DaShoot Spotlight

Are the Likes and Comments Helping

2016-04-10T21:32:00.001-07:00

Dean Reid Photography

As photographers where do you look for inspiration…Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest or some other social photo sharing platform? I pose this question because I have been noticing that several photographers leverage one or several of the platforms mentioned above. However, are you looking for inspiration to fuel your creativity or are you looking for inspiration of approval that you are doing a good job?

If you answered yes to either are you getting what you’re looking for? Social photo sharing platforms can be a cruel environment and at times can make one doubt their photography efforts. Granted platforms like Facebook have several friendly photography groups with rules that state that you should offer constructive critiques only when the person posted the photo asks for constructive critiques. Some may think this is the safe route to take when posting your photos and others will have a difference of option regarding these types of groups.

I think the only way to truly grow as a photographer that posts their work on any type of social photo sharing platform is to toughen up and take the good with the bad. Knowing that everyone has an option and your work will not appeal to everyone that views your work. You can either do two things: evaluate what was pointed out or simply ignore and delete the comment. Now, if you’re posting just to get likes from everyone that views your work and always say something positive at some point you will realize that you are not growing as a photographer. Why you might ask…wait for it….because nobody is being honest with you so you end up having this false positive about your work. So, I challenge you to get away from those so called safe groups and get some thick skin and critically evaluate what others have to say about your work (disclaimer: this can be painful) after all I know you are not posting your work just for the social thumbs up…or are you?

Top 10 Highest- Paid Models of 2016

2016-01-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

The fashion industry is a billion dollar industry and you can see why so many models want to tap into this industry. If you are really good and can represent a brand you could eventually make it big. Check out what the top 10 highest paid models are making.

Pricing...Do You Value Your Work?

2016-01-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

One of the most secretive topics between photographers is pricing. It is almost as if talking about pricing is a cardinal sin of sorts; well, personally I think most photographers do not want to discuss this topic for a few reasons. One reason would be that they are under charging for their services or another reason would be that they are not charging at all and lastly, they do not understand how to properly charge for their services so they cringe at the thought of discussing pricing.

For whatever the reason photographers choose not to have this discussion, I truly believe that one key ingredient that makes a photographer very hesitant to venture down the lane of pricing for services is based on the economy. We all know that the country was in a pretty severe recession a few years back and discretional income was limited. Well, news flash the economy has recovered quite nicely; however, people have learned how to curb their spending during the recession and the side effect of this is not going away anytime soon.

So, what does this have to do with photographers discussing pricing? Actually a lot! The cost to get into the photographer world is relatively in expensive and this low cost of entry has heavily saturated the market and made it extremely tough to squeeze a dime out of a potential client. Now, you hear about some of the big name photographers like Peter Hurley, Scot Kelby, Michael Jordan Smith and Dixie Dixon and all the work that they are landing. Well, granted the names listened above are landing some very nice gigs; however, their success was not overnight and for the most part they are not just giving away their services. They are charging for services rendered and they understand their target market / client and they understand pricing. The reason that they are so successful I believe stems from a few things:

1. Offer something unique and professional.

2. Continued education.

3. Speaking engagements, training and/or workshops.

4. Understand that people pay for what they value.

Although understanding that people pay for what they value was listed 4^th does not, by no means rank the importance level. Item 4 should be studied more carefully and always be in the forefront of your mind when attempting to land clients or additional work. So, understand and value your work and be able to pitch your services with confidence because at the end of the item #4 is ultimately going to be the driving point in the clients purchase decision. Lastly, understand your market and demographic to ensure you are pricing what your market bares. If you are charging Peter Hurley prices for a head shot session and you live in the Midwest…well…there is the problem. To better understand how consumer spending has changed the past few years and type of consumers you are challenged with check out the A Tour Guide to The TwoPlanets: NEO and Traditional.

A Tour Guide to The Two Planets: NEO and Traditional from MEGA Labs on Vimeo.

NOLA Fashion Week 2015

2015-03-31T15:00:00.000-07:00

Dean Reid Photography

New Orleans Fashion Week (NOFW) 2015 took place at the Board of Trade building. DaShoot Spotlight was on location to capture the runway shows from Mar 25-27. DaShoot Spotlight normally covers the Chicago fashion and runway scene; however, once we found out that New Orleans had been hosting a fashion week for the past 5 years we figured we needed to come down and see what NOFW offered.

Dean Reid Photography

After further research we found some interesting information that really caught our attention. During the few short years NOFW has played a part in career advancement of a few models and designers. NOFW has produced New York and Paris fashion week models, America’s Next Top Model and Project Runway designer. So, is NOFW on to something…I would say yes.

March 25 (Day 1)

Dean Reid Photography

March 26 (Day 2)

Dean Reid Photography

March 27 (Day 3)

Dean Reid Photography

NOFW has a very bright future and I only see things getting bigger and better. The Southern Fashion industry has some very talented designers and strong modeling talent. Even the runway practice was well organized. The lighting crew did an excellent job lighting the runway which often times gets overlooked or is a last minute consideration. NOFW really did a nice job showcasing the local designers.

Click to view image gallery

Latino Fashion Week 2014 (Oct 1-5)

2014-10-12T19:27:00.001-07:00

BEYOND EXCEPTIONAL

Latino Fashion Week (LFW) entered its 8^th year in 2014 and DaShoot Spotlight always gives the good and bad about fashion events. Well, LFW 2014 lived up to its previous standards of well-produced fashion events. For starters LFW 2014 was held in a spacious venue at Block Thirty Seven Stores (huge space). Secondly, the amount of sponsorship that LFW obtains each year is impressive and I am sure that the amount of sponsorship is a key ingredient to LFW success.

LFW is a week-long (Oct 1-5 2014) fashion event that taught the mantra of “By Latino’s For Everyone” is one of Chicago’s premiere fashion events that showcase’s local, national and international Latino designers. Each night has a different and specific theme so, based on your taste or preference of fashion there was something for just about everyone. I would have to say that guess attendance was a bit low for Day 2 (“Love Your Curves”) which feature plus sized models; however, I believe the fashion industry is starting the understand and recognize that the plus sized industry cannot be ignored.

The VIP area was packed with vendors such as Phil Stefani’s 437 Rush, Riva Crab House, Tuscany Taylor, Delish Cakes (www.delishcakes.net) and Barefoot Wine & Bubbly. One of the true indicators of a major fashion event is the size of the photographer’s pit and LFW has always provided a huge amount of space for photographers and media. Although, the space is plentiful that still does not prevent the spot battle that occurs in the pit; however, it comes with the territory.

LFW is on the scale of “you better get there early” and claim your territory or better yet “survival of the fittest” when it comes to the photographer’s pit. Now, once you have claimed your spot you are sure to get some excellent shots of the designers clothing line and one of major reasons there is always great shots from LFW is due to the impeccable runway lighting (see photos from Chicago’s top fashion runway photographer below). Finally, LFW is an event that has nothing but a positive upside and if you did not attend LFW this year you have to put this event on your calendar for 2015.

Full Galleries

Day 1:

Day 2:

Day 3:

Day 4:

Job well done to Arabel Alva Rosales, Cesar Rolon, Jr and the entire LFW volunteers and team for producing such a phenomenal fashion event.

Concept Motorsports Summer Car Nights

2011-07-14T16:08:00.000-07:00

The Concept Motorsports Summer Car Show this evening. If you missed the past car show events don't worry you can attend the event tonight. If you like customized cars and bikes this is place to be this evening.

Date: July 14, 2011
Time: 6pm-10pm
Location:16613 Kilbourne Avenue, Oak Forest, IL

Unlimited Fantasy Fashion Show 06/04/2011

2011-07-08T05:17:00.001-07:00

Unlimited Fantasy Fashion Show 06/04/2011, a set on Flickr.

Unlimited Fantasy Fashion Show
Venue: Vibe lounge
Date: 6/04/2011

DaShoot Spotlight July 2011 Model

2011-06-25T09:57:00.000-07:00

If you have been following DaShoot Spotlight for a while have come to expect a featured model or two each month. Well, July is right around the corner and it's time to feature a model or two.

So, you may be asking yourself what do I need to do or who do I contact or better yet how can I make this shoot happen? Actually, these are very good questions and the answer is very simple. In order to be featured on DaShoot Spotlight you will need to do a photo shoot, model interview and be comfortable in your own skin.

DaShoot Model Inquiry contact

Facebook: (inbox me. Do not post on my wall)
http://facebook.com/diezel4lyph

Email: Reid.dean@gmail.com

Posted By: D. Reid

Concept MotorSports Summer Car Show Casting Call

2011-06-01T22:15:00.000-07:00

The Concept Motorsports Summer Car Show is a weekly outdoor event held in Oak Forest, IL for seven (7) weeks. The first car show will be held on June 16, 2011. This is an evening event and select models will be required to have dependable transportation and promptness is extremely important. Additionally, select models will be chosen to attend the DUB Car Show http://www.dubshowtour.com/ on July 16, 2011 at the McCormick place. We are looking for models that understand that concept of sexy cars coupled with sexy models equals a great event. This is paid work for selected models.

Facebook event: http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=220158211336846

Date: June 11, 2011

Time: 12pm -3pm Being late will not work in your favor regardless of how good you look.

Location:

16613 Kilbourne Avenue
Oak Forest, IL 60452-4621

Gender: FEMALE

Age: 18+ (18 must have consenting parent or guardian present during casting call)

Attire (very important):

Fitted T-shirt

Black spandex

Heels

Have in hand:

Valid proof of age (i.e. drivers license or state ID)

1 full body professional photo (extremely important)

Website: http://cnmotorsports.com/

Video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vh4EqBk3ZRM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AvZKV6gaM7Q&feature=related

HAIR WARS @ ENCLAVE

2011-04-18T21:20:00.000-07:00

If you did not attend the Hair Wars event at the Enclave on 4/17/2011 you missed a good event. The event consisted of 10 salons, over 60 models and cash prizes. I usually do not attend night club fashion shows due to poor lighting and smog / smoke machines. However, this event was well prepared and it seemed as though lighting, long runway and controlled smoke machines were taken into consideration. To be honest with you I expected to deal with really poor lighting and smoke; however, to my surprise this event exceeded my expectations. I must admit that I was quite surprise at the amount of models that were participating in the Hair Wars event. When I arrived (around 9pm) I met one of my fellow photographers in the lobby and we chatted for a few minutes then I met another fellow photographer and we chatted for a few minutes as well (your starting to get the pictures). Well, after a bit of time passed by from chatting. I asked where all of the models are. I was told that the models were around the corner (down stairs). Since I had never been to this venue I was clueless where downstairs actually was. So, I waited a few more minutes, chatted a bit more then asked how do I get downstairs. Luckily Marco Foster was kind enough to escort me to the plethora of models. When I finally made it downstairs all I could say is WOW! There had to be at least 60 models broken out into 10 teams (salons). I must admit that there were several models that I had never seen before and the models that I knew I did not recognize. Recognizing models in a den of models, stylists and makeup artists is harder than you think; oh, did I mention all the models were in costume and makeup. The show started at 11pm and again I was impressed with the preparation of models. I have been to several night club fashion shows only to see models practically sprint the already way too short runway, but not this event the runway was pretty long and the models took their time on the runway (photographers like this) and put on a good show.

Hair Wars Salon Lineup:
1.Pazzo Salon
2.Lisa Thomas Salon
3.Michael Allan Studio
4.Verto Salon
5.Juan Daniel Salon
6.Rockstar Fades
7.Colloriffic Coiffure
8.Frank Gironda Salon
9.Aqua Salon
10.MGo Fashions Salon

Prizes include:
$1,000 cash prize to the 1st place winner
Large Gift Bag sponsored by Sebastian Professional Hair Products (value $1000) + Lock&Loaded Men's Trend Cut & Color in Salon Class (value $1500) + Airbrush Academy HD Makeup Class (value $300) + Mario INK Tattoo (1 hour session value $150) + GoykPhoto Session for the salon (value $1000) + TIGI gift certificate (value $250) + Bull-eh-Dia's Tapas Bar gift certificate (value $500)

Photographys: More photos at Enclave

Visit link to see more photos Enclave

Photographer and Models Event now in the Chicago South Suburbs

2011-03-10T19:37:00.000-08:00

Where does the time go? It's just about mid-March and I have not posted anything this month. Well, in my defense I have been quite busy trying to create and build an environment in the south suburbs for photographers, models, makeup artist, stylists and designers. The environment that I am trying to facility will provide an opportunity for awareness, networking and skill building. Currently, the majority of the events or workshops take place in the city or north of the city. Well, truth be told, there is talent in the south suburbs and I know it will take more than myself to make a difference. I don't plan on going at it by myself. My goal is to be a facilitator and help foster awareness here in the south suburbs.

So, how do I plan on doing this you ask. Well, for starters I started a new meetup group called Blue Island Photography (http://www.meetup.com/BlueIslandPhotography/) and membership is free. Secondly, I secured a spacious location to hold monthly or bi-monthly events / workshops. I have scheduled the first event/workshop for March 19, 2011. I have worked pretty diligently promoting the event and I can truly say that the old adage of "Build it and they will come" is a bit of a fallacy. That adage should be changed to "Build it and work your butt off promoting and you might get a response". Honestly, I have learned quite a bit during this short period of time attempting to establish industry awareness in the south suburbs. Everyone aspiring to be in the industry as either a photographer, model, makeup artist, stylists or designer is only six people away from become a huge success.

So, saying all that I say this. If your an aspiring model, photographer, makeup artist, stylist or designer you should be working your craft as much as you can and as frequently as you can. The events / workshops that I will be hosting offers such an outlet. To find out more about the event/workshop scheduled for March 19, 2011 visit http://www.meetup.com/BlueIslandPhotography/events/16723609/ also on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=197187973642987 the event is open to every that has a desire to improve and network.

DaShoot Spotlight

Photography and Modeling Group Comes to Chicago South Suburbs

2011-02-28T20:31:00.000-08:00

Well, February has drawn to a close this is my first post for the month. If you have been following this blog you probably notice that I did not feature a model this month (not by choice). Actually, the month of February has been quite busy and with it being the shortest month of year time just flew by. I have a few models in mind that I would like to feature in March. If you are model and interested in being featured on the DaShoot Spotlight inbox me at reid.dean@gmail.com.

News flash, I recently started new meetup group called Blue Island Photography. I started this group with the intention of creating a forum for photographers, models, makeup artist and hair stylist to network and work their gifts and talents. This group/forum will provide photographers, models, makeup artist and hair stylist that are located in south suburbs of Chicago an opportunity to experience similar events and workshops that take place in the city. So, in a sense, the Blue Island Photography group will be bringing awareness to the south suburbs for those that are serious, curious, pros and amateurs alike to get noticed make connections and try to take their dreams and aspirations to the next level. I cannot single handedly change the culture or bring about awareness by myself. So, I really hope that everyone in south suburbs take full advantage of the forum that I am trying to create. The Blue Island Photography meetup group is free to join. The Blue Island Photography meetup group first photographer and modeling event is scheduled for Mar 19, 2011.

Blue Island Photography Meetup Group: http://www.meetup.com/BlueIslandPhotography/

Event:

Date: Mar 19, 2011

Time: 12pm – 5pm

Location: 2457 W Oak, Blue Island

Details: http://www.meetup.com/BlueIslandPhotography/events/16723609/

Officially free to shoot in public places

2011-01-27T07:55:00.000-08:00

Photographers: You’re Now Officially Free To Shoot In Public Places And Outside Federal Buildings

Read more....

Glam Live at Samba Sushi No More

2011-01-22T11:51:00.000-08:00

Dan Baron
GLAM LIVE THURSDAYS AT SUSHI SAMBA ARE NOW CANCELED!!!

If you have not heard about Glam Live Thursday's being canceled at Samba Sushi bar and restaurant; now you have. Glam Live has been a very important event for the models, photographers, make-up artist and stylists to practice their skills on a weekly or as need basis. Glam Live offered aspiring models a platform to test the waters to see if they really like modeling. Photographer's have a great opportunity to work with some up and coming models and test new gear. More importantly this was a free venue. Now, since Glam Live at Samba Sushi has been canceled will there be a replacement venue coming soon? That is a very good question and I am sure Dan Baron is working on another venue.

Until a new venue is announced I wonder what is going through the minds of models that were use to getting free photos, make-up and hair styling and the photographers that were use to working with several models free of charge? I am sure there are several photographers out there still shooting for free, now instead of depending on Glam Live to provide the models, make-up artist, stylists and designers they will be force to coordinate all of the resources themselves.

Lameisa Thomas

2011-01-15T14:49:00.000-08:00

This week DaShoot Spotlight had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Lameisa Thomas. Check out her interview to get glimpse of what Lameisa is all about.

Name: Lameisa Thomas

Age: 30

Industry Age [You know everyone has one]: 24

Nationality: African American

Place of Birth: Inglewood, CA

Where do you rep / reside? I rep Texas all day..I reside in Chicago, IL

Height: 5'8

Weight: 160

Website:

Twitter:

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/lameisa.thomas

Model Mayhem: http://www.modelmayhem.com/meisathomas

Profession: Track Coach/Model

Relationship Status: Single

Measurements: waist- 29" Hips- 42" Bust- 36"

Favorite Sport: Track...Football

Favorite Movie: Love and Basketball

Favorite Artist: Beyonce'

Favorite Food: Seafood

Astrological Sign: Libra

How long have you been modeling? I been modeling for 3yrs now.

What was your first photo shoot like? It was fun, I was a little nervous at first but then it got better and I started just flying through

Describe your worst photo shoot. I did a photo shoot and I was bloated.....need I say more.

Describe your best photo shoot. My best photo shoot was when I did not have to take much direction because I had good poses and he just kept shooting without saying how to pose.

What body part of yours attracts the most attention? My Legs

What would you like people to be attracted to? My whole body! and my Mind!

What do you consider a great night on the town? I would like to go to a great dinner, then have a drink at a nice little lounge.

Sleep or sex? Sex! lol

Tell us a funny, but dirty joke. A son walks in on mommy having sex with the mailman and the son says, "mommy what are you doing?" and the mommy says, " I'm helping the mail man sort the mail. That night dad comes home from work and see the mail all over the floor in the room and asks mommy why didn't you sort the mail on the table? The son reply she helped the mail man sort the mail in the room earlier today!!! lol sorry might be a little lame!

The person I would most like to meet. Tyra Banks

Can you cook? If so, what’s your signature dish? Yes I can, it's pork chops with mash potatoes and green beans.

What were you doing five minutes before this interview? I was at work looking at my pictures I took with the Fabulous Dean Reid.

What is the most important issue in the world today and why? I think racism is still important and the Obama Administration proves it.

How old were you when you had your first kiss and paint us the picture? I was with my cousins in the back of their apartments and me and my little boyfriend was dared to kiss. So.. we kissed and it was for about 1min.

When did you know you could be a model? When I did my first shoot and I rocked it.

If someone wanted to buy you a drink, what would you order? I would order a cranberry and vodka

If you were president what would you change? The right to use firearms

Doing this will put on my short list. Lying for no reason at all.

Lights on or lights off? OFF

What is the biggest misconception about you? That I'm stuck up!

Tell us something your parents don’t know about you. They don't know how good of a coach I am.

What is the most creative thing a guy has said or done to approach you? Sat on the side of the fence at my track meet and cheered for me all day.

If money was not an issue what would you be doing? I would be Coaching track and modeling ,that's it!

What’s your fetish? I like men who have a little butt.

3 Theme Photo Shoot

2011-01-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

3 Theme Photo Shoot

This Sunday (1/9/2011) I am doing a photo shoot that consist of 3 different themes. Theme 1 will be a football jersey shoot with a hint of sex appeal thrown applied. Theme 2 will be an abstract shoot which the models will wear their attire of choice. The intent of the abstract shoot is to capture something out of the ordinary using a combination of the surrounding environment, props and of course the models. Theme 3 will be a promo shoot for Concept Motor Sports, this shoot will have a strong emphasis on the TREX motorcycle using the models to bring out sexiness of the TREX.

I will have two models for this photo shoot that I have not previously worked with. My intent for this photo shoot is to have fun with the environment, props and lighting. Now, in order for me to accomplish my objective there are a few things that I need to ensure are in place. So, today I will be visiting the photo shoot location to do a walk through in order for me to get a mental picture of how I want things to flow. Additionally, I will inspect my gear to ensure everything is functioning properly and supplies are available. I already know that I need to repair a velcro strap on one of my softboxes that came loose from a previous photo shoot. As far as supplies are concerned I need to replenish my AAA batteries, masking tape and body sheen spray.

I have verified / confirmed with the models to ensure that they received the photo shoot details and model release form.

Stay tuned for photos from this photo shoot.

Jersey theme:

Abstract:

Concept MotorSports:

Dean Reid Photography is booking Valentine photo shoots. Book your photo shoot session before Jan 31, 2011 All photo shoot sessions require a %50 deposit. Photo shoot session is not booked without deposit. Call 708.310.2599 to book your photo shoot.

- D Reid

Match My Fly Fashion Show

2010-12-28T22:26:00.000-08:00

The Match My Fly fashion show held on December 17, 2010 at the International Institute of Technology was an event to remember. Firstly, the first time fashion show producer Morgan Kaprice did an outstanding job pulling the entire show together from casting call to greeting guests at the end of the show. Secondly, the number of fashion designers (9) and models (26) that participated in show in a joint collaboration really made the show pop. Lastly, the models walked the runway with pure confidence and the fashion designers presented various up beat urban collections.

Most of the fashion shows in Chicago are held in nightclubs; however, this show was too big for a nightclub and the venue chosen fit the bill exactly. Keep an eye out for future productions produced by Morgan Kaprice in 2011.

Producer / Coordinator / Coach

Morgan Kaprice (LM³ Entertainment)- Producer/ Show Coordinator

Buddy Fresh- Assistant Show Coordinator

Helen Louisville- Model Coach

Models

Andrea Craig Christopher Franklin

Jeresa White Crystal Harris

Jah'rell Strickland Jahan Nurhussein

Lorenzo Walker Nikkia Smith

Papa Fall Paris Metcalfe

Lionel Watson Simone Erskine

Jasmine Johnson Tracee Monroe

Cha'tese Bishop Candice Patrick

Angelina Rose Romaine Young

Asia Henderson Demetria Drain

Vanessa Cox Sterling Montgomery

Amanda Ellis Kelli Griffith

David Alexander Chrissy Rene

Fashion Designers

Cier Fashions- Cristine Acierto-Ben

Vixen's Wardrobe- Jessica Buck

T.B.Y. Fashions- Michael Jordan

FINAOrio- Brandon McRoyal, Steven McRoyal

Vory Clothing- Kiarah Moore

AbStRacT- Tiana Williams/ Jae Maurice

Nayeli- Nicole Joyner

Creatistic Urbanwear- Charles Thomas

Hynesis- Maureen Osborne

Make Up Artists

Charity Hardison

Rockstar Faces (Yoly Gomez & Jennipher Gonzalez)

Hair Stylists

Tasha Toye

KeKe Hamilton

Jamal Willis

Araceli Rodriguez

LM³ Entertainment will be producing another fashion show titled "My Passion is Fashion" Fashion Show June 2011

Match My Fly Fashion Show Photos:

View photo slideshow

- D. Reid

Photography: The Misconception

2010-12-24T13:24:00.000-08:00

Here at DaShoot Spotlight we like to bring awareness and knowledge about the modeling industry. There is a strong misconception about photographers in the Chicago land area. That misconception is that photography is easy and anyone with a camera phone can take pictures. Well, the truth of the matter is yes, anyone with a camera phone can take pictures; however, great photos are accomplished with lighting, props, scenery, editing and a good eye. Not to take anything away from the model(s); however, photography is hard work. Just because someone has a digital camera does not make them a photographer either.

Now, keeping what I said above in mind, why do most models want free photos? Notice I said photos and not pictures there is a distinct difference between the two. So, the moral of story here is if your calling yourself a professional or trying to get noticed pay for professional work....period.

The work involved in a great photo shoot:

End result of the photo shoot notice the photos at the booth

- D. Reid

The Video Vixen Type

2010-12-23T15:59:00.000-08:00

Several models here in Chicago are targeting fashion and trying to stay as far away as they can from bikini / swim wear modeling. I shutter to even mention video vixen. Models ask yourself this question...are you modeling just for the fun of it or are you doing it as a career choice. The big misconception about modeling for videos is that your less of a model. That's a load of crap if you ask me. I see more women with curves and breast get turned down for modeling because they do not fit a type. Well yeah this is true if the type is suppose to be thin, small breast and no curves. Give me a break, if your modeling to get paid for what you do and for what you have make it happen. Truth be told models that shoot for videos get paid too. In saying all this by no means am I saying to degrade yourself or do something that your totally against. What I am saying is this...there are several paths in modeling and if your going down a path that is not yielding any results try a different path.

Video Vixen making it happen:

- D. Reid

Interview with Chicago Model Jay Melendez

2010-12-17T13:47:00.000-08:00

DaShoot Spotlight interview with Chicago Model Jay Melendez.

What do you consider a great night on the town? A great night on the town for me would be one of those hot summer nights in downtown, a night where I am looking good feeling great stress free... and can just enjoy myself to do whatever it is I want... Full Interview

- D. Reid

Interview with Chicago Model Tasha Gardner

2010-12-14T08:14:00.000-08:00

DaShoot Spotlight interview with Chicago Model Tasha Gardner.

What is the most creative thing a guy has said or done to approach you? One day last year on Michigan Ave. I was having a late lunch/early dinner with my boss. I left the restaurant to head home and this gentlemen ran out after me...chased me ( I wasn't running but he had to catch up to where I was)... told me he had been watching me the whole time, I'm so beautiful, told me where he worked at, asked for my number and said he's not trying to sound creepy but he would really like to get to know me. I thought that was so cute~! Full interview

- D. Reid

The Chicago Modeling Culture Has To Change!

2010-12-10T03:48:00.000-08:00

The past few days I have had the luxury of getting the outside perspective of the Chicago modeling industry. Speaking with an agency representative from a well known modeling management firm was not really an eye opener for me; however, it just really help confirm what I have been telling people in the industry all along. Below is the actual online discussion I had with the agency representative.

Agency December 7 at 10:50pm

I wanted to send you personal messages that we will not support and local fashion events in New York, Chicago, or Miami next month. If you hear otherwise, please disregard.

Agency December 7 at 10:53pm

We meant attend.

DaShoot December 8 at 9:12am

Can I ask why agency will not be attending any local fashion events next month?

Agency December 8 at 10:51pm

One night of scouting and disappointment from our end. Do you mind if I ask one question since you live there? I the fashion industry mainly geared toward the nightlife? I am just curious.

DaShoot December 8 at 10:55pm

Sadly, your observation is correct. This is a culture that needs to change drastically. However, there are and have been fashion events held at other venues other than the clubs. Chicago does not have a outlet to really showcase models and fashion like NY and LA.

Agency December 8 at 10:58pm

I appreciate your feedback. Factor seems to be terrific, but as you can imagine, the heart you city's models have, does not quite fit the other levels of fashion. Referring to the models who do try very hard.

DaShoot December 8 at 11:00pm

On the brighter side, Chicago has a large population and several aspiring models, photogs, make-up artist, stylist and designers hungry for a chance. So, I would kindly ask, to not give up on the Chicago fashion and modeling industry. Just realize the challenge and help breathe some life into the industry here in Chicago.

DaShoot December 8 at 11:03pm

Can you explain the lack of heart the Chicago models have as it equates to the other levels of fashion?

Agency December 8 at 11:14pm

They do not lack heart my friend. It is the stats that may hurt some. It is not me, but the look sought after is more personality based. I have a difficult time in the United states. It is not just your city, but the country. The aspiring models almost imitate the industry with a star struck side to them. We look for more than that aspect my friend.

DaShoot December 8 at 11:22pm

Ah, thanks for clearing that up for me. If I may ask; what additional aspects do you look for in a model?

DaShoot December 9 at 8:49am

If you don't mind I would like to post this conversation on my blog. I think it can provide some insight or different perspective for the local models. I will not disclose your name or company in the blog.

Agency December 9 at 5:27pm

Feel free to post it.

DaShoot December 9 at 6:04pm

Thanks

Sent via Facebook Mobile

Agency December 9 at 6:05pm

Please do not disclose my name or company in the post as you mentioned. Have a good night my friend.

DaShoot December 9 at 7:07pm

I will NOT disclose your name or company as mentioned.

Feel free to leave a comment we would like to hear what you have to say about Chicago's modeling industry.

Interview with Chicago Model Angela Shoaf

2010-12-09T18:19:00.000-08:00

DaShoot Spotlight was finally able to catch up with one of Chicago's up and coming models

Full Interview

- D. Reid

Interview with Chicago Model Lena Levy

2010-12-08T11:46:00.000-08:00

DaShoot Spotlight was finally able to catch up with the busy Ms. Lena Levy one of Chicago's up and coming models. Complete interview

- D. Reid

Models: How to model in a Bikini for photo shoot

2010-12-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

I have shot several bikini photo shoots and there are a few things that I see several models fail to do. Below are a few tips to follow.
1. wear loose fitted clothing before the shoot (tight fitted clothes leave impression on body that take a while to disappear)
2. bring the sex appeal or sexiness to the shoot
3. make sure all exposed body parts are clean shaved, yes even the arm pits
4. make sure your skin is moisturized (i.e. lotion or baby oil)
5. bring heeled shoes although the shoes will not be in the photo the shoes help bring out the sex appeal
6. have some poses. search the internet for models posing in bikini's

Watch this video
http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Model-a-Bikini-in-a-Photo-Shoot-146784338

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/4160660/brooklyn_decker_sports_illustrated_swimsuit_2010/

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w4619D8J3qk

Sample photos

- D. Reid

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Models: How to model in a Bikini for photo shoot

Dan Baron
GLAM LIVE THURSDAYS AT SUSHI SAMBA ARE NOW CANCELED!!!