Finding Inspiration

This Bold Life and I have this on again, off again relationship. I had set a goal of 2 blog posts per week for you guys months back. Consistent information, updates, and experiences shared with you. However, the really good stuff only comes sporadically. That’s what it’s like to be a writer. I must write when the words start flowing.

Like writing, sometimes inspiration is hard to find.

But when you find it, it’s quite magical.

Inspiration isn’t, ‘oh, what a pretty dress,’ or ‘this is beautiful, I love this.’ Inspiration is moving. Literally. Really good inspiration gets your gears working, clicking into place, and suddenly, you’re up and replying, feeding off that inspiration.

Inspiration comes from another human’s boldness, courage, determination, hard work, and beautiful results and realizations. Inspiration is when you are a photographer who instills confidence in your subjects every day and, upon braving out the commitment to being the one in front of the camera, realize something deep, realizing, “That’s me, that’s beautiful, I’m beautiful!” (Read about Dana Kae’s profound, beautiful experience here). Inspiration is health and joy, like a woman staying fit for 22 years, not in it for the results, but for the wonderful feeling of being healthy. (This is Laura’s lifestyle, who shares her journey here).

These days, my main form of inspiration is through social media. There are so many stories to be shared and heard. If you know where to look, the options are endless. In my search for inspiration, here are just a few of my finds. Continue reading “Finding Inspiration”

Model Mayhem 101: Contests and Boards

Before, I discussed the basic functions and how-to’s of Model Mayhem, using casting calls and collaborating on Model Mayhem, and finally, adapting your Model Mayhem account as you gain experience.

Now, the last remaining Model Mayhem features of note are the contests and forums.

Contests
I see the contests as a way to verify your experience and expertise, the Model Mayhem way. It’s another place to get “popular” on the site.

If you win a contest, you will be awarded with an image indicating that you’ve won. These are good trophies to display on your profile. Your account must have the ability to use BB Code (BBC) to show such images on your profile. Use the same code to display a photo in your profile as the underlined example shown in the next section in italics. Continue reading “Model Mayhem 101: Contests and Boards”

Model Fuse vs Model Mayhem: Review

**UPDATE: Sadly, Model Fuse has seemed to disappeared off the internet. Unfortunate, because they showed promise. But it just goes to show how difficult it can be to get a ‘leg up’ over competition (especially established). In the meantime, my good model friend Sierra Mckenzie is working on her own Freelance Models project. Feel free to click and check it out!**

MFuseLLC

I was recently informed of a new model networking site called Model Fuse. I decided to do something different for my blog by giving this site a try and writing a review on it. I created my profile and the process was extremely simple, as any good social media site these days should be. Navigation and acquainting myself with the site was easy as well. 

I had this idea to set out and book a shoot through this site. That’s what seems to be their whole philosophy: Their goal is to get freelancers work, with the whole industry at your fingertips, on one website. 

The problem is, many models already use a site for just that. It’s called Model MayhemContinue reading “Model Fuse vs Model Mayhem: Review”

Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started

I know I keep directing my fellow model friends to www.ModelMayhem.com (MM). Especially if you don’t have an agency. However, Model Mayhem, while widely used, has many in’s and out’s you should all be aware of.

What exactly is Model Mayhem?
Model Mayhem is an online social media networking outlet for models, photographers, and many more industry related individuals. As Model Mayhem expands, so does its users. There are accounts for not only makeup artists, hairstylists, and designers, but also stylists, photoshop wizards, artist/painters, body painters, digital artists, and agents.

Getting Started
I keep saying how important it is to network in this, and every other industry. Model Mayhem launched my networking abilities in the fashion industry and I’ve been climbing the rungs ever since. Model Mayhem is for dipping your toes and then diving in to the industry. I always suggest Model Mayhem for beginning models (unless your agency is adamant against you having an account or if they are already keeping your schedule full).

I’m not saying MM has been the driving force of my success. I’m saying it has been an ideal tool in showcasing my talent and connecting with other like-minded individuals. Continue reading “Model Mayhem 101: Getting Started”

Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 1 Social Media

Okay. Networking.

I love networking! I love lovely people and sharing thoughts, ideas, experiences. The term “it’s all about who you know” applies to everyone, everywhere. Once you realize that this is an essential piece of knowledge, you can continue forward, putting yourself in situations to meet experienced and talented individuals. As a model, a good majority of my time is spent networking. Why do you think I am always on Facebook?

Just through internet networking (Model Mayhem), I have had the amazing chance to work with Matthew Jordan Smith, a photographer from LA who has shot Tyra Banks, Oprah Winfry, and more. I have had the opportunity to work with Antoinette Beenders, a renowned global stylist for Aveda. I know people who know people. Connections can get you anywhere if you know how to use them.

When I think networking, the first three things that come to mind are social media, events, and chance encounters.

I’m going to dive right into what I know about social media in part one of this three part blog post and tell you about what techniques work best for me for networking through this avenue. Continue reading “Networking: 3 Things to Remember: pt 1 Social Media”