My secret photo-shoot at the Apple Store on Prince Street

I create, produce and conceptualize my own publicity photos often, and like in modeling I am extremely hands on with my images. As an author I do a lot more than write. Marketing is a big part of it. Writing is just part of the job. I think you’ll agree that when I walked into the Apple store on Weds, and stood by a Macbook and told my friend Vera to come in the store with her camera, but to not let me know she was in the store and to just start shooting me,-- the results were pretty awesome. I suggested certain angles, and some goals of the shoot but really shooting random, unplanned worked better. And we didn’t get kicked out. I think it has partially to do with being females. A guy flashing his flash for 30 minutes in the Apple story might have had a different story. Thought it was funny when we were outside some store employees got a little funky :) I need shots of me in the Apple store because even though I am not writing my next books there, the store is still a part of my press releases and story (hence my memoir ALMOST 5'4" was written at this very store on Prince Street), and if it means being a little crafty, gritty, a little sneaky, I gotta get the shots! Currently I am writing a collection of unpublished stories based on modeling jobs with Marshalls, Victoria's Secret, Macy's and others, that show some of my fantastic gigs as a pint-size model. Also I am writing a teen series, more on that later this coming summer!

Speaking at BEA on author self promotion

This coming Monday I will be speaking on a panel at BEA about author self promotion, and book retailing and social media. BEA has started a new conference called
DIY Authors Conference & Marketplace—I think it is a great idea! Especially in this Internet-age and digital age.

Here is the scoop:

Monday, May 24, Jacob K. Javits Convention Center

1:00pm

DIY Innovation & Success: Selling and Retailing Your Book
Room 1E16
When your book goes to print, the question remains: how are you going to sell it? There are many ways to make a sale--your website, online retailers, bookstores, distributors that sell to bookstores, specialty shops--but you need to know how to navigate these options in order to maximize the results. Today you will hear from independent booksellers and self-published authors who have attacked the market from all sides and have the information you need to get your work in front of a buying public.

See you there! I will be running around the show also Tuesday, May 25 - Thursday, May 27 and I look forward to this year's show :)

Isobella

Favorite little products pint-size sunscreen sticks

Anything interested in your pocket? I am crazy about tiny. My favorite little thing right now is these pint-size sunscreen sticks, to put on your lips, face, hands, nose, etc. Perfect for your handbag, perfect any time! I am going to be sharing my favorite little things more often, let's make this a weekly thing!



Tell me about some tiny you spotted that is awesome that I should feature?! Email me at petitepride@yahoo.com.

At Apple store today

Tune in live Live! Tiny is Terrific and Not being Short Sighted

I have faced tribulations in modeling and in life, on this week's podcast segment I share thoughts on why small is beautiful and how a person should not be limited because of something they consider a flaw, or drag. Instead that flaw can become something unique, marketable, and even their best asset actually.

Upcoming Show: 5/19/2010 11:00 AM
Length: 15 min

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/05/19/tiny-is-terrific-and-not-being-short-sighted

Hold onto the soul, root and meaning of what it is you want to do. Don't measure your success against anyone's doubt.

Hold onto the soul, root and meaning of what it is you want to do. Don't measure your success against anyone's doubt. If you want to do something do it. Do it with an eager heart and truth, don't forget why you want to do it in the first place and make sure there is a reason.

start modeling as a short model

Daily girls ask me about "how to start modeling" and it is often followed with a "I feel like I am too short!"

Well, the best way to START anything is to learn as much as you can about it. Learn where you fit within the pursuit, become realistic about the pursuit and to craft your own career by taking a chance on yourself.

The more you research and know the better. The more you know about what you CAN do, where opportunity can be found the better. The more time you waste worrying about what you aren't --basically time is wasted.

The best thing to have to start modeling is a beautiful smiling headshot.
Among all other photos THIS ONE is the most important.

The reason: A shorter girl is more likely to work with a commercial print modeling agency. And for commercial print modeling a smile is better than any pout, or overly done makeup or styling or hair, the natural you is what sells in print modeling. Advertising is becoming more about hiring models that look real, and have a relatable look to the customer, consumer, reader, buyer.

The more you KNOW about the photos you need to approach a print modeling agency the better your chance. Getting an opportunity to work with an agency, (have an agency work with you), involves not just having your photo taken or making a comp card to send, but it involves creating marketable photos, so that your comp card is marketable. The agency receives your comp card in the mail and the agency says "this girl has something going on, she is real, she looks like a girl who could model anything, and has a lot of personality seen in her photos."

The comp card is your best marketing tool. Today I was asked on a Facebook message from an aspiring model: What is a comp card.

It is the best marketing tool for an aspiring model.

We live in this Internet-age, but the comp card is no excuse needed item by an aspiring model. You use it to get the agency, to get the job and to work as a model. No questions. You need it. Here is insight on creating a comp card and being more in the know about what print modeling is, and how to become a print model:

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2009/07/print-modeling-has-become-many-things.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2009/08/commercial-print-modeling-photos-for.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2009/09/do-you-have-model-compcard-you-should.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2009/09/getting-print-modeling-agency.html

a butterfly on my arm

This is weird, I look down at my arm and a butterfly or moth is there, it's very still, I hope not dying! It hasn't moved. I carefully took off the coat, and it is still being still. I opened the window incase it moves and wants to fly but it hasn't?

Mmmm.

I believe in risk takers, underdogs

I believe in risk takers, creators, having an opinion, sharing a story, underdogs & change. ~isobella

Living on hope, hustle and heart

Living on hope, hustle and heart isn't always easy. But it is really the only way I know how to live~ my thoughts on what it is like to wake up for yourself and goals each day, isobella

A theraflu eqestrian and stakes afternoon

I love theraflu, feel some better, watching eqestrian horse competition and will watch the Preakness stakes later. I think eqestrian gear, pants & hat and boots are sexy and I am not postitive I'd be amazing at it but I can picture myself as a jockey.. Really I can. Will be attending Belmont Stakes and I get amused and... excited watching races. Gotta get a big hat!

Coming up podcast Tiny is Terrific and Not being Short Sighted

NOTICE TIME AND DAY CHANGE

Upcoming Show: 5/19/2010 11:00 AM
Show Name: Tiny is Terrific and Not being Short Sighted
Length: 15 min

I have faced tribulations in modeling and her life, and on this week's segment of Model Talk Radio I am sharing my thoguhts on why small is beautiful and how a person should not be limited because of something they consider a flaw, or drag. Instead that flaw can become something unique, marketable, and even their best asset.
Tune in here:

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/05/14/tiny-is-terrific-and-not-being-short-sighted

A new video on What is a Modeling Compcard

I was recently asked on a Youtube comment to make a video on What Is a Compcard? Here it is below, as I share what a comp card is and why you need one and the difference ways a comp card can be laid out. I've worked as a model for many years, I am a print model and parts model, and for these I have different cards. Each time you book a quality job and gain a tearsheet or produce a more marketable photo you should update your comp cards. Making a comp card is a never ending thing. The more modeling work you do, the more tearsheets and experience you get the more cards you make to show these credits. Ex: If you are in a magazine, you should put that experience on your comp card if it is a good quality modeling experience.



More reasons on why you need to make a comp card to model with print agencies here:
http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2009/09/do-you-have-model-compcard-you-should.html

Being built from scratch

I think often about the importance of trying, in not just modeling but in doing anything that is not easy.

Wanting something means striving for something.

It can be built from scratch. I do believe this. But it will involve a lot of scratching your own confidence, a lot of research, time, self investment, and a realistically ambitious mindset, I hold onto the bigger picture, the bigger reason I want to do something, the purpose, and what it means, why...asking yourself WHY can help you stay focused.

Also ask yourself if you are willing to seek and strive even though you might not get it all handed to you and even though it will not be easy.

No beauty, no perfection can promise success.

The work you put in, the time, the focus. That is how to survive on a dream.

Possibility inspires me.

A challenge fires me up, the fact that it is not easy, and that someone might doubt me gives me is not enough reason not to try.

Isobella

Atanta lowdown

Hey, I got back into NYC last night and wanted to share some pics I took with my iPhone.
The Atlanta Fish Market, Buckhead, Apple store at Lenox, W hotel, Lenox Square, MF sushibar!!Yum & loved Blind Willies! Also I went to Madison, GA for an afternoon, shopping antiques and enjoyed the town a lot. Even saw some car Drifting on the way to the airport! It is good to escape sometimes the busy of life, and for me an escape is when I can see something new, somewhere I can explore. - isobella

Picking and creating your modeling photos - Model Talk Radio

This week MODEL TALK RADIO shares how to pick the best photos for your comp card, and the lifestyle of approach agencies and becoming good at marketing as a model.
The live show is at 2pm EST today 5/5/10

http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/05/05/so-you-have-your-modeling-photos-now-what

Show details:
Upcoming Show: 5/5/2010 2:00 PM
Host Name: Isobella Jade
Show Name: So you have your Modeling Photos, Now What?
Length: 15 min

Don't worry if you miss the live show, you can always here the archive here:
www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade

Lilly Pilly does it right, products for models and girls on the go

playing with iPhone app ShakeitPhoto



My skin is important to me. It helps me book modeling jobs. I might be itty bitty but I think my skin has been my sidekick when it comes to booking work as a model for ad campaigns, magazine editorials and the many jobs I've gained. As a shoe model and body parts model, I am very picky about what I like and don't like when it comes to lotions and creams. Even for my face. I like the lotion to go on quick and absorb fast! I hate rubbing and rubbing the product in. I've used LUSH, St. Ives, NIVEA, Alba, Caswell-Massy creams for my hands and body over the years. Right now I am using Lilly Pilly. My memoir ALMOST 5'4" recently came out in Australia, and was featured in The Sydney Morning Herald and I have been checking out some Australian made products, and Lilly Pilly caught my eye.

Lilly Pilly is a great example of a product that rubs in fast. Here are some reasons why I like it:

When I put on a lotion I don’t want it to take all day to rub into my skin. I like how quickly it melts into my skin.

My hands don’t feel greasy or icky after putting it on.

I notice how my hands look not a few days later, but immediately after I put on the cream. To me, if it is a good cream the results should be right away, obvious; my hands should look clean, sheen, serene, right away. This happened after only a few seconds.

I am using Kakadu Plum which is rich in Vitamin C! I love that!

To me this makes the product a go-to-item for girls on the go, and girls who aspire to be models. :)

I like that you can buy individidual products or giftpacks of the lotion with a body wash to match. And the small 50 ml lotions are cool because they are small enough to bring on an airplane, great to throw in a handbag before a casting, or when I am running around. Check out more on Lilly Pilly here: http://www.lillypilly.net.au/

As a model that doesn't have the height, I make sure my other assets, my skin especially, are always eye-catching on camera,

Isobella

P.s: Is there a certain beauty product you love using on the job? Email me your fav beauty products at petitepride@yahoo.com

Casting day in the life: SMILE SMILE BIGGER

I can hear the girl ahead of me being asked to smile, smile bigger, smile more, you are having a great day, smile like you are loving the day, the casting director is shooting the girls and is putting in sometimes more energy than them.

Other girls waiting stare at the girl on set ahead of them, observing them to see what that girl is doing so that it's their turn they can do it better.

Like an infection, once one girl starts doing her makeup, looking at herself in the mirror on the wall, other girls start. The rattle of purses, the dabs of foundation, the smack of the lips, and the suction of mascara wand going in and out of the tube, the hairspray and clicking of all the heels, could make you gag.

I talk often about if you are an aspiring model and the assets you need. Here's one. Knowing how to smile naturally is important if you want to work as a model especially for commercial print, giving a natural real smile not forced and alive, with life in your eyes is something any aspiring model needs :)

When it's my turn I greet the casting director with a smile, and by then she has shot 36 other girls. I put my bag and coat down and prepare to smile. I do. She asks me to take off my hat. I hate it when I wear a certain cute newsboy hat on purpose to fit the look of the casting's vibe, and then I am asked to take it off and there isn't time to brush my hair properly. I looked like a raggamuffin, wtf! SMILE!

I smile again for her a bit bigger, she asked for one with no smile. I try not to smile, but I have been so focused on smiling that it is tough now to just not. She asks me to grab my bag, I do. She asks if I have a cell phone I do. I pretend I am talking to my best friends and smile and laugh, I can even hear myself laughing a little because when I "really laugh" my smile comes out more real. She says "ok, that's it ," and I leave.

I try not to dwell on castings, honestly it will kill you if you do. Just move on. Carry on, hustle on. Next!

Hans Silvester Natural Fashion: Tribal Decoration from Africa

I was intrigued with this article I recently read featuring the photography of Hans Silvester and his book "Natural Fashion: Tribal Decoration from Africa." I found it really awesome, impressive, of the fact that the tribes didn't have mirrors, the article reads:

"-the only way one can see oneself is through people's reactions. An image of oneself...can therefore only be constructed through the eyes of others."

I do think it would be interesting to live, and create fashions through natures textures, and put on handcrafted body paint, without mirrors, using someone's eyes as the mirror. Will check out the book.

I am trying not to look at the mirror as much, I do find that it is easy to non-stop look at yourself in the mirror, window reflection, I have even checked myself out in a parked car's side mirror. I dropped my mirror today actually. So glad it didn't bust and shatter everywhere!

No Woman, No Cry, giraffes, bansky, Kentucky Derby

I faught a giraffe today, and then made up, on West Broadway. If you read my books you'll know it's just a nick name I give taller girls, no harm, but I had some fun with it today! Working on 2 other book projects, I hope your weekend is going well, enjoy it, capture each minute :)

Christy Turlington is a smart lady and I admire her mission of human rights for pregnant woman and woman giving birth all around the world, she created a film called No Woman No Cry, I enjoyed it at the Tribeca Film Festival today.

Then had a very yummy brunch at Macondo and then see Exit Through the Gift Shop, a banksy film. I think Bansky took to content from all the video work of Thierry Guetta over the years and Bansky turned it into the film I watched. I liked it, interesting perspective on creating street art. :)

Then walked through SoHo.

Then I saw the giraffe and there is Round 1 of fighting the giraffe. In my memoir ALMOST 5'4" I give the nick-name Giraffes to the tall models. No harm meant, just a nick-name. :)

Congrats to Super Saver's Todd Pletcher & jockey Calvin Borel's Kentucky Derby win today! I am going to see them at Belmont June 5th~yay!! Wow, the horse Icebox had to pass 18 horses to get second. And he did. Amazing.

Today I walked from West 12th and 2nd to Battery Park. Just made some Macaroni salad, I am tired as heck! :)

Enjoy every minute of the sun today, catch it, capture it while you can,
Isobella

striving on

There will be rejection, there will be no's, and you can cry about it for a few seconds, release some stress but then clean up your face and keep on keepin on because if you put the right energy and attitude into it, you will get a yes if you continue on, do what you need to do, put the work in, and strive on. Day by d...ay, this is what I have told myself, and continue to tell my self with each new goal in mind. - isobella jade

Model pose tips: look longer, leaner,taller in photos

When you are in-front of the camera, there are a few easy tricks you can do to look longer, leaner, taller and more proportioned.

It starts with creating some space between your limbs.

Notice how in this photo there is space between the arm closest to the camera and my body. Space creates length. It makes me look taller and longer by naturally creating some space between my arms and torso. Also notice that my shoulders are at a slight angle which causes my front arm to also be at a slight side angle. It makes my upper arm appear leaner. Even a slight angle like this can make a girl of any size look longer and leaner and more proportioned in a photo. The leg closest to the camera is a bit forward, this creates length as well, it looks like there is movement involved, like the camera just caught me as I was coming down the stairs. Yes I am wearing a mini skirt, but notice how the focus of the shot is on my smile, and it looks like I am off to enjoy the sunny day. I probably was afterward! :)

This insight is for girls of all walks of life and a little space between the arms and body, even for this shot of me in Vegas, makes me appear longer and leaner even in a sweater.


I always make sure to create space between my arms and body. ALWAYS for group shots, I cropped myself here so you can see that:


P.s: When sitting sit at the edge of the seat, you could position your legs slightly asymmetrical to create length.

The Model Photo perspective podcast segment

This week's segment of Model Talk is about how aspiring models can take better photos, and how knowing themselves and how to work with their proportions, and finding their best angles to bring forward in their photos, can help to create a better, more marketable photo. This segment will be based on real questions I received from aspiring models and I will share insight on some of my own photo-shoot experiences that went well because despite being petite, I knew how to work with what I've got!


Show details:
4/28/2010 9:00 PM
Show Name: The Model photo perspective: Taking a better photo
Length: 15 min

Tune in here:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/04/29/the-model-photo-perspective-taking-a-better-photo

My lastest blog tips on modeling for all sizes

Some of my latest posts on modeling tips for all sizes

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/can-my-tattoo-hold-me-back-from.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/aspiring-model-should-submit-to-casting.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/is-your-photography-working-for-your.html

http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2010/04/i-know-what-it-is-like-to-be-shorter.html

Earth Day should be every day

Happy Earth Day but Earth Day should be every day, I mean at the very least recycle. Here is a video I created on beauty products and things in your bathroom you CAN recycle, enjoy: http://www.stylelist.com/2008/08/05/beauty-tips-with-model-isobella-jade-recycling-your-products/


Mother nature should not be forgotten. This might sound deep but I do think about the earth every single day. I think about how I am alive, and how we are all spinning in space and trying to survive and thrive.

So, not just on Earth day, but let's make it a part of our lives to always recycle our beauty products and home goods, and not litter. Littering makes me so mad. This is a story I wrote on littering.
http://isobellajade.blogspot.com/2008/09/subway-confessions-dont-litter-on.html

Isobella

you are the engine of where you go

"No matter where you come from, or the doubt that might try to drown your vision or goals, you are the engine of where you go, what you accomplish, and who you become and the person you are. Don’t neglect your own potential. "
:) -isobella jade

Today on Model Talk Radio Derek Loves Shopping

Tune in today on Model Talk Radio at 4pm on Model Talk Radio I will be chatting with special guest, fashion and style guru Derek Warbuton of Derek Loves Shopping!

http://www.dereklovesshopping.com/

Here is insight on the segment:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/04/21/derek-loves-shopping-style-expert-and-modern-philanthropist


Isobella

Wilmington, NC modeling agency tips and moving to a small town model tips

A girl recently wrote me on Facebook concerned about moving to a smaller city, her message read "Hey girl! So, I'm completely in shock right now..only because I may have to move the Wilmington, NC in the next 5 months :(

Do you know of any agencies out there. I tried looking, but definitely feel like I just hit a wall out there."

My reply: ( I moved to Miami for 6 months and did modeling and while the experience went well, I could have gotten a lot more out of it while I was there, but by the time I had settled in town I was preparing to leave, so do research ahead of time.)

Prepare ahead of time with researching agencies, but don't submit too too early, submit a few weeks before you arrive mentioning you will be in town soon, then when you are in town if you have not heard back from any agencies yet, be prepared to submit again mentioning that you are now in town and available for print work.

Beyond looking for agencies you should look for aspiring brands, professional photographers with a photography business, aspiring accessory designers, mom and pop hair salons and aspiring brands. The small business section of the newspaper online of the town you are moving to could help you find growing brands who might need a model. Go with your gut but also use your research skills.

Smaller cities can actually get an ambitious girl some good work. Here are some tips on that: http://petitemodelingtips.blogspot.com/2008/10/improve-your-model-marketing-for-small.html

I would also research Talent agencies, there seems to be some in that area. Google Wilmington, NC + talent agencies. Do you have a headshot? A comp card already? If so you could mail it a couple months before you arrive. But not too early, people don't like it if they want to work with you and you are not in town. As always beware of scams, and don't pay an agency for photos or anything like that, also I ONLY suggest submitting by postal mail. Get that comp card and send it out. :)
http://www.fincannoncasting.com
http://www.martinanddonalds.com/main.php
http://www.caiofnc.com/representation.php
http://www.stwtalent.com/aboutus.html
http://www.marilynsagency.com/representation.php ironically had a petite division..mm

Isobella

This week on Model Talk Radio catch special guest Derek of Derek Loves Shopping at 4pm EST:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/04/21/derek-loves-shopping-style-expert-and-modern-phila

Feeling too short to model? Think again

Not only tall giraffes are in ad campaigns modeling products. If you notice more than fashion magazines and more than fashion ad campaigns you will notice models are not all supermodel tall.

Modeling and the advertising world go hand in hand, what the product or brand needs the ad campaign has to express, and the thing more brands are needing is "the natural girl", and what they are looking for is not narrow minded towards just one type of model anymore.

Girls ask me often, how can I get into modeling?

It starts with understanding where you fit within the word model. Because being a model has more than one meaning, (modeling is about modeling FOR something) and people of all ages are models. Maybe it is not talked about enough, and I hope this blog has enlightened you, because the better you are at marketing what you do have with professional photos, a comp card and portfolio, to the right agencies-- the better.

If what you picture is only a fashion model when you think of the word model, you are missing out on alot.

The more you rely on yourself, and understand that your self is what will get you opportunities, and not someone to discover you, the better.

The shorter girl who is not 5'9" or 5'10 has a more hands on journey based on what you put into it.

You have to mail the print agencies
You have to make the comp card
You have to get the portfolio
You have to be prepared ahead of time, before you get in front of the camera and know ahead what type of photo you DO need to really get opportunities.

It is work. It is time. Effort. And endurance is a major part of modeling and making yourself a model.

The more effort and time you put into your pursuits, and crafting the right photos, and investing in what you need to have to prepare you for working as a model, the better.

Isobella

To see potential in unlikely packages

I am reading Seabiscuit right now, and if you know me, you know I love the story of Seabiscuit and loved the movie too. In the book on page 29 Laura Hillenbrand wrote "But Howard was blessed with an uncanny ability to see potential in unlikely packages." It is based on Howard seeing potential in trainer Tom Smith, then Seabiscuit, and later Red Pollard. I think it is important, in modeling,- and no matter what you pursue-, to see your own potential, to understand it, and to believe in the power of your self.

After reading Seabiscuit today I am I wrote in my own journal "if you don't have your self, you have nothing." And that can translate into many meanings but one meaning is that: if you have the belief in your self, understand yourself, and your true ability, and can rely on yourself, you have already a lot of what it takes to grow as a person and within your pursuits.

This past week I spoke at an event for Digital Book World called 7x20x21, during the event 20 slides of images that relate to your story are displayed on a screen behind you as you talk about your publishing journey, I spoke about my self-promotion and the importance of it, (hence writing my first book at the Apple store and my publishing pursuits which have been built on my own passion), here it is:
http://www.blip.tv/file/3494918
Enjoy! :) Only had 20 slides for 20 seconds each! What a rush!!

Mainly---Giving yourself a chance is the biggest thing you can do for your self.

Isobella

The Model Epidemic: Amateur modeling = regrets

I just need to put this out there, I share a lot of insight and advice on how to get an agency and the photos you need and I dedicate a lot of time to sharing ways to grab your bootstraps and make yourself a model and the work it takes, and something that has been on my mind is how the Internet-age has inspired girls to degrade themselves through these model-sites.

A girl also recently asked me if her comp card should have amateur photos or professional and another girl introduced herself to me over Twitter as an amatuer model. I told them both to NOT use the word Amateur, use aspiring, striving, but never amateur...amateur leads to amateur results and really, basically leaves you stuck in amateur-land. Amateur just sounds like something not to take serious, so don't work with amateurs and don't call your self one.

I don't care how tall you are, you don't have to settle for amateur, model-sites, or working with amateurs.

I was talking to a journalist today and I told her that there is a Model Epidemic going on, and I explained to her how the Internet-age has inspired and meant that any girl can show off photos on the Internet. And this has inspired many model sites and amateurs to be seen and mingle. I also mentioned Photo Prostitution, which is something I feel strongly about bringing up. On model-sites, model profile hosting sites girls of any age can post photos of themselves, it is free, easy, however it is not legit, respect, and it is amateur land. It is the underground modeling world, where a guy with a camera/ an amateur photographer, or even a pervert or not so kind person, can mingle with girls who want to be models.

I was once that girl. I wrote about it in my memoir and I launched this blog to give real advice about how to get ahead without the scams, jerks, and amateurs. The thing is the higher you aim the more you get, it is not just inspiration it is the truth. If you want more for yourself you have to work hard, if you are looking for the short cut you won’t find results. Showing off photos on the web, going to strangers apartments, traveling around to shoot for the heck of it, having a rate to shoot you in any way or form the person holding the camera wants, is not modeling. Not even close. It is Photo Prostitution. Hundreds, if not thousands of girls are flocking these model-sites and it is my mission to let you know you can do better for yourself. Being seen, being photographed doesn’t mean it will get you where you want to go. And this leads me to the fact that most of these girls on model-sites are under 5’5”. Petite, feeling too short for an agency and shooting all the wrong photos even if they have the will and potential to be serious.

Being realistically ambitious about your pursuits so important. So you might not rock the catwalk but modeling is more than being a hanger. Modeling is about modeling products and if you are shorter you have to see modeling as “modeling lifestyle products” and “print modeling.” Shorter girls need to work harder at producing professional quality photos that highlight what they have beyond height, because models are working of all heights but it is because they have quality photos, professional, and are working with legit print modeling agencies and talent agencies and are not banking on being discovered.

Which also brings me to the importance of having a comp card and not relying on the web. Ok so you want to model skincare, hair care, beauty, accessories, lingerie, and fitness, well show it on your comp card. Show what you can do, height isn't everything in modeling but you have to show that you have more to offer than inches on your card. Mail the card to the print modeling agencies. Yes you will need stamps and envelopes. This is the way to get with a legit modeling agency and get sent on legit castings and get legit bookings.
Of course it takes more work, and self investment than downloading a photo on a model site, ---a monkey could do that!

I am sick of the Internet-age being an excuse for scams and amateur ways that lead to regret, mistakes, and frustration. I think it also comes down the realization that it takes work to get ahead as a model and a girl who is shorter has to understand that, and be able to handle it.

A comp card will get you further than a model-site ever will.

A girl who is shorter yes will have to work harder, and strive more and put in a marketing mindset and she will have to be more hands on with her pursuits. It is not easy! It’s not. I am not going to say it is. It is hard! Very! But the rewards are greater when you have a plan, when you are not just messing around with what you want to do. If you want an agency and you are shorter you do have to do the work to get it, the before-the-agency-work. Get proper photos, professional, have a comp card and portfolio. At a casting no one will care about how many hits your model-site got today.

Legit agencies are out there but you have to seek it out and you have to seek them out with a proper modeling comp card. And it takes more than the Internet-age.
Which brings me to Why Are Models Needed?: A model is hired to model for something legit, a brand, an editorial in a magazine, a commercial,-just having your photo-taken doesn’t mean you are a model, or working as one.
I am 100% for self promotion but I am 100% against an amateur model-site to make you a model.

The thing is also, 99% of these people on model-sites with cameras are not serious about photography, have never shot for anything credible, do not have a professional photography business and do not know how to even use the camera. Why would you want to work with someone who isn’t serious or skilled if you are or want to be? It is called TFP which means time for print, but usually the girls end up getting photos that have nothing to do with legit modeling, with bad lighting, bad poses, and bad outfits and hair styling that is more about teasing the person holding the camera than producing something that is going to propel and help the girl actually get somewhere in modeling and really be a model.

If you want to strive to do a photography photo test then do it with someone who has a legit photography business, has lighting skills and understands the equipment.
Showing off your body on the Internet doesn’t mean you are a model. It means you are a girl showing off. That doesn’t typically lead to a print modeling agency wanting to work with you. The photos are typically all wrong when they are shots taken by someone who doesn’t understand photography for a print model.

Over all it takes the self esteem and confidence, the work ethic to really get ahead when you are shorter, but in general modeling is a tough business and it is about “modeling FOR something”…not for someone’s pleasure. I call this interaction when a girl puts her photo on the Internet- and a person with a camera pays her Photo Prostitution and I hope you aim higher and want more because I don’t care how tall or short you are…if you want more, there is more to get.


(Also remember what is downloaded on the web stays. Even if you delete it or think you did or asked someone to take a photo down, it can stay, the web doesn't forget and it stays.)

When you want to be a model, work as a model, call your self one, remember: " The first step is believing in your self, the second is being realistic and honest with yourself, the third is having the will to try and put yourself out there, in the right ways, with the right photos, to the right agencies, and expecting the journey of it, it is not an over night thing....remember the higher you aim the more you get. There is no point in being desperate to be seen, desired and wanted that you end up in amateur land.

Please think twice about these amteur model-sites,

- Isobella

I Love My Huge Handbag from Shop Housing Works

I just got this awesome huge handbag from http://www.shophousingworks.com/ proceeds go toward "giving a second chance to thousands of homeless New Yorkers living with HIV and AIDS."

Next week, Weds the 21st on Model Talk Radio we have Derek of Derek love's Shopping.com and here Derek shares a documentary of the facilities at Housing Works: http://www.dereklovesshopping.com/derektv/

Derek Loves Shopping and Model Talk Radio and Bergdorf Goodman with Carlos Falchi and Kate Falchi

Coming up next Weds April 21st at 4pm on Model Talk Radio there will be a special guest, fashion and style guru Derek Warbuton of Derek Loves Shopping!

http://www.dereklovesshopping.com/

Here is the scoop on the interview segment which I suggest not missing:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/04/21/derek-loves-shopping-style-expert-and-modern-philanthropist

You should become a fan and friend of Derek Loves Shopping and Derek Warbuton on Facebook, Go to his page, you will see why :) Because looking good doesn't have a price tag! :) As always aim high and strive on. ALSO*******Derek will be making an appearance at Bergdorf Goodman with Carlos Falchi and Kate Falchi this Friday April 16th, from 3-5!! All are welcome. :)

Isobella

Model Talk Radio Making a Model Comp card

This week's segment of Model Talk Radio covers the know-how-of making a model comp card. The topics will be based on real questions I have received from Facebook messages from aspiring models.

Here is the scoop:
Segment title: Isobella's making a Model Comp Card tips
When, Weds, 14th

Listen here anytime:
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/isobellajade/2010/04/14/isobellas-making-a-model-comp-card-tips

Model, author Isobella Jade shares tips for creating a comp card based on questions she has received from Facebook. This segment covers the basic steps of creating a comp card, and why just having a comp card doesn't mean it will well market you to an agency or jobs-unless it is a well created comp card. Remember, your comp card represents what you can do as a model. Isobella is the author of her modeling memoir "Almost 5'4"" and a comic/graphic novel called "Model Life: The Journey of a Pint-Size Fashion Warrior,"

my thought

Even if you are a little afraid, jump in. Open minded and striving people, curious for the unknown capture more. :)

Was at Gen Art Film Festival for Elektra Luxx

Was at Gen Art Film Festival for Elektra Luxx, directed by Sebastian Gutierrez, last night, good time. :)

There was a great Q&A with Carla Gugino, Malin Akerman, and Isabella Gutierrez.

Keeping the confidence, keeping the belief in yourself

A girl on Facebook sent me a message that read: I want to know how to you keep going how do you keep up ur confidence? What do you ?

My reply:

It is hard. It is not easy. I go through like 1000 emotions a day and creating a dream and striving for what you want, involves ALOT of work, a positive attitude, and involves setting goals. Every day I set goals for my self to accomplish, also I set weekly goals, things I can aim for! I do this for not just modeling pursuits but for my publishing and whole brand and business as a whole. I also mix it up, I will pursue one angle for a few hours and then pursue another project. I am always active. I need to keep my self going so I set goals. I also read biographies of women and people who have strived on their own, been an underdog, I like reading about the journey of how people strive. Not to follow them, or even consider them a hero but just to be reminded that hard work pays off and that striving is worth it and I love stories of women and people who strive for what they want. I watch movies about inspirational people; I fill my life with things that inspire me. :)
More than your height, a positive spirit and confidence is important when chasing anything.

Isobella

working as a shorter finding opportunities comes down to you finding them

3 more days to win a signed copy of my graphic novel "MODEL LIFE: The Journey of a Pint-Size Fashion Warrior."

Here's how: Submit a photo of yourself modeling a handbag to petitepride@yahoo.com
2 winners will be featured on this blog next week.

Deadline April 11th!

The"industry" part of "modeling industry" involves designers, brands, magazine editors and those that hire and book models for their marketing, editorial, promotion and advertising needs, and although there is not a million petite modeling agencies out there, there are commercial print modeling agencies that work with all sizes. It is all about having marketable photos, having your model marketing material & finding the right agencies. They are out there.

You are not hopeless if you are shorter. Instead of saying "I'm too short" why not focus on creating marketable photos that fit the commercial print world and try! It will NOT be easy, but it is possible if you do the work. :)

Research is a major asset of a model. :)

Isobella

Model Life book contest Video

This video shares insight on how to win a copy of my graphic novel "Model Life: The Journey of a Pint-Size Fashion Warrior" -- Illustrated by fab Jazmin Ruotolo.