Models of Diversity comes to Blushing Boudoir

Sunday 28th November

Blushing Boudoir recently set out to find the "Face" of the business. We did not want a stereotypical model, we wanted someone that our brides can relate to, a real woman if you like.

After Working With Angel Sinclair of Sinclair Management and Models of Diversity on a previous photoshoot, it made sense to ask Angel if any of her diverse models would be keen on the idea. Models of Diversity are set to change to face of the modelling and fashion industry by demanding that all women get equal representation regardless of race, dress size, ability, age and shape. Angels Models of Diversity campaign has ambassadors for Models of Colour, Plus size, Mature women, Teen models, models of disability, and much more. This is why we felt it was the perfect fit to our business.

Blushing Boudoir is aimed towards real women, real brides so having a "real" women as our poster girl was the only way for us to go. We received a HUGE response from the casting and decided to go with 2 of Angels team. Fabia Cerra, Ambassador for Plus Size Models, and Leonie Sheriff, Ambassador for Models of Colour. As well as Models of Diversity a good friend of mine stepped in to help out with the photoshoot. Sarah Pinder is a primary school teacher and a dance teacher who has a love of modelling, and boy can she pose! The women were outstanding. Each of them brought something different to the shoot.

The shoot tok place at Blushing Boudoir's Essex Photo Studio. Our fantastic photographer, Emma-Rose Flewers, was on hand to capture the beauty of all 3 women. Whilst Emma was setting up the studio with Laura Knight, another great female photographer, I prepped the models for their shoot by giving them their make-overs. The aim was to bring out each of the models natural beauty by emphasising their best features and to make the women feel fabulous.

First to be made over was Sarah. We decided to opt for a natural yet sexy look for sarah, with her sensual curves - which are all in the right places! - great blue/green eyes and a pout that a few women would pay a lot of money for it seemed fitting to give Sarah a Marilyn Monroe style makeover (especially as we had a Monroe wig in the studio!). Once Sarah's fluttery eyelashes had been applied and her make-up finished it was on with the wig and first outfit then straight onto the set for her superstar photoshoot.

Whilst Sarah was striking her best poses for Emma and Laura the make-up chair was being kept warm by the Lovely Leonie Sheriff. The Ambassador for Models of Colour was a delight to work with. A sweet, honest, lovely young woman with a stunning face and amazing features. Leonie made making her over very easy. She really is a natural beauty and did not need much make-up at all. Her skin was gorgeously clear, she needed nothing more than a light sweep of foundation to even her skin tone out slightly. Her pretty eyes were emphasised and her shapely lips were made to "pop". Then she slipped into a luscious pin-up style velvet lingerie set and got straight to work like a true pro.

Our final model of the day was Fabia Cerra. Fabia is a beautiful woman, inside and out. Her charisma was uplifting, making the whole team smile and instantly warm to her. Some of you may recognise Fabia from her appearance on Britain's Got Talent, where she performed a fantastic burlesque dance and completely wowed the judges. She has gone from strength to strength within her burlesque career and her modelling career seems to be going the same way. Fabia is an inspiration to many women, not just plus sized ladies but mothers, dancers and real women in general.

The day was a massive success and the delivery of the most delicious cupcakes, supplied by Heavenleigh Cupcakes, at lunchtime kept everyone chirpy. We could not be more pleased with Emma and Laura's photography work and the models amazing talent and dedication to the shoot. I would recommend every single person on the team to anyone who asks. Blushing Boudoir is delighted to have been able to work with Sinclair Management and Models of Diversity on this project, we are in full support of Angel's campaign and know it is going to make a massive change in the fashion industry.

Crystal Jewels designs brought to life at The Essex Photo Studio

On Saturday 20th November 2010, Crystal Jewels brought their stunning designs to Essex. After months for planning April and Sean finally got to see their jewellery and head pieces brought to life by the stunning models and very talented photographer.

Lots of planning went into this shoot. We needed to organise models, deciding to book more than needed in case a couple couldn't make it. However, we were blessed as all 5 were able to arrive and turned up on the day. Once the models were decided we began to organise styling for the clothing and hair. Unfortunately the stylist who initially agreed to help was unable to and the day before the shoot the hairstylist dropped out!!! Lucky for us, Stephanie Kew stepped in at the last minute and created a few fab looks, including a cheryl cole inspired fish tail plait.

The shoot began by getting the models prepped. All the models started with a "pretty" almost bridal look make-up and soft hair look, to show off the delightful designs byCrystal Jewels, first in the make-up seat was Francesca Turner. She is a natural model. At just 17 she knows how to use her body to create some amazing shapes, she is professional, polite and has amazing bone structure. She worked as though she had been in front of the lens for decades. Pulling off the natural beauty with effortless grace and high fashion with the poise of the most renowned couture models.

Up next was Jade Amanda. Jade worked like a star. A total pleasure to have around. She knew how to "get the shot" and had a fantastic face to make-up and a body to die for. Jade is an awesome fashion model.

Charlotte Chapman, a professional dancer and model with vast experience, looked utterly divine as a natural beauty. She made Crystal Jewels pieces look as beautiful as ever. Posing to show of the designs and moving to ensure each design was in shot. Her natural beauty was enhanced with soft pinks, bronzes and golds with a hint of purple to bring out the green of her eyes. When it was time for the high fashion look she was totally transformed. Her outfit was funky with a sexy twist, showing her fabulous dancers body off to perfection. Being a dancer clearly benefits Charlottes modelling, being flexible is a great advantage.

Donna Bull brought a fantastic energy to the studio with her enthusiasm, positive attitude, ideas and even helping with the tidying up and making teas!! Donna needed little direction, was fun to be around and was able to model with ease.

Michelle de Feo was the final model to take to the "stage" so to speak. Michelle doesn't usually do high fashion and beauty shoots, preferring a different style. This was a new challenge and a fantastic experience and something different to put on her CV.

The amazingly talented photographer for the day was Martin Higgs. Martin was the last member of the team to hop on board, bringing Fran with him. After Crystal Jewels and I had seen a few different photographers it was a great delight when Martin contacted us. We liked his portfolio and it was a bonus that he is a local photographer. His portfolio is initially what made us decide he had the right style for the shoot, but on the day it was his warm personality, creativity and ability to bring an idea to life that made the shoot such a success.

Stephanie Kew, hair stylist, was a total star for stepping in at the minute. She couldn't stay for the whole day as she had prior commitments, but she literally helped save the shoot. Without Steph the shoot my not have run so smoothly. She Arrived and got straight to work, creating some stunning finger waves, a pretty curled look and an on trend fishtail plait. She was my hero for the day!

Overall the shoot was a complete success. Crystal Jewels travelled from Bristol to Essex for the shoot and it seems like it was definitely worth it. A selection of stunning images were created to help advertise their brand and make them stand out from their competitors. The Essex Photo Studio was utilised brilliantly. The curve was the area used the most to create some fantastic full length shots and stunning head-shots. Martin and the models got to create some fun, beautiful and stylish images for their portfolios and to be one of the first teams to work at the studio.

Simon Price and Jess Impiazzi come to Essex Photo Studio

As the official launch is not far off The very talented Simon Price, professional and published photographer, made a visit to Essex Photo Studio along with the stunning Jess Impiazzi, professional model and actress to help test out the equipment and settings. Simon is also working on a 2011 Calendar for Outstanding Girls agency, which boasts some of the industries most beautiful and talented models -including Jess.

Simon helped set up all the lighting and accessories whilst I done Jess's Make-up and Hair. As I am a make-up artist it made sense to make use of my skills rather than get an extra person in. As Jess has amazing eyes we decided to emphasise those, in a soft and pretty yet sultry way.

Simon got to work preparing the backdrops and sets and made us of a lot of the areas, but bot all of them - we would have been there for days if that were to happen!

The shoot started with Simon and Jess getting some stunning head-shots against a flat white wall, using a simple 2 light set up.

Then it was onto the curve for some fun and sexy wintery style images. Jess looked fab in nothing much than a hat, scarf and undies. Some fab full length images were achieved on the curve, a couple of outfit changes and then onto set 3. The black Lasolite was used to get some cutesy Christmas themed shots. Another outfit change and a move into the "reception" area, where jess climbed on top of the gold Louis Style desk and posed against the luxurious rich purple back wall. Next were the sensual and provocative shots taken in front of the large 5ft x 4ft ornate gold mirror. The Pink "hallway/entrance" to the Andy Warhol bathroom was used to create some bright and fun shots. Marilyn Monroe appeared in a few shots when Jess posed brilliantly in front of the Marilyn wallpaper backdrop. The final 2 sets were great fun. The Bedroom was used to create a fun, girly, "messy teenager" image. Jess used the bed to pose with clothes and accessories, a teddy and even a barbie as props. Finally it was the one that got our fab model the most excited - bubble gun army girl on the yellow colorama.

There were a few niggles on the day, but nothing that stopped amazing images being produced. Simon Price is a very talented photographer. He creates and captures some of the prettiest, cutest and most sensual images I have seen in a very long time. I always love working with Simon. With his easy to get on with temperament, effortless talent, love of Jaffa Cakes and sweet personality I would be dumbfounded if anyone wasn't able to get on with him and have fun on a shoot.  Simon teamed withJess Impiazzi is pure magic. Jess is a natural model. She needs next to no direction, has an unlimited array of poses, oozes confidence, sex appeal, sweetness and is one of the nicest models I have had the pleasure of working with.

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Links:

Simon Price: www.simonpricestudios.co.uk

Jess Impiazzi: http://www.modelmayhem.com/590196

Outstanding Girls Agecny: http://www.outstandinggirls.co.uk/

Types of Modelling

When people think of a model they usually think of a high fashion model or possibly a glamour model. However, the industry is a lot more broad with around 9 different modelling categories. Here we concentrate on the most common areas of the industry.

High fashion catwalk modelling

Being a fashion model may appear to be glamorous and exciting. This is not necessarily the case. Yes you may earn a large wage if you secure a high profile campaign, but these campaigns don't come along everyday. It is a very tough and hard business to enter into. There are constant castings to travel too, usually at your own expense, often lots of rejection before you secure work and long hours.

In order to work as a catwalk model you would need to match a certain criteria.

Age around 14-23, but occassionally a little older. Dress size 4-8 (UK), 5'9" and over. There are some exceptions to the rule - Kate Moss is said to be 5'7" and Sophie Dahl was a size 14 when she was launched into the fashion world.

Editorial Fashion

The requirements for fashion editorials are very similar to that of a catwalk model.

Editorial modelling requires the model to have good skin, teeth, hair and nails. An editorial model is usually featured in advertising campaigns to promote goods. You could be modelling everything from shoes, clothes, and bags to beauty products and perfumes. As you are there to sell a product it is likely that you will have a full styling team, meaning all you need to do is turn up on time and you will be dressed, have your hair and make-up done and then shoot.

Commercial Modelling

Commercial modelling is similar to editorial, whereby models are used to sell a product in a campaign. The campaign can be a printed advert, TV advert, magazine and newspaper work, billboards and a selection of other sources of advertising.

Becoming a commercial model is somewhat easier to break into than fashion model due to the fact that the models are far more "real". As in the height and dress sizes are closer to that of the average woman and the models are more of the "girl next door" type.

In order to fall into the commercial category you will need to be around 5'5" and above, generally slim and with a great attitude. This is not set in stone though, each client will want something different from their commercial model.

Glamour Modelling

As a glamour model you will not generally be selling a product, you will be the main feature. There is generally no height or size restrictions in glamour modelling, but if you look at the lads magazines you are likely to see models from 5' upwards and generally ranging from a size 6-12/14. Glamour modelling is all about sex appeal and creating a raunchy, erotic feel to an image.

Glamour models are usually well proportioned with the ability to give a cheeky, naughty look and move their body in a provocative way in order to create what some may say is an arousing image.

The main point to remember when you decide to enter into glamour modelling is that you need to be at least 18 years of age. Glamour modelling can range from lingerie and swimwear right through to nude. You do not have to go topless or even implied topless to be a glamour model and you should ensure that all levels are agreed and discussed prior to the shoot.

Plus Size Models

Surprisingly plus size models dress size starts as low as a size 12. The plus industry is not as large and as lucrative as the high fashion, although this is now changing. The average UK female is a size 14-16 and designers are starting to take notice of what the "real woman" wants. More stores now extend their clothing ranges to a size 16, where by a few years ago you would have struggled to find size 16 in many high street fashion stores.

A plus size model still needs to be tall, at least 5'8", and be well proportioned with good skin.

Character Modelling

When someone works as a character model there is no height, age or size restrictions. Some clients may require a gran, or someone who is heavily tattooed or someone who is very petite this is where being a character model really comes into its own. If you have the right look and attitude you can do very well in this type of modelling.

Catalogue Modelling

Being a catalogue model requires you to have a good figure and be in shape, but you do not necessarily have to be a size 6-8 and 5'9". There is more longevity as a catalogue model.

A catalogue model will appear in large brands magazines, books, on their websites and in catalogues etc, the model will have a look that the business feels will relate to their client. So if the catalogue or brand is aimed at the under 30's single business woman then the model will appear to have that look.

There are also many other forms of modelling such as; Parts model, Fitness model, Fitting model, Alternative model, Adult model and many more. Only you know which you want to do. Just because you don't fit into one category it does not mean you can not do some form of modelling.

Modelling and eating disorders: Are they linked?

The world of modelling and fashion is often accused of contributing to the rise of eating disorders. Many believe that by using very slim models and the retouching of images has lead to a visible increase in eating disorders. However, is this really the case? Does the fashion world have its part to play?

The catwalk is awash with models who are generally no larger than a UK size 6-8, although a vast number are around a size 4, and over 5'8. If designers are creating their ranges for women of this criteria they are surely implying that this is the ideal way to be? The average UK dress size is currently a size 16 - that's a whopping 5 to 6 sizes LARGER than the catwalk "ideal" and the average woman is around 5'4, at least 6 inches shorter than your typical fashion model. Those are massive differences. Various organisations are continuously pushing for the industry standards to change. Beat, the leading UK charity for people with eating disorders and their families, are working to try to ensure that the industry is educated on eating disorders and how to spot them and also what to do if you are worried you are suffering or someone you know is suffering. Doctors recommend that everyone should try to achieve a healthy Body Mass Index measurement. A healthy BMI range is 18.5 to 24.9, with 25 to 29.9 being overweight and anything over 30 being obese to very obese. BMI is a guideline, it may not be 100% accurate but it is a good way of gauging if a person could potentially be at risk of poor health. Other things to consider are also waist to hip ratio, fat vs muscle levels and a variety of other factors. it is very possible for someone with a BMI of less than 18 to be healthy, some people are naturally thin, the same goes for those in the over 25 range.

Does showing thin, tall models create a perception of beauty that is not necessarily achievable? Is it one of the main contributing factors for people suffering from eating disorders? I am not completely certain it is. Yes, I do believe that more needs to be done to change the industry into one that is far healthier and one that is far more regulated and educated, but I do not feel that magazines and the media are the main reason people, mainly girls, suffer from anoerxia or bulemia or any other disordered eating habits. An eating disorder is a very complex mental illness, not always related to wanting to be thin.

Many people who have suffered from any form of eating disorder say that it started when they were at a point in their life when they felt they had no control and the one thing that they were able to control was their eating habits. For some food may be used as a comfort mechanism, this could lead to serious binge eating and possibly purging or chronic overeating. Food may start to be controlled as a way of taking control of ones life situation. There are many forms of eating disorders and you can not necessarily tell jut by looking at a person that they suffer from one. The signs are hidden inside and is often linked to depression and possibly self harm and alcohol abuse. Eating disorders are extremely complex.

It is time that the media and modelling industry stopped putting pressure on people to conform to the ideal and to also put an end to the belief that anyone who is very slim is ill or anyone who is curvaceous is unhealthy. Being thin does not equal being healthy, it can be just as dangerous to the heart and health of a person as being very very overweight. Eating disorders are misunderstood. Someone who is seen to be a healthy size 12 may have major food issues, whereas someone a small size 8 or an average size 16 may have a completely normal and healthy relationship with food.

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Further resources

www.b-eat.co.uk

www.eatwell.gov.uk

Model Safely

Modelling is a great job, but it does come with some dangerous aspects so it is always best to follow basic safety guidelines to ensure you are not put in any unnecessary danger.

Always make your levels clear

It is always important to make it clear to the photographer what levels you are willing to work to. If you feel the photographer wants you to shoot to a level that you are uncomfortable with then do not do the shoot. If you have made your levels clear and the photographer puts pressure on you at the photoshoot then you should quit the shoot if you feel safe to do so. Also, even if you have agreed to shoot to a certain level and then change your mind upon meeting the photographer (you may not feel 100% comfortable going topless or you may feel very comfortable and be happy to try something new) then that is your choice. You should not be made to feel guilty for changing your levels, that is your prerogative.

Be certain on date, time and location

Always have the date, time and location of a photoshoot in writing and give the details to someone else so that they know where you are. If the photographer changes the location at the last minute to a venue you are not comfortable with then you should say so. If you are still happy to continue the shoot but feel a little awkward about it, you are within your rights to ask to bring a chaperone along.

Make sure someone knows where you are at all times

Always pass the details onto a friend or family member so that someone is always aware of where you are. Give them the location, how long you are expected to be there, the photographers name, the names of any other models or stylists and any contact details you have for them. That way, should you be late and your mobile phone dies your friends have a contact for you.

Never go somewhere or do something that makes you uneasy

If there is anything that makes you feel unsure or uneasy when planning a shoot then do no go ahead with it. Before you do anything make sure you are totally sure it is safe and legitimate. Make sure all the necessary precautions have been taken and that any necessary forms have been signed and always get as much in writing as you can.

How to Plan a photoshoot

As a model you may work with a team of stylists as well as a photographer on a photoshoot. You may be working with them as a model who is being paid to fit a certain look or create a certain look, this look and style may be defined by the client. You may not have a styling team but still be employed by a photographer to fit his vision. In both of these situations you will more than likely be told what you will need to wear and how your hair and make-up should look. As a model your job is to bring a vision to life. If it is a private booking by a photographer then you may be able to have a small in put - as long as your vision matches that of the person hiring you.

The photoshoot may be on a TF* basis, whereby nobody is getting paid. This usually means that everyone involved will have some kind of say on what they would like to get from the shoot. In this case you can put your ideas forward to the photographer and styling team, if there is one, and hopefully get some great images that will benefit all involved.

The other scenario is that you want to update your portfolio and you are paying a photographer whose work you like and you have also booked a make-up artist and hairstylist (if hair and make-up is not included in your portfolio package). In this instance the photographer and stylists are your employees and they have to fulfil your vision. As professionals they will often give their own opinion and advice and you should definitely take this on board. You booked them due to the fact that you like their work, so you should respect their experience and opinions on what may work best for you.

If you are being paid to fulfil a role you may not have a say on the overall look, however you should still state if there is something you are not comfortable doing. For example, if you are booked on a shoot and you do not do nude work of any form but when you are there the client says you will be required to shoot nude, if it has been made clear that you do not shoot to that level then you are within your rights not to continue the shoot. Also, if you were booked via an agent or if your online profile clearly states your levels you can refuse to shoot. This does not mean that if levels were not previously discussed that you have to do what ever the client says, you don't. You should only ever work to the levels you are comfortable with. No matter what.

If the shoot is a TF* or a portfolio then you are likely to have a lot of control over the outcome of the shoot. In order to plan a shoot you will need to discuss:

• Levels - do you want to shoot to implied, topless, nude or merely fashion?
• Style - are you looking for high end fashion or classic glamour? Do you want something that is totally different to anything else you have?
• Styling - will it be lingerie, swimwear, natural looking, big hair, lots of make-up etc?
• Location - studio, on location, hotel or other? Never shoot somewhere that makes you feel uncomfortable or never agree to a shoot if the location can not be decided. Your safety is of the utmost importance.
• Date and time
• What props you may need to take.
• How many images you will receive from the shoot. Will they be on CD or Printed and will they be retouched? Will they be in high-res or low-res?
• What will the images be used for? It is very important to discuss this - if you do a TF* shoot then someone goes on to sell the images and you are not given a percentage of the earnings you may have a case for a claim.
• How long will you have to wait for the images?
• Any images you have that you want to take inspiration from or emulate.

In the case of a TF* shoot it is advisable to get all parties to sign a model release form stating where the images will be used and what for. In all instances it is always worthwhile getting everything in writing. That way you know where you stand and if anyone disagrees you have backup.

As with everything you should always do everything you can to remain safe. You can find safety tips in our advice section.