"Mica On A Mission! "

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Industry Born Magazine sits down with Bravo TV's very own, "Blood, Sweat and Heels" cast member, model, actress, singer, owner of 2M and Mica Models Modeling Agency, Mica Hughes. Find out her take on the modeling industry, as well as professional knowledge on making it in today's industry.

Having problems with posing? Finding it hard to pose correctly once you're in front of the camera? Check out our ul t imate posing guide to help your next photo shoot run smooth and successfully!

Get in the know by learning more about your feet. Industry Born Magazine tells you how you can avoid the common pain of heels while stil l strutting your stuff !

Casting director, Gabriel explains what exactly he looks for in models during castings and how you can stand out from the rest.

Fitness Model Spot l ight : Regina Perez tells all on how she keeps her body looking amazing all season long!

Contents

Posing Tips

Featured Model

High HeelSurvival Guide

Stand Out To Cast ing Directors

Wha

t's In

side

Front Cover D etails:

Photographer: Douglas Smallwood

Coordinator:Patricia Blake-Simms

Model: Mica Hughes

Creative D irector/Wardrobe Stylist:

Tristen Blake

Hairstylist: Antonia Richardson

Make-up Artist: Ben Joedy

I B Team:

Editor In Chief:Tristen Blake

CEO:Patricia Blake-Simms

Staff Photographer:Shanell Brown

Staff Wardrobe Stylist: Logan Renee

Assistant:Katherine Wallace

Photographer: Douglas Smallwood

Model: Mica Hughes

Make-up Artist: Ben Joedy

Hairstylist: Antonia Richardson

Wardrobe Stylist/Creative Director: Tristen Blake

Coordinator: Patricia Blake-Simms

Retoucher: Douglas Smallwood

Mica On A Mission

Wardrobe:

1st look Gown - Laurence Kazar

2nd look Calvin Klein Tuxedo Dress/Just Fab White Heels

3rd look Boutique Red Dress/"Yesterday's Thriftique" Snake

Print Pointed Heels

Modeling

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Industry Born Magazine got the opportunity to sit down with the one and only Mica Hughes, the star of Bravo TV's, "Blood, Sweat and Heels." She is an actress, comedian, host and CEO of 2M Management and Mica Models Model and Talent Management in New York City.

Mica grew up in Columbia Maryland. She began her professional modeling career in Washington, D.C. where she f irst signed with a local agency while attending the University of Maryland College Park. Some of her f irst clients included Nordstroms and Neiman Marcus.

While working as a local news reporter she was scouted for modeling on the beaches of Miami. Mica moved to South Beach for six months but then decided to take her modeling career to the capital of fashion, New York City. She signed with Wilhelmina and became one of their top models. She has lived and modeled all over the world in places such as: Paris, Italy, London, Africa and Spain. She also modeled for top designers such as: Christian Dior, Gucci, Chanel, Donna Karan, Ralph Lauren, Prada, Oscar de la Renta, John Paul Gautier and more.

Supermodel, Mica Hughes has been modeling for over 20 years and continues to work in an extremely competit ive industry. She is the ultimate female entrepreneur living the life. As CEO of Mica Models and a fashion industry expert, Mica represents and manages upcoming and established models and talent.

By Tristen Blake

Not stopping there Mica continues to build her brand and business. Mica is def initely a businesswoman but also a talented actress and singer.

One thing that truly inspires me is that she is so focused on just that, her brand, her business, how to grow and be better.

Modeling

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"I f you like my look, my walk, my f it , that 's all that should matter! "

- Mica H.Mica shared with us how in the beginning of her modeling career in New York City she was often asked, what her nationality was. Her look often coined "exotic." Looking like many dif ferent ethnicit ies , she thought that this would increase her modeling opportunities when in fact it created more of a challenge in some cases. "I had a job where they booked me as a Caucasian model, not asking my nationality. When they discovered I was African American they stopped using me. I could never understand why it was so important to f irst ask someone's nationality.

Modeling

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No matter the challenge, Mica continued to learn, grow and always came out on top. One of the many reasons for her success is that she treated her modeling career as a business not a hobby.

"The key for longevity in this industry

is to be professional,

build relat ionships

and treat your career

as a business."

- Mica H.

Modeling

"I believe a good model is one who can transform into whatever is

needed to make the story believable. They are not afraid to take r isks."

- Mica H.

Modeling

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"I have girls that come to me and have no clue how to walk or pose in front of a camera. They have no pictures, no portfolio and no experience. That's a lot of work, t ime and investment for an agent."

"Unless Karl Lagerfeld is walking you into an agency, don't assume they will take the time to teach you the basics and spend money putting a portfolio together in hopes of you booking enough jobs to pay them back."

Mica states, many come to her and say.."I was told if an agency likes me, I shouldn't have to pay for pictures." That's true if a legit agency see's something in you, they may front the money for a shoot to get you started. When you book your f irst job, they will deduct it f rom your compensation. The industry has changed a lot and the unique situations are few and far between. Prepare yourself beforehand as much as possible. Learn your industry before you apply for the job.

Modeling

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And as most of our readers know, I had to ask our # 1 question that the Industry Born team is always looking to f ind out! Why does Mica Hughes feel as though she's born for this industry? As she had stated earlier, a real and professional model must be able to transform. She says, "I bel ieve a good model is one that can t ransform into whatever is needed to make the story bel ievable. They are not af raid to take risks.? We both agreed that this takes work, but Mica was lucky enough to be born with it! A lot of the talents she expressed as a young child such as singing, dancing and acting helped pave the path to her success. She always enjoyed doing creative things and most of all taking chances!

Modeling

"Preparat ion Meets Opportunity"

- Mica H.

When she was younger someone gave her a chance at the right t ime. Preparat ion meets opportunity is one of the motto's she lives by. Always be ready for your moment!

Mica is an extraordinary woman with many talents and a whole heck of a lot of ambition! Thank you Mica for truly being an Industry Born individual and for being every bit of an inspiration to my team and I. From your great advice, intell igence and the memorable moments we all shared, you are a force to be reckoned with and a name to be acknowledged in today's industry. - Editor in Chief

Modeling

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Editorial

Editorial

Editorial

Yesterday's Thrift iqueYesterday?s Thrif t ique?s grand open was on April 5, 2014. It?s a uniquely designed thrif t, boutique, and consignment center that caters to the fashionista that operates on a budget.

The overall mission of Yesterday?s Thrif t ique is to help domestic violence women with an immediate need for clothes or small appliances. To date, they have helped 2 families in need and have helped send a young lady to her prom. They are vastly and eagerly growing to help more families this year as well as increasing the employment need in Waldorf, MD by offering part t ime and full t ime work. Yesterday?s Thrif t ique currently has 4 employees, Paula Bland, April Brock, Irma Smith, and Renee Ladson, all with growing aspirations to execute the vision of the store by driving the vision to open 2 more sister chains in various locations that will provide the same family resource and assistance. Yesterday?s Thrif t ique recently partnered with Catholic Charit ies of St. Mary?s County and is so proud to engage in the transition of people in need to help them live their l ife on their own again.

Yesterday?s Thrif t ique works and partners with the True Deliverance Church of God to help their outreach department in minimizing the gap in reaching those in need. They are also one of the Primary Sponsors for the LOVE Foundation 2014.

The slogan for Yesterday?s Thrif t ique?s litt le house of fashion is ?Come on in and Rock It Again!"

Website: www.rockingitagain.com

Google Search: Yesterday?s Thrif t ique

Ads

TheUndisclosedproject.comComing this Summer 2015. The Undisclosed Project Swimwear is a collection of swimsuits designed by Tristen Blake.

These designs exemplif ies a daring woman with confidence in her f igure and attitude.

Photographer: Shanell Brown

Models: Tristen Blake/Olivia Mackell

Swimsuit: H igh Thigh Melanin One-Piece

Melanin Girls

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COCONUT WA TER &

IT'S BENEFITS

1. Aids in Weight-loss Ef forts.

The fat content in coconut water is extremely low, so generous quantit ies can be consumed without the fear of immediately packing on the pounds. It also suppresses the appetite and makes you feel full because of its rich nature.

2. Picture-Perfect Skin.

For those with acne or other blemishes on the surface of the skin, topical application of coconut water can go a great distance as it has the ability to clear up and subsequently tone the skin. It also moisturizes the skin from within if ingested orally and eliminates large amounts of oil. This explains why products such as facial creams, shampoos, conditioners and lotions that contain traces of coconut extract are more effective.

3. The Ul t imate Hangover Remedy.

Next time you overdo it and drink more than your belly can handle, consume coconut water to settle your stomach. It will also replace those essential electrolytes that exit the body if you experience bouts of frequent urination and vomiting.

4. Facil i tates Digest ion.

If you constantly encounter dif f iculty during the digestion process, coconut water may provide a source of relief. Because of its high concentration of f iber, it aids in the prevention of indigestion and reduces the occurrence of acid ref lux.

5. Boosts Hydrat ion.

The ingredients in coconut water are way more effective at hydrating the human body than those of sports and energy drinks. During rigorous exercise or extended periods of physical activity, the human body loses mineral-rich f luids. However, coconut water serves as an excellent replacement medium with 294 mg of potassium and 5 mg of natural sugar per glass, unlike your favorite sports drink that only contains half of the potassium content and f ive times the amount of processed sugar. In addition, the sodium count is only 25 mg, which is relatively low compared to the 41 and 20 mg found in sports drinks and energy drinks respectively.

Health

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6. Reduces Blood Pressure.

In many instances, a disproportionate level of electrolytes can

result in high blood pressure. Because coconut water contains an adequate supply of each, it can be used as a balancing mechanism. In some instances, it is recommended that coconut water be consumed at the start of each day to foster the balance of these electrolytes.

7. Rich in Nutrients.

Unlike any other beverage on the market, coconut water contains f ive essential electrolytes that are present in the human body. These include: calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium and sodium. Because of its unique composition, coconut water can be enjoyed by individuals with varying medical conditions.

8. Compat ible with Human Blood.

Since it is isotonic to human plasma, coconut water can be used in extreme emergencies to quickly re-hydrate the human body if administered intravenously. It is not uncommon for the drink to be used in poorer, third-world countries to save human lives.

How Much Should You Consume?

Coconut water can be enjoyed as a stand-alone beverage or combined with another liquid product. There is no hard and fast rule regarding the amount that should be consumed on a daily basis, but experts from the Mayo Clinic strongly suggest that you consider maintaining an active lifestyle if consuming large amounts of coconut water since each eight ounce serving is accompanied by 45 to 60 calories.

When searching for the perfect fresh coconut to enjoy, be sure to steer clear of those that have a hard brown shell as this is an indication that it is mature. Instead, look for those that are

young and green on the exterior as they usually contain a large supply of the actual coconut water substance. To test it out, simply shake the coconut up and down to gauge how much liquid it contains.

Principle Nutrient Percentage

Energy 19 Kcal 1%

Carbohydrates3.71 g 3%

Protein 0.72 g 1.5%

Total Fat 0.20 g 1%

Cholesterol 0 mg 0%

Dietary 1.1 g 3%

Vitamins

Folates 3 µg 0.75%

Niacin 0.080 mg 0.5%

Pantothenic 0.043 mg <1%

Pyridoxine 0.032 mg 2.5%

Riboflavin 0.057 mg 4%

Thiamin 0.030 mg 2.5%

Vitamin C 2.4 mg 4%

Vitamin A 0 IU 0%

Vitamin E 0 mg 0%

Vitamin K 0 mcg 0%

Electrolytes

Sodium 105 mg 7%

Potassium 250 mg 5%

Minerals

Calcium 24 mg 2.4%

Copper 40 mcg 4.5%

Iron 0.29 mg 3.5%

Magnesium 25 mg 6%

Manganese 0.142 mg %

Zinc 0.10 mg 1%

Phyto-nutrients

Auxin Present --

Carotene,ß 0 µg --

Cytokines Present --

Lutein-zeaxanthin0 µg --

LeucoanthocyaninPresent

See the table below for in depth analysis of nutrients:

Coconut water (Cocus nucifera), Fresh, Nutrit ion Value per 100 g

(Source: USDA National Nutrient data base)

Health

Article Credit: http:/ /www.nutrit ion-and-you.com/coconut-water.html

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Featured Model

Regina Perez"I love helping others reach their fitness and weight loss goals."

When I am not training others I am a freelance f itness model and f itness contributor. My wish is to combine my knowledge and experience in these areas, to deliver the best f itness regime to everyone. If you are on social media be sure to add me on Instagram: @ReginaPerezFitness and Twitter: @ReginaPerez.

I was an athlete growing up. It was not until I had my child that pushed me into full throttle because I was afraid of keeping that extra weight on. I started working with other moms and eventually started group training. Stil l, I am amazed that people want to follow me along my f itness journey.

How did you get started in health and fitness?

What workout routine has worked best for you?

The BEST workout is the plan that you actually follow through with. I had to learn this the hard way. Each day consist of 5 dif ferent exercises that correlates with the body part I am focused on. I found this workout on Bodybuilder.com. The best thing about any plan you f ind online is that you can adjust it based on your physical f itness level.

Day 1: Arms

Day 2: Chest/Abdominal

Day 3: Rest

Day 4: Shoulders

Day 5: Back

Day 6: Rest

Day 7: Legs/Calves

Day 8: Rest

Photographer: Chawntez Woodberry

Featured Model

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While they are very dif ferent, each one is important in its own way and both will go a long way toward helping me achieve the body, f itness level and overall health I desire. Short-term goals generally take four to six weeks to achieve. Long-term goals may take months to achieve.

My short term goals:

Workout f ive times a week

Adjusting my eating habits, cutting out soft drinks & sweets

Long term goals:

Running a half marathon

Gain 15 pounds of muscle

Healthy dieting

I want to build bigger muscles and add mass. My f itness plan includes me eating more calories than I would burn, which means that I will not be losing fat. Generally a female my age would intake about 1200 calories, I intake 1700 calories.

First you need to understand what junk food is. These kinds of foods have litt le to zero nutrit ional

value, are high in calories, usually highly processed, ready to eat with litt le preparation, and are normally

high in fat, sugar, and/or salt. It?s also known for "empty calories" ? which means you are getting no nourishment. I usually crave something sweet after

every meal but if I did that who knows where my weight would be. On Mondays and Fridays are my

designated days to treat myself to something sweet. Depriving yourself , eating barely anything, and

going hungry, will make you think about food ALL THE TIME and keep you from enjoying the life that you

really want.

I want to inspire people. I want someone to look at me and say because of you "I did not give up!"

If getting active and staying healthy were easy, everyone would do it. Do not give up. Everyday is a

new day to start again.

What are your short and long term fitness goals?

Can you outline your daily diet for us?

How do you deal with cravings for junk food?

What is your favorite motivating quote?

What advice can you give beginners for fitness?

Photographer: Chawntez Woodberry

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Featured Model

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So I'm sure you're probably wondering - What is the dif ference between an "Instagram model" and a real model? Well, let me help you understand!

Instagram model - A person who receives more than the average amount of likes on an Instagram picture due to their popularity and or overexposed body images. Over a period of time develops a thought in their head in which makes them believe he or she is a model because of the amount of eyes that have seen their particular photo. The likes that they receives usually encourage them to post additional picture via social media that all look the same with the hope that they will get the same results as their initial post.

Model - A person with a role either to promote, display, or advertise commercial products or to serve as a visual aide for people who are creating works of art.

I mean really!? This isn't one of those "Can You Spot The Difference?" games! It's obvious who the real working models are, and the ones who wouldn't know how to pose the way they do on social media if they were in front of a real camera! It sucks even more that there are plenty of them out there stealing all of the gigs/jobs from real working models that are serious about their modeling career.

I think that the key to setting yourself aside from an "Instagram model" is to first, have a legit official website and portfolio displayed on your website. We all know how easy it is to take a really good picture if you're photogenic and claim that it was a full blown photo shoot that went down! When you have a legitimate website, that puts you on a totally different level than these fakes!

Another great tip for setting yourself aside, even if you are an amateur - submit to agencies for representation. You'll have no need to say to an interested photographer..Here's my number! Just text me a date you're available to shoot." or "My rates vary and it depends on if you'll be providing transportation." You must know that this is and looks extremely unprofessional. Wouldn't it sound so much better to say, "You can speak with my agency," or "Please email my agent at ______@ABCAgency.com for booking information."

Lastly, always keep it professional! No matter what circumstance you are placed in or any promises that are made to you. If you know there's a right and a wrong way, then why pick the option of possibly getting into a situation you may just not be able to get out of. With that being said, your safety and the way that you represent yourself can have a great impact on how serious others view your modeling career.

And hey, you never know! You may just end up getting booked for the modeling job of your dreams!

THERE ARE REAL MODELS

AND THEN THERE ARE

I NSTAGRAM MODELS

bornblake

Written By Tristen Blake

Modeling

By Tristen B.

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Q: "I'm af raid of prints because I never know what 's t rending and what 's not . What are some ageless prints?"

-Nia: Jacksonvil le, FL

A: Trends come and go but these classic prints are everlasting:

1. Animal Print .

2. Bat ik Print .

3. Liberty.

4. Plaid.

5. Polka Dot .

6. Strips.

Q: "How old is too old for denim cutof fs?"

-Naomi: Raleigh, NC

A: You're never too old to wear denim cutoffs as long as it 's done correctly. If private areas are covered, body type is being taken into consideration, and distressing is at a minimum then wearing denim cutoffs is appropriate for any age.

Q: "I want to invest in a good leather bag. Any advice on how to pick one out that is t imeless and not too t rendy?"

-Hailey: Virginia Beach, VA

A: If you're looking to invest in a new leather bag, look forward to spending at least $100. Brands aren't important, but quality is. You want a bag made of leather that'l l look better with wear.

Start by deciding which type of vintage designer bags you love the look of (Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and MCM are all solid choices). When it comes to shape and size, f ind something that's big enough to f it your essentials, plus room for extras. Avoid getting a bag with too much detail on the hardware ? off-trend studs, spikes, rivets, and embellishments are the quickest way to date a bag.

Fashion advice, tips/tricks, FAQ'S & more!Have more questions? Email me at: Styledbyloganrenee@gmail.com.

Help me, help you with all of my favorite fashion solutions.

LOGA N'S CORNER

By Logan Renee : @Styledbyloganrenee

Fashion

Q: "Help!! How do I style my boyf riend jeans?"

-Brianna: New York, NY

A: The trick to making boyfriend jeans work is all in the ankle. When wearing boyfriend jeans, make sure they're already cropped or give them a cuff . It 's important that boyfriend jeans end at the very slimmest part of your ankle. The safest way to wear boyfriend jeans are to pair them with stiletto-thin heels (pumps or strappy sandals), but a chunky platform sandal looks great with them as well.

On top wear an oversized oxford, boxy tee, or another tomboyish top (tuck it in to give it a more classic look!). If you want to wear something tighter and more feminine on top, wear a low-cut, lace-up shoe or sandal to embrace a more girly side.

Q: "I want to wear a backless dress but I don't want to go braless. What should I do?"

-Amel ia: Charlot te, NC

A: Depending on your bra size, there are some bra options that let you lower your bra strap to the small of your back. There are also stick-on bras, but good luck with getting them to say on during the summertime. However, they aren't as supportive as regular bras, so they definitely aren't a solution to those of us who are fuller on top. For smaller chested girls, a convertible, low-backed bra can provide some support while keeping the back of your dress clear.

Q: "Do pat terned t ights work for everyone?"

-Carmen: Washington, DC

A: No. This is a question that caters not only to body type but an individual's personal comfort zone. Patterned tights draw attention. If your legs aren't an area that you want shown off then avoid patterned tights.

Fashion

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Bl OT IT!

BLOT YOUR MAKE-UP:

You don't always need to repowder your face? extra layers can cause cakeyness! Oil blotting sheets are very convenient and you can take them everywhere! They soak up excess oil without messing up your make-up.

M ASCARA

WATER PROOF MASCARA:

Waterproof mascara is a no-brainer in the Summer! It can withstand swimming, sweating and even hanging with friends.

LIGHTEN UP:

To reduce shine and to set your makeup always use a translucent powder. Dust just a litt le bit across your T-zone. Also, because its colorless, it is not l ikely to cause problems with heat.

SH INE FREE

TINT YOUR LIPS:

Lip gloss is always the go-to-product in the Summer, but eventually it gets sticky. A tinted lip balm with a high wax content won't turn to mess in

your bag or on your l ips.

TINTED LIPS

LIQUID

LIQUID LINER:

Liquid liner takes a lot of patience to apply but its a good formula that won't smudge like a pencil will!

W A I T . . .

T H E R E ' S M O R E !

Beauty

Images courtesy of Google.27

Editorial

Photographer: Alberto Coronel AUC Photography David CheungJose Juarez Model: Wendy Jeanette Make-up Artist: Bobby Miller

AWind Full

Editorial

You Make it!Fake it! Until

But dont bake it!Normal-to-dry skin:

GELS: Hydrating gel formulas will help to keep dry skin moisturized. It will help prevent streaking and help the color go on more evenly.

TRY: Guerlain Terracotta Sunless Tinted Self-Tanning Gel ($55)

OIL: Self tanning oils will leave dry

skin glowing.

TRY: St. Tropez Luxe Tan Dry Oil ($50)

CREAM: A lot of creams have bronzer in them, which means you can see the color as you?re applying it. Creams have extra moisturizer in them and they?re perfect for dry skin.

TRY: LORAC Self TANtalizer Body Bronzing Gradual Self Tanner ($15)

Normal-to-oily skin:

MOUSSE: Mousses are light and work well on oily skin.

TRY: Vita Liberata Fabulous Tinted Self-Tanning Mousse ($30)

TOWELETTES: Towelettes are quick and easy. They absorb quickly and will not streak. They are also excellent on the go or for vacations.

TRY: Kate Somerville 360 Tanning Towelettes ($48)

SPRAYS: Sprays are good for covering hard to reach areas like your back. Sprays are also light and great for oil ier complexions.

TRY: Victoria?s Secret Beach Sexy Self-Tanning Tinted Spray ($12)

Beauty

By P.B.S

how to apply!Sunless tanners

L'oreal Sublime

Daily Glow

St. Lopez Self Tan

Dark Bronzing Spray

L'Oreal Sublime

Bronze Properfect

Jergens Natural Glow Foaming Daily Moisturizer

Lancome Flash Bronzer

1. Prepare your skin. Take a shower and shave. Exfoliating your skin is a great idea.

2. Pat yoursel f dry. You don't want to be damp. Apply a light layer of moisturizer.

3. Put on gloves. This will keep your hands from staining and also give you a smooth "applicator' to work with.

4. Work f rom the bot tom up.

5. Go easy on the face. Put a dot on your cheeks, forehead, nose and chin, then blend.

6. Do your hands last .

7. Buf f . Slightly buff areas that tend to grab too much color such as your elbows and knees.

8. Be pat ient . Read the instructions carefully and wait before you get dressed or go to bed so you don't transfer the color to your clothes or sheets.

9. Fix st reaks. Add water to a teaspoon of baking powder to make a paste and apply to blotchy spots.

10. Maintain your tan. Use moisturizer every day.

FAIR SKIN

MEDIUM & OLIVE SKIN

DARK SKIN

Guerlain Terracotta Spray SPF 10 In Medium

Beauty

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Editorial

Photographer: Jon Michael Moses

Model: Naowshaba Ferdous

Makeup Artist: Tiyana Peters

Hair Stylist: Glenn Nelson

Wardrobe Stylist: Kayla Jones

Retoucher: 11:11 Retouching

E c l e c t ic

Editorial

Editorial

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2. Write them out . This is quicker than you think, and you always remember the lines word for word when you are done. I have used this for memorizing longer scenes with lots of speeches. I f ind this works really well because you are connecting your mind to the action of writ ing the lines down and seeing the lines at the same time. They seem to go to a deeper part of your brain. I prefer writ ing them by hand instead of typing.

Write out just your lines in one big paragraph, then run through the scene out loud. Then do this f ive more times, breaking your lines into thoughts each time. The last t ime you write them out, see if you can do it without looking at the script, and just think of the other person?s lines. What?s great about it is that you aren?t memorizing what the other characters are saying, and can really l isten in the scene and not anticipate the lines. (Time: Approx one hour for a 12-page scene.)

3. Run the l ines with someone many t imes. Preferably an actor, not your friend who was an extra on ?Blue Bloods? one time, l ikes to coach you, and keeps reading the stage directions out loud. The f irst t ime you run through it, just listen to the words. Focus on pausing between each line, really absorbing what?s being said and going over the scene many times in many dif ferent ways, playing with intention, actions, and pacing. Try it sitt ing and standing, and allow yourself to make mistakes and explore every way not to do it, while also getting more and more comfortable with the lines. Focus on the ?why?

and the circumstances, which will help you learn the scene on a deeper level. If you forget your lines, you can f ind your way back because you really understand what?s going on. (Time: Approx. 30 minutes to an hour.)

Personally, I usually use a combination of these three techniques to prepare for every audition. I will write down the lines, then run them with the Rehearsal 2 app, then with another actor, during which time I will speed through them as fast as I can (the real test to see how well you know them). After that I will improvise the lines, and see if I can come up

with some added moments and reactions between the lines that feel authentic to me, in a way that I would say them. Then I layer the writer?s words back on and blend it all together. This way, I am memorized, but also f lexible and open

to direction and change.

At the end of the day you want the lines to seem like second nature, genuine and authentic, as if they are coming from a real person with real thoughts and ideas . Auditions cause anxiety, and while you may have them memorized at home, when you walk into the room it?s easy to get distracted and forget. As actors, we need to prepare for this, and be very, very memorized (but not locked into a pattern), so that we are confident, relaxed, committed, l istening, and open to direction.

Article: Backstage.com

Acting

Images courtesy of Google.

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Acting

Nicolette El l is

" He r t i me i s n e a r . . . | "

My name is Nicolette Ellis and I'm an actress currently l iving in NYC but I'm from Columbia, MD where I was raised with my litt le brother by my mom. It seemed as though basically our whole family raised us, especially my grandmother. She was the reason I even got into the entertainment industry, where she taught me how to play the piano. After that, I discovered that I l iked entertaining people with my actions and words instead of playing the piano. I eventually discovered acting in high school because I needed to f il l a space on my high school schedule, so I decided "why not take theatre?" After that f irst day of class, I said "This is exactly how I'm going to entertain people, by creating characters." So I started to take it extremely serious and after high school I got into The American Musical and Dramatic Academy in NYC, where they dril led the acting program into me. But I stil l wanted more. 

ActorSpotl ight

Photographer: Barry Morgenstein

Photographer: Norman E.

Acting

Want more information to learn about Nicolette Ellis?

Official Website: NicoletteEllis.com

Instagram: Nicolette.Ellis

Twit ter: _NicoletteEllis

Stiletto Dreams Movie: Vimeo.com/115308783

When I was younger I would always write poems and stories, so I decided to take on writ ing again. One day I was in my dorm room trying to f igure out "How will I become a successful actress? How will everyone know who I am?" I decided to write a story based on the people that I have met in my life called 'Stiletto Dreams' that will be premiering this fall. This story was formed from the positive to the negative people, the motivational people and the ones that try to bring us down that I've come across in my life. It took me almost a year and a half to create this story about a girl who's life changes so quickly in a matter

of a 3 month time span. That?s when acting became huge in my life, I started

auditioning, getting roles, getting denied, encouraged and disappointed, t ired, happy and most of all learning

from every achievement and mistakes I've made. It takes a lot to make some dreams that seems unrealistic come true. I know it can be the most frustrating thing in the world but if you aim higher than what people expect of you, you never know what will happen.

ActorSpotl ight

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Modeling

HAVE UNDERSTANDING OF lIGHTING

OVER ROTATING OF THE EYES IN PHOTOS

ElONGATE YOUR NECK

Be careful when posing. If you decide you want to raise your arms, be aware of the beam of l ight. Also, if you're not careful

you could cast a shadow on your face. You can counteract this by using your other arm. Be sure that you ask the photographer

where is your main light and try your best to work with it.

Recognize when your eyes are over-rotating. It is always

advisable to follow the line of your nose to keep your sight

central. This stops from capturing photos where too

much of the white in your eyes are showing. Knowing how far you can turn your head is also key. Use a mirror to check out

which angles are too much.

Elongate your neck to stimulate your height and poise. This is

one of the many things that are hard to remember because it feels so unnatural. Stand in

front of your mirror, roll your shoulders back and allow your head to come forward. This is another sl imming trick. Go a step forward and tilt your jaw

towards the camera if you want a strong jawline created.

All pose examples are unedited for a true representation ? taken by Jon Brook Photos Courtesy of Petapixel.com

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Editorial

Editorial

Editorial

Editorial

Editorial