** THIS SPECIAL IS ONLY APPLICABLE IN THE REGIONAL PHOENIX AREA **
If you are in need of a good set of Family pictures for the holidays, here is what we can do for you:
Book an appointment now and SAVE SAVE SAVE !! Great for that special someone for the holidays.
Everyone has that special look, it just takes a photographer like myself to expose it !!
This total package for the low cost of $100.00
Save over $75.00 Now, Normally $175.00, check it out check it out.
What you can expect:
45 minutes of photography with a National Photographer
Normally in this shoot you will be able to pick from around 200 pictures.
Choose Self Developement at Walmart or Walgreens to save you money or I can get them developed for an estimated cost at time of choosing photographs wanted.
All the shots you want !!
Choose any outside location within 45 miles of phoenix
Unlimited Edits
FREE Processing on 2-8x10, 4-4x6, 2-5x7 and 1 page of wallets a $25 value
Stunning Photographs for Stunning Individuals
Get them any size you want them with a Copyright release
Also we will treat your family like no other photographer can, come see the difference.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Modeling Scams to Avoid !!
Here is a blog that everyone should pass on to anyone who is interested in the businesss of modeling, booking models, or photography.
So how to avoid getting taken? You need to understand some painful facts:
1. Major fashion and commercial clients don't go cruising around the Internet looking for models. No matter how much you want to believe it, it's not true. If someone says they found you that way and want to give you lots of money, it's a scam.
2. No magazine is going to pay you a lot of money for anything. Doesn't happen. Even for top agency models, magazine rates are very low. A typical fashion editorial rate is $150 per day. The highest rate I've ever heard of is $500 per day, and that is very unusual.
3. If you aren't with a major agency, nobody is going to fly you thousands of miles and pay you thousands of dollars for a mainstream modeling job. Doesn't happen. For the kinds of money they offer, there are plenty of agencies with qualified models, right near where the job is – or willing to send their models to where the job is. Clients with big bucks aren't going to take a chance on an unknown when they can get the guarantees of working with an agency.
4. Nobody is going to pay you thousands of dollars for a shoot they set up near you. Doesn't happen. For the kinds of money they offer, there are plenty of agencies with qualified models who are willing to send their models to where the job is. Clients with big bucks aren't going to take a chance on an unknown when they can get the guarantees of working with an agency.
5. Nobody will send you large amounts of money up front for a modeling job. If a miracle strikes and you do get hired for a job you have to fly to, they will make the reservations and buy tickets for you. Same for the hotel. They certainly aren't going to send you the money and then cross their fingers and hope you show up.
6. Nobody overpays up front, and then asks for a refund up front. Again, if in some Alice in Wonderland world someone were to send you money up front for a trip, they would just collect the overage when you arrived for the job, or take it out of your modeling fees after the job was over. They certainly wouldn't ask you to send it to them before the trip ever began.
7. Nobody will ask you to pay them for a service as part of getting the job. If they want you, for instance, to purchase a "modeling license" that they claim is necessary, and happen to know an attorney who can get it for you, it's a scam.
8. If they can't spell, it isn't real. These scammers aren't unemployed grammar teachers. They almost always write offering letters that are full of obvious errors. Real international companies with the kinds of money they claim to be able to throw around can hire someone who speaks your language well to communicate with you.
9. Never withdraw money from a deposited "certified check" until your bank confirms that they have collected the funds. Normally that takes a week or so. Ask your banker, and they will be happy to tell you the status of the deposit. Then wait another two weeks - banks have been known to say bogus checks have been cleared when they have not.
If you get an offer from someone far from you who wants you for a job that pays a high fee, and somehow none of the above red flags seem to apply, you have a source of help: the best modeling agency near you. With that kind of money at stake, if it's real you just got qualified to be an agency model. Yes, they will take a commission – but they will also do the research, understand what is real and what is not, and stand behind you if you do end up thousands of miles away where you don't know anyone. So take that offer, or that check, down to your local agency, tell them you want to give them a piece of it, and see what happens. If the job is fake, 20% of nothing is nothing, so that's what it cost you to find out. And if it happens, against all odds, to be real, the money to find that out will be well spent.
So how to avoid getting taken? You need to understand some painful facts:
1. Major fashion and commercial clients don't go cruising around the Internet looking for models. No matter how much you want to believe it, it's not true. If someone says they found you that way and want to give you lots of money, it's a scam.
2. No magazine is going to pay you a lot of money for anything. Doesn't happen. Even for top agency models, magazine rates are very low. A typical fashion editorial rate is $150 per day. The highest rate I've ever heard of is $500 per day, and that is very unusual.
3. If you aren't with a major agency, nobody is going to fly you thousands of miles and pay you thousands of dollars for a mainstream modeling job. Doesn't happen. For the kinds of money they offer, there are plenty of agencies with qualified models, right near where the job is – or willing to send their models to where the job is. Clients with big bucks aren't going to take a chance on an unknown when they can get the guarantees of working with an agency.
4. Nobody is going to pay you thousands of dollars for a shoot they set up near you. Doesn't happen. For the kinds of money they offer, there are plenty of agencies with qualified models who are willing to send their models to where the job is. Clients with big bucks aren't going to take a chance on an unknown when they can get the guarantees of working with an agency.
5. Nobody will send you large amounts of money up front for a modeling job. If a miracle strikes and you do get hired for a job you have to fly to, they will make the reservations and buy tickets for you. Same for the hotel. They certainly aren't going to send you the money and then cross their fingers and hope you show up.
6. Nobody overpays up front, and then asks for a refund up front. Again, if in some Alice in Wonderland world someone were to send you money up front for a trip, they would just collect the overage when you arrived for the job, or take it out of your modeling fees after the job was over. They certainly wouldn't ask you to send it to them before the trip ever began.
7. Nobody will ask you to pay them for a service as part of getting the job. If they want you, for instance, to purchase a "modeling license" that they claim is necessary, and happen to know an attorney who can get it for you, it's a scam.
8. If they can't spell, it isn't real. These scammers aren't unemployed grammar teachers. They almost always write offering letters that are full of obvious errors. Real international companies with the kinds of money they claim to be able to throw around can hire someone who speaks your language well to communicate with you.
9. Never withdraw money from a deposited "certified check" until your bank confirms that they have collected the funds. Normally that takes a week or so. Ask your banker, and they will be happy to tell you the status of the deposit. Then wait another two weeks - banks have been known to say bogus checks have been cleared when they have not.
If you get an offer from someone far from you who wants you for a job that pays a high fee, and somehow none of the above red flags seem to apply, you have a source of help: the best modeling agency near you. With that kind of money at stake, if it's real you just got qualified to be an agency model. Yes, they will take a commission – but they will also do the research, understand what is real and what is not, and stand behind you if you do end up thousands of miles away where you don't know anyone. So take that offer, or that check, down to your local agency, tell them you want to give them a piece of it, and see what happens. If the job is fake, 20% of nothing is nothing, so that's what it cost you to find out. And if it happens, against all odds, to be real, the money to find that out will be well spent.
First Impression Photo Session
First Impression Photo Session
Your firstBook now and appoi
Everyone has that special look, it just takes a photographer like myself to expose it !!
Save over $170.00 Now, Normally $300.00, check it out check it out.
What you can expect:
90 minutes of photography with a National Photographer
All the shots you want !!
Choose any location or use our full service studio.
Unlimited Outfit Changes
Unlimited Edits
Stunning Photographs for Stunning Individuals
Get them any size you want them with a Copyright release
Will be placed on our photo section for all to see
Also we will treat you like no other photographer can, come see the difference.
Makeup services available upon request but will require additional cost.
Wedding Photography Pricing
Wedding Photography Pricing
A very special value. This complete package for only $1295. No gimmicks, no album buying requirements, it's all included. This package is easily a $2000-2500 value from many other photographers:
-Photography on your wedding day
I will capture the story of your wedding day from the hairstyling to the garter toss, from the quiet moments before the ceremony, to the party afterwards. You will have a lasting record of your special day. To assure that I don't miss a moment of the day, I always have access to an assistant if needed.
-No limit to the number of images shot
I will shoot at least 400-800 photos. I shoot 100% digitally and have for the past five years. Shooting digitally allows me to shoot as many images as I need to without worrying about film cost, and without having to pass that cost onto you. I also do not have to worry about errors at the processing lab. I then edit these down to the absolute best of the best, and give you 150-300 images to choose from. Have questions about the quality of digital photography? Contact us and we will spend the time with you to explain everything.
-Black & White at no extra charge
I love candid black & white "photojournalistic" style images. I think they capture the memory of the day beautifully. What about color photos? I am also happy to shoot as many color images as you would like. Your wedding day is about YOU. That's why I talk extensively with the bride and groom before the wedding, to get an idea of what you would like to have your photos look like.
-all proof-prints in a stylish album
-No other "print purchase" requirements. You KEEP the NEGATIVES!
I am happy to provide with reprint services and I have several print packages for you to chose from. But you will never be REQUIRED to buy reprints from me.
-No "album purchase" requirements
Aside from providing an album for your proof prints, I don't require that you buy any sort of album from me.
-Video slide show of your images on DVD
See all the photos from your wedding right on your TV, set to your choice of music. This DVD is great for showing to friends or relatives who weren't able to come to the ceremony.
GLAM SHOOT FOR THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE !!
GLAM SHOOT FOR THAT SPECIAL SOMEONE !!
How would you like to give the perfect gift for the holidays or that special occasion, a GLAM shoot.This Package is only $95.00 for a limited time only.
Save over $50.00 Now, Normally $150.00, check it out check it out.
What you can expect:
60 minutes of photography with a National Photographer
All the shots you want !!
Choose any location inside or out.
Unlimited Outfit Changes
Unlimited Edits
Stunning Photographs for Stunning Individuals
Get them any size you want them with a Copyright release
Also we will treat you like no other photographer can, come see the difference.
Makeup services available upon request but will require additional cost.
Payment required upfront before shoot.
How To Become a Model
How to Become a Model
1. Realize that there are qualities every model needs to have, depending on the type of model one wishes to become. Generally, any feature indicative of good health is a must--clear skin, a full head of hair, and overall symmetry. Other qualities such as height and weight depend on what you're modeling. Consider working with a fitness trainer, especially someone who has a good reputation and experience with models. Tell them your modeling goals and how you'll need your body to look.
2. Decide what kind of model you'd like to be. Technically, anybody can be a model. However, do remember that if you don't meet certain requirements, the work available to you will be incredibly limited, and you may have to compensate in other departments (reliability, technique, etc).
* If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.
* If you're tall (at the very least 5'7 for editorial & 5'8 for catwalk.) and very skinny but with a small breast size, you can be a catwalk model.
* If you have large breasts but not very wide hips, you can be an underwear model.
* If you don't fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair or hand model.
* Consider your "look". There is more of a curvy California look, a svelte New York look, a waif-like European look, girl next door, swim suit or lingerie (usually requires the bust to fill out the suits and a very thin waist)...Know what you're equipped with, but also work to pull off other looks.
3. Get some photos done. These don't have to be professional but they should be created for the purpose of showing your ability as a model. Although agencies say they are happy with snapshots, that doesn't mean they want to see an out of focus shot of you out partying with your friends with a little note attached saying that you're the one on the right! As a bare minimum, you will need one headshot and one body shot.
* Get your favorites and take the photos to be printed into 8x10s. Save these in case you are asked to leave a photograph anywhere before you have professional ones done. Don't force these on people or try to hand them out. You'll be better off waiting for the professional shots instead of taking risks with an amateur photo.
* Consider getting the photos professionally done. Professional photography, even if it is expensive, will give you a better idea of what kind of look you project. You will eventually need these photographs to snag an interview, so think of it as a worthwhile investment!
4. Look up the number of a reputable modeling agency. You can find these in your area phone book or by running a search on the Internet. Make an appointment.
5. Be prepared. When you attend your appointment, they might ask you to pull certain faces like laughing, happy, sad, or seductive. Practice in front of a mirror beforehand. It may help to look at pictures of models in magazines to get an idea. Be ready to have a Polaroid close up of your face taken. You really only get one chance for this photo. They'll use this to compare to your headshot. They will ask you to walk and take your measurements, so be prepared for all of that as well. Learn to accept rejection or criticism politely (see Warnings below). Thank the people for their time.
6. Be professional. Be polite and always turn up on time to any appointment or shoot. If you're late or rude, word soon gets around and then nobody will want to work with you.
* Be organized! Models often get called off places at the last minute and have very busy days. You need to be on top of things if you want to succeed. Buying a day-to-day planner can really help.
* Confirm whether or not there will be a make-up artist on site for any work you are doing. 99 times out of 100 there will be but there may be the odd occasion where you are required to do your own make-up. If there is a make-up artist, then arrive fresh faced.
* Be truthful about your measurements. Don't say you're skinnier than you are just to get a shoot. Once there, the stylist will have problems and you will get found out. Word will get around and you could find yourself without a career!
Tips
* Sign up for acting classes or take acting workshops when the opportunity is available. Pantomime classes are a great tool for models. Any skills you can add to your arsenal will only help your future career.
* You can also enter modeling contests. However, make sure you check that these are being run by a reputable agency.
* If, for whatever reason, you've decided signing with an agency isn't right for you, you could consider going freelance. But be warned: the pay is usually considerably less and there are fewer safety precautions.
* Get your parents' permission if you're under the age defined by your country as being an adult.
* Some modeling schools are licensed by the Board of Education. However, whether or not they will teach you how to become a model is questionable, and some agencies even say that attending a modeling school can teach you bad habits that are hard to unlearn! They are also expensive.
* Get a website. It helps spread the word that you're out there and also serves as a place for your adoring fans.
* Know your limits on style and nudity. If you don't want to do glamor work or are uncomfortable doing full nudity, speak up and don't let people push you past those limits. Also, consider where you want your career to go in the future. Sure, you may be comfortable doing glamor now, but what if you decide you want to do fashion or catalog work in the future? You might be discriminated against if they know you have done this line of work.
* Have a portfolio it helps when bringing to clients. Go to a Go-SE, and go- see the clients
Warnings
* Modeling is a tough business. Try not to be discouraged by rejections. Even top models still get rejected for about 70% of everything they are put forward for!
* If you become one of the top models like Kate Moss, the people you work for might ask you to take drastic measures to stay a top model. For example, they might ask you to get nose jobs, liposuction, or have breast implants. And lose more weight... The pressure of modeling can cause a lot of long term mental health problems, including eating disorders. Don't be afraid to speak to somebody if you think it is getting all too much. If you just can't handle the pressure, it may be time to start thinking of a new profession. A job isn't worth your health!
* Be wary of any agency that asks for money up front. The majority of agencies get their money through commission- meaning they take a certain percentage of your pay for every job that you do. If you don't work, then they don't get paid. If you've already paid up, there's no incentive for them to find you work. However, don't dismiss everybody who asks you for up-front fees as a scam. If you are sure that they are an agency, listen carefully to what they are asking for the fees for. Bigger agencies in bigger markets will often pay for these for you or at least loan you the money but smaller agencies or agencies in smaller markets can't afford to do this. If the fees are to cover actual representation, this probably isn't a good deal. Although there are some good agencies out there who work on this basis, the majority are nothing more than con artists. Find models who they represent, get in touch with them and ask them what they think of the representation they are getting.
* If you are invited to a foreign country (i.e. Hong Kong, Macau etc.) for an audition or job, have enough funds to purchase a return ticket yourself. While legitimate jobs exist, there are many scams that provide one way tickets then trap young girls into prostitution rings when they cannot afford to go back home.
* If you are planning a photo shoot with a photographer you have met online, it highly recommended that you bring a chaperon to the shoot. It's for your own safety, as you never know who is who online! If you can't bring a chaperon (because you are unable to find one or because the photographer doesn't allow chaperons), make sure you do a background search on the photographer first- check out things such as who they have worked with and for - and call somebody when you get to the shoot and when you leave the shoot.
* Almost all agencies will ask you to fill out a contract. Be sure to read through it thoroughly and make sure you know what every word means, even use a dictionary if you have to! Better know what you are signing for before you accept.
A lot of people want to be a model because it's glamorous and sexy. However, it's an extremely competitive and grueling business that will more likely break you than make you. Here are some cold, hard truths about becoming a model, as well as some realistic advice to make it happen.
1. Realize that there are qualities every model needs to have, depending on the type of model one wishes to become. Generally, any feature indicative of good health is a must--clear skin, a full head of hair, and overall symmetry. Other qualities such as height and weight depend on what you're modeling. Consider working with a fitness trainer, especially someone who has a good reputation and experience with models. Tell them your modeling goals and how you'll need your body to look.
2. Decide what kind of model you'd like to be. Technically, anybody can be a model. However, do remember that if you don't meet certain requirements, the work available to you will be incredibly limited, and you may have to compensate in other departments (reliability, technique, etc).
* If your body is full and curvaceous, you may be able to be a plus size model.
* If you're tall (at the very least 5'7 for editorial & 5'8 for catwalk.) and very skinny but with a small breast size, you can be a catwalk model.
* If you have large breasts but not very wide hips, you can be an underwear model.
* If you don't fit any of the face or body descriptions, perhaps you can be a foot, hair or hand model.
* Consider your "look". There is more of a curvy California look, a svelte New York look, a waif-like European look, girl next door, swim suit or lingerie (usually requires the bust to fill out the suits and a very thin waist)...Know what you're equipped with, but also work to pull off other looks.
3. Get some photos done. These don't have to be professional but they should be created for the purpose of showing your ability as a model. Although agencies say they are happy with snapshots, that doesn't mean they want to see an out of focus shot of you out partying with your friends with a little note attached saying that you're the one on the right! As a bare minimum, you will need one headshot and one body shot.
* Get your favorites and take the photos to be printed into 8x10s. Save these in case you are asked to leave a photograph anywhere before you have professional ones done. Don't force these on people or try to hand them out. You'll be better off waiting for the professional shots instead of taking risks with an amateur photo.
* Consider getting the photos professionally done. Professional photography, even if it is expensive, will give you a better idea of what kind of look you project. You will eventually need these photographs to snag an interview, so think of it as a worthwhile investment!
4. Look up the number of a reputable modeling agency. You can find these in your area phone book or by running a search on the Internet. Make an appointment.
5. Be prepared. When you attend your appointment, they might ask you to pull certain faces like laughing, happy, sad, or seductive. Practice in front of a mirror beforehand. It may help to look at pictures of models in magazines to get an idea. Be ready to have a Polaroid close up of your face taken. You really only get one chance for this photo. They'll use this to compare to your headshot. They will ask you to walk and take your measurements, so be prepared for all of that as well. Learn to accept rejection or criticism politely (see Warnings below). Thank the people for their time.
6. Be professional. Be polite and always turn up on time to any appointment or shoot. If you're late or rude, word soon gets around and then nobody will want to work with you.
* Be organized! Models often get called off places at the last minute and have very busy days. You need to be on top of things if you want to succeed. Buying a day-to-day planner can really help.
* Confirm whether or not there will be a make-up artist on site for any work you are doing. 99 times out of 100 there will be but there may be the odd occasion where you are required to do your own make-up. If there is a make-up artist, then arrive fresh faced.
* Be truthful about your measurements. Don't say you're skinnier than you are just to get a shoot. Once there, the stylist will have problems and you will get found out. Word will get around and you could find yourself without a career!
Tips
* Sign up for acting classes or take acting workshops when the opportunity is available. Pantomime classes are a great tool for models. Any skills you can add to your arsenal will only help your future career.
* You can also enter modeling contests. However, make sure you check that these are being run by a reputable agency.
* If, for whatever reason, you've decided signing with an agency isn't right for you, you could consider going freelance. But be warned: the pay is usually considerably less and there are fewer safety precautions.
* Get your parents' permission if you're under the age defined by your country as being an adult.
* Some modeling schools are licensed by the Board of Education. However, whether or not they will teach you how to become a model is questionable, and some agencies even say that attending a modeling school can teach you bad habits that are hard to unlearn! They are also expensive.
* Get a website. It helps spread the word that you're out there and also serves as a place for your adoring fans.
* Know your limits on style and nudity. If you don't want to do glamor work or are uncomfortable doing full nudity, speak up and don't let people push you past those limits. Also, consider where you want your career to go in the future. Sure, you may be comfortable doing glamor now, but what if you decide you want to do fashion or catalog work in the future? You might be discriminated against if they know you have done this line of work.
* Have a portfolio it helps when bringing to clients. Go to a Go-SE, and go- see the clients
Warnings
* Modeling is a tough business. Try not to be discouraged by rejections. Even top models still get rejected for about 70% of everything they are put forward for!
* If you become one of the top models like Kate Moss, the people you work for might ask you to take drastic measures to stay a top model. For example, they might ask you to get nose jobs, liposuction, or have breast implants. And lose more weight... The pressure of modeling can cause a lot of long term mental health problems, including eating disorders. Don't be afraid to speak to somebody if you think it is getting all too much. If you just can't handle the pressure, it may be time to start thinking of a new profession. A job isn't worth your health!
* Be wary of any agency that asks for money up front. The majority of agencies get their money through commission- meaning they take a certain percentage of your pay for every job that you do. If you don't work, then they don't get paid. If you've already paid up, there's no incentive for them to find you work. However, don't dismiss everybody who asks you for up-front fees as a scam. If you are sure that they are an agency, listen carefully to what they are asking for the fees for. Bigger agencies in bigger markets will often pay for these for you or at least loan you the money but smaller agencies or agencies in smaller markets can't afford to do this. If the fees are to cover actual representation, this probably isn't a good deal. Although there are some good agencies out there who work on this basis, the majority are nothing more than con artists. Find models who they represent, get in touch with them and ask them what they think of the representation they are getting.
* If you are invited to a foreign country (i.e. Hong Kong, Macau etc.) for an audition or job, have enough funds to purchase a return ticket yourself. While legitimate jobs exist, there are many scams that provide one way tickets then trap young girls into prostitution rings when they cannot afford to go back home.
* If you are planning a photo shoot with a photographer you have met online, it highly recommended that you bring a chaperon to the shoot. It's for your own safety, as you never know who is who online! If you can't bring a chaperon (because you are unable to find one or because the photographer doesn't allow chaperons), make sure you do a background search on the photographer first- check out things such as who they have worked with and for - and call somebody when you get to the shoot and when you leave the shoot.
* Almost all agencies will ask you to fill out a contract. Be sure to read through it thoroughly and make sure you know what every word means, even use a dictionary if you have to! Better know what you are signing for before you accept.
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