikes the level of stress hormones in the body, thus making acne worse.

9. Cut down on dairy and red meat products.

They are difficult to digest and raise acid levels in the body. As you try to digest huge amounts of animal protein in your internal organs, your body cannot eliminate waste products well and these will be released through the skin – causing acne.

In addition, dairy and red meat have huge amounts of hormones. These raise the hormone levels in the body and trigger even more acne. Furthermore, symptoms of intolerance to dairy products can crop up as acne.

10. Get plenty of sunshine and fresh air.

Sunshine triggers the production of Vitamin D which is essential to having healthy skin.
Fresh air and sunshine will cut down on your stress levels and course oxygen through the skin. Learn to tell the amount of sunshine you need every day though, it does not help to get burnt
in the sun.