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.

THE BUSINESS OF ACTING: AGENTS AND MANAGERS FEES

One of the biggest advantages of our website is that thousands of actors, dancers, singers and models are able to audition for and book really great jobs without an agent. However, many of our members will eventually get representation and it’s important to be aware of some of the business practices that go along with signing with an agent or manager.

There are lots of perks that come with a career in the entertainment industry. One of those perks is the money. An actor that works regularly can make a great living doing what they love. Many SAG actors (members of Screen Actors Guild) make an average of $1000 a day while working on a major motion picture. But while the money can be a huge draw, it’s important to be aware of where a lot of your money goes. Aside from taxes, union dues and other expenditures like headshots, classes or any other valuable investments in your career – first and foremost you have to pay the people that represent you.

Just like any other industry, in entertainment there’s a cost for doing business. Agents charge a commission for any work that you book. Most will charge on average 10-15% of your gross earnings - that means before any other fees, such as taxes are taken out. If you have a manger, in addition to your agent, that can be an additional 10-15%. Some agents even charge fees for other services such as couriers (although these fees are generally miniscule.)

Often when we think of Hollywood careers, we think of the glitz, glamour, fortune and fame. But it’s important to look at the entire picture when you’re considering a career in the entertainment industry. It is a fantastic industry to work in, but it’s important to learn about all of the aspects of the business that face you on the journey ahead.

If you have questions about agency commissions, or any other questions related to the business of the industry, feel free to drop me a line or visit the message board on my website to talk to other actors, singers, dancers and models that are finding their way in the industry.

And check back tomorrow for more information on choosing an agent! Thanks for reading my blog!