Editorial: Viva L’Italia
What Is Catalog Modeling?
When we think of catalogs, we usually think of Target, REI, Bed Bath and Beyond and Walmart. There are hundreds of mail order and online catalogs selling a variety of merchandise; clothing, outdoor equipment, and even Halloween costumes. Their purpose is to entice customers to buy products, using visual and written descriptions – since they are not purchased from inside a brick-and-mortar store.
The model casting is based on the product that the client is selling. Models can range from children all the way up to seniors. Some clients require their models to have specific skills or interests; such as a sportswear client might look for professional or amateur athletes. Nevertheless, all clients want models who are approachable and move well in front of the camera.
Art Directors are typically responsible for booking models, though photographers and stylists can also be given the task. Art Directors gather their creative teams and ensure that their marketing visuals are properly executed. They also maintain an ‘approved’ board, displaying pictures of all the models that they consider for their shoots. If you are ‘approved’, you have the potential to work with that client annually, monthly, or even every week.
Models who get booked on a regular basis can receive significant annual incomes. As a result, catalog clients are considered the bread and butter of the modeling world. Day rates are substantially higher than editorial jobs because catalog work is more driven by advertising, and the photos from these shoots are not always portfolio worthy. However, the rate will vary depending on the client’s budget, as well as the model’s experience and the strength of his or her portfolio.
Like many other shoots, catalog jobs can be held in a studio or on location. If a client shoots consistently throughout the year, they may have an in-house studio and production team. Because outdoor shots are popular in catalogs, some clients travel to another state or abroad to get the appropriate setting and weather conditions. English and German clients have been known to shoot their summer collections in South Africa or Miami, due to consistent warmer climates and sandy beaches.
A model’s job is to emphasize the clothing or product while making it look natural. For example, you may be asked to use kitchen or gardening appliances, or pretend to be socializing with friends. But, for clothing, the movement is fluid and continuous. The most common facial expression seen in catalogs is a smile. However, when a model needs to be serious, it is usually done with a soft, pleasant look. Although the photographer and art director will give you direction, you will be expected to have a ‘flow’; making subtle adjustments to your poses. A slight move of your hand, a tilt of the head, or a change of facial expression will give the client a variety of shots to choose from. Furthermore, if you are able to do this quickly and efficiently, you’ve just increased the chances of the client wanting you back.
The No Makeup Makeup Tutorial
Makeup Artist, Diane Catorc, Shows Us How To Create The Perfect "No Makeup Makeup" Look.
Sought-after hair and makeup artist, Diane Catorc, has been in the business for twenty years. Naturally, she has picked up numerous tips along the way. We asked her how she creates the “no makeup makeup” look – which is a model’s go-to for castings and digitals. Check out the tutorial video above to watch Diane give step-by-step instructions while demonstrating on model, Julia Locatelli. We’ve been practicing it ever since, and now all of us at FMD are sporting our effortless glows!
Breathe and Relax! The Power Of Meditation
Meditation with Hannah Tokuno
Hannah Tokuno has returned to give us some Ohmmmmmm. The Californian model has been practicing Yoga and Meditation for almost 15 years and says that it clears her mind and acts as a great stress reliever.
Modeling can be challenging, and at times soul destroying. It's not easy to let the effects of competition and rejection roll off your back. Therefore, it is important to include activities in your day-to-day life that make you happy.
Meditation is one of the best ways to generate calm. It also allows you to focus on your goals and positive thoughts, and manifest them into your reality. If you've never tried it before, now is the time! Find a nice quiet spot to sit or lie down, then let Hannah teach you how to meditate in the video below. Namaste.
Mother Agent: Stars Management
Bathing Suits: Finding The Right Fit
Miranda Kerr for The Edit Magazine. Photographed by Mariano Vivanco
The bikini will be one of your most crucial casting outfits - and it should be with you at all times!
A bathing suit is a key item in a model's wardrobe, and not because models spend all their time working on their tans by the pool or on the beach. Both agents and clients alike will often request that you wear a two-piece bathing suit while shooting digitals or doing a runway walk for castings. This is so they can see your figure without it being hidden by clothing or Photoshop. They will also be able to see your skin tone and spot any birthmarks, scars, or tattoos that could show during a booking.
However, the trick to nailing your digis and castings is by making sure that you have a bikini that fits perfectly and looks great. Here are a few tips:
- Choose a suit in a solid color as patterns can be off-putting. Black is the choice among models (and agents).
- If you want to branch out a little with some color; for those with a dark to medium skin tone, use brighter colors like turquoise, red or yellow. For light skin tones, stick to deep, dark colors like dark green, purple or navy.
- As a model, you always want to accentuate long legs - choosing high-cut bottoms will help.
- Get the right fit. Make sure your bathing suit does not cut into you- which can be unflattering, as well as one that is too loose and saggy. We recommend side-tie string bikini bottoms. Not only can you keep them high on your hip, but you can also adjust them to fit your body perfectly.
- To accentuate your hips and bust, consider a wider band around the bottoms, and a halter or tie-front top. They will draw the eyes to both areas.
- If your hips are wider than your bust, wear a string-tie bottom with a halter or bandeau top to bring attention to the bust.
- When in doubt, go for a classic black triangle string bikini. Everyone looks good in one of these!
- Lastly, check your insecurities at the door. Rock your bikini with all the confidence a casting room can fit.
A little bikini inspiration....
GOOSEBERRY So Chic Long Island Triangle Bikini Top with Tanga Bikini Bottom. www.gooseberryintimates.com
VOLCOM Simply Solid Tiny Bottoms with Simply Solid Bandeau. www.volcom.com
VOLCOM Simply Solid V Cheeky Bikini Bottom www.volcom.com
THE BIKINI LAB Push-Up Underwire Bikini Top. www.nordstrom.com
ROBIN PICCONE Halter Bikini Top with Side Tie Bikini Bottoms. www.nordstrom.com
PINK Mesh Triangle T-Back Top plus Bottoms. www.victoriassecret.com/pink
MAAJI Moonless Night Dazzling Reversible Bikini Top. www.nordstrom.com
LA BLANCA Petal Pusher Solid Ruffle Triangle Bikini Top with Tie Side Cali Hipster Bottoms. www.lablancaswim.com
GOOSEBERRY: So Chic French Kiss Triangle Bikini Top With Thong Bikini Bottom. www.gooseberryintimates.com
Booking Out
To book out or not book out, that is the question....
WHAT IS A BOOK OUT?
Booking out is to inform your agent when you are not available for modeling jobs or castings. For example, you might have an upcoming doctor’s appointment or vacation or starting a new school semester.
Your agent automatically assumes that you are available during business hours unless you book out. It saves them from having to call you whenever a client inquires about your schedule. Otherwise, your agent will spend more time chasing up on your availability, rather than procuring you more bookings.
WHEN TO BOOK OUT:
To minimize any frustrations or conflicts for you, your agent, and the clients; get into the habit of notifying your agent the moment you add a commitment to your schedule. If it is something that you can't change, or you are not prepared to change- you must book it out.
Helpful hint: Make sure you relay the exact times and dates you will be unavailable, and also mention if you will be local, out of town, or out of the country. This way your agent will know if they can work around your book outs for last minute projects.
CANCEL ONLY FOR EMERGENCIES:
Keep in mind that once you have agreed to and confirmed a casting, option, or booking, never cancel for any reason other than a family or medical emergency. Your commitment to your word is the heartbeat of your integrity, and you will earn a reputation for being reliable and trustworthy.
Cellphone Etiquette
Nobody leaves home without one, so we thought we might highlight some cell phone etiquette for you to consider the next time you reach for your iPhone or Android during appointments and bookings.
WHEN IT'S OK TO USE YOUR PHONE:
WHILE ON A JOB - Limit cell phone use to lunch or coffee breaks, and switch your phone to silent mode for the duration of the booking. Although plugging yourself into your device is generally accepted during any downtime - which may be a lot, it is important to remain attentive to your surroundings and make conversation with your colleagues. This way, you will not come across as an introvert or disconnected, and you will also be aware of when the client needs you on set.
AT CASTINGS AND APPOINTMENTS - Phone calls should be made before and after castings, fittings, go-sees and other business related appointments, and silence all notifications and ringtones. If you are not distracted by your phone, you won't miss any important instructions or cues.
EXCEPTIONS:
SAFETY - If a serious issue arises during a modeling appointment or job, such as; you feel that you are in danger, or being exploited, call your agency immediately to notify your agent. You should also report any criminal incident to law enforcement.
WORK OR EMERGENCY RELATED CALLS - Although we suggest not using your phone during bookings and appointments, you may find yourself waiting for hours at a casting or on the sidelines of a photo shoot, in which case it is acceptable to make and receive business or personal emergency phone calls.
Cara Delevingne by Ellen von Unwerth for the Sunday Times Style Spring 2016 Cover
PHONE FAUX PAS:
SELFIES IN THE ARTIST'S CHAIR - Most stylists and artists don't mind the selfies or Snapchat filtered videos while you're sitting in the hair and makeup chair or trying on an outfit. Occasionally, they like to join in the fun and record their creative masterpieces. However, don't let it get in the way of what they are trying to do - their job. They too are hired by the client and on a strict schedule. Even scrolling through your phone can be just as frustrating for an artist, because they need you to follow their instructions while they apply makeup, style, and groom you. Resist the urge to bring out the camera phone until the artist says it's OK, and there's spare time to Snapchat away.
NOISY NOTIFICATIONS AND PHONE CALLS- Loud phone conversations and constant pinging of texts and messages are very off putting for everyone around you. Go to a discreet place to make your calls, when it's appropriate, and keep your phone on silent.
INDISCREET CHATTER - Be careful with your conversations. Avoid speaking negatively when you are around a client or their team, even when you think they are out of earshot. A casual phone conversation with a friend about an uncomfortable outfit or a long day could potentially offend the client. Additionally, profane or aggressive conversations are inappropriate in any professional environment.
Instagrams Fashion Model Influencers
Six Instagram accounts of fashion models that are worth following.
Social media plays an important role in the fashion industry. Not only for the brands, but for the models too. Through Instagram, most models promote their job. But, there are some who use their social platforms as a way to express their beliefs and concerns about global, social, economic, and environmental issues. Adding more interest, increasing their followers, and creating awareness – having an influence. Furthermore, they share their everyday lives and hobbies like the rest of us, which makes them more approachable.
@ashleygraham, 6.8m followers.
Ashley Graham is one of the most famous plus-size models in the US. She has appeared on multiple fashion magazine covers such as VOGUE, Elle, Harper’s Bazaar and Glamour. Being a body positive activist, she celebrates her cellulite, and she’s not afraid to share unedited photos on Instagram. Women love her because she has shaken up the beauty standards and empowered women to love their body with all their “flaws”.
@chrissyteigen, 17.5m followers.
Even if her Twitter relationship with the US President didn’t have a happy ending, Chrissy Teigen is one of the funniest fashion models, celebrities, cookbook authors and moms on Instagram. She loves to share almost everything about her day-to-day life, especially photos and videos of her 2-year-old daughter, Luna. Recently, Teigen welcomed a baby boy, Miles, and now posts photos of her second time around motherhood with unique and funny twists. Even while pregnant, she is not ashamed of showing her naked body. Although, Teigen has confessed that she had previously struggled with body insecurity.
A post shared by chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) on
A post shared by chrissy teigen (@chrissyteigen) on
@adwoaaboah, 629k followers.
Adwoa Aboah isn’t just a pretty British face. Back in 2015, she and her best friend Holly Gore founded Gurls Talk, an online community where young women can discuss sensitive topics such as mental health, sex, and social media. In her Instagram account, she shares her involvement with charities and women’s organizations. She also uploads interviews and videos that are definitely worth watching. In case you want to participate in the conversation with Gurls Talk you can add the hashtag #letsgetgurlstalking.
A post shared by Adwoa Aboah (@adwoaaboah) on
A post shared by Adwoa Aboah (@adwoaaboah) on
A post shared by Adwoa Aboah (@adwoaaboah) on
@bellahadid, 18.1m followers & @gigihadid, 40.5m followers.
#tommyxgigi #tommyhilfigerwatches 🏎 by @mikaeljansson @movado @tommyhilfiger #ad
A post shared by Gigi Hadid (@gigihadid) on
@jackgreystone, 282k followers.
Taylor David, aka Jack Greystone or “the man-bun”, introduces himself on his Instagram account as a “humor artist. traveler not tourist. based on a true story .” The Canada-born model has created a strong social brand, mainly by collaborating with Canadian fashion companies. But, he also loves to share photos from his trips around the globe. Giving us an insight to places and adventures that we only dream about. Photography and acting are two of his greatest passions.
The Season For Strawberries
Strawberries are the fruit of Summer! So, we decided to fill your day with delicious and very creative recipes that highlight the sweet summer fruit, that will cover you from breakfast through till dinner time. For an added bonus, why not grab your friends and family for a strawberry picking excursion?
BREAKFAST: PEANUT BUTTER & JELLY CHIA PUDDING
Peanut Butter and Jelly Chia Pudding | Healthy, Vegan,Gluten Free
This amazing Peanut Butter and Jelly Chia Pudding was created with the Peanut Bureau. It's healthy, vegan and gluten free and will quickly become your go-to nutritious snack, breakfast or dessert. Y'all know I love my peanut butter and banana combination recipes, but I'm equally obsessed with peanut butter and jelly.
SNACK: STRAWBERRY MUFFINS
Easy Paleo Healthy Strawberry Muffins - Fearless Dining
Are you looking for a light and fluffy paleo strawberry muffin recipe? I have finally worked out a flour combination to make the best healthy strawberry muffins! Grab some cassava flour and tigernut flour, you won't believe how easy this muffin recipe is to make!
LUNCH: STRAWBERRY & GOAT CHEESE SALAD
Green Salad with Strawberries & Goat Cheese Recipe
This lively salad captures the essence of early summer with ripe strawberries, chives and baby spinach. To make it a meal, top it with grilled chicken breast.
DINNER: GRILLED CHICKEN WITH STRAWBERRY SALSA
Grilled Chicken Cutlets with Strawberry Salsa
We also love to drizzle Tangy Strawberry Barbecue Sauce over the chicken.
DESSERT: STRAWBERRY FROZEN YOGURT
5-Minute Healthy Strawberry Frozen Yogurt | Just a Taste
5-Minute Healthy Strawberry Frozen Yogurt Satisfy your sweet tooth sans the guilt with easy, creamy 5-Minute Healthy Strawberry Frozen Yogurt! Four ingredients and five minutes. Add a homemade waffle cone to the equation and you should go ahead and alert your local ice cream shop that there's a new dairy queen in town.
Patrycja Gardygajlo by Rene Habermacher for Vogue Japan
