Let’s face it if you want a tighter and toner buttocks, you are going to have to do some exercise. So here are the tips for those who don’t like going to the gym, so that you can do it from the comfort of your own home.

The great thing about this exercise is that it is super easy and can be done anywhere at any time, it also fantastic for toning up your bum. All you need to do is squeeze your bum together and hold for as long as possible, then repeat. That is it. You’re already on your way for perfectly toned buttocks.

Another fantastic exercise which is superb for fast results for toning up your buttocks; first you get onto all fours so that your knees and palms are on the floor. Then you lift up your leg until it is straight and parallel with your back, you should begin by doing this five times on each leg a day. You should be able to feel the pull the back of your thigh and bum later that day or the following morning. Once this has stopped increase the amount of repetition, so that you can feel the pull again.


A few more simple tricks to keeping a toned bum are walking more and using the stairs. When climbing stairs, try to miss out a step this will increase the amount you have to stretch helping to tone your buttocks. Dancing is also a great way to keep you fit and tighten your bum muscles.

Life has a way of taking the perk and bounce away from breasts, however there is a few ways to help you maintain youthful looking breasts with a great lift.

A lot of women do not wear the correct sized bra, this has a huge impact on the appearance of your breasts and sadly increase chances of them saggy faster; most retailers will have staff trained in measuring your bust and will happily help you find a good bra. The trick to having a good bra is having all the support you need and a correct size, so don’t be shy get your self measured every six months and when shopping for a bra have a look for under wired as it will give you much more support.

Good posture is another way to instantly help the appearance of your breasts, do not ever slouch. Always keep your head held high and your shoulders strong, this will immediately make your breasts look perkier, pull your tummy in to make them look bigger.

Keep the skin around your breasts moisturized, Avon have a fantastic cream, ‘Bust Sculpt Contouring Cream’ and according to Avon’s trails, 75% saw a reduction in visible stretch marks, 75% felt that their breasts had become better toned, 77% said that their skin was tighter around the are and 83% that there was an general improvement of their bust area after using the product.

Keep your feet feeling soft and smooth by moisturizing everyday. This will not only make them feel and smell better but also look much more appealing too.

Treat yourself to a pedicure every few weeks and don’t worry about salon prices, you can have gorgeous feet straight from home:

Soak your feet in warm, soapy water for about ten minutes; then exfoliate to remove dead skin and to keep them feeling smooth. Apply lashings of moisturizer to keep them feeling soft and then cut and file them to a shape and size that you like.

If you enjoy painting your nails, then follow these tips for nails by the season:

Winter – Get that festive feeling, by painting your nails a red or a dark green. Dark Blue or white are also perfect for the winter.
Spring – Go for light pastel colours such as, soft greens and pinks. Pale blues and purples are also a must have for the season.
Summer – Maximise your tan by painting your nails a coral, or turquoise yellow or white.
Autumn – Go for earthy colours like brown, green and oranges.

Remember to show off your beautiful feet, the fresh air will also help to keep them feeling clean.

Tired eyes are extremely common sorrowfully they add years onto your age, ere are a few easy tricks to help the eyes look brighter:

• Get more sleep – your body needs at least 8 hours sleep a night, this will improve puffiness and bags under the eyes. It will also put you in a better mood to go through the day with.
• Eat healthy –fruit and vegetables help to keep your eyes shiny and vivid.
• Keep hydrated – drink plenty of water, as dehydration is a cause of puffy eyes.
• Watch your diet – Reduce sugar intake as it makes the circles under your eyes much darker. Vitamin K which is found in yoghurt and vegetables helps to eliminate dark circles. Reduce salt intake as it causes puffiness under the eyes.

Reduce puffy eyes and ban those dark circles:

• Cut up a cucumber into ¼” thick, you need to use more than two as the slices will begin to get warm. Place the cucumbers over your eyes and leave for 10-20 minutes, swapping them for cooler pieces.

• After doing this, rinse your face in cool water and then pat dry; remember to moisturise in a circular motion. This should be done every two days to drastically improve appearance of tired eyes.

We all know that cracked lips are a pain to have to deal with, not only can they be tender but they are all so not the most appealing to look at. Your lips are a form of skin, but in comparison to the rest of your skin it doesn’t produce its own natural oil which helps to keep your skin moist and hydrated.

The trick to knowing how to treat cracked lips, is knowing what causes them in the first place; this will help you to prevent the problem.

If you are constantly going from the warm into the cold or vice versa it will cause your lips to crack because of the change in the climate.
Leaving your lips exposed and undefended from heavy winds will also make your lips feel sore.
Lack of fluid can cause the lips to become dehydrated as they are not getting enough exposure.
Also, you must protect your skin from the sun as it can cause skin damage; this also applies to your lips.

Treatment

Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids; this will keep your skin hydrated and feeling moist.
Apply moisturizer on your lips too; this will keep them feeling soft overall improving the appearance of your lips.
Remember to protect your lips from the sun as you would with the rest of your skin.
Regularly apply a lip gloss or balm, for example Vaseline is a good product which keeps your lips locked full of moisture.
Also consider your diet, as some vitamins are needed to keep the lips healthy these include; Vitamin A, B, C and B2.

Also, if your lips start to have flaky skin, do not pull it off; it will only cause your lips to be sorer and possibly bleed.

Licking your lips also isn’t very good for raw lips as after the salvia has evaporated, the lips will feel even worse.

Stretch marks are caused by a change in the body happening to quickly, causing a tear in the dermis which is the middle layer of your skin; this results in scars which are underneath the top layer of your skin. The sooner you treat stretch marks the more likely you are to improve the appearance of them, or remove them completely.

There are many treatments that are available to remove stretch marks:

Wheat Germ Oil – This product contains Vitamin E, A and D and works to improve the appearance of the skin; it is better for use in the early stages of stretch marks.

Glycolic acid – This product works by improving the appearance and texture of skin, the acid reacts with the skin allowing the top layer of skin to dissolve and reveal the underlying layer.

Laser Therapy – There are many different types of laser treatment, which improve the appearance of your skin, by removing stretch marks and toning the skin. However, these tend to need up to twenty treatments and are very expensive.

A quick tip to help improve appearance of stretch marks:

First apply moisturizer twice daily, this will help to keep the skin hydrated making it smoother and softer. Then exfoliate every day to remove dead skin cells and then apply a fake tan, this will minimize the appearance of stretch marks.

I don’t think that Boots have seen a product fly off the shelves as fast as the “No7’s Protect and Perfect” anti – wrinkle cream.

"Very few over-the-counter cosmetic 'anti-ageing' products have been subjected to a rigorous, scientific trial to prove their effectiveness," said Chris Griffiths a dermatologist and the leader of the study set to test the product.

11 men and 49 women in an age range between 45 and 80 were asked to trial either “No7’s Protect or Perfect” or a placebo moisturizing cream for six months. The study showed that the participants using the No7 product had produced fibrillin-1, which is a natural protein that makes the skin more elastic. The results illustrated that 43% who used the “Protect or Perfect” cream had seen an improvement in their skin, this is a drastic amount compared to the 22% who had used the Placebo cream.

Scientist from Manchester University also concluded that a fifth of people who had used the cream for a period of six months had seen an improvement of their skin.

Richard Weller, a dermatologist from Edinburgh University said that; "The ingredients in Protect and Perfect are available to other cosmetic companies, and many of them are used in other brands of cosmetics. It would not surprise me if other cosmetics showed similar effects, but it is up to rival cosmetic companies to show this … Most importantly, I think this will raise the bar for what we should expect from the cosmetic companies in showing that their products work." Weller believed that the study was the first of its kind to trial cosmetic products in which you can buy over the counter.

"Approximately one in five people using the cream will get something extra for their money over plain moisturisers. It is an interesting step forward in research, although the long-term benefits are unknown. The main preventable causes of skin ageing are sun exposure and smoking, so if you're worried about wrinkles, limiting these factors is sensible." Gina Goad spokeswomen from the British Association of Dermatologists had explained.

It looks like even more women and men will be running to the stores to get the most successful anti-wrinkle cream yet to salvage there skin.

Sadly Cellulite is a problem that 85% of women suffer from cellulite; fat cells get trapped in supporting tissue which becomes inflexible because of poor supply of oxygen and blood.

Here is a homemade recipe which is used to help the appearance of cellulite:

Mix sea salt with olive oil and coffee and shake until the sea salt and the coffee has dissolved. Then finally chop up fresh mint and add it to the mixture. Shake well and leave in direct sunlight for a further two hours.

The blend is best applied after a shower when the skin is breathing. Massage in the area in a circular motion for five to ten minutes, then leave for a further five minutes.
Rinse the ointment off with warm water, this should be done twice a week.

The first tip for healthy looking nails is to not bite them; this is a habit that hits us all at some point so here are some guidelines for you serial bitters:

• Confront your problem, take a photo of your bitten nails and use it to encourage you to stop.
• Imagine how nice and healthy they will look if you allow them to grow or file them down to a neat edge.
• Distract your hands and mouth, for example take chewing gum with you so that you don’t have an urge to bite anything.
• Get your nails painted or have a manicure this will improve the overall appearance of your nails so that you will not want to bite them.
• Invest in some nail polish that doesn’t taste very nice, this will prevent you wanting to put them in your mouth.
• Remember the way your nails used to look when they were bitten down, compare them to how they look after you have let them grow or filed them down neatly. Feel better?

Help improve the appearance of your nails by pushing your cuticles back; this will make your nails look longer and healthier. Here’s how to:

• Soak your fingers in a warm soapy bowl of water for about five – ten minutes, then take them out and dry them on a clean dry towel.
• Apply moisturiser to your hands, paying special attention to the bottom of your nail.
• Gently push back the skin at the bottom of your nail, do each nail one by one and then rinse your hands in warm water.
• Repeat this once a week to keep your cuticles in a pristine condition.

Nail Polish is known to strengthen nails, but try not to keep it on for more than three days, also apply nail polish remover sparingly as to much can damage your nails.

Also, try to keep a balanced diet as this can affect the appearance of your nails.

Angelina Jolie is a superb actress and aside from her acting skills, her full lips have amazed the nation and are probably more recognized than her performances. The pout has been craved by hundreds and are an international symbol of ‘Sexy’.  Here’s how to get the seductive kissable lips:

First exfoliate your lips using a warm, wet wash cloth; try not to rub too hard and be gentle as you do not want to irritate your skin. Then apply a good lip plumper, there are loads of different lip-plumping products which increase the blood flow to your lips, this will help them to appear fuller it will also have a glossy sheen to it if your purchase a gloss.

Remember to be careful when trying any new products, if a reaction occurs immediately stop use and see your GP.

Acne is a skin condition which consists of pimples or spots, it is caused by a blockage of the pores.

Here are some ways to prevent acne:

• Try to avoid touching your face often as the oil and dirt can transfer from your hands to the pores creating a blockage.
• Avoid having your hair covering most of your face, as well as the oil from your hair going in to the pores, the sweat will also clog up your pores.
• Change pillowcases and bed sheets on a regular basis to prevent bacteria build –up.

Your diet can also affect your skin:

• Keep yourself hydrated by drinking plenty of water, this will help to keep this skin hydrated and refreshed.
• Avoid foods and drinks that have high sugar content.

Improving the appearance of Acne scarring:

• Avoid popping spots as the dirt from your hands will irritate the area encouraging scarring.
• Scars tend to be more noticeable on pale skin, try using a fake self tan to improve the scarring.
• Moisturising daily in a circular motion will improve the skin by making it smoother and softer, helping it to look better.

Lemon Juice Remedy:

• Wash your face and then pat dry with a towel; and then apply a small amount of lemon juice using a cotton wool bud to the area. Keep the lemon juice on your face overnight and then rinse with cold water.  Repeat every night until you see an improvement.

The shape of your eyebrows is a way of expressing your personality and can completely change the way you look. The shape of your eyebrows is defined by the shape of your face. Arched eyebrows suit almost every shape.

There are several methods of adapting the way your eyebrows look such as, threading, wax and using tweezers. Eyebrow shaping should be done regularly (roughly every fifteen days).

Before using any method of eyebrow shaping, it is important you prepare the eyebrow.
First wash your face in warm water, so that your face is clear of dirt. Then you should cleanse and moisturize as you would normally this will soften the skin, to make shaping less painful.

You should brush your eyebrow using a baby toothbrush or clean mascara wand, this will give it a natural shape. Now you need to work out the eyebrow length. Hold a ruler at the edge of your nose; it should pass the inner corner of your eye. When it hits the brow bone, this is where your eyebrow should begin; mark it with a little dot.
Again, hold the ruler at the edge of your nose; the ruler should run past the Isis. Where the ruler hits the brow, put another dot. Join the two dots together and this forms the basic curve.

To enhance your eyebrows, there are many products: such as eyebrow tinter, eyebrow liner and brow gel. Be gentle when applying these products, as too much pressure can cause them to look fake.

Eyebrows that are taken care of attract attention and emphasize your look and will complete your face.

We have all been warned about the health risks from smoking, but it also has a huge impact on your appearance too. Which, as a model can affect your ability to have that edge over a client.

Smoking causes a prominent yellow discolouration to the teeth; this is due to the nicotine in cigarettes. It also causes bad smelling breathe as the smoke dries out and clings to your mouth. Nails also have problems due to smoking; they also have yellow staining; which is extremely difficult to remove.

The chemicals in tobacco also causes the body to lose hair, when combined with constant use of straightening irons and hair dyes, this cannot be good for beautiful long locks. Skin ageing is also caused by the chemicals in tobacco; clients much prefer young and healthy looking skin.

This isn't to say that models do not smoke; Kate Moss is renown for having a cigarette on the go, but remember we all react different to the chemicals.  Cutting down or giving up smoking will only improve your health!

Becoming a good model, is all about having that unique look that your client is searching for.  Making it professional is all about doing your job and doing it well. The modeling industry is an extremely difficult industry to work in. So you need to make sure that you are on time for shoots and are polite to the people you work with; as you can be easily replaced

Being professional isn’t just about taking good photos and looking good in front of the lens. It is about how you act and carry yourself. You may look amazing in front of a camera, but if you are rude to the people you are working with: word will get around and your reputation will be damaged.

The client is looking for someone that will arrive on time and make the shoot go quickly and efficiently. They want someone who they will enjoy working with, it is their money that is being spent.

Being a professional model involves several attributes: Ambition, Confidence, Independence, Organization, Stamina and most importantly, Will-power.

You must be determined to make it, to be a professional model and achieve your goals.

If you are not confident within yourself or what you are doing it will show. Always remember to be prepared for anything, models can work for hours in the freezing cold and always remember to communicate with your client, this will improve your confidence and boost your reputation.

A professional model is known through having built a good reputation; this enables you to work with more people on different jobs. Your clients will not want to work with someone that doesn’t do their job well. Be friendly and communicate with others you are working with and remember to stay focused.

As a model, you have to deal with the constant pressure to have jaw dropping hair. The difficulty to avoid persistent use of hairdryers or straightening irons and the regular colour change leaves your hair needing nourishment.

To begin with, as a rule only wash your hair every two or three days; washing your hair daily washes away the natural oils leaving your hair weak and under nourished. If you have dry, damaged or coloured hair; try to use products specifically designed for these types of hair.

There are many different hair masks available to do at home, it is important that you use and intensive repair treatment monthly to help your hair repair from daily ware and tare. Vitamin B, E and C all contain minerals that help to keep your hair shiny and silky, so watch your diet.

Modeling agencies receive hundreds of applications daily, the modeling industry is an extremely hard trade to break in to, but it is simply a game of numbers. The more agencies applied to, the more likely you are to be accepted in to one.

To begin with you need to determine which area of modeling you would like to go into, for example, commercial or catwalk; but be realistic with yourself. Remember to keep your options open, you may find yourself ending in a sector of the industry that you’d never thought about in the beginning.

There are many stories about models beginning founded; Kate Moss was discovered at an airport. These stories are true, but extremely rare. It is highly unlikely that you will be discovered whilst shopping or grabbing a bite to eat; and if you are approached by a scout, be sure they are who they claim to be: as the industry is sadly full of scams and con – artists. The trick to success and establishment is hard work.

A modeling agency is there to help you find work, getting you good and unique deals with many different agencies and to support you in your career.

There are hundreds of agencies in the UK alone, all offering many different advantages and specialising in different areas. So, before applying to an agency research about them; you want to be sure that the agency you are applying for is going to look after you properly and not charge you for work they are not doing.

Whilst learning about different agencies, look through there current models, how they appear and portray themselves in photos; this will give you an insight to what an agency is looking for.

Always remember how intense the modeling industry is, agencies do receive many applications daily; therefore, you need to research in to many different agencies and apply to them all. This will increase your chance of being accepted. At some point you are going to receive a negative response, but accept this and use it as a chance to learn.

A negative response does not mean it is the end of your career or that you will never become a model, as it isn’t based on their own preference, but more on what the industry needs. Fashion is constantly changing, from curvy women to size zeros. But take the feedback in a positive way and be determined.

It is not impossible to become a model and find a good agency but it is certainly not easy. Just keep researching different agencies and watching what is currently fashionable. You will find a directory of model agencies on our website; however we can only approve full members. If you keep applying for agencies, you will eventually be successful.

Going abroad either to work or to look for work can be fun and an very exciting way to develop your career.  Make sure that you know about the country that you are about to visit, as well as that country's policy on foreign workers and whether or not you will need visa's and/or work permits.

Various Government offices do their best to help and inform workers about travel and work abroad. Use these Departments since they have been put in place to help you!

Make sure that you have a return flight ticket (even if it is open ended ticket). A mobile that will work where ever you are going, so that you can let your friends/family know you are safe. Always take the contact number and address details of the British Embassy in which ever country you are going to.

Be careful throughout your visit, ensure that someone knows where you are going and if possible take a chaperone with you.  Be extra careful of strangers offering to entertain you – drink spiking is a common problem in some European countries.  

Try and budget before going abroad and always ensure that you set yourself a ‘cut-off’ balance to allow for costs getting home.  Do not run out of money whilst you are abroad its an awful position to be in.

Passport Agency have useful and informative web site: www.ukpa.gov.uk

The Foreign Office has excellent resources for anyone looking to travel abroad, the website is free of charge and is a must before you leave: http://www.fco.gov.uk/

Most digital camera's today take strong 4-8mb pictures. To upload these images to a server can be time consuming and very stressful (with server's timing out etc).   You will notice this on many of the model portfolio websites and one social sites such as facebook.

So the first question you need to ask yourself, do I need the photo this large? The answer will almost always be NO.  So why do cameras take photos in such high definition - simply to help with printing and the general quality.  However, when you're photo is only going to be used in a small frame, it doesn't need to be so large.

Download http://www.faststone.org/FSResizerDetail.htm

This excellent free software allows you to;

Convert
Rename
Resize
Crop
Rotate
Change color depth
add Text and Watermarks

Very simple to use!

Do I want to be a model

Although this may seem a ridiculous question to ask yourself, be aware that despite the glamour and hype you have seen about the modeling industry, it's a demanding and sometimes boring industry. Prepared to be rejected, get ready for some major highs and lows. Modelling is a lifestyle that you have to live 24/7 not just 9-5. In the early part of your career you will not get paid for some work, even when you do the rates will not be excellent. Unless you are seriously committed to modeling, living a healthy lifestyle (not just eating right, but sleeping right, not drinking too much, staying away from drugs), you will not succeed as a model.
You have to understand that there are lots of people who want to be model. It's a very competitive business (and can be extremely bitchy). You can however, make some very good life long friends and excellent contacts.

Where do I start
You'll need a model portfolio, I'm sure you'll all know what one of those is but for those that don't it's basically a selection of pictures showing yourself in different outfits and poses. The standard size for the photos is 9 by 12 inches and you'll need around 10 - 12 photos. Make sure you focus on quality rather than quantity, remember, you're only as good as your worst photo. Make sure your portfolio has a selection of both head shots and full body shots. Make sure you get a variety of different looks such as swimwear, catalogue and lingerie, you get the idea, also get a couple of black and white shots in there. Avoid using pictures of the same shot.

It can be very advantageous to have photographs from different photographers in a portfolio. This will show the versatility in terms of styles and it will prove that a model can work with a variety of different people. Obviously, the cost of hiring different photographers for a portfolio is prohibitive, but there are many excellent photographers out there who will do prints for time, however be warned there are also many more that will produce awful amateur style photos. If you research what's on offer, it can be an excellent alternative.

Before going ahead with a photo session ask to look at the photographers portfolio to see if you like his style of photography. No doubt if you go to the photographers studio to book the appointment he will have examples of his work on display anyway. If you've never done modelling before this will also be an excellent practice run for you. Avoid photographers wanting to take nude shots, if possible take a friend with you to the shoot.

The Comp Card
You'll definitely need one of these. A comp card is what your modelling agency will use to market you.
What is a comp card? A composite card (sometimes called a ZED) is a model's business card. In most cases, your comp card is your one and only opportunity to make a good first impression. With that in mind it is important that the images on your card are your absolute best and nothing less. Additionally, the printing and reproduction quality is extremely important. Poor reproduction makes your images look bad and as a result - makes you look bad. Besides a great head-shot, the comp card will have other photos that show your experience, your versatility, range, and what type of work you are seeking. For best results all of the photos should be the highest quality you can obtain at your stage in your modeling career. Make sure that you have them printed on rigid card that will withstand a bit of wear and tear.

Be careful! Do NOT have a modeling agency print your comp card. If you do - they will put their logo on it. You are going to want to sign with as many agencies as possible if you are serious about getting work. Comp card printing can get expensive - print them yourself and give each agency copies - they have stickers that they can put on them with their contact information and you will save money.

The Agency
An agency or co-ordinator should represent models. The model must have a portfolio, and comp cards. The agency/coordinator provides you with work (That is their main purpose. It is safe to say that they work for you!) They make a commission on your fee.
GOLDEN RULE - Don't go with an agency who asks for money up front! You'll probably never hear from them again and I certainly doubt you'll ever get any work from them.
Also check to see if they are reputable and genuine. The agency/coordinator provides you with a safe working environment and looks after legalities of the paper work for the job. They provide their clients with "Professional" models. Keep copies of all-important papers, such as contracts etc. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency/coordinator. It is wise to choose the agency/coordinator carefully.

How do I approach an agency?
The oldest way to go about it is to visit them. Book an appointment ahead of time by phone. Bring at least 2 pictures. They don't have to be professional pictures. A head shot, natural and clear. Also a full length shot that somewhat reveals your figure, a clingy dress , swimsuit, figure flattering clothes or other tight fittings garments should be worn. Forget about baggy clothes! It will tip off viewers that you have something to hide. Ask lots of questions. Ask to see what work their models are currently doing? Ask for names and phone number of clients and call them to verify the information, be concerned if they promise you work right away or promise you high salaries. If they don't allow you time to think about it or if they use pressure techniques to sign the contract, be concerned. They should not ask for money up-front for classes or training. Be concerned if they claim to be looking for ordinary people. Reputed agencies/coordinators might have open interviews during the week, give them a call and find out.

The fashion modeling world as it stands today may be dominated by female models, but more and more men are entering the profession. Led by such names as Marcus Schenkenberg, Tyson Beckford, Massimiliano Neri, Michael Gandolfi, Andrew Stetson, and many others, men are slowly but surely making their mark in the fashion modeling industry.

But just because there are more female models than male ones doesn’t mean becoming a male model is easy. In fact, male models are just as sought out as females, so that means competition in the field is pretty tough. So to get at least a fighting chance of making it in modeling, here are some tips that might help you look your best.

Get in shape. Not just getting in shape, but getting into the best possible shape. Now you don’t need to have rippling muscles. For male models, being toned and fit is more the norm.

If and when you land a modeling job, say, a photo shoot, there are a few things you should remember before going in front of the cameras. Firstly you should be clean from head to foot. If you’ve got dark circles or bags under your eyes, make sure you avoid any caffeinated drinks, get eight hours sleep and drink water before the day of the photo shoot. Also eating less than three hours before a photo shoot is a no-no.

These physical preparations, however, are worthless if there’s something wrong about your attitude towards the job. Confidence is always essential not only for male models, but also for anyone in any given field. As a male model, you must be secure in how you look and your modeling ability. Anything less than unwavering self-confidence will result in a half-hearted performance of your job that will be apparent in pictures or on the runway.

Now when we say be confident, we don’t mean that you should be too confident. Remember that there are designers, choreographers and coaches who will tell you what they need from you during photo shoots and shows, so you should be flexible and open to suggestions from these people. And it would be of great importance if you show up for these gigs in a good mood, because a good mood shines through in the results. If you’re nervous about the job, bringing favorite CDs or any other stuff that could make you feel comfortable while on the job is a great idea.

Tip provided by http://newvirusfilms.com

Most famous models and actors today started their careers when some talent agent discovered them in such common places as a mall or a sidewalk. Gisele Bundchen, for example, was first spotted by a modeling agent munching down burgers at a McDonald’s restaurant in Brazil, and the rest is history.

Majority of aspiring models, however, don’t have the luxury to wait for some modeling scout to “discover” them. More often than not, models frequent casting calls for a modeling gig and try landing a job through the time-honored practice of auditioning.

Auditions, therefore, are the most essential part that an aspiring model will have to go through before getting hired for a modeling job. And they tend to be the toughest too, as it may take you dozens or hundreds of auditions before you get a modeling gig. Just remember that in the modeling business, you always have to stay positive, and bear in mind that the more auditions you attend, the more chances you have of landing the job.

As in any other type of auditions, there are things you could do that would at least give you a fighting chance of snagging that modeling job. One is that you should show up early, and never be late for an audition. You wouldn’t want to antagonize the hairstylists, makeup designers, fashion coordinators who are working on the audition.

Also, it helps being genuinely pleasant. Acting like you’re the most important and most talented person in the room could only guarantee an early exit for you. Being a good listener is also a plus, as that would mean a smoother working relationship with the photographer, whose instructions you should follow as closely as you can. You should also be open to suggestions from makeup artists and hairstylists about what look works best for you, and don’t insist that you know better than them.

And since you’re just auditioning, you might want to bring a wide variety of clothing. Remember, you’re just auditioning, and therefore cannot expect the people who are holding the auditions to provide you with the clothing that you need. At least six different outfits will do.

And most importantly, be confident, and let that confidence shine through with every smile, move and pose that you make. You may be the most beautiful or most perfect person physically for the job, but without confidence, all that beauty will count for very little.


Tip provided by: http://www.bleeek.com

Here are some general tips on posing for the camera. During a photo shoot, the photographer will usually direct the model for any specific poses that the photographer is trying to capture, but it helps if the model knows what to do without a lot of direction.

Some General Posing Tips:

Don't hold your breath for a pose. The concentration usually shows in the picture.
Hold in your stomach to give a more toned appearance to the abdomen (even if you are in great shape).
Most people, including models, do not have very good posture. Unless you're going for a casual look, keep your back straight and your shoulders up.

Don't keep both arms entirely straight unless directed to do so for a specific pose. Bend one or both arms, even if only a little, to make the pose look less artificial. Likewise, don't keep both legs entirely straight.

Don't always look straight at the camera. Instead, use a variety of head and eye positions: Try turning your head, tilting your neck to one side or the other, or looking off to the side for some poses.

Don't use a big smile for every pose. Sometimes try a small smile, a pout, a laugh, a scowl, or even a frown, to give some variety to your facial expressions.

Listen to what the photographer tells you. He can see you through the camera. You can't.


Additional Posing Tips for Plus-Size Models:

Rest most of your weight on one foot or the other instead of evenly on both feet. Doing so makes poses look less artificial and gives a slight slimming effect in most positions.

When sitting or reclining, roll one hip up slightly from the resting surface so that most of your weight is on the back of one thigh or the other instead of evenly on both thighs. This gives a slight slimming effect and makes the pose look less artificial.

Avoid having your arms hanging flat against your sides. Instead, bend your arms slightly, place your hands on your hips, or try other poses that involve alternate placements of the arms.

Keep your chin up to avoid chin wrinkles or double chins.


Posing Tips For Emphasizing Cleavage:

Lean forward.
Bring arms together at the waist.
Clasp hands together below the waist, keeping arms straight at the elbows.
Cross arms.


Posing Tips for Minimizing Cleavage:

Lean backward.
Slouch.
Keep arms apart.
Raise arms above shoulders or above head.


Tip provided by www.atlantafashionphotos.com

As a self employed model you will be required to register with HMRC.  This can be of advantage, especially in your earlier career because often you spend more than you make.  You may be entitled to a tax refund if you have an employment income where you are paying tax.

Our partners Cedar Associates are offering a massive 75% discount on their accounting fees, meaning your end of year accounts could cost as little as £25 with membership.

To register as self employed visit here

Remember to inform your agent/clients that you are self employed. You should also provide your UTR reference (tax reference), as proof you are self employed.

Not sure what you can claim for? Here is an example;

• Make-up for shoots
• New Computer or Laptop for your work
• Clothing for shoots
• Travel and accommodation whilst on shoots
• Cost of Portfolio and Zed Cards
• Photographer costs
• 40p per mile tax free between your home and the photo shoot
• Use of your home as office? Do you work from home, make sure you make a claim
• Internet costs
• Website, Subscriptions to portfolio sites
• Mobile phone

Stronger Nails

Wearing nail polish actually strengthens your nails. If your nails are delicate and easily broken, try to wear nail polish as often as possible. Using a good clear nail polish every day will give your nails a great natural look and strengthen them in the long run too.

Here's a good tip for making your nail polish dry faster - dip your nails in ice water a minute after application. Alternatively, put on a light coating of baby oil.

One thing you should be careful off - never open soda cans with your nails. Instead, slip a knife under the ring pull and lever it up gently. There's no sense in getting beautiful nails then ruining them on a can of Coke!

Exposing nails to water causes them to expand and contract, contributing to weakened nails. Wearing a set of rubber gloves while cleaning is a good idea to protect them.


Making Small Nails Appear Larger

If you have short or narrow nails, clear nail polish sometimes only makes your nails appear small. A darker nail polish will make them seem narrower, and hence longer.

For those of you with very small nails, using a nail polish with a metallic color can make them appear larger.


Moisturizing Nails

Julia Roberts soaks her nails in olive oil for a few minutes each week. Why? Olive oil moisturizes your nails without weakening them, and softens your cuticles too. It also prevents "hang nails" that are caused by dry skin.


Softening Cuticles

Never cut off cuticles or calluses, they will just grow back harder and you run the risk of infection. Its far better to soften them if you can. Just as with nails, dipping in olive oil will make them more supple, softer and less prone to splitting.

Another good tip for softer hands is to dip them in milk for 3 minutes. This is a great tip to do before your manicure.


Bubbly Nail Polish

If you keep getting bubbles in your polish, remember not to shake the bottle before use, this just increases the bubbles. If you want to mix it up, try rolling it between your hands first.


Split Nails

If you're one of those people who suffers from consistently split nails, here are some great tips. Never grow them too long, as this just makes them more vulnerable. About one quarter of a centimeter beyond your finger is a good length. Make sure that they are always neatly filed into a nice curved shape.

Your nails lose moisture a lot faster than your hands, so always keep them very well moisturized. Also keep your use of polish remover to a minimum - the alcohol it contains can suck out moisture.


Article provided by  http://www.modelbeautytip.com

We get asked on a regular basis what makes a good profile.  Simply think of the profile as your CV in the modeling world.  The wrong profile can damage your career more than help it, so remember to stay professional within your profile.

Here are some of the biggest mistakes;

•    “going out and getting drunk”  don’t mention your vices. Make your profile friendly, but try not to go into drinking, drugs etc., your client does not need to know this and may put them off using you.

•    “my mates think I would be a good model”.  Nobody is going to be interested unless you get across that you believe that you are good enough to be a model.

•    Lots of amateur models mention their sex lives in their likes/dislike section.  Avoid this, it doesn’t sound professional and would indicate your looking at doing adult work.  This is a mistake many young clients make – it won’t impress any serious agents/clients.

•    “I’m really ditzy”.  Many amateur models mention poor exam results, or that they are ‘ditzy’.  Remember these are people you want to charge for a service, do not show them any weaknesses.  

You need to include the following within your profile

•    Your age, date of birth and vital statistics
•    What type of model work you are looking for
•    The name and contact details of your agency/agencies
•    Your payment terms/rates
•    Key successes within your career so far
•    Key photographers you have worked with
•    Any relevant experience or qualifications
•    Why you enjoy modelling
•    About your style
•    Any up and coming events/competitions


We wish you all the success with writing your profile.  Feel free to drop our team an email with a  link to your profile and we will be happy to make some suggestions.

Antioxidants are very smart chemicals that protect our cells from both external threats, such as the sun, wind and temperature, and internal threats, such as excess oxygen and hormonal imbalances.
strawberry beauty tips

So what are antioxidants? They include Vitamins A, C and E and beta carotene. Their specific role is to combat free radicals, unstable cells that become loose and wreak havoc with your skin and cellular structure.

Good sources of antioxidants include cereals, fruits and vegetables. There are, however, certain foods that are particularly rich in these life-saving chemicals. These include berries (blueberry, blackcurrant, cherry), walnuts, sunflower seeds, pomegranate and ginger.


Protein
Protein is a hugely important substance for the body, but not one that we are usually short of. Today's diets, heavy on meat, tend to provide all that we need. One group who have to be careful though is vegetarians, who should supplement their diet with nuts, beans and other sources of protein.

A protein deficiency can reduce the elasticity of your skin. An important protein named Collagen plays a key role in cellular structure, giving it its strength and elasticity. Without it, our skin becomes saggy, wrinkled and aged.


Probiotics
As so often happens, what goes on inside your body is reflected on the outside. Probiotics are a great way to correct the chemical imbalances that can sometimes occur in your gut after events like stress or a course of antibiotics.


Probiotics and beauty

One source of antibiotics, a cultured milk named Kefir, has been in the news recently as a 'superfood'. It contains more probiotics than yogurt, as well as having a healthy dose of calcium. Its a great option for those of you who may be lactose-intolerant, as it contains lactase, the enzyme that you are missing.

That's not all though. The latest word is that probiotics applied directly to your skin can reduce sun damage and slow the effects of aging. Although this would certainly not be harmful, we think probiotics are far for effective taken internally.


Omega 3
You may have heard of "good fats" and "bad fats" - well Omega 3 fatty acids are the "good fats". As well as a host of other health benefits, Omega 3 oils strengthen the cell membrane and enable the healthy passage of nutrients and waste products through your skin. It also influences the skin's ability to hold water.

There are some great supplements containing Omega 3 fish oil, you can find them in any health store. The best natural sources include walnuts, canola oil and flax seed.


Water
Water is a natural body cleanser and can do wonders for your complexion, but it is also an important element in keeping your skin young and beautiful. Be one of the few people to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water per day and you will notice your skin looking rejuvenated and younger.

When your skin dries out it becomes less elastic and more prone to wrinkles. It also makes it more susceptible to damage from the sun or from smoke. All this means that it is extremely important to keep your skin hydrated all the time, so that it can protect itself against the world.

The best way is to drink lots of water but, failing that, moisturisers are very helpful too. The night moisturisers are an excellent choice as they can work for hours without being rubbed or sweated off.
Foods that can Harm your Skin


Free Radicals
So what exactly are Free Radicals? They are unstable cells that become loose and wreak havoc with your skin and cellular structure, aging you and causing wrinkles in the long term.

These free radicals become loose due to a number of reasons - external threats, such as the sun, wind and pollution, and internal threats, such as the consumption of alcohol and cigarettes. Foods to be careful of are those that are high in fat and sugar.
Beauty and alcohol


Alcohol
We all know that alcohol can dehydrate your skin, leaving it red or blotchy both during drinking and in the morning. But drinking also has longer term effects on your skin.

Drinking alcohol tends to permanently enlarge the blood vessels near the skin's surface, causing itchiness, uneven tone and red spots. If you've ever seen the skin of a long-term alcoholic, you'll recognise exactly this redness.

Tip provided by:  http://www.modelbeautytip.com

Yoga/Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are great for losing weight - they don't just burn calories, they also improve your muscle tone and increase your metabolism in the long term!
Model exercise tips and yoga

I have used Yoga and Pilates for years, as I like the way it tones my body and keeps me slim. It also feels like less of a workout that other exercises!

Yoga and Pilates are actually used regularly by many models, who love the increased muscle tone and better posture they can bring to their photo shoots.


Lifestyle

It doesn't need to be much - just a few small lifestyle changes and you'll be doing more exercise without even knowing it! During my career I have burned hundreds of calories each day crossing town to go to castings and jobs. Here are some other ideas:

- Walk up the stairs at work rather than catch the elevator.
- Walk to the local shops rather than drive.
- Park your car further away from your workplace.
- Take the dog for a walk, rather than leaving him in the yard.

Another great idea is to increase your water intake. As well as prolonging your life and keeping your internal organs (liver, kidney etc) clean and healthy, water also speeds up your metabolism and aids weight loss!

Lastly, every model knows the importance of a good night's sleep. Muscle is regenerated during the final hours of sleep. The longer that you sleep, the easier you will find it to add muscle mass and increase your metabolism. Those extra hours are the most crucial ones. Those who sleep more produce less of a hormone named Cortisone, a nasty substance that contributes to belly fat.

  - Aerobic Dance
  - Boxercise
  - Body Sculpt

Other exercises that are great for weight loss, but low-impact on your joints, are rollerblading, the elliptical machine, skiing and biking. Try to exercise with a friend if you can, make it a social event rather than a chore.


Weights
Model exercise tips

An often-neglected part of weight-loss programs is weight training. Its a great way to build your body's metabolism so you can stay slim long after you finish your diet!

An intensive weight training session also elevates your metabolism in the immediate aftermath of the session - sometimes for as long as 36 hours afterwards!


Cardio

You can't stay in model shape without putting in those hours at the gym or pounding the pavement. Nothing will keep your body toned and fit like proper cardio exercise, so it should be a part of any weight loss plan you undertake.

They're not for everybody, but if you don't mind gym classes then they really are the best way. Use a professional to get you into shape!


Tips thanks to http://www.modelbeautytip.com

Top Ten Modeling Tips

Although you will find many tips and best practice guides throughout this website, below are our top ten tips to start you off well in modeling;


1.    Always act professionally
If you want to be taken seriously as a professional in the industry, act as such. Make sure you get used to completing the paperwork side, provide confirmations and invoices with every job.  Make sure you always have a professional Zed Card (or business card) to hand.

2.    Punctuality
Nobody enjoys waiting around for someone to turn up to a meeting.  Make sure you are on time, or even slightly early for every shoot.  If you are running late or can’t make the shoot make sure you let the Photographer know as soon as you can.  Remember first impressions count – don’t be late for yours!

3.    Make-up
Although you may sometimes have make-up artists at the shoot, take your own makeup to ensure that you are prepared. If the Photographer does provide a makeup artist, make sure that you tell them of any allergic reactions you have, if in doubt ask to use your own.

4.    Clothing
Try to turn up on the shoot looking smart, first impressions are very important and you want to ensure the photographers first impression of you is a lasting one.  If possible take a change of clothes to the shoot.

5.    Reviews
A strong reference can count for a lot, instead of relying on a reference after the shoot, why not ask the photographer if they would be kind enough to complete a review whilst you get changed? A Collection of strong reviews will improve your portfolio and impress your next client.

6.    Be Cautious
Although there are many professional Photographers, during your early modeling career you will be exposed to many amateur Photographers looking to expand their portfolio. Make sure you do your homework on the Photographer, check references and speak to other models that they have worked with.

7.    Travelling Expenses
Its important to remember that your client may pay you with cheque rather than cash, ensure you have sufficient cash or means to get to and from your booking. Do not expect to receive cash on completion as this is not always the case.  Where possible state preferred method of payment on booking confirmation.

8.    Think long-term
A shoot you do today can effect your career tomorrow, remember that every shoot that you do will have consequences on future opportunities.  Never accept any work that you may later regret, or that you would not be proud to put your name to.

9.    Know your jargon
Modeling as any industry has a wide range of terms and technical jargon that you should familiarise yourself with.   You need to be sure that you know what you are accepting and if at any point you are unsure of a term or abbreviation, please ask someone.  Our website provides a guide to jargon, but if something isn’t listed please call and we will be happy to help.

10.    Networking
Having friends and associates within the industry will open more doors than any other type of marketing.  The Model Industry is a fraternity that will build your career and help your longevity within the industry.  Remember this works both ways, help other models where you can and pass work that you cannot fulfill.

Finding the right foundation for your skin

It can be a very daunting and confusing experience trying to seek out that perfect base for your skin but it needn’t be that difficult if you ask yourself the following before you set out to do so.

The main things you need to think about are

•    Amount of coverage i.e. how much you want to see on your skin.
    This can be anything from just a tint to even out the colour to a full coverage which wil     cover everything

•    Type of finish i.e what you want it to look like
    So this can be a very shiny, luminous finish all the way up to a matte, powdered look.

•    What type you like to use
    Do you prefer liquids?  Is a compact cream going to be easier for you to carry around     in your bag etc etc.

Once you have answered these you will have a clearer idea of what to go for.  
Some simple rules according to skin types are:

Dry skin – a more dewy finish will last longer and there doesn’t tend to be any need for a powder as this is to take away excess oils and would most likely make your skin look dryer and in some cases even flaky.

Combination skin – You can still go for a dewy look but maybe use a powder down your T-zone or anywhere you feel is likely to get oily throughout the day

Oily skin – a matte finish will stay better on your skin as it won’t slip off during the day when your skin produces more oil.  You may want to use a powder throughout the day or blotting films just to take off any unwanted shine.


Provided by: RMP Makeup
Ruth is a freelance Makeup artist specializing in fashion and beauty makeup.  For examples of her work and for enquiries for shoots please see

http://www.rmpmakeup.co.uk
call:  07868 736157

Its just hours before an important night and you're not looking good. There's no time to go to the salon, all the shops are closed and your friends are too busy making themselves beautiful to worry about you.

So what can you do? Actually, there are some really simple emergency beauty tips for just this type of situation!

The key to a good emergency beauty tip is that is has to be something fast, effective and easy to do by yourself. It should also use only household items. All these tips are great last minute ideas that anyone can put into practice!


Flat Hair

Two applications of styling cream or hairspray, and your hair is still flat? The worst thing you can do is to keep piling on the hair products, this will just make your hair greasy. Instead, mist your hair with water, then use your hands to work it through. The water reactivates the products already in your hair.


Puffy Eyes

Just lie down, relax, and place a slice of cucumber over each eye. The coolness of the cucumber will sooth your eyes, and it also has anti-inflammatory properties. If you have time, puree the rest of the cucumber to make a face pack!

Another simple solution for puffy eyes is to use cold spoons. Its easy, just put four spoons in a glass of ice water. Take two out at a time to place over your eyes, then put them back and replace with the cold ones.

Green Tea has such wonderful effects on your body and mind, and now you can even use it to cure your puffy eyes! Cool down some Green Tea bags in the fridge or freezer, then place over your eyes for 5 minutes. The Green Tea reduces swelling and soothes your eyes.