Nine9, The UnAgency Blog Podcast

Making the Most of Your Modeling Photo Shoots

Let’s face it – modeling photo shoots can seem scary. There’s a lot of pressure to be as photogenic as possible, especially if you’re putting together a portfolio you plan to share with potential clients. It’s important to remember, though, the more natural your pics, the better. If you try to force the perfect pose, you’re more likely to come across as awkward than alluring. Learning how to prepare for a shoot ahead of time is key to pulling it off without a hitch.

Modeling photo shoots are not something you can simply walk into expecting to wing it. You’ll want to work on your look ahead of time so you can truly nail it when you’re in front of the camera. You’ll need to have a solid understanding of how your hair (and makeup) will be, what outfits you’ll where, and what shots you’re hoping to capture.

As far as posing is concerned, the easiest way to learn which angles look best is to grab your phone and snap a few selfies. You can also ask a friend to help you prep for your modeling photo shoots or pick up an inexpensive selfie stick to give yourself a better idea of what the end product might look like. Practice both serious and silly shots, smiling and stoic. Summon thoughts that evoke certain emotions to make the images as authentic as possible.

You should select a few specific wardrobe pieces for the big day. Try on different outfits and colors and see what flatters your figure and brings out your facial features. Play around with appearance ahead of time so see which ‘do and hues are most complimentary. Remember, in general, when it comes to modeling photos shoots, less is more. You’ll want to stick with a streamlined ensemble, simple hairstyle, and a more natural makeup palette.

Of course, you can always play up features you want to accentuate and play down those you don’t. If you want to include a more striking look, save it for last and make any drastic switches when the time comes. Your portfolio should represent your range, and sometimes, this is expressed with wardrobe as well as presentation. Of course, modeling photo shoots for which talent is hired will meet the expectations of the client. Oftentimes, hair and makeup stylists will be available, and they will be briefed on the purpose of the shoot and how the model should look.

Once you have the necessary pieces in place, all that’s left to do is put your best foot forward and let the camera do the rest! Modeling photo shoots are a lot less intimidating when you’ve prepared well before the big day.

To learn more tips for the perfect modeling photo shoots, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!

Glamour tips for influencers are important because, as an influencer, your appearance is a huge part of your brand. Getting glammed up allows you to make an impression on your social media followers and continue to attract new followers, increases your marketability, and ensures you’re retain your audience.

Those who follow you will likely be influenced by not only your message, but how you present yourself. So that you’re prepared to present in a way that its admirable and conveys the overarching message you’re trying to get across, here’s five tips to do just that.

First, adhere to certain glamour tips for influencers when you’re advocating for a particular cause and are out there networking so you can post relevant info about what you’ve been up to and how you’re creating change – all the while looking your very best. Your look has to match your message, and the best way to get your message across is to post a vlog, which is basically the visual version of a blog. Style your hair and makeup in a way that fits with the video’s purpose before hitting record.

People on Social media want motion captured visuals, which is why glamour tips for influencers go beyond still photos. Your followers want to see you in a more personal way and the best way for them to know, like, trust and relate to you as a REAL personal is to glamourize yourself in a video. Next, remember others are drawn to your eyes, whether you’re posting an image or are broadcasting in video form, so, you’ll want to draw all the right attention to this area.

Apply a primer that is one shade lighter than the area between your brow and lid in order to keep your shadow in place. You’ll also want to work on your blending skills to achieve the best balance of colors that compliments while keeping a natural and neutral façade. Always keep it real – even if this takes some extra effort.

Don’t forget to highlight your best features and downplay those you’re more insecure about, which will help boost confidence so you can focus on posing or what you’re going to say in front of the camera rather than how you look. Have great cheekbones? Add a highlighter and a hint of blush. Known for amazing lips? Play pout your pout and play down the rest of your palette with nudes. Influencers should always focus on influencing, and to do so, insecurities have to take a backseat. Then, focus on your ‘hair dew’. This is one of those glamour tips for influencers that is likely to catch fire by your followers, causing copycat chaos across the globe! Find the best fit for your face shape while also selecting one that fits both your physical appearance and personality. Add a pop of color for a finishing touch.

For some hair and makeup inspiration and extra glamour tips for influencers, check out what’s trending and take it up a notch to make the style uniquely yours. And if you’re not sure what your best look is when you’re just getting started, schedule an appointment with a makeup artist and a hairstylist who can show you the latest style trends. Oftentimes, they have insider knowledge on what’s about to be hot so you can be on the forefront of any up-and-coming trends. They’ll help you decide which direction might be best for adding some extra pizzazz. Glamour tips for influencers from these industry pros will take your image to the next level.

To learn more tips to look more glamourous on Instagram, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also lea

It’s not ideal, but if you’re in a crunch and you need some shots on the spot, you can take professional photos with smartphones. Of course, you will want to make sure you follow a few steps to ensure they come out as best as they can, and luckily, because there are apps for just about anything nowadays, there’s a few shortcuts you can download to help.

It’s important to remember, while you can take professional photos with smartphones, not all images will appear professional the second you snap one, so you’ll have to work on adjusting after the fact. Select an app meant for capturing a professional shot in hi-def, then edit immediately. Some apps are better than others and you will probably quickly pick up on this as you are scouring the app store for the right one. An editor should allow you to fade or eliminate the background, which makes focusing on your face all that much easier. This is called adjusting the depth-of-field and some recent released smart phones comes with a portrait feature, giving the device the ability to do this. You should also be able to remove any blemishes and adjust imperfections.

The grid option is key for good framing, another aesthetic that will help to give your smartphone photos a professional look and feel. It allows an amateur photographer to follow the rule of thirds which is important for centering or off centering the shot just right. Turn off your flash and find the best natural lighting source you can before you proceed. Then, tap to focus on your face on the screen, this will assure that your face is sharp in focus. Take a few practice snaps until you are satisfied with your features are being highlighted just right. One way to test if you face is in sharp focus is to pitch to zoom close on your eyes and see if you can see the details in your eye lashes. If you can, then that photo is definitely in focus.

Always switch to ‘burst’ mode for action shots, so they do not turn out all-too blurry. Have someone hold your device while you do your thing, holding down the button until you are done. This must be done with very steady-hand and without movement. The burst of images will be saved to your camera for your review. When it comes to action-oriented sports images and the like, the ability to take professional photos with smartphones is convenient because you can do so as you compete at various events.

Use your phone’s built-in editing software to make any last-minute minor adjustments, such as brightening the image or adding some color. When you take professional photos with smartphones, however, you will want to keep things simple. Playing around with most background enhancements will likely equate to overkill, making you look unnatural.

You may want to purchase an extra SD Card for media storage, if you plan to use your device for professional photography. Otherwise, it may fill up quickly and leave you in the impossible position of selecting only the very best to keep in your gallery. Above all, remember – if you can, schedule an appointment with a professional photographer. But, if you must, you can take professional photos with smartphones.

To learn more about how to take professional photos with your smart phone, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!

If you have a knack for content creation, this just might give you a leg up in the industry. Once you have decided what social media platforms you want to use, it is time to think about the type of content you should create and share with the world. Sharing original content can lead to a wealth of exposure and build a solid base for your portfolio that just might mean landing more roles.

Building your brand is a delicate balance between establishing a professional reputation while getting personal enough to connect with fans. Here are three forms of content you should consider.

Blog articles

Have a natural talent for writing? Well let’s get publishing, by establishing a website and blog and sharing relevant content with fans. You will have to decide what you want to share first, of course, and who you want to be known as or what you want to be known for online. This is all part of personal branding.

You might consider sharing personal experiences in a professional way. For example, maybe you have a wealth of customer service experience, but instead of sharing day-to-day interactions with customers you decide to become an expert in communicating effectively in the entertainment industry. You will want to think about a broad topic and drill down from there, thinking of specific blogs to post (i.e., Cold Calling, Is it Worth It?, Following Up with a Casting Director, etc.).

How often you share a post with your intended audience is also key to brand development. Usually, bloggers choose to include a link for readers to subscribe to their page and then create a weekly newsletter to let their reader base know when a new post has become available. If you attract just the right readership, your blog could lead to big opportunities.

Videos

We live in a visual world and people want to see you. So, creating videos can be an integral and effective component of branding. It is easy to establish a channel and quickly start adding video content. Again, if you have something to teach others and want to become known online as an expert in something, tutorial videos can give you a wide reach. You can always upload and intertwine your demo reel or footage from auditions or projects, so your viewers have a firsthand reference. Of course, this also gives you great exposure, and you never know who will be watching.

Podcasts

These have exploded in popularity as of late and offer a great avenue for voice actors to showcase their talent. It is also an excellent way for those interested in hosting radio or television shows to build a substantial viewer base. There are many platforms to choose from. Just make sure you get quality equipment and have some idea what you want your podcast to focus on. From there, you can start creating episodes with “expert” guests who will quickly lend credibility to your work.

The digital age has opened up a wealth of online marketing options for talent exposure and has made branding easier than ever. If you have a creative bug, consider broadcasting your content online. You will probably be surprised by how many industry influencers take notice!

To learn more about how to promote yourself online by becoming a content creator, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the Here to Re

You may have a general idea of what you plan to wear to your next monologue read?

Here's a few not-so-obvious rules to follow when it comes to selecting successful script reading attire, and you will definitely want to dress to impress. Follow these tips to ensure you choose clothing that allows the casting director to concentrate on your words rather than your wardrobe.

Avoid flashy patterns. Not only are these distracting, but the camera does not like busy prints. It is best to avoid bright colors and intricate designs. Instead, opt for an ensemble that is simple and professional.

Do not underdress, either. You may be used to wearing comfy leggings at home, but this does not mean you should look like you went straight from the bed to the boardroom. Even if you try to dress up your legwear with a business casual top, it is going to be hard for the CD to forget about your bottom half.

Absolutely no jeans. Denim is the equivalent to underdressed. While there are certain pieces that look a little more put together, you should save these for your next trip out with friends. Pick out some business casual pants instead.

Wear what fits. This may seem like a no-brainer, but oftentimes, we wear things that seem comfortable while being a bit too tight or too revealing. It is best to button up and choose lose fabrics that are eye-catching – in the right way. If you are questioning how an outfit looks, ask for a second opinion before you head out the door.

Skip the costume wear. Forget about choosing clothing that instantly transforms you into the character you are hoping to play. If you are trying out for the part of a martial artist, clown, punk rocker, or some other over-the-top character, save the dramatics for after you are booked. Instead, let your lines showcase your ability to portray this fictional person.

Go light on the makeup and accessories. Too much of either can easily avert one’s attention from your performance to your appearance. Some jewelry will also hit the lightening the wrong way and deflect from your face. Accessorize with caution and allow the CD to see the real you without having to guess who is behind the palette.

Before your next appointment, select an outfit that is comfortable, yet classy, and fitted, yet figure friendly. Do not overdo it with hard-to-forget add-ons. Remember, less is more, and the performance you have prepared already has enough pizazz!

To learn more about how to perform on auditions, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!

Photo Fundamentals: Finding a Great Photographer

Finding great photographers is essential to creating stand-out marketing materials. You want your photos to turn out just right the first time. The key to finding the perfect photographer, of course, is to do your research ahead of time. You don’t want to go out on a limb and haphazardly book a fly-by-night company only to be left without the final product or shots you’re sure you could have taken yourself.

It can be really easy to book anyone you’d like if you have all the money to spend in the world, but unfortunately, that’s typically not the case. Before you start looking, you’ll want to have an idea of the amount you’re willing to dish out for some professional shots. Remember, you need these to be good, so chances are you will need to invest a little time and money into make sure they turn out the way you want them to. Again, you are likely to get what you pay for, and finding great photographers can mean searching at a moderately high price range.

Location may or may not factor into finding great photographers in your area, too. Usually, there’s going to be a least a couple close to home, because people need photography for a variety of reasons, including business marketing, school and family pictures, special events, etc. So, try to find studios that are focus on a certain niche or style of photography. The photographers that are best at Commercial Photography, Fashion Photography, Wedding Photographers and Portrait Photography, would be your best choice. They are most familiar with posing in all the framed shots you would need. They would know that you need a perfect balance of full body, waist up and head shots. Try to stay away from Scenic, as they are not used to shooting people. Always call if you have any questions.

Entertainment Industry experience is a huge plus when it comes to finding great photographers. Not everyone who is talented with a camera will come with insider knowledge of all-things entertainment. However, if you can find one in your area, all the better. These individuals know what casting directors and agents are looking for photo-wise so they can really nail the shots. They will be able to best position you in the studio and get a variety of images to ‘wow’ whoever is reviewing your materials.

Scour the web for studios nearby that come with favorable reviews. It always helps to check the number of reviews left as well. If a place has a five-star rating left by one, this may not be as creditable as four-and-a-half-star feedback from a hundred visitors. Investigate the reviews that are less than perfect. What went wrong? Sometimes people are simply reluctant to give the full five stars, so finding great photographers can be a subjective search.

When you’re deciding who to work with to create your image portfolio, do your research ahead of time. Keep an eye out for go-to references and industry experience. Finding great photographers takes some extra planning but the results are always worth it!

To learn more about how to get find the perfect photographer and how to maybe even shoot your photos yourself, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!

Actor headshots are, arguably, the most important tool in the talent’s toolbox. Casting directors and agents will ask for a headshot and keep it handy to pull out whenever a new role pops up that seems like it might be a good fit. Therefore, having an effective headshot – one that meets all of the typical requirements and still somehow stands out from the crowd – is as good as gold. Understanding the difference between an effective and an ineffective one is key, and this distinction should be clear long before a shoot.

Actor headshots should represent the talent’s type so the image can be used to audition for roles that fit this type. This shoulders-up shot should clearly demonstrate who the actor is trying to portray him- or herself as without any second-guessing. It is essential to wear an outfit that brings out your facial features (in a good way) and does not distract from your look. Keep your wardrobe simple and well put-together.

Nailing the pose also means allowing yourself to have enough time to get situated before you say “go” and the photographer snaps the image. Make sure to always look directly at the camera, center yourself, and square your shoulders. Sometimes, the right pose may seem a bit uncomfortable as you are twisting and turning and tilting your head. This is a normal part of the process.

Do not be afraid to tell the photographer about the look you are going for, and ensure this person includes enough surface area along the shoulder line so the print appears centered. If it is cropped too high, ask to have it retaken. The last thing you want to do is present a chin-up image to a casting director. It is best to do your research, and work with a photographer who knows actor headshots well.

Get creative with how you use the final product. Sometimes, thumbnail-sized actor headshots are included on resume. This way, anyone reviewing the bullet-pointed list can also reference a graphic and tie this in with the name on top. When this is done, a larger print out is also included separately.

Above all, your headshot should be representative of your current look. When casting directors collect and review materials, they are look for a particular type that matches an open role. Actor headshots are a viewed as a visual business card and Casting Directors rely on their accuracy, so keep your look up-to-date and you will have invaluable tool in your back pocket!

To learn more about how to get the perfect headshot and how to submit your headshots to Casting Directors, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!

What are modeling comp cards and why should every model have one?

Modeling comp cards are what can be defined as a model portfolio. They serve as business cards, essentially providing casting agents with a visual representation of the model in various different looks and appearances.

Modeling comp cards are the first thing you will need to have in order to properly prepare for an open call for a modeling agency or casting agent. A comp card is short abbreviation for composite card. It is the model's way of presenting themselves on paper and through photos. It contains some basic and important information such as name, measurements, photos, and contact information. It is often put into a visual data base to help the agency search and select models for a particular job.

Why is it important to have and use a modeling comp card?

When modeling agencies are looking for models, they have already determined what type of model they want for a specific job. For example, if they are looking for blondes, they will select all the models with blonde hair that fit the requirements and sent it out to the scouts, agencies, and clients. The choice will fall solely on the comp card itself. Since it is the photos that are most important in influencing the choice, the comp card should really be the best version of the model's portfolio.

The modeling comp card and the portfolio book should always be with the model when there are castings, auditioning, or attending modeling job interviews. It helps the agencies, and the clients keep up with the selection and make the shortlist. On many occasions, the models that have come without a modeling comp card never make the shortlist.

What should you include in your modeling comp card?

As expected, the modeling comp card is much bigger than a regular business card. The standard size is A5 or 5.5″ x 8.5″. It is usually printed on both sides.

The most basic modeling comp card has a particular layout. On the first side, there is the model's name, stats, and headshot. The stats should include the following: height, vital stats - dimensions (bust\chest, waist, hips), hair and eye color, and shoe number. The headshot, that is the photograph, that shows at close-up of the model's face. The face should never be covered because it presents an assumption that some flaw is covered. You should also never wear hats of any kind, as it makes it hard to identify hair type and color.

Using the Comp Card to your advantage

An impressive modeling comp card can go a long way. It can be the main reason why you were selected for a certain job. In the modeling industry, everything is about tastes and personal choices. The fashion designers and fashion houses are always looking for people who will deliver their vision, creativity, and products in the best way possible. That is why there are always job opportunities for those seeking to succeed in the modeling industry.

Whatever your talents and skills are, never forget that the impressive, well-composed, and updated modeling comp card can define or ruin your career. Keep it colorful, varied, true, and representable.
To learn more about Comp Cards and the best ways to have one done for you, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Online Workshop. On this free Online Workshop, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will also learn cutting-edge ways to have good paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area, flood into your email inbox on a regular basis. You will learn what to do to land these jobs from the comfort of your own home. Click below to register now!"

What not to Ask an Agent

If you have scored a meeting with an agent, congrats! That is a big step career-wise. Now, you will want to get ready to for the big day so you can appear confident when you sit down to talk business. There are a few things you will want to ask, and perhaps even more importantly, there are a few things you should never ask. Keep these questions off the table:

How many clients do you have?

Do your own research ahead of time. You can easily find the information you are looking for on the web without having to evoke an awkward conversation. Asking about an agent’s client load makes you look unprepared. Plus, there’s just no real reason to inquire. Unless you are the first person to ever walk through the door, the response probably will not sway your decision.

Do you have any clients like me?

The answer is likely “yes” and that is precisely why the agent has agreed to meet with you. You may be concerned you will not get enough attention, but the truth is, many agents are awesome at working with a particular demographic. So, they work with that demographic. It is that simple. This does not mean you will not get booked on gigs. It means the agent has the expertise to market you in a way that will ensure you get noticed.

What is the best way to reach you?

Well, you made it to the interview, right? So, you must have a way of reaching out. Plus, if you are meeting with a reputable agency, the communicative terms should already be evident. And, if the agent is interested, you will be given the details before you leave the room. So, allow the conversation some time to properly wrap without appearing overly eager and attempting to beat the other person to the punch. If it seems like a good match, you will be invited to whatever is next in the process.

Most meetings last roughly thirty minutes, during which time the agent will probably answer most of your questions without prompting. It is important to do your homework ahead of time, too, so you can fill in the blanks as needed. Remember, not only is the agency deciding if they want to work with you, but you will want to have some solid reasons of your own for partnering with the person in front of you. Preparing well-thought-out questions, rather than a frivolous few, will show you are both motivated and ready to move forward.

To learn more about Agent meeting etiquette and the best ways to find an Agent, feel free to sign up for our next FREE Virtual Open Call. On this free Virtual Open Call, you will learn about the recent changes in the modeling and acting industries that is opening the doors for more job opportunities. You will learn cutting-edge ways to gain access to a steady stream of high paying modeling and acting jobs in your local area. You will also learn how to receive continued online training workshops that will prepare you for that big audition or casting call. Click the link below to Register Now!