Scam Watch – Fatal Photo Shoots

In 1992, 21-year old model Kimberly Pandelios told her husband that she was meeting with a photographer. However the man who’d led her to believe he was a photographer was actually a registered sex offender who lured Pandelios into the Angeles National Forest where he sexually assaulted and killed her. 
 

Kimberly was probably a lot like many young, aspiring models. She was beautiful, vibrant and eager to take on the world. She’d had some success modeling swimwear and lingerie when she’d discovered a model-wanted ad in a local weekly newspaper. She had hoped the opportunity would help her make some headway in her career. Instead, she met a tragic end.

Unfortunately, this story is not an uncommon one. And it doesn’t just happen to new models. Linda Sobek, a former Raiders cheerleader and Playboy model met a similar fate when she left her home to attend a photo shoot. In her case, the photographer who killed her was at the time a reputable photographer who had actually amassed a small fortune and some fame and who’s work had appeared in many automotive magazines. 
 

We often discuss the growing number of Internet scams that constantly target aspiring models, but one Star Search Casting member recently discussed the importance of remaining aware of the dangers that face models in the real world as well. Every day people reach out to aspiring models on the street, in stores, or through newspaper or online classifieds with legitimate offers. However, there are also criminals who use these same methods to lure models with malicious intent. 
 

To avoid becoming the victim of dangerous crime, always remember to:

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  Ask for references from photographers, agents or other industry professionals before agreeing to work with them.

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  Take a friend or family member with you to photo shoots and meetings with agents, photographers or other industry professionals, especially if you’ve not worked with them in the past and you have not secured the job through a reputable agency.

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  Be cautious of applying to blind ads in newspapers or online. If you choose to apply to these ads, be sure to thoroughly research the agency or photographer that you will be meeting with.

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  And last but not least, always go with your instincts. Intuition is one of the most powerful resources you have to protect you from dangerous situations. Therefore don’t get involved with a project or an agency if you have a bad feeling about it.

For more information on scams and crimes affecting aspiring models, singers, actors and dancers, log on to http://StarSearchCasting.com daily and review our entertainment industry Scam Watch.

StarSearchCasting.com Web Pages Now Available in 25 Languages

Catering to its nearly 266,000 members located on six continents, Star Search Casting uses Google gadgets to help its growing number of international users translate web pages instantly.

Since its launch in 1998, Star Search Casting has quickly become the leading casting website in the United States. Moreover, as it’s popularity increased among U.S. users, the website soon welcomed a growing number of international users, and now caters to Star Search Casting members based on six continents. In an effort to maintain its commitment to actors, dancers, singers and models in all areas of the world, Star Search Casting has now added the Google Gadget’s Translate feature to help Star Search Casting member access casting calls and other resources in 25 languages.

“The number of singers, actors, dancers and models from other countries who use our website is constantly growing,” says Jonathan Parker, founder of Star Search Casting. “We hope that the translation tool will make it easier for users whose first language isn’t English to access the information, tools and resources on our website.”

Both Google and Star Search Casting are known for providing cutting-edge, innovative web applications and tools for its web visitors. Google’s Translate tool helps webmasters cater to multilingual web visitors, without having to maintain multiple multilingual websites. Actors, models, singers and dancers who access the Star Search Casting website can use the tool to translate text in a number of languages including French, German, Japanese, Korean, Italian and Spanish.

By catering to a global base of singers, dancers, actors and models, Star Search Casting helps casting directors and other entertainment industry professionals scout talent all over the world. Additionally, Star Search Casting is opening the doors for performers in the U.S. to seize opportunities in other countries.

“There are exciting opportunities to dance, sing, act and model all across the globe and our website is helping aspiring entertainers open their eyes to a world of possibilities,” says Parker. “We’ve gotten emails from American performers who have landed jobs in Asia, and Asian performers who’ve landed jobs in the U.S. so there’s definitely a global exchange of talent and it’s exciting to be apart of it.”

To view Star Search Casting’s database of talent from all over the world or to use the Google translation tool to view the website’s pages in one of 25 different languages, visit http://StarSearchCasting.com.

How To Get The Attention Of New Designers Pt 2.

Previously we began talking about what you need to know to book a job with a new designer. For expert advice, we interviewed Ivory Narvell, founder of the Miss Spokesmodel International modeling competition and designer of ReignSuit, a new line of swimwear launching this year. Ivory Narvell has worked with lots of models, including Dani Evans from America’s Next Top Model and was more than happy to give our members and us the scoop on how they can grab the attention of new designers.

When we interviewed Ivory Narvell, she gave us so much great advice that we decided to create a list of the top tips Ivory shared with us during her interview. Check out these tips below. We’re sure they’ll be extremely helpful in your quest to land jobs modeling with new designers.

Top Tips from Ivory Narvell, fashion designer and runway coach:

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  Always be on time – if not early. Time is money and no one likes to wait on a model.
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  Know what you really want to do in this industry and where you fit in.  
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  Learn as many skills as you can. Even if you are considered too short for most agencies to hire you for a fashion show, perfect your runway walk anyway. You never know what opportunities may arise.
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  Don’t get discouraged if you’re experiencing lots of rejection. Different designers want different things from models. You’ll get your shot.
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  Know the ins and outs of the industry so that when a designer or agency approaches you about a job, you can discuss the opportunity intelligently. There are a lot of girls who have a great look but don’t get booked because they don’t appear to take the industry seriously.  
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  Even if you do not have a professional portfolio, make sure you have snap shots of yourself, preferably with no make up. Also have full body shots because designers will need to see your body type.  
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  When you’re taking your photos, always make sure there is proper lighting and never over-exaggerate when posing.
  
  

Special thanks to Ivory Narvell for sharing her expert advice with us. Ready to put Ivory’s advice to the test? Visit http://StarSearchCasting.com for casting calls from designers and agencies, plus a whole lot more!

How To Get The Attention Of New Designers Pt 1.

While you may have to have quite a bit of experience (or a lucky break) before you’re able to land a job modeling major fashion brands like Gucci or Calvin Klein, there are tons of new designers out there who are looking for models just like you. Often up and coming designers have great ideas, innovative designs and superb collections, but small budgets. Therefore new designers often look for new models that are willing to work for experience, or a smaller fee than more experienced models. That’s where you come in.

So what does it take to get the attention of new designers and book a job modeling their latest clothing lines? For the answer, I caught up with Ivory Narvell to get the inside scoop. Ivory Narvell has worked in the industry as a runway coach and stylist and now she’s launching ReignSuit, her new line of swimwear. She’s helped lots of new models, including Dani Evans (America’s Next Model) on their road towards fame as the founder of the Miss Spokesmodel International modeling competition. Here’s what Ivory had to say…

Jon: What characteristics do you look for in models when selecting them to model your designs?

Ivory: As a swimwear designer I look for someone with a naturally fit body. Proportion is very important too. For fit models, their measurements must match our sizing charts. For runway models, they must have a great runway walk. For print models, again proportion is a must. Additionally, they must be able to pose well, have great skin and take direction.

Jon: What advice would you give to models who are submitting their photos for consideration to work with designers?

Ivory: It can be a tough industry and not everyone will love you, so it’s important that you develop thick skin. However, while you may not be the right model for one job, keep going and stay positive because you might be the right model for the next job.

Jon: There’s so much competition in the industry. What measures can new models take to standout and get designers to notice them?

Ivory: After a model call, make sure you follow up with a thank you letter by mail. I recall an instance when a model who wasn’t very memorable sent me a thank you letter after a casting call. While she didn’t get the job initially, because she sent the letter which made her instantly standout, I booked her at a later time.

Wow, what great advice! If you want to read more advice from Ivory Narvell, log in tomorrow for more great tips. Ivory gave us a lot more information, so make sure you read tomorrow’s blog. For more information on modeling jobs and casting calls available on our website, visit http://StarSearchCasting.com and check out our auditions page.

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Elite Casting Network Exposes The Latest Entertainment Frauds & Scams

As the number of entertainment scams targeting aspiring actors, singers, dancers and models escalate, and scammers become more sophisticated in their methods, it can be tricky to identify the difference between a scam and a legitimate opportunity. In response to the growing number of modeling scam victims, Elite Casting Network ( www.EliteCastingNetwork.com ), in addition to becoming the number one casting website, has also become the leading provider of up-to-date information on the latest entertainment industry scams. Elite Casting Network educates users on how to spot a scam; actively monitors all site activity to prevent members from becoming the victim of popular internet scams; and encourages members to report suspicious activities and warn others if they’ve uncovered a scam.

“Our members use our site not only because they know they’ll get access to valuable casting opportunities, but also because they know our website is a safe environment that’s actively monitored to prevent scammers from taking advantage of them,” says Jonathan Parker, CEO of Elite Casting Network, Inc. “In addition to making sure that the site is safe, we also try to educate our members on how to spot a scam. Many Internet users think that if a site or service charges money that it’s automatically a scam, but this is one of the most misleading pieces of advice circulating the web. More accurately, if the site or service asks for money but only accepts cash or money orders, that’s an immediate red flag.”

The staff at Elite Casting Network is very knowledgeable of scamming trends and it’s this knowledge that helps to keep the site and its members safe. Elite Casting Network staff members regularly and routinely updates its members on the latest industry scams. When members log in to their website, the Entertainment Scam Alert section provides instant updates on the most recent scammer activity targeting aspiring actors, dancers, models and actors. Additionally Elite Casting Network staff members post information about these scams in the site's forums to make sure members are informed and aware of potential scams. Many of these posts occur within 24-48 hours of the scam’s first appearance on the internet.

In response to escalating Internet scams, the staff at Elite Casting Network monitors all of the messages on the site regularly to ensure the safety of its members. Additionally when members access their messages, Elite Casting Network provides their members with an option at the top of each message to flag the message if they encounter spam or abuse.

Elite Casting Network members also work to keep the site safe, and to keep fellow members from falling victim to Internet scams. Elite Casting Network members are encouraged to post information about acting scams in the site’s forums if they encounter a scam or have become the victim of a scam. The forums are also a great way for members to learn more information about how to spot and avoid popular scams & frauds.

All of these measures combined help to combat over 90% of scam attempts on the Elite Casting Network website. For more information on the latest entertainment industry related scams, log on to http://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com visit the online community for up-to-date, comprehensive information, tools and tips on how to avoid and spot modeling scams today.

www.StarSearchCasting.com Delivers The Latest In Entertainment News & Gossip

HOLLYWOOD – Want to know what’s the latest episode in the Britney Spears saga, or how the Oscars faired in the television ratings game? From Lindsay Lohan to George Clooney, Star Search Casting has the scoop! While actors, dancers, singers and models log in to Star Search Casting to browse the most current casting notices, they also check out the website each day for the latest in entertainment news.

Star Search Casting (http://www.StarSearchCasting.com) has been the leading casting website for more than a decade and provides a comprehensive database of resources for aspiring dancers, actors, models and singers eager to break into the entertainment industry. In addition to being the industry’s #1 website for resources and tools for new and experienced performers, it’s also a great source for members who like to stay up to date on television ratings, award show winners, box office news and the latest on Hollywood stars.

“Everyday our website offers new casting notices that actors, dancers, models and singers at any stage of their career can take advantage of,” says Jonathan Parker, founder and CEO of Star Search Casting. “However, one of the reasons that people decide to explore careers in the entertainment industry is because it fascinates them. Therefore we make sure we satisfy our members’ cravings for both exciting job opportunities as well as hot entertainment industry gossip and compelling entertainment news stories.”

Each day Star Search Casting posts current entertainment news to its members’ delight. Star Search Casting is the only website where actors, models, singers and dancers can look for jobs in the entertainment industry as well as check out a full list of Oscar winners or see how Tina Fey (30 Rock) feels about Hillary Clinton. From one of the largest databases of agents and managers to music reviews of the latest pop stars, Star Search Casting has something for everyone.

For aspiring and experienced actors, dancers, singers and models who want to take advantage of this dynamic website and all it has to offer, membership is both easy and affordable. Just visit www.StarSearchCasting.comand click on the ‘Membership Levels’ link to join. New members who sign up for an annual Diamond membership will also receive a one-year Diamond membership at Elite Casting Network, another leading casting website.

For the leading website for casting notices, talent resources and entertainment news and gossip, visit Star Search Casting (www.StarSearchCasting.com) today!

Star Search Casting Members Audition To Help Advertise Regional & National Brands In Televised Commercials

www.StarSearchCasting.com is quickly becoming the leading website casting directors use to scout talent for commercials across the United States.

HOLLYWOOD – An increasing number of casting directors are using Star Search Casting (www.StarSearchCasting.com) to cast commercials for leading brands across the United States. Commercial casting directors find thousands of fresh faces and new talent each year on the website perfect for playing enthusiastic, likeable characters that advertising executives think will most effectively represent and sell their brands. Whether searching for actors, dancers, singers or models for commercials, casting directors know that Star Search Casting members have the look and the talent to engage audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Star Search Casting has been the leading casting website for a decade. Casting directors and other entertainment industry professionals consistently use Star Search Casting to scout dancers, actors, singers and models for film, television, theater, music videos, commercials and many other types of productions. Casting directors have discovered thousands of energetic and expressive actors, dancers, singers and models for major motion pictures, network television shows and other major projects.

“Star Search Casting members have booked tons of commercials through our website,” says Jonathan Parker, founder and CEO of Star Search Casting. “There are thousands of commercials produced each year, so the market for commercials offers actors, dancers, singers and models lots of opportunities.”

Star Search Casting has provided numerous opportunities for actors, singers, dancers and models to audition for commercials for major consumer brands such as Nintendo as well as popular regional business like TZ Family Food and Fun. The website offers both union and non-union roles and the commercials posted on the site offer great opportunities for talent with all-American looks as well as unique and quirky looks. There’s no website with more casting notices for talent of all ethnicities, body types and levels of experience.

Star Search Casting has thousands of current casting notices online daily perfect for aspiring entertainers who think they’ve got what it takes to take the industry by storm. Actors, dancers, singers and models interested in auditioning for commercials, or other types of productions, can log on to http://www.StarSearchCasting.com to submit their headshots, full body photos and resumes today.

Broadcast Yourself – Using The Internet To Generate Exposure

Chris Crocker scored more than 8 million web hits and exposure on some of the most popular television shows when he posted a dramatic video on You Tube begging the media and the public to, “Leave Britney [Spears] alone” just after her much talked about performance on the MTV Video Music Awards. Whether his rant left you intrigued or simply annoyed, the attention he got landed him what most actors would give their left arms for – his own television show. Crocker, admittedly an aspiring actor, signed a contract with Blue Productions to appear in his own reality show. The actor had been posting videos to the web for six months and he’d begun developing a substantial fan base. In addition to the famous rant that helped him secure a television deal, his You Tube page included more than 60 additional performance pieces.

Even the Ford Modeling Agency is turning to the web to generate more exposure for their agency and their models. The agency has produced more than 1,000 videos for the web featuring their models during photo shoots, backstage at fashion shows, and even at the gym. You can view these videos on the web, including on You Tube. Some videos have garnered more than one million hits.

Did you know that with a Platinum or Diamond membership on www.StarSearchCasting.com, you can post video files to your profile? Chris Crocker – though a bit quirky – and the Ford Modeling Agency are great examples of how you can use the internet effectively to generate valuable exposure. Whether you have a video from a previous staged performance, or you’ve recently self-recorded an audition piece, adding a video to your Star Search Casting profile is a great way to showcase your talent to casting directors and other industry executives and show them that you really do have what it takes. A picture’s worth a thousand words, but a video clip seals the deal! Just ask Chris Crocker!

To upgrade your membership so that you can add video clips to your page, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on ‘Membership Levels.’ Remember, before posting any original material to our site, or any other site, make sure you’ve gone to the proper channels to have your work registered and copy written.

Let Your Talent Shine With A Diamond Membership From Star Search Casting

Double your exposure this year! Purchase an annual Diamond membership at Star Search Casting & get 12 months for the price of 8, plus a one-year Diamond membership at Elite Casting Network. There’s no better way to let your talent shine!

HOLLYWOOD – If you’ve got the look, the personality and the talent, we can help you get the exposure! An entire year’s worth! Star Search Casting (www.StarSearchCasting.com) is helping aspiring actors, dancers, singers and models launch the career of their dreams by offering them an annual Diamond membership, for only $199.95 when they purchase an annual subscription. The subscription starts at just $24.99 a month, but by paying for a full year upfront, members can save $100. Additionally, as a special bonus they’ll also get a free, one-year Diamond membership at Elite Casting Network (www.EliteCastingNetwork.com). That’s two memberships from two leading casting websites, for the price of one – a $600 value.

Star Search Casting has been a leader in providing casting notices and other online resources for aspiring entertainers seeking acting, singing, dancing and modeling jobs for 10 years. The website has helped thousands of Hollywood hopefuls launch successful careers in the entertainment industry, and book the jobs of their dreams. This year, in an effort to help actors, singers, dancers and models get the most exposure for the best value, Star Search Casting is now offering Diamond memberships for both Star Search Casting and Elite Casting Network, a $600 value for only $199.95. That’s 12 months for the price of 8, plus two memberships for the price of one. It’s the best deal in the industry bar none.

An annual Diamond level membership at Star Search Casting includes: 100 photos in your personal profile; five customizable web addresses linking to your profile; eight documents; three audio files; three video files; 100 free SMS credits; a hit counter; unlimited contacts from casting directors and other industry professionals; and the exposure of a lifetime for aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models! For a limited time only, when members sign up for an annual Diamond level membership at Star Search Casting, they will enjoy the same benefits at Elite Casting Network.

Singers, actors, dancers and models who purchase an annual Platinum, Gold or Silver membership at Star Search Casting will also get a one-year membership for the cost of eight months! They’ll also get the same level membership at Elite Casting Network and instantly double their exposure.

For more information on these amazing savings, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com and click on 'Membership Levels'. There’s no better time for singers, dancers, actors and models to shoot for the stars!

www.EliteCastingNetwork.com Members Stay Connected To The Industry Thanks To State Of The Art Technology

HOLLYWOOD – Technology continues to transform the way business is conducted in the fast paced world of the entertainment industry. These advances are not just helpful for entertainment executives, but also for aspiring dancers, actors, models and singers, many of whom juggle day and night jobs with auditions, rehearsals and gigs. Elite Casting Network, the industry’s leading casting website, now makes it easier for aspiring performers to stay connected to the industry and get real time casting & audition information while they’re on the go.

Long gone are the days of receiving information from your agent or a casting director via fax, or even email. Now entertainment industry professionals send everything from casting breakdowns and lyrics to script pages and other audition information to actors, singers, dancers and models via cell phones and PDAs. Elite Casting Network was one of the first casting websites to give its members the option of receiving casting calls and audition information via their wireless devices.

“When casting and audition information is automatically sent to my Blackberry, I can respond right away,” says Jenna Barber, an aspiring actress based in Los Angeles. “If I had to wait until I could login on my PC, I don’t think I’d able to compete with a lot of the other actors who have agents working around the clock on their behalf.”

In addition to helping actors, dancers, singers and models remain connected to the industry via their cell phones and PDAs; Elite Casting Network also provides several additional high tech options. Members can upload video and audio clips on their personal Elite Casting Network websites to showcase their acting, singing, dancing and modeling talents. They can also network with aspiring and established performers as well as entertainment industry professionals via the website’s interactive video chat rooms. The website also provides interactive business cards for its members to help them generate additional exposure for themselves and make a great impression on industry professionals.

“We’re always developing new and exciting applications on our website so that members have all of the tools they need to launch successful careers,” says Jonathan Parker, founder of www.EliteCastingNetwork.com. “It’s a very challenging industry, but we’re doing everything we can to make it easier for our members.”

For more information on the advanced technology and cutting edge applications Elite Casting Network uses to help aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models stay connected to the entertainment business and remain competitive in an ever-changing industry, visit hhttp://www.EliteCastingNetwork.com.

www.StarSearchCasting.com Is The Industry’s Leading Website For Talent Resources

Star Search Casting has been a leading casting website for 10 years, serving both casting and entertainment executives as well as singers, actors, dancers and models seeking opportunities in the industry. While Star Search Casting has developed a solid reputation for providing casting information for some of the industry's most popular television shows and feature films, the website is also a leader in providing the most comprehensive database of industry resources on the web. From agents and photographers, to production companies and dance schools, Star Search Casting provides all of the information an aspiring performer needs to get a head start in the industry.

Founded by Jonathan Parker, an experienced entertainment industry executive, Star Search Casting provides all of the essentials for getting started in the industry. "For many, pursuing a career in entertainment can be overwhelming because there's so much to learn," says Parker. "In addition to providing singers, dancers, actors and models with casting information, we also felt that it was important to give them access to everything from hair stylists to professional associations so that they have everything they need in one place to ensure a smooth transition into the industry."

For most, developing a career in the entertainment industry takes time. And aspiring performers interested in acting, modeling, singing and dancing will have to learn the ropes, and sometimes even get additional training, before they are ready for stardom. To help aspiring performers along the way, Star Search Casting guides them with critical information in their community forums, supplemented with comprehensive lists of contacts and resources organized for easy access.

"I wasn't introduced to modeling until I was in my early 20s, so when I decided that I wanted to pursue it as a profession, I felt like I had a lot of catching up to do," says Amy Reynolds, a Star Search Casting member. "However, at Star Search Casting I was not only able to find lots of modeling casting calls, but I was also able to get a list of photographers, agents, fashion stylists, makeup artists and even books which were all extremely helpful."

SSC is committed to ensuring that aspiring actors, dancers, models and singers have all of the tools they need to become successful in the entertainment industry. To learn more about how Star Search Casting helps its members make their mark on the competitive entertainment industry, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com today!

Star Search Casting Is The “Real” Deal!

Casting directors of leading reality television shows on major television networks use www.StarSearchCasting.com to discover new talent!

HOLLYWOOD – Star Search Casting, the industry’s leading casting website is helping its members capitalize on opportunities in reality television to get their shot at the spotlight. A popular resource for aspiring actors, dancers, singers and models for the last decade, Star Search Casting is now one of the premier casting portals where casting directors of today’s hottest reality shows post their casting notices and scout for new talent. Casting executives from MTV, CBS, A&E, TLC and NBC have all used the website to find cast members for today’s most popular reality television series.

Lauren Conrad, star of MTV’s Laguna Beach: The Real O.C. and The Hills, is one of the industry’s most prominent examples of how reality television can turn today’s girl next door into tomorrow’s cover girl. Star Search Casting is giving singers, dancers, actors and models the chance to see if the reality television formula can produce the same results for them. The website offers aspiring singers, dancers, models and actors a variety of reality programming options to audition for including appearing as the co-host of a new show starring Armando Montelongo of the popular home makeover show, Flip This House. Other current opportunities on the website include a new CBS reality television show similar to The Apprentice, as well as upcoming seasons of the Amazing Race, Survivor and Big Brother.

“In the entertainment industry, there are many paths to success,” says Jonathan Parker, entertainment executive and founder of Star Search Casting. “We make an effort to provide all of the tools, resources and opportunities that will help aspiring singers, dancers, actors and models showcase their talents and make their mark on the industry.

In addition to reality television programming, the website offers casting notices for major television shows, feature and independent film, modeling, theatre, and dance casting calls. The website also features casting notices for bands and solo artists hoping to land a career in the music business. Each day the website has thousands of roles available for aspiring actors, dancers, singers and models to browse and audition for.

When Elisabeth Hasselbeck appeared on Survivor, she probably never dreamed she’d go on to host The View and become a household name. As the popularity of reality television shows continue to grow, more and more entertainers pursuing careers in dancing, acting, modeling and singing will use reality television as a launching pad for bigger and better opportunities.

To learn more about the reality television casting opportunities currently available at Star Search Casting, visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com.

Scam Watch – Spotting Bad Business, Rip Offs, Scams & Frauds

These days aspiring models must be especially diligent when considering opportunities in the fashion and entertainment industries. Models all over the world come across tons of emails, newspaper ads, and industry professionals who make all kinds of promises on a daily basis. Eventually it can become extremely overwhelming and difficult to determine which opportunities would be beneficial to one’s career and which ones should be avoided.

There are three circumstances models must try to avoid at all costs: bad business, rip offs and scams. Let me explain the difference:

BAD BUSINESS

While it would be ideal if all agents, photographers, stylists, makeup artists and designers were top-notch professionals with a vast knowledge of the industry and a solid track record – unfortunately that’s simply not the case. You will be approached by many professionals in the industry who are inexperienced, or who simply don’t have the talent or aptitude required to help you achieve your career goals. For example, an agent who negotiates a bad deal for a client may not necessarily be trying to rip off his or her client. Sometimes it’s simply a case of an inexperienced agent who doesn’t have a good grasp of the industry. Regardless, it’s bad business. And bad business can be bad news for a model’s career. To avoid being the victim of bad business, be sure to ask for several referrals before signing contracts or paying hefty sums of money.

RIP OFFS

There are a lot of people in the industry who will try to take advantage of you, especially if you’re unfamiliar with how things are done in the industry. Have you heard of photographers who charge enormous amounts of money for horrible photos or agencies that require money up front? These are some of the rip offs that models must be aware of. What’s unfortunate is that many of these scenarios are not necessarily illegal. Therefore once you’ve figured out that you’ve been ripped off, you may not have any recourse for legal action. To avoid rip offs, be sure to check with consumer protection agencies like the Better Business Bureau to find out which businesses and agencies are reputable with no records of complaints.

SCAMS

Scams, including the counterfeit check scams that we’ve discussed recently, are not only illegal, but they can be very dangerous. Scammers are relentless when it comes to luring models, actors, dancers and singers. We uncovered a scam based in Nigeria back in August. The scammer claimed to be affiliated with Essential magazine, which was completely false. We’ve recently discovered that the same scammer is still using the same methods and aliases to target new victims. To avoid scams, do not give your personal information to anyone whose identity you’ve not verified.

For more information on the latest scams, rip offs and bad business practices, log in to www.EliteCastingNetwork.com.

Casting Directors Are Thrilled With The Talent Discovered On www.StarSearchCasting.com

In 2007 casting directors and agents contacted Star Search Casting members more than 400,000 times. They are discovering new actors, models, dancers and singers every day and they are thrilled with the talent they’ve found!

HOLLYWOOD – Star Search Casting has one of the largest databases of new talent on the Internet, making it an ideal source for casting directors, talent scouts and other industry professionals in search of new singers, dancers, actors and models. With over 245,000 members located worldwide, casting directors are discovering the best new talent in every region for some of the industry’s most exciting upcoming projects.

When Shelli Misoyianis began the casting process for the film Afflicted Hearts, she turned to Star Search Casting to find a cast that would bring life to her heartwarming script. She posted her casting call on the website and was blown away by the results. “I have gotten a TREMENDOUS response to my casting call for Afflicted Hearts,” said Misoyianis. “I want to thank Star Search Casting for putting me in contact with SOOOOO many great people.”

Star Search Casting doesn’t just help casting directors find the best singers, actors, dancers and models for their projects. The website also caters to the specific needs of casting directors and the demands of the industry, thus facilitating an easy, efficient online talent search which is especially critical in the fast-paced, frenzied entertainment industry. Founded by entertainment industry executive Jonathan Parker, Star Search Casting understands the needs of industry professionals firsthand and ensures a world class experience for all entertainment industry professionals who use the website.

Star Search Casting is FREE TO USE for industry professionals. The website’s advanced technology allows casting professionals to save dozens, even hundreds of talent profiles in a customized folder and with one click, send an email to every actor, dancer, singer or model they’ve saved in their folder. Additionally, the Talent Search tool allows casting professionals to fine tune their selection, and get prospects who are perfect for the role they’re casting by allowing them to search by multiple attributes. Casting professionals are consistently impressed with how diverse the Star Search Casting talent database is. They know that whether they are looking for actors, models, musicians, vocalists, specialty acts, dancers or extras, they are sure to find the perfect aspiring performer for the job.

Casting directors and other industry professionals interested in posting a new Casting Calls, or searching for the next big star will be thrilled with how easy their job can be when they use Star Search Casting. For more information visit http://www.StarSearchCasting.com today and let the website speak for itself!

Submitting To Online Casting Calls

Online casting is quickly becoming the industry standard, therefore there are certain expectations and preferences that casting professionals have when accepting and reviewing online submissions.

Here are a few tips to help you get the results that you want:

• Be sure to read and follow the instructions as carefully as possible. If you want the casting staff to take the time to review your headshot and resume, it’s important that you take the time to read and follow the instructions they’ve provided for you in the Casting Call.

• Make sure you send a headshot that looks like the character described in the breakdown. If the breakdown asks for a blond female to play between 18-24, make sure that you fit the criteria.

• When sending your headshot, use your name as the photo filename to avoid confusion.

• Use a standard font on your resume, such as Arial, and keep the formatting simple so that when it’s opened it’s easily readable.

• If the casting department asks for your headshot and resume, do not just send them a link to your website or your online profile. If you only send a link, your email will probably be deleted.

• Unless you receive a mail delivery error, do not continue to resend your material to the casting department. If you don’t get a response, don’t worry. There are many other opportunities out there for you.

Have you checked out the auditions on www.StarSearchCasting.com today? Be sure to review all of the opportunities in your area and keep us posted on how the search is going. And don’t forget to use the tips listed above.

New Years Resolutions For The Aspiring Performer

Congratulations on all of your achievements in 2007! This year Elite Casting Network ( www.EliteCastingNetwork.com ) members have booked a record number of jobs in the entertainment industry and we’re extremely proud that our website has helped so many talented, deserving individuals launch their dream careers.

If you didn’t have any significant career milestones in 2007, don’t be disappointed. It simply means that as you approach 2008, you’ll want to sit down and decide what your goals are and how you plan to reach them in the New Year.

A lot of us make New Year’s resolutions that we never keep. Maybe we pledge to be more organized. Or promise ourselves that we’re going to stick to a low carb diet. Instead of focusing on resolutions you’ll probably break before January is over, why not focus on how to jumpstart your career in the entertainment industry, or take your career to the next level.

For instance, what are some of the things you wanted to do, or should have done in 2007 that may have made a difference in your career:

• Maybe your resume could have used some updating, both online and offline.
• Maybe you should have invested in professional headshots
• Maybe you needed updated headshots to better reflect your current look.
• Maybe it would have been a good idea to begin saving money for a professional demo tape.
• Maybe you should have tried to secure an agent by sending emails with a link to your ECN profile to Agents.
• Maybe you struggled in your auditions, but never had the time to sign up for classes to improve your technique.
• Maybe you weren’t as diligent as you could have been about visiting Elite Casting Network to search for casting calls and other opportunities.

Your success in 2008 will be a reflection of your ambition, hard work and dedication to your craft. If you want to break into the business, then it’s important that you go after it. This week I want you to really think about what steps you need to take in order to get to where you want to go. And in the event you’re really not sure, 2008 would be a great time to take advantage of our online talent consultant to help steer you in the right direction.

Visit www.EliteCastingNetwork.com to take advantage of our talent resources, auditions, talent consultant and online community. We’ve got everything you need to help you succeed in 2008!

Are You Ready For Your Closeup? Makeup Tips For Aspiring Models

There’s no denying that modeling is one of the most glamorous careers in the entertainment industry. But as you’re making your way up the ladder of success, it’s important that you remember that every step of the way won’t be glamour and glitz. Before you’re jet setting to the fashion capitals of the world, and meeting celebrities and famous photographers you’ll have to pay your dues just like everyone else in the industry.

Did you know that for many of the gigs that you’ll get as an aspiring model, you may be required to do your own makeup? Well, it’s a fact. Therefore it’s important that you learn how to apply makeup like a pro, a skill that’s important not just for models, but for singers, actors and dancers as well. Roshumba Williams, a professional model, has been featured in Vogue, Elle, Cosmopolitan and Sports Illustrated. Here are a few professional tips from her on expertly applying makeup:

1. Start by placing small dots of foundation on your forehead, cheeks, nose and chin. Use a cosmetic sponge to blend.
2. Use concealer only where it’s needed. Dot it on and then pat it with your ring finger to blend.
3. Dip a fluffy powder brush into loose powder, tap off any excess, and then dust it over your face.
4. Using an eye shadow brush, sweep powder eye shadow from your lash line to your brown and then blend.
5. Before applying mascara, be sure to wipe the excess from the wand with a tissue. Then holding the wand horizontally, sweep through your lashes. Reapply to the top of your lashes only.
6. Using your brow brush, brush your eyebrows up and slightly out.
7. Dip your blush brush in the blush and tap off any excess. Place the brush on the apple of your cheek, and stroke back toward your ear. Most of the color should be on your cheek. If you make a mistake, use your powder brush to “buff” it out.
8. Slick on lip gloss with your finger. For lipstick, dip your lip brush in the lipstick. Outline your lips with the brush, starting from the center and working out toward the edges. Fill in the bottom lip and then press (don’t rub) your lips together.
9. Use a small brush to sweep a darker, coordinating color in the crease of your eye.
10. Dip an eyeliner brush in a dark shadow (black, navy or gray) and dot a line along the upper - and if you want - the lower lash lines. For an even more dramatic look, use an eye pencil to line around your inner lash line.
11. For less mistake-prone contouring, sweep translucent powder under your cheek bones to highlight bone structure.

Ready dazzle the industry with your new knowledge of makeup application? Visit Star Search Casting (www.StarSearchCasting.com) today for opportunities in modeling and acting, singing and dancing as well!

Give It Your Best Shot

When you think of your favorite model, words like glamorous or natural beauty probably come to mind. And that can be intimidating if you’re interested in pursuing a career in modeling. You might be wondering if you have the natural talent to make it. Or if your flaws will hinder your success.

Stop worrying. Most models look so flawless and naturally beautiful because they’ve worked hard to overcome the challenges their flaws present through extensive preparation and camouflaging. So relax. Here are a few tips from the pros to give you an edge and help you take flawless photos that will wow agencies and clients:

• Practice posing in the mirror often to figure out the best angles of your body and face and then use those poses when you’re shooting with your photographer.

• Make sure you understand what type of image the photographer is trying to capture so that you’re able to nail it.

• Use your assets. If you have really great hair, learn how to use it to create creative poses.

• If you have a broad nose, avoid poses where your head is tilted down when facing the camera. Instead, turn your head at an angle and learn to use your eyes to engage the camera, and take attention away from your nose.

• If you’re not very curvy, arching your back can help you to accentuate your bust, creating a curvier look.

• If you have wide hips, turn your hips but keep your shoulders and head facing the camera to get a slimmer look.

Whether you’re taking test shots for your portfolio, or you’ve booked a photo shoot, there are lots of trade secrets you can utilize to help you give it your best shot. Go here http://Forums.StarSearchCasting.com to visit the forums on our website and network with other models to get more tips on taking great photos.

Ever Wanted To Be On MTV?

Have you checked out the auditions posted on www.StarSearchCasting.com? Did you know that we’ve got lots of casting notices from major networks and with our help, you could get a paid role on one of your favorite shows?

We’re not the #1 website just because we have a lot of great opportunities. We’re also #1 because our website features a lot of talented individuals. And casting directors love that! So when they are advertising new roles, Star Search Casting is one of the first places they visit on the web to post their casting notices.

Networks such as ABC, NBC and MTV have used our site to get the word out about new roles on their shows. Yes, MTV!!! Even now, MTV is accepting headshots until December 5^th from energetic guys and girls to be featured on their shows. Check out the auditions on our site to find out more. Not only is being on MTV a great way to get invaluable exposure on a hit television show, but imagine the contacts you’ll make.

MTV has always featured a diverse range of talent on their network. They consistently look for young people (usually ages 18-24) with sparkling personalities from diverse ethnic backgrounds. This could be your big chance, so what are you waiting for? Go for it!

Don’t miss this chance to land a great gig on a major network and get paid for it! All you have to do is check the list of auditions on our website, and send your name, age, phone number and photos to the contact provided. This time next week you could be at MTV’s studio in Santa Monica meeting with their casting staff and booking an exciting new gig. Sounds great doesn’t it! And don’t forget to check out the hundreds of other opportunities we have listed as well!

Thanks for reading the blog. Don’t forget to check it out again tomorrow.

Star Search Casting Now Serves More Than 235,000 Members

More than 235,000 actors, models, singers and dancers have joined Star Search Casting and the membership base continues to grow.

(HOLLYWOOD) – Star Search Casting ( http://www.starsearchcasting.com), the #1 casting site on the internet, now serves more than 235,000 members. The website’s membership base is comprised of actors, models, singers and dancers from the United States and around the globe. Every day SSC members are successfully making their mark on the entertainment industry, and thanks to their testimonials and the website’s solid reputation among entertainment industry executives, the number of Star Search Casting members continues to grow.

Actors, singers, dancers and models of all ages and ethnicities have achieved record success from using Star Search Casting to attain jobs in the entertainment industry. Each week the website is flooded with testimonials from members who have gotten closer to their dreams of becoming a Hollywood star by landing agents and managers, and booking roles on major television networks and the silver screen. And each week, more and more actors, singers, dancers and models continue to join the http://StarSearchCasting.com/index.php website in order to seek the same success.

“The number of members has grown substantially,” says Jonathan Parker, founder of Star Search Casting, Inc. “I think one of the primary reasons is because many of the industry’s top casting directors, talent agents and managers, and other entertainment industry professionals use the site consistently to find new talent and the word is spreading quickly.”

Another reason is that Star Search Casting attracts so many members is that it offers invaluable services and resources. Actors, singers, dancers and models not only get access to auditions and casting calls from major networks and production companies, but they also get to network with other actors, singers, dancers and models in the community forums and get expert advice from the website’s talent consultant.

Additionally, Star Search Casting offers its members premium opportunities to showcase their talent on the website. Models can post up to 100 photos on their profile to showcase their versatility. Singers can upload three audio files to showcase their vocal range and style. Actors and dancers can display their skills by uploading three video files of their best work. No other website gives actors, dancers, singers and models this amount of exposure in one central location.

Actors, singers, dancers and models rely on maximum exposure to advance their careers. Star Search Casting provides not only maximum exposure, but also resources, opportunities and valuable information in a safe, user-friendly, online environment. The website has become so successful that actors, singers, dancers and models from all over the world now use Star Search Casting to find opportunities in film, television, theater, modeling, dance, the recording arts industry and more.

For more information on the benefits of joining Star Search Casting, visit http://www.starsearchcasting.com.