November Model of The Month Mimi LaRue : The vintage Doll!!!

The Vintage Doll aka Mimi LaRue

Age 24

Height 5'6"

Measurements 36-29-34

1. When did you start your career?

I started my modeling career when I was 21 right before my son turned one. 

After admiring, and studying the pinup/rockabilly life style for 5 years, I finally was brave enough to give it a try.

2. What kind of model are you (glamour,fashion,alternative,everything)? 

I specialize in pinup and rockabilly style modeling. My pinup style ranges from classic original style, cheesecake, to rockabilly modern style pinup.

3. What are you hobbies,favorite movie,favorite music,etc?

My hobbies include, making how to videos in the vintage style for other ladies to learn from, I love movie nights, BBQ's with my family, going to car shows, and anything with my little boys.

4. Is modeling your full time job?

Modeling at the moment is just more of a hobby and what I am passionate about. My full time job is your classic stay at home wife and mom. My boys are still very little and need my full attention and they will always come first before anything.

5. What do you know now that you wish you did when you 1st started modeling?

To not change who I am or my style just because it might get me published faster. We want so desperately to get ourselves out there and be noticed by magazines sometimes we put aside who we are to maybe do styles that we don't really want to do because we think it's what others want. Never sacrifice who you are due to impatience. You will get there, just keep working hard.

6. Where do you want to take your modeling in the future?

I want my modeling to be more than just photos. I want it to make a difference. I really want to do something for our troops and also something to help show other women that we are all beautiful in our own ways and can do whatever we set our minds to.

7. Who is your favorite photographer,model,designer?

Oh goodness that is a hard one. I have shot with two great photographers, Dan West of Classy Chassis Photo, and Mindy Jones of Vivid Eye Candy who I truly owe so much to. They stand out because they really put thought and knowledge into each shoot which always makes the photos shine. I have several models that have inspired me. Some that are famous that we all know and some that are new to the scene but have hearts so beautiful they really make me want to be my best. The designers I think I truly love the most are the ladies that hand make vintage style clothing. Like Mail Order Pinup Clothing, who truly show their passion in their clothes with every stitch.

8. What was your best & worst experience as a model? My best experience as a model has to be the beautiful women I meet. Such amazing women most of them and I really value having them as friends. Also what I have learned in myself. Modeling has given me a confidence and strength I didn't know I possessed. My worst experience would have to be the constant judging that's put towards me from complete strangers that know nothing about me. It's hard to swallow sometimes but when you put yourself out there it's something you will just have to endure and ignore because it really holds no weight in your life or career.

9. Whats your dream modeling gig?

I have two goals, one is to make the cover of a old school car magazine which inspired my pinup life, and to become a model for Pin Up Girl Clothing.

10. What advice would you give a new model entering the industry? What are YOUR top 10 must have's for your model bag? I would tell them to never let others get you down or discourage you. Rather it be other models, family or friends, don't ever let them stop you with their negative words or unsupportive behavior. There will always be people who don't like you or what you are doing. Sometimes it's people you love and it really hurts but you can't let that stop you. Also never let "not making the cut" for magazines or whatever your after get you down because you will have your moment when it's time and it will be great!

Top ten must haves

Bobby Pins

Nude panties both full coverage and not
New stockings
Strapless Bra
Baby Wipes (they lean everything!)
Shape Wear (smooths everything out)
My Flat Iron for curling emergencies
Hair Spray
Double Stick Tape
Confidence

Hair Tutorial Thursday!

Here are some more fun hair styles to do for a special occasion or a shoot!

Enjoy lovelies!

Halloween Tutorial Tuesday!!

Its our last makeup tutorial Tuesday for Halloween!

Gives me a sad face because I LOVE this holiday!

So this week I think I will showcase couples!

Dracula & His Bride

Outfit Idea's to go with Makeup

Frankenstein & His Bride

Outfit Idea's

Sweeny Todd & Mrs. Lovett

Outfit Idea's

Dia De Los Muertos Makeup for couples

Outfit Idea's

I'd suggest going very 1920's with this look. 

This makeup seems to work well with the vintage styling of the 20's.

You can also go with the traditional styling.

I hope you all enjoyed these tutorial finds..

Please post your Halloween Costume pictures on our fan page!

www.facebook.com/TheModelBag

TFP/TFCD do you know what it is?

By Mistie McDonald

What is TFP/TFCD?
(Time for print/c.d.)
Do you know?
If you are new to the industry these term's are probably Greek to you.
But they are very important term's to know.
Here is the definition of TFP/TFCD

Test Shooting/TFP/TFCD - An agreement between the model and photographer to whereby they work for each other on a mutually beneficial basis. No fees other than sharing film-and-developing expenses are involved. They work together on a new idea or on their portfolios. The photographer provides a selection of prints/images from the shoot in recognition of the model's time commitment.

Alrighty...
You may be thinking 
"WHAT WORK FOR FREE!! NO FREAKIN WAY MAN!"

But here's the deal, when you are 1st coming into the industry you have no name,no experience, & no portfolio.

So you have to do something to build that name,experience & portfolio right?

TPF/TFCD is the way to do this.

So now there are some rules when looking to shoot TFP/TFCD.

You shouldn't just take any job/shoot.

You need to think,

 "Does this benefit my portfolio and my career?"

"Is this something that goes against what I personally believe and my own moral's?"

"Is the photographer's work of quality?"

If yes to these answers then by all means shoot.

In the beginning ALL and I do mean ALL models make the mistake with shooting with just anyone.

Its an honest mistake just like photographers not charging for their work after a certain time of shooting.

Its just a learning curve.

Remember when it comes to modeling or anything quality vs quantity is preferred.

Just as you shouldn't take just any  job you shouldn't put ALL your photos from a shoot in your portfolio.

Honestly no more than 3 from each shoot should be showcased and really just the best shoot from the session. 

I know its hard to choose, but people have short attention span's and will not look at ALL of your images. Which is why even in your physical book it should be no more than 20 of your very top shots.

There are a lot of photographers who are willing to help you build your portfolio.

Don't be afraid to ask for TFP/TFCD.

If worked right it can be beneficial for both the photographer, model & other team member's of the collaborative team.
So don't shy away from TFP/TFCD.
But also don't always expect to get it either. You will have to pay for the images you want to eventually get. Basically its a tool.. Its a tool to help you build your career. To help you get better job's.
To help you practice & to help you learn your craft.
I hope you enjoyed this information.
Please feel free to ask any questions you have either through comments or on our face book fanpage!
http://www.facebook.com/TheModelBag

Don't Lose Yourself Just To Get The Job!

By The Vintage Doll

Sometimes in the modeling industry it can feel like your never going to get a job, or get a photo published in a magazine. It can feel like no matter what you do or how many photos you take or people you talk to, you are never going to make that transition from "wanting to be a model" to "I'm a model". Most models start out with goals and guide lines of what they will and will never do. What are acceptable jobs and photo shoots, and lines they won't cross due to personal beliefs, and a models own comfort zone. But after so many turn downs and getting passed up because you may not be comfortable with doing something you start to let go of how you personally feel about it and take the mindset of "If it means I will get the job I will do it" That's where you start losing yourself and start falling in line with so many other girls who forget who they are and what they want just to "get a job".

I have been offered a few different jobs that I have turned down due to them not fitting who I am as a person and also not being things I want my name tied to in representing. You have to remember that every job you take you also take on what the job or company stands for. They are using your face to represent something and in turn you are saying you agree or like whatever that is. You always need to consider that in taking a job. It may be just a job at first but how will it make you look in the long run and how will it not only effect your modeling career with other clients but also how you feel about yourself.

As a mother of two small boys, and I know a lot of models now a days have children as well, it's always the first thing I think of before I take a job or do a photo shoot. How will my children feel about this when they see it? It's not just about me in this situation because I always have to factor them in as well. I never want my boys to be ashamed of their mother, I want them to be proud of me and some day when I'm much older look back and see that their mom was a pretty lady that helped other ladies feel beautiful too.

Always remember, there are lots of jobs and opportunities out there and no amount of money is worth losing your whole career over or even worse yourself because you got impatient or you felt like that was all you would ever get so you just took any job to feel like you were making progress. You will get there. Sometimes it just takes a little longer. Rocks have to be under a whole lot of pressure before they fully turn into a diamond. Remember you are good enough and you are strong in your inner and outer beauty and you will have your shining moment. Just be patient.

Until next time stay as beautiful inside as you are outside.

The Vintage Doll

Mimi LaRue

Tutorial Thursdays! Easy Updo's & Faux Hawks!

ts that time again lovelies!!
Lets do some hurr!

These will work for so much!
They are classy and elegant.
Perfect for formal shoots or events!

Something fun and funky!

These are great for giving your shoots an edge!

Or they can be dressed up to be very classy!

The Faux Hawk

Halloween Tutorial Tues!

So this week for Halloween Makeup Tues we are focusing on characters!

Both Male and Female Included!

Corpse Bride

Harley Quinn

Jessica Rabbit

Betty Boop

Male Looks

Pinhead From Hell Raiser

(yes I know its a girl but u an make it for u duh!)

Freddy Krueger

Davy Jones

Jareth The Goblin King

Happy Costuming!
Please post your Halloween looks on our Fan page!
The ones we like we will feature in a blog!
https://www.facebook.com/TheModelBag

The power of Emoting

By Mistie McDonald

As a model you have to know how to emote. 

This is one of the fundamental things that makes a great model.

Yes you can be a pretty girl or handsome guy and take pretty pictures, but if you give the same face ALL the time then you become boring.

Emoting isn't just using your mouth to smile,frown,laugh,kiss..

Emoting means that you use your entire face and body.

If the photographer wants happy, learn to look genuinely happy.

If they want gut wrenching sadness the give that. 

I highly suggest acting classes. This will help you learn to use your emotions.

This will also make your images 100 times better..

By learning this it will also give your photographers more to work with.

Which in turn will make you a more desired and sought after model.

Regardless if you only want this as a hobby or you really want to make a career of it, learning to emote will take your modeling to new heights.

Get your butt infront of your mirror and practice your emotions.

Pull up Youtube and find videos that show saddness,happiness,anger etc.

Practice this and watch your modeling reach new heights!

Check out Coco Rocha & Her Emoting Skills!

Get your pose on!

How to Choose The Right Photographer

By Steve Lamb

Here are some things to be aware of when you are on that search for the right photographer for you. 1. Research. For a first photo shoot be sure to check references! If you don't feel right calling a reference then ask for an email, but get the whole story. Make sure that you aren't the first model that will be working this person. And also make sure the photographer will allow you to bring someone with you to the shoot. If they have a problem with this then it is probably a good idea to find someone else to work with. Safety is not negotiable. There are a lot of frauds out there; guys who will claim to be a photographer only to get a woman in a room alone and vulnerable. Please be safe. A meeting in a non-threatening public place before the shoot is necessary. If you get a bad feeling from this person then you will still have time to cancel the shoot and not be put on the spot. Trust your instincts.
2. Posing. It is a good idea to come to the shoot with your own style and favorite poses because some photographers will assist the model with posing, while some won't say a word and leave it completely up to you to create the poses. It is a good idea to communicate with the photographer before the shoot to get an idea of what they are looking for. Ask for help being positioned if you need to. A good photographer who really cares about the outcome of the images should have no problem assisting. You can use their ideas with your own. There will be more detailed guides on posing in another lesson.
3. Lighting and angles. Everyone is different; some photographers will make more creative and dramatic uses of lighting or camera angles in a set, studio, or location, while some prefer to work with only outdoor or natural lighting. If you like key elements of one photographer then speak with them and see if they can incorporate other elements you like into the shoot. If you have an idea regarding the images don't be afraid to voice your opinion. Show examples of pictures that have caught your eye for one reason or another and explain what you like about them. Always check out a potential photographer's portfolio so you will better understand the type of images they normally create and choose the one with images similar to those that interest you.
4. Compensation. Another thing to realize is that some photographers only accept paid shoots; while others are willing to do a "tfp" shoot - meaning trade for portfolio or print. This is done when a photographer or model wants to create or update their portfolio. Sometimes a photographer has been commissioned to do a single shot, or series or shots for a buyer. If you have a good deal of confidence, then you could possibly be on your way to your first paid shoot.
5. Contracts. Most photographers will have you sign a release form. This type of contract differs from photographer to photographer and should be read through very carefully. For the most part this contract acts like a reference; it gives the photographer permission from the model to use the pictures they have created together in his or her portfolio. Most photographers will have no problem sharing the copyright with the model, after all both parties are involved in the creative process and the final outcome of the images. Hope this helps….GOOD LUCK Ladies!! Blah, Blah, Blah Steve Lamb

You won't always get the job, but that's ok

"You won't always get the job, but that's ok"

By The Vintage Doll

One of the hardest things women have to deal with is low confidence and low self esteem and the daily judging from not only others around them but also themselves as well. When you add being a model on top of that and being judged highly on things you can't change like your body, your eye shape, or how long your legs are, it can be extremely hard on ones confidence. 

As models it is our job to provide the paying client with exactly what they ask for in representing whatever product they need us to show off. So even though it's hard, sometimes when we don't get the job over another model we need to keep in mind that it's ok we didn't get the job, we just weren't what the client was looking for. It will always be a little hard on our confidence level when we are turned down due to the fact that we know it's because something about what makes us who we are seemed not good enough. Models are judged off of things that make them who they are as people, like their hight or face shape so when someone says "Your not right for the job" it can be hard to swallow. Does it mean we should take it as we are not good enough or the other girl was prettier or better? Of course not!! It's a job and just like any other job out there, there is always a chance that someone will be better suited for it over us. And that's ok. There are plenty of jobs and opportunities for you to shine in. Don't let loosing out on a few jobs get your confidence level down. 

Instead look for the high points in your modeling and what you really shine in. What modeling style is your body type or look good for? Find it and study in that style so you can shine and really show off your skills.

I specialize in vintage pinup modeling because I studied it and it's my passion and what I know. So when I go to a photo shoot or job for that style I really know how to do my best in it and get the best out of my photos.

Remember that even though some people say no, it's not a personal knock against you, who you are, or what makes you a whole. Never let the loss of a modeling job, cover photo, contest or anything else in this industry take away your strength and beauty. Always keep pushing for the next thing that can make you a star!

Xoxo Mimi LaRue

The Vintage Doll

Hair Tutorial Thursday! Feather Braid!

This look is so so pretty!!

I hope you all enjoy this! 

I know I sure did!

Feather Braid

This would be so awesome for Halloween!

Modeling Scam's

Avoiding Scam's

By Samantha Tribble

Scams. They are everywhere! They are an especially large part of the modeling world. Most new models will encounter at least a handful. I know, starting out, I sure did. But, I quickly learned the signs of a con and have become able to ward them off!

Several modeling sites, such as Model Mayhem (a site for networking between models, photographers, editors, etc.), even has a pop-up when searching for castings that tells you the basics to avoid scams:

                                                                    Avoid Scams!

Don't get scammed. Here are two rules that you should ALWAYS take into account:

1.    If it looks too good to be true, IT IS! Turn and walk away.

2.    NEVER give someone your social security number, a credit card number or any other personal information unless you are absolutely sure of the situation. If someone asks you to pay them for an opportunity where you will (seemingly) eventually be paid back, it's a SCAM.

(http://www.modelmayhem.com/education/using-mm/2854-avoiding-scams-the-basics)

For your entertainment, I will even provide a story of my own as to give an example of a basic scam.

I was maybe two months into my modeling career when I received a message via my Model Mayhem account with a great offer that directed me to e-mail the company directly via my personal e-mail. It was for a “commercial in my location”! How exciting, right? Wrong. The email I received after contacting the company going by the name Optimax asked for my information such as where I lived, my phone number, etc. while including a quite extensive list of vague details. They gave me two weekends in which to choose from to shoot. I started to notice that something wasn’t right. Instead of confirming a date I sent them a list of questions in which I received no response to. A few weeks later I received a check in the mail for $2,950. This package came first-class, overnight, and with nothing but the check from a Christian school in Georgia with an address on the envelope from Oregon. I am a full-time student and had been informed that I had received a new scholarship; so, I thought that this check was from one of my donors. Roughly an hour after I received the check I received  an e-mail from Optimax instructing me to immediately cash the check, withdraw $1,900, and wire it to the “designer”. The designer just happened to be a 50 year-old construction worker in the mid-west. I called my attorney and was instructed to cut contact with company. I told the company that their check was fraudulent and to cease all contact with me. They have not and continue to harass me.

Let this story be a huge lesson and learn from it! Just as the Model Mayhem scam section says, “if it sounds too good to be true, IT IS!”

This type of scam is one of the many out there. There are even scams out there that are legitimate businesses. For example, I recently encountered a modeling agency located in New York whom of which not only charges anywhere between $1,500 and $2,500 for a TEST SHOOT with no guarantee of signing you but they also charge their talent $40 a month to stay on their agency website. This is NOT how agencies work! Now, I’m not saying that you are expected to put nothing down, being a “talent” and paying for your book or portfolio is an investment but by no means should it cost you anywhere near what this agency is charging nor should you ever pay a fee to stay on their website. A real agency’s/ company’s goal is not to make money from you but to instead make money off of you by booking you with paying clients in which they make a certain percentage off of what their talent makes; the percentage is deemed by your state’s modeling/talent laws.

Another common scam involves clothing companies that require the models and/or photographers to purchase the clothing with no reimbursement after they have been photographed in the clothing or have photographed a model in the clothing. The company then uses the photos, a lot of the time without a release from the photographer. They claim to be able to help you gain “national exposure” but in reality you are only working for free. This is the company’s way of gaining free labor, models, and, pictures. The owner is typically the only person who profits and he typically only profits off of the models and photographers who purchase the clothing. I have also encountered a company like this; thankfully I did not shoot for them! The owner stated that for every person who puts your name in the referral box when purchasing the clothing the model would receive 2% of the profit off that order. Well, not only did the owner not follow through with this he also was using his company to sexually exploit minors and prey on them. This company is currently in a heaping mass of trouble.

These are all things that everyone should avoid! Do your homework and research every company and photographer before you work for them. Ask them for references and make sure that their offer is legitimate. If you are under the age of 18, check you state’s laws on modeling and make sure your parent signs a model release form.

Learn more about general scams at these great sites!

http://www.craigslist.org/about/scams

http://www.phonebusters.com/

http://www.419eater.com/

http://www.scambusters.org/NigerianFee.html

http://www.fbi.gov/majcases/fraud/fraudschemes.htm

http://www.modelingscams.org/

http://www.hotscams.com/blogs/learning-the-hard-way.html

http://www.fakechecks.org/

And for the minors and parents of minors check out:

http://modelalliance.org/child-models

                                                                                                                                                -Samantha

Halloween Make-up Tutorial Tuesday!

Alrighty well here's another Halloween edition of tutorial Tuesday!

I will include a few tutorials this time since its such an amazing holiday!

This time with both male and female tutorials!

I hope you guys enjoy!!

The Voodoo Doll

Zombie Barbie

Sugar Skull

Pop Art 

I cant leave the guys out!!!

Male Makeup Tutorials

Warm Bodies Tutorial

Vampire

Pop Art

Werewolf