SAiNTCITY MODEL INNK

Modelling Career: THE REALITY OF MODELLING JOBS

2013-06-20T00:44:00.001-07:00

Modelling is incredibly hard work. If you think you will just turn up, have your hair and make-up done and then leave after an hour’s worth of shooting, you’re wrong ~~DEAD WRONG~~. From the minute a model signs to an agency and starts attending castings right through to the time that they finish on set, a mass of energy, commitment and enthusiasm is required. Prepare to travel a lot and work weird and wonderful hours that are nothing like the standard 9-5, starting in the early hours of the morning and working until very late at night. That said, if you love a fast paced life that’s full of exciting twists and turns, you would thrive as a professional working model.

~~MYTHS~~ ABOUT MODELLING JOBS

Modelling is a quick fix cash earner.

As much as we’d love to agree with this statement, sadly it’s a myth. At the start of your career jobs can be very poorly paid, in fact, you may even be asked to work for free in order to build your portfolio up if you don’t already have one. If you are paid, your agency will undoubtedly take a percentage of your fee most especially those scouted for and are yet to register of signed on by an agency.

Modelling is glamorous.

If you’ve made it as one of Victoria’s Angels, then yes, you’ll be treated like a modelling goddess, but until then, working as a model is tough. You are expected to turn up to photo shoots make-up less and your hair will undergo a fair share of damage throughout the years. There’s a lot of waiting around to be done on set and you will be expected to take direction all day long.

Models are employed if they look great, personality doesn’t matter.

This is a myth you need to stay well away from. Agencies and casting agents are no longer on the lookout for girls or guys with ‘just a pretty face’. Having a vibrant personality is just as important as good looks if you want to find modelling success.

WHERE DO MODELS WORK?

Anywhere and everywhere!

Although it does depend on what kind of modelling you specialize in (TREND).

If you are a commercial, real-life, high fashion, fitness or advertising model, promotional or ushering model, you are likely to work all around the country. One day you might find yourself working in a studio, club or stadium, the next you might be outside on location, whether that’s in the street, on the beach or knee deep in mud. Your guess is as good as ours; it really depends on your client’s brief.

If you are an in-house model (a model who has a fixed contract for a prolonged period of time with a brand) you will tend to work in the same environment, or at most, travel with the brand. You will find yourself working in showrooms, workshops, at press venues or at fashion shows.

Lagos, Abuja, Port-Harcourt is the hub of modelling in Nigeria but models can find work throughout the NIGERIA, including EDO, DELTA, PLATEAU or another location that matters. models work hand in hand with these various project locations, models are expected to travel a significant amount of time. Whether this requires hopping on and off of the tube all day, traveling around the country or jumping on a plane, bus or cab prepare yourself for living out of a suitcase away from home.

HOW DO MODELS FIND WORK?

The most common way to find modelling jobs is to get signed to an agency. SAINTCITY MODEL INNK is one of the numerous Agencies that represent hundreds of models and their aim is to match their client’s brief with a suitable female/male model. Getting signed to an agency is hard work in itself (you need to have the right look, personality, availability and statistics) but once you are signed, you are professionally represented. However, this does not mean that you are guaranteed work.

The second way is to be a self-employed model. This means that you choose to represent yourself. To give yourself the best chance of finding success as a self-employed model, put a marketing plan in place, advertise yourself and get an e-Folio, portfolio and set of business cards made. This is a harder route to take as you will have less contacts and experience compared to an agency but this way of working suits some model’s lifestyles much better.

HOW MUCH DO MODELS EARN?

This really depends on the job, the model’s experience and what percentage of a model’s fees the model agency takes. To start with, models may be asked to work for free to build up their portfolio. Some models will be paid straight away but remember, if you are new to the industry your work amount will be modest to begin with. In such cases, many models will take on a secondary job in order to pay the bills. If you stick with it though, pay will undoubtedly increase. Models prefer long contracts as these pay well and guarantee work for a set period of time. NOTE that I did not make mention of digits, so don’t go rushing and telling your agent of agency your dream digits

HOW DO MODELS FIND PERMANENT WORK?

The best way to find a permanent modelling job is to be an in-house model (REGISTERED). Second to that, if you impress your clients, the chances of them offering you permanent work later on will be much higher. Make sure your portfolio is high class and kept up to date to give yourself the best chance of securing work.

CAN YOU BE TOO OLD TO MODEL?

Sometimes, yes. It all depends on what the industry are looking for. That said, older men and women are employed as real-life models, for example, commercial clients will often be on the lookout for motherly/fatherly types, advertising clients may require a man or woman for their grey hair dyes, sixty plus schemes and so forth.

Another way to further your modelling career after a certain age (opposed to being in front of the camera) is to consider the admin side of the industry. Agencies employ scouts and bookers to manage their database of models; you could even set up your own agency.(+2348032858545 for more info )

MODELS and PORTFOLIO

2013-06-20T00:15:00.000-07:00

A portfolio is the most important tool a model needs to get professional work. It is ultimately your modelling CV and will advertise your skills and abilities in front of the camera. Without a model portfolio it is almost impossible to be put forward for castings, as agencies will need to know that you have the confidence and natural ability in front of the camera before finding you paid work.

A model portfolio is a collection of professional images and your portfolio must say something about you, SAINTCITY MODEL INNK don't want to see pretty images, WE want to see attitude, personality and ultimately how versatile you can be.

The way you present yourself in your model portfolio is hugely important as you will either lose or gain work dependant on its quality, and your portfolio should always be aimed towards the style of modelling you want to succeed in.

A model portfolio is an investment and a photo shoot will give you the chance to see if it is an investment worth making.

at SAINTCITY MODEL INNK our portfolio services include:

1. DIGITAL PORTFOLIO

Your digital portfolio is a disk containing your chosen images from the shoot (SOFT COPY). Having your images on disk also means that you don't need to worry about them ever getting damaged or lost as you can download them straight to your computer. They can also be used over and over again as you can email them to agencies or clients to promote yourself unlike prints where you only receive one copy. They also allow additional retouching, re-sizing and cropping where you or your agency sees fit.

2. PRINTED PORTFOLIO

Your printed portfolio is a book of 10 A4 fully airbrushed images. This book is what you will take along to castings and to model agency interviews to show them your modelling experience and what you are capable of in front of the camera. Just like your digital images your printed portfolio is a collection of professional images that need to say something about you, agencies don't want to just see pretty images, they want to see your personality, attitude and ultimately how versatile you can be.

Having a printed portfolio allows a casting director or agent at your interview to flick through your book of images while you discuss the job or campaign they are looking for models for. It gives the impression that you are serious about modelling and shows that you have professional modelling experience.

Here at SAINTCITY MODEL INNK we can help you complete your printed portfolio to get you started in modelling and then once you are signed to an agency or freelance modelling you can keep it updated with all the latest tear sheets and prints from your latest jobs.

To find out how SAINTCITY MODEL INNK can help you to create your own professional portfolio please register and speak to one of our trained faces consultants today. (+2348032858545)

MODELING TRENDS

2013-04-24T04:05:00.000-07:00

This is not the first time I am talking or writing about TRENDS, in modeling there are so many yet the question keeps popping up… you should know by now the trends in modeling (sorry to say). You should know where you will fit in when you talk of being a model, even if it was suggested by a friend. I hope the question will be less on this issue of where best do I fit in or how do I know where I will do best.

Below are the major trends in modeling (don’t forget the Editorial and Non-editorial)

· HIGH FASHION / COUTURE

High fashion modeling is the modeling for famous fashion houses and designers, either at fashion shows or in publication. The advertisers’ expectations run high

To get this kind of work you must be experienced and a known model with proven track record for this type of modeling. High fashion models account for an extremely small percentage of the total model population in the industry.

· RUNWAY/CATWALK

Runway models work in fashion show, where cloths designers present their upcoming designs or shows, run by a store, mall, club etc. all runway models must meet a special requirement, have measurement that fits standard clothing size and a height over 180cm

· COMMECIAL/PRINT/CATALOGUE

(Catalogue and Magazine, Product advertising, Sport (biking, hiking …), Sport specialties)

This is the biggest modeling category and most often overlooked and misunderstood by young models. Commercial models appear in ads, packaging, billboard, and magazine articles for everything from medicine to insurance, from work out equipment to office equipment. Photographs can appear on buses, magazine, newspapers and billboards. This is a category where personality and the ability to show different expressions are equally important as looks.

· 4 PROMOTIONAL (promotion/hosting)

Promotions are how many models make a living. Promotional models ranges from being hired to hand out free sample of products to staffing trade show booths in large convention halls. This is a category that rarely involves being photographed and is very much about your personality and ability to interact with people

· 5 CHARACTER/PEOPLE (character or people modeling)

Some jobs require models with an everyday look, such as truck drivers, mechanic, supermarket clerk, school teacher, farmers, etc (all models in television commercials are character models)

· 6 BODY PARTS

(Hands, Feet, Shoulder, Legs, Stomach/Abs, Eyes, Back, Butt, Smile, Lips, Hair, Arms, Body double)

A body parts model is someone who is modeling their best feature(s). if you have a perfect smile, feet, hand, legs, abs, butt etc this may be for you, body part models are needed to model things such as watches, hand cream, jewelry, eyewear, makeup, shoes, etc. this category also include body double for film or video productions

· GLAMOUR

(Swimsuit, Lingerie/Underwear, Glamour nude, Artistic nude, Erotic and Adult photography, Erotic and Adult film)

Certainly not for everyone, but if you are comfortable with your and you are of legal age, glamor modeling can range anywhere from calendar girl to swimwear catalogue model. This model trend pays more as well

· FILMS/ VIDEOS

(Reality TV/Soap, TV Commercials, TV and Movie, Theatre and Stage acting, Film and presenting)

Films and video productions may be interesting to you if you have a background in drama or some previous acting experience

· PLUS SIZE/BIG BEAUTY

There are opportunities for oversize models. The demand for ordinary-looking models with whom a majority of the audience can identify continues to increase. The market for full-figure model is growing and includes editorial, commercials, television and more. Many other opportunities exist that might fall into one of the modeling categories mentioned above

HOW TO BE A SUPER MODEL

2013-01-29T12:12:00.000-08:00

Modeling for magazine, video production, an artist or art class is much more complicated than it may seem. In addition to the obvious requirements of being able to offer what is required, there are many other requirements for successfully fulfilling the role that will enhance you as a model and give the edge over other models for the same job.

Steps to Becoming that Model

Step 1

Find places to work: Contact your local art school, college, advertising agency, musical studio or television stations to see if they are hiring models. You can also ask your modeling agency if they have any firm in need of models.

Step 2

Make a portfolio: If required by the institution, prepare a resume. Include any previous modeling experience, performances, art schooling, acting, dance, or other activity you have done which would benefit an artist model.

Step 3

Inquiry: Ask the person hiring you if there are any rules or guidelines that models must follow. Discuss payment on the job which can vary greatly but generally, I will recommend =N=10,000.00 and =N=25,000.00 (magazine photo shoot) for upcoming models with registered agency. Also discuss average length of poses, how many breaks, and does the artist or group use one pose or many different, varied poses attract more fees.

PREPARATION

ONE

Plan for the session by thinking about poses:

Length Poses for figure drawing generally fall into three categories:

Gestures which are less than three minutes,

Short poses which are three to 20 minutes,

Long poses which are done for as long as necessary

Be Expressive - draw on any personal experience to think of poses that are interesting or inspiring. Any physical activity may be a source of good poses. Many models draw on the poses done in classical works of art, but these should only supply ideas, not be copied.

TWO

Put together a "modeling bag" including the following:

· slippers/sandals

· a date book and pen for booking future sessions

· a timer - it's hard to look at a watch for many/most poses

· drinking water and a lunch, or snacks if required

THREE

Before you leave for your session, shower and apply lotion so that you won't offend the artist with your body odour (lol) and will have nice smooth skin. Lotion also soothes dry skin which could otherwise cause you to scratch an itch while posing. Wear minimal jewellery unless otherwise requested.

Begin the Session

Upon arrival, you will be expected to change. A private change room will likely be provided or there may be a folding screen behind which you can change.

Step up onto the model's area and place your wrist watch where you will be able to view it or set your timer after consulting with the artist how long the session will last.

Follow the artist's direction. Keep your body and eyes very still. It is useful to fix your gaze on one spot; do not make eye contact with any artist. Relax into the pose, but not so much that you move from your original position.

Afterward the Session

When you are finished with your session, get dressed. Between sessions, put on your robe to keep your body warm. Don't walk around with the modeling outfit.

Have your date book and pen handy when you come out of the change room in case the artist would like to work with you again. It's also a good idea to have business cards to hand out to artists or media persons if you are doing modeling as your main job.

Tips

There is a chance that someone may request a photograph to use as a reference for completing a work outside of a job. This would be up to you and require an additional payment.

Warnings

Private Sessions will be higher-paying; but bring the slight risk of sexual harassment or worse. Take as much care as you think necessary.

When responding to an advertisement, whether on the Internet or otherwise, find out as much as possible before accepting the job.

Cell phone cameras have emerged as another problem. Institutions may have rules against them but models must be vigilant.

For more inquiry contact SAINTCITY MODEL INNK 08032858545, 08039375851

MODEL and MODELING

2013-01-28T12:29:00.001-08:00

A model (from Middle French modèle//aew), sometimes called a mannequin, is a person who is employed to display, advertise and promote commercial products (notably fashion clothing) or to serve as a subject of works of art

In the fashion world, models are divided into two categories: Editorial and Commercial. While most fashion models do editorial work, editorial models are regarded as high fashion models. They participate mostly in fashion shows and are seen in magazines such as Vogue and it’s like. A good example of an editorial model would be Naomi Campbell, and Kate Moss. Commercial fashion models, while they may also appear in fashion magazines and advertisements, they most notably advertise products. Some notable commercial fashion models are Irina Shayk, and Josie Maran.

Modeling is distinguished from other types of public performance, such as acting, dancing or mime artist, although the boundary is not well defined. Appearing in a movie or a play is almost never considered modeling.

There are many sub-genres of modeling including fashion editorial, lifestyle editorial, runway, commercials, catalog, glamour, fitness, beauty, fine art, body part and lifestyle. Each sub-genre is associated with a certain type of modeling. Fashion models may work in any sub-genre. However, other models such as glamour models and commercial print are limited based on certain requirements.

History

The modeling profession was first established in 1853 by Charles Frederick Worth, the "father of haute couture, when he asked his wife, Marie Vernet Worth, to model the clothes he designed. The term "house model" was coined to describe the type of work. Eventually, this became a common practice for Parisian fashion houses. There were no model measurement requirements and most designers would use women of varying sizes to demonstrate variety in their designs.

With the development of fashion photography, the modeling profession expanding to photo modeling. Models remained fairly anonymous and relatively poorly paid until the late 1950s, though often marrying well. One of the first well known models was Lisa Fonssagrives who was very popular in the 1930s. Fonssagrives appeared on over 200 Vogue covers and her name recognition led to the importance of Vogue in shaping the careers of fashion models. In 1946, Ford Models was established by Eileen and Gerard Ford in New York; it is one of the oldest model agencies in the world.

By the late 1960s, London was the best market in Europe due to their more organized approach to modeling, which innovated the modeling industry. It was during this time models became house hold names. Models like Jean Shrimpton, Joanna Lumley, Tania Mallet, Celia Hammond, Twiggy, Penelope Tree, and Pauline Stone dominated the London fashion scene and were well paid unlike their predecessors.

In 1967 seven of the top model agents in London formed the Association of London Model Agents (ALMA). The formation of this association helped legitimize modeling and changed the fashion industry. Even with a more professional attitude towards modeling, models were still expected to have their hair and makeup done before they arrived at the shoot. However, agencies took the responsibility of a models promotional materials and branding. That same year, former top fashion model Wilhelmina Cooper opened up her own fashion agency wither her husband called Wilhelmina Models.

By the 1980s, most models were able to make modeling a full-time profession. It was common for models to travel abroad and work throughout Europe. As modeling became global numerous agencies began to think globally. In 1980 Ford Models, the innovator of scouting introduced the Ford Super Model of the World contest. That same year, John Casablancas opened Elite Models in New York. In 1981, cosmetics companies began contracting top models to lucrative endorsement deals.

The early 1990s were dominated by the supermodels of the late 1980s. In 1990, Linda Evangelista said to Vogue that "we don’t wake up for less than $10,000 a day". This comment completely changed the landscape of supermodels. Naomi Campbell, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Linda Evangelista, and Tatjana Patitz became the most recognizable supermodels, catapulting each of them into superstardom and wealth.

By the mid‑1990s, a new movement emerged called heroin chic. While the supermodels of the 1980s were still in demand, the heroin chic look was popular amongst New York and London editorial clients. The model who inspired the heroin chic movement was Jamie King who actually suffered from heroin addiction. However, it was Kate Moss who became the poster child of the heroin chic movement through her ads with Calvin Klein. It was during the heroin chic era were fashion split into two different categories: editorial and commercial.

The heroin chic era ran its course by the late 1990s and teen-inspired clothing infiltrated mainstream fashion. Pop music was on the rise and artists like Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera popularized pleather and midriffs. As fashion changed to a more youthful demographic, the models that rose to fame had to be sexier for the digital age. The Brazilian Bombshells invaded the modeling industry due to the popularity of healthier looking models such as Tyra Banks and Heidi Klum of the late 1990s. Models like Gisele Bundchen, Adriana Lima, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Ana Beatriz Barros rose to fame on the runways of Europe in the late 1990s and dominated throughout the 2000s. However, no models have surpassed the influence of the Big 6 models of the early 1990s.

In the 2000s, the Brazilians bombshells were still in demand but quickly fell out of favour on the runways. On the other side of the spectrum, editorial clients were favouring models that had a china-doll or alien look to them, such as Gemma Ward and Lily Cole. During the 2000s,

In the early 21st century, runway walks became less flamboyant compared to the late 20th century, when Naomi Campbell and other supermodels were known for their distinct struts. Instead, most designers preferred a natural stroll. (To be continued)

the PRIDE OF AFRICA Fashion Show: . ANKARA print

2013-01-28T12:21:00.003-08:00

of the numerous outfits ANKARA will be on display as well

The Ankara print is one of the top fabrics in the Nigerian fashion of late. It is a wardrobe staple already. The era is far gone when Ankara was reserved for occasions only. It is no lie that the everyday casual garment is of Ankara fabrics with unique designs, you can get almost anything in Ankara prints this is as a result of the western fusion with the modern touches to it, you can get from shoes to hair and wrist accessories, clutch bags shorts, blazers, trousers or jumpsuits and the designs are endless

The most interesting part is “you don’t need travel aboard to get these” we have local designers who can arrange a custom design for you that will suit your taste and style

With all the trends in Ankara there is still something I look forward to see, you never can tell it might be on my wedding day where my bride wedding gown will be made with ANKARA

Get Paid to Apply Makeup

2012-07-12T13:31:00.002-07:00

Imagine having a fun, high-paying job that lets you use your creativity to make people look good.

Welcome to the world of makeup artistry!

There are few jobs that offer so many benefits. As a makeup artist you will have the satisfaction of making your vision a reality. A makeup artist is intimately involved in the most important and exciting events of people's lives, from weddings to the Academy Awards or photo and video shoot. Makeup artists get to work with celebrities such as models, actors, politicians, and musicians.

"I was getting to be around people that I would pay to hang out with, but I was getting paid for it. It was really fun."

-Dyana Aives, Professional Makeup Artist who has worked with many celebrities

As a makeup artist you will have a rewarding job with flexible hours. If you start your own business as a freelance makeup artist you will enjoy the freedom of being your own boss. Top makeup artists get paid thousands of Naira a day for their services. Plus you may get invitations to parties, admission to exclusive restaurants and clubs, or introductions to other celebrities you admire or get to work with top politicians’ wives.

Professional makeup artists are more in demand than ever before. Here are just a few of the job opportunities for makeup artists.

Which ones can you imagine yourself doing makeup for?

· Advertisements

· Magazines

· Modelling agencies

· Movies

· Music videos

· Runway shows

· Salons and spas

· Television

· Theatre

· Private service

If you work with individuals (private services), your clients might be people who need to look their best for a special occasion, such as an awards or couple dinner, beauty pageant, prom night or wedding. Or you might help cancer survivors’ look and feel better about themselves.

The first step into any venture is the DESIRE. As long as you have the desire, you can become a professional makeup artist. You don't need years of specialized training, or any particular certification to start out as a makeup artist. Unlike becoming a cosmetologist or esthetician which have strict requirements (such as hours worked, type of training, and a written test), in most jurisdictions you can become a makeup artist immediately.

The next big step is DETERMINATION. If being a makeup artist sounds like the career of your dreams, then get determined there are many books on mastering the makeup act,

Look for such books read and be the best you can in the make up world

I wish you the very best

HOW BEST TO BE A NUDE MODEL

2012-05-10T20:38:00.001-07:00

“Sex-positivity is the belief that sex and sexiness are… okay. It’s the belief that people shouldn’t be judged by the sex they have. It’s the belief that consent matters and social norms do not. It’s the belief that porn and erotica are valid media of expression (not that the current porn industry is hunky-dory, cause it’s not) and that sex work ought to be just work (not that it currently is). It’s the belief that neither “slut” nor “prude” should be an insult. It’s the belief that every sexual and gender identity is valid.

Modeling nude for magazine, video production, an artist or art class is much more complicated than it may seem. In addition to the obvious requirements of being able to hold still, act natural with an opposite sex and being willing to appear undressed in front of others, there are many other requirements for successfully fulfilling the role.

Steps to Becoming a Nude Model

Step 1

Find places to work: Contact your local art school or college to see if they are hiring art models. You can also as your modeling agency if they have any firm in need of nude models. You can start with the art department, but ask if there is someone in particular assigned to hire models for all classes. Sometimes each instructor hires their own models. If you want to pose for a photographer, also look on any one of a number of websites that link models to photographers. Free online classified advertising websites also often post ads for nude models (make sure these sites are legit). This is the first step because it may in fact be difficult to find work in a tight economy like ours. Interestingly, male models are in especially short supply in some geographic areas.

Step 2

Make a portfolio: If required by the institution, prepare a resume. Include any previous modeling experience, performances, art schooling, acting, dance, yoga, or other activity you have done which would benefit an artist model.

Step 3

Inquiry: Ask the person hiring you if there are any rules or guidelines that models must follow. Discuss payment or hourly sitting rates, which can vary greatly but generally, are between =N=15,000.00 and =N=25,000.00 for drawing. Fees for a photographer will generally be higher. Also discuss average length of poses, how many breaks, and does the artist or group use one pose or many different, varied poses attract more fees.

PREPARATION

ONE

Plan for the session by thinking about poses:

Length Poses for figure drawing generally fall into three categories:

Gestures which are less than three minutes, short poses which are three to 20 minutes, and long poses which are done for as long as necessary in 20 minute intervals with a short break in between. The latter is generally the norm for painting and sculpture; drawing classes will require a number of shorter poses. Any class may begin with a few gestures as a "warm-up".

TWO

Put together a "modeling bag" including the following:

· a warm robe (or cool, depending on the season)

· a towel or other cloth to sit on

· optional jockstrap or thong(for men)

· slippers/sandals (art rooms have floors covered with charcoal, and perhaps a lost push-pin or tack)

· a date book and pen for booking future sessions

· a timer - it's hard to look at a watch for many/most poses

· drinking water and a lunch, or snacks if required

THREE

Before you leave for your session, shower and apply lotion so that you won't offend the artist with your body odor and will have nice smooth skin. Lotion also soothes dry skin which could otherwise cause you to scratch an itch while posing. Wear minimal jewelry unless otherwise requested.

Begin the Session

Upon arrival, you will be expected to change (remove all of your clothing). A private change room will likely be provided or there may be a folding screen behind which you can change.

Step up onto the model's area and place your wrist watch where you will be able to view it or set your timer after consulting with the artist how long the session will last. Remove your slippers and place them neatly to one side.

Remove your robe. If you do not have a towel, it is hygienic and highly recommended that you place your robe beneath your bottom for sitting poses. Some artists even enjoy drawing the additional "drapery".

Afterward the Session

When you are finished with your session, get dressed. Between sessions, put on your robe to keep your body warm. Don't walk around naked.

Tips

There is a chance that someone may request a photograph to use as a reference for completing a work outside of class. This would be up to you and require an additional payment (usually 2-3 times the standard art model rates).

Warnings

Private Sessions will be higher-paying; but bring the slight risk of sexual harassment or worse. Take as much care as you think necessary.

When responding to an advertisement, whether on the Internet or otherwise, find out as much as possible before accepting the job.

Cell phone cameras have emerged as another problem. Institutions may have rules against them but models must be vigilant.

MODELING TIPS

2012-05-05T21:50:00.002-07:00

Runway Walk

Often young ladies or guy yawn to be models but with little or no experience, the truth be told, with the right lessons and constant practice you can be the best if you can walk the RUNWAY WALK.

Here are a few walk tips that you will find interesting and I strongly recommend that you practice this tips you want to be the next super model because small and medium size fashion designers are looking for people like you.

Runway Walk Tip One. Everything starts with projecting confidence. Stand tall and proud and walk head up without looking at your feet. To gain confidence in your overall presentation practice walking with your shoulders back, face forward, and avoid looking down!

Runway Walk Tip Two. Stay on your toes! By practicing walking on the ball of your foot just below your toes, the end result will be a graceful stride in heels rather than a clunky heel-toe walk that makes you look like a new-born bambi in strange shoes.

Runway Walk Tip Three. Select your stride. Elongate your stride by lifting your feet and bending the knee and then placing it at a comfortable yet confident length away from your supporting leg. Don’t lift your knees too high or make your strides too short to avoid looking like a soldier rather than the graceful model you’re trying to project!

Runway Walk Tip Four. Keep your head on straight! Focus on an object ahead of you- but not an audience member, as you don’t wish to creep them out. Fix your face with an expression that matches the designer desire and overall feel of the design to reflect best on the garment.

Runway Walk Tip Five: Pay attention to your arms! Don’t swing them side to side and keep fingers curled naturally and relaxed at your sides, but avoid letting them look balled up- it’s a secret tip to shake out your hands before getting on the runway to aid them looking more relaxed and natural on the runway.

Last helpful hints for the runway- watch other models and then videotape your own walk. By watching yourself comparatively you can obtain and improve more runway walking techniques. And above all else, practice and be confident. The worst thing that can happen is a fall, and the best way of offsetting a fall is in good humour by getting up smiling about it, then resuming your stride in a relatively timely fashion. Lots of practice and confidence will offset any fears you may have! Best Wishes!

The Cat Walk

Are you among the many women wants to look, dress and be like a model. But to do that, you should first start walking like a model. While the women on the runway might make it look easy, strutting your stuff in 4-inch heels isn't. Here's how to make an impression on the catwalk.

Make sure you are comfortable. Choose the right shoes. If you're not used to walking in heels, start with a thin two-inch heel, or a low wedge heel, preferably one that you have already broken in. (Later, you can work your way up to walking in higher, less comfortable heels.) If the shoes are new, scratch the soles with scissors so that they will not slip when they touch the floor. Alternatively, you can cover the sole of the shoe with masking tape, if you don't want to scratch your shoes. Whatever you do, don't wear flip flops! Else you have yourself to blame

Learn to stand like a supermodel. Practice your posture, throw your shoulders back, and push your pelvis slightly forward. It might create the illusion that you're leaning back a little, rather than hunching forward. You should be able to balance a book on the top of your head. With this you give the impression of a confident posture

Train yourself to place the heel of the foot down first, then your toes, but keep most of your weight balanced on the ball of your foot rather than on the heel. It may feel strange, but keeping much of your weight on the ball of the foot gives you more of an elegant stride than a clunky (stepped down) heel- weighted walk would. It's almost like walking on your tippy-toes, the way ballerinas do, but more natural. The tech here is to build walking confidence…with your heel down before the toes

Put one foot in front of the other (literally). Toes should face forward. Your footprints should form a single line, as if you are walking on a rope or a beam. When done quickly, this gives the body that characteristic swing. You ankles should never bump, this is painful and may make you fall! This can only be achieved if practiced constantly…a drawn line can be a useful tool to realise such.

Make your stride look long and commanding by lifting your legs almost in the same fashion a horse would while doing trotting leg extensions. For each stride, you want to lift your foot a good distance off the ground (with a bend in the knee) and then place it down a good distance in front of the supporting leg, with a stride longer than a normal walk would have. Don't make your strides too large as this will make you look awkward and ungraceful, but make sure you take large enough steps, rather than just baby steps. Remember to turn with your hip. It's hard to describe but easy to do. If you a working class lady and you are late for an appointment it will do you good to large strides as it will show ungraceful stress.

Look straight forward; capturing the essence of the clothes you're wearing with the expression on your face. Focus on an object straight ahead of you (but don't stare at a viewer...that is creepy “locally? you na witch”). Try to smile (smile with your eyes). This will give a fierce look to your face and to your walk. Keep your chin level and your eyes up - you want the spectators to see your face. Keep your head and shoulders still as your body moves down the runway. Your head and shoulder should feel a little like a sturdy coat hanger, and things should swing from there. Don't swing your shoulders, and don't over exaggerate arm movements. Do make sure, however, that your hips swing more than they would usually. This may take some practice to look good. When the beats to your music are slower, swing your hips more and slow your pace. When you make your turn at the end, make sure your left foot is in front as you pause for a beat or double beat in your music. Your hips, shoulders, and feet should be facing the side of the runway as your head is turned to look straight on at the audience over your shoulder. After pausing or posing for a beat, pivot your feet back towards the curtain or glass, pick up your front foot first (your right foot), and continue walking. Make sure that your face is the last thing to turn away from the audience.

Fingers naturally fidget or fist up when you're nervous, but don't let them! It will be a bigger distraction than you realize. Just let them hang down, relaxed. Shaking your hands out before you walk will help your fingers relax and look more natural.

Develop your own signature walk. There's no simple formula for walking the runway, and what will ultimately make you stand out is not only how well you can move your body but also how much of your own personality you can inject into your performance to make it memorable. The best way to create your own unique style is to experiment, practice, and get feedback (even if it means taking some constructive criticism).

Most importantly, you must walk and strut your stuff like you know you're beautiful and you know that you're smoking' hot, and all the young men out there are going to be going crazy when they see you! Self-doubt and low self-esteem can be damaging and there's nothing prettier than a girl with confidence.

You could practice strutting like you mean it by listening to your iPod or mp3 player or other musical device, put a hot song on and walk to the beat, any of the Nigeria kind of songs will do just fine

I wish you the very best on your walk to a supermodel stardom