Friday, September 18, 2009

For the Model : Studio Pose Guide

Online and PDF version CLICK HERE

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Beauty : Skincare - by Bridget


South African skincare is busy making its mark in the world. More South Africans are realizing the benefit in using local products. Winter time is hibernation time, but with skincare it is very different. Real winter in our country lasts only up to maximum three months. During this period one should make use of the fact that the skin needs boosters to carry it in a state of art during our long, harsh summers.

Keep in mind that the skin is our biggest organ and that we should care for it like we do for all other organs. 2nd youth has optimum results for all skin ailments such as - Acne, wrinkles and fine lines, pigmentation, open pores, rosacea, sensitivity and eczema.

Fine lines and wrinkles

Wrinkles are usually due to a lack of oil or the slowing down of oil in a certain area causing the skin to dry and form cracks or hallows in certain areas. This is also aided by certain facial expressions over the years and usually occurs later in life.

The second condition of fine lines is usually fine crisscross superficial lines generally caused by dehydration or lack of water. This can be seen in most skin types as it is mainly an environmental cause. All ages are prone to this can easily be controlled through good skincare.

Skin ages prematurely in two distinctive ways: Ageing caused by genes (internal) and external ageing caused by environmental factors eg. Sun rays, free radical damage.

To fight this ageing process we need to increase collagen production and elastin, the substances that enables the skin to snap back into place. Secondly, we need to remove dead skin cells as cell turnover decreases enabling products to penetrate the skin. This increases oil and moisture content and therefore reduces fine line and wrinkles. Protection of the outer epidermal layer is vital both in a moisturizer which replenishes, treats, rebuilds and soothes the skin. Most important is too use a separate sunblock that blocks out UVA and UVB rays which is the main cause of premature ageing.

The product 2nd Youth is a unique concept suitable for all skin types, regardless of age, gender or race and offers immediate results. The comprehensive beauty and skincare program is ideal for unbalanced tired, devitalized and shallow skin with poor tolerance. Optimum results obtained during a 28 week period. No medication, not electro stimulation, no surgery ! The results are a visible 5 to 10 year skin rejuvenation, in three easy steps:

  1. Facial toning excersise program
  2. Concentrated professional salon treatments
  3. Easy, convenient home care routine.

In today’s society, a good first impression is crucial. Many woman and men, regardless of age, occupation, race or social class are judged not only by how they act, but also how they look. We offer you a scientific concept to look and ultimately feel better about yourself. This concept is based on proven, cutting edge tenniques and technology, to increase tolerance against external and internal factors. We want you to experience this extreme result !

Bridget

Sunday, August 16, 2009

Hair : So why not the shop-bought colour? - By Roshni


This is one of the most frequently asked questions a client asks her hairstylist. We all want to save some money and also have very little time on our hands, so we think the supermarket version will just have to do. So what’s wrong with it ?

The problem is that these dyes are metallic dyes or vegetable dyes. Metallic dyes contain lead, silver or copper. These are extremely heavy and weigh the hair down as well as darken with every application. The end result is weak hair that breaks and snaps and splits. The cuticle remains open and appears dry and dull. Sometimes they fade into peculiar shades of brass or copper.

Vegetable dyes contain henna and most of the time they are mixed with metallic dyes and these can become quite volatile (smoking) when mixed with professional products eg perm lotions.

Professional hair colour comes separate so that the hairstylist can see the varying shades in the hair and the grey coverage required. Because hair contains red, blue and yellow molecules, each person is unique in their colour needs and has to be correctly mixed so that unwanted pigment eg brassy tones, can be removed effectively. She will have perfectly even , long-lasting colour from roots to ends.

“ Your hairdresser will do anything for the perfect colour “(Goldwell). Only those who create the most beautiful colours know how to maintain them professionally.

Roshni


For the Model : The different types of modelling

Fashion Modelling

Fashion modelling involves being a model at fashion shows, photographic work, working with top designers and presenting for buyers from small or large companies.

Part Modelling

To be a part model one has to decide which part of your body is the most suitable. Do you have beautiful eyes, hair or hands with flawless skin and perfect nails? Part models are especially used on TV and Magazine work.

Catalogue Modelling

Catalogue modelling is done abroad in exotic locations like for example Mauritius, The Canary Islands, The Caribbean and Spain. It is a models job to wear the clothes as simple and attractive as possible. To be a catalogue model one does not have to be a certain size or length. They also use models who are plus size or petite.

Editorial Modelling

Unlike catalogue modelling the editorial model has a magazine stylist work out the "fashion story", for the "shoot". The stylist also selects the models and photographer. The photographer often decides and interprets the whole concept for the shoot.

Glamour Modelling

Glamour models are often found in tabloid newspapers or pin-up calendars
Glamour modelling is for women and men who do not fit in the basic requirements for fashion modelling

Brand Modelling

Clothing designers, fashion buyers, magazines, newspapers, wholesalers
and large stores employ house models. To be a brand model one has to be able to show the garment from every angle and therefore be able to do basic modeling.

Commercial Modelling

A lot of music artists use models to add a little glamour to their videos. Models are also regularly booked for video or album covers.
A commercial "shoot" is quite different from a photographic "shoot" as there are many more people on the set so it can become quite chaotic. You will be required to do the same thing over and over again. A three minute video or commercial can easily take a week to "shoot".

For the Model : The difference between a "pose" and a "look"

This may sound confusing at first but there is actually a difference between a pose and a look.

A good model is taught how to pose - that is - he or she knows how to position their body, head, arms and legs in such a fashion as to create a great photo.

A brilliant model learns how to extend their pose using body language and facial expression into an emotional experience that the photographer will then capture.

This may seem easy but in fact it takes a lot of practice and the ability to create and re-create a look on call is what can turn a model into a supermodel!

Remember of course that models pose on the catwalk because they are illustrating their technique and ability - very little emotion is portrayed. This is quite different to the looks done on set for magazine shoots, acting jobs etc.

So how does one create a look? It takes practise in front of a mirror, your friends, and in front of cameras where you can study your look and fine tune it.

A look is based on emotion and it should come from you.

Do you remember the "look" you gave your mom when she said that you weren't allowed to go out with your friend ? Use your experience and build upon it. Try to use and create new looks that you can reference on call upon.

That is what the casting agents want to see , firstly on your Z-Card and then secondly on set.

To see what we mean look up ten or more photos of supermodels such as Kate Moss, Tyra Banks, Cindy Crawford and Charlize Theron.

For the Model : Photoshoot preparation tips

Here are some handy tips to help make the best of your photo shoot.

Before the photo shoot :

  • Make sure that your clothes are not busy. No florals, pinstripes or pictures. Plain colours are best. Busy clothes can take attention away from the model.
  • Be careful about the jewelry you're going to wear - again this can be distracting.
  • Try to select complimentary wardrobe colours for your skin tone. If in doubt bring a few outfits some cooler and some warmer colours. We will help you select.
  • Watch out for v-necks
  • Short sleeves can add a kilo
  • You may bring some props such as a long stemmed rose, scarf, jacket, hat, sun glasses etc.
  • Bring a hair brush along as the photographer will want to show your hair off with various looks.

At the shoot :

  • Be relaxed! Think happy thoughts.
  • A good photo shoot is where a model is captured in pose but a brilliant photo shoot shows the model with a look! If you're not sure about what the difference between a look and pose is please look at our tips section for an explanation.
  • Try match your outfits to a set of looks.
  • Try to establish which side of your face is your best side - believe it or not but each side is slightly different.
  • A general tip is to lean slightly toward the camera. This helps get rid of the dreaded double chin.