Leap of Faith

IntIt’s been a long time since I last posted a blog…since the first week of January to be exact and there are a number of reasons for this. Health. Friends. Family. Work and ultimately I had lost the desire to continue writing.

I don’t think my writing style is the most enticing or what I had to write was very interesting but that is all about to change, maybe, because I quit my job, I left my family home and moved to London to pursue a career in acting and modelling. Yup you read it right. If you’re a friend of mine you’ve probably already aware of what’s going on.

If not then stay tuned.

I could basically fill up this blog with a load of ‘take a chance’ quotes but I’ll save them for my twitter and Instagram, well there might still be a couple..

This move has been a plan of mine for some time now, a lot longer than I realised, apparently since I saw my first West End show back when I was about 9. I got to see Les Miserables as part of a group trip with my drama club, I was stunned to say the least. The lights, the costumes, the harmonies and the stage! It moved! And that was it for me I went home to my mom and dad told them that’s where I want to be and that’s what I want to do.

Which brings us to now. I’m doing it, well kinda. I’m here, in London. For me personally that was half the battle, this year while I was in hospital (after my operation) I had one of those iconic light bulb moments where I said to myself if I don’t do this now I never will.

Now I’m very much a realist, I know this isn’t going to be easy being a freelance artist, I know I’ll compare myself to others succeeding, I know I’ll have to get used to my own company, I’m gunna have to get used to going to the gym more than once a week, I will perfect my craft and go to castings/auditions A LOT of them, but all of this makes me even more curious.

Being in the unknown is pretty scary, but I’m trying to replace my fear with my desire and drive for what I’m pursuing, if nothing else at least I can say I’ve tried.

I’ve only been here about three weeks and so far so good. I’ve had a professional modelling job already, booked in a couple more and applied for dozens of castings so now we wait, I’ll report back when the next exciting event happens. Hopefully that won’t be another 8 months down the line xx

New Years Resolutions

We are six days into the new year how many of you have made resolutions? How many have already broken them?

I’m guessing quite a few..General stats show that only 8% of people actually achieved there resolutions last year, don’t worry I didn’t manage any of them either.

Do not fret!

Another new year offers another opportunity to achieve you goals. Hopefully these tips will help you get back on track and keep them.

1. Make your goals specific. A lot of people say to “exercise more” But what does that actually mean? Do you intend to reach a certain weight? Do you want to run a 10k? Maybe be able to do 10 pull-ups? Try a set yourself a certain target

2. Measure your progress. “If you can measure it, you can change it” is a fundamental principal of psychology. These feedback loops will be a source of motivation as you reflect on where you started and where you are. They will also help you to know when you are hitting a plateau or slipping backward, so you can adjust your efforts.

3. Be patient. Some people will see rapid gains only to hit resistance later in their efforts. For others, initial progress may be painfully slow but then they suddenly achieve rapid breakthroughs. Making lasting changes takes time.

4. Share your goals with friends and family. One of the most effective things you can do is to get an “accountability partner”, someone who checks in with you daily or weekly. It’s easy to break a promise to yourself, but far harder to admit it to a friend.

5. Schedule it. Have you ever said you can’t “find the time” to do something. Nobody finds time, we make time. We all choose to spend our time the way we do—whether that’s eating junk food or going to a spin class. Make your new goals a priority and actually schedule them into your calendar. If you have a fitness goal schedule recurring time blocks for your daily workouts. Want to declutter? Schedule time to clean out your wardrobe or garage on your calendar. Treat these New Year Resolution’s as appointments just like they were scheduled doctor appointments. You rarely reschedule your doctor, you should treat your time the same way. That which is scheduled gets done.

6. Something is better than nothing. Are you guilty of “all or nothing” thinking? Do you ever think, “Well, I might as well get dessert since I already ate those French fries?” And then, “I blew my diet last night so I’ll just restart it next week.” The difference between doing something rather than nothing is huge. If you don’t have a full hour to workout at the gym, just decide to make it the best 20-minutes you can. If you stumble out of bed and don’t want to do 20-minutes on the treadmill, lace up your sneakers and do five minutes (and you just might find you do another 15 minutes once the first five are out of the way). Any effort towards your goal is better than no effort.

7. Get up, when you slip up. Legendary coach Vince Lombardi said, “It isn’t whether you get knocked down, it’s whether you get back up.” Resiliency is paramount. Don’t turn temporary failures into total meltdowns or excuses for giving up. Instead, just acknowledge the mistake and recommit to the path towards the goal. Forgive yourself. Slipping is part of the process.

Achieving your goals isn’t about willpower. It’s about developing the right skills, executing strategies, and having the patience that inevitably lead to success. Will 2017 be the year you join the elite 8%? xxx

The 'Real' Makeup of Makeup Artists

Every girl knows the tagline ‘Maxfactor the real makeup of makeup artists’

Funny thing is I don’t think I’ve ever seen a makeup artist use anything from the Maxfactor range..ever.

Whenever I work with a makeup artist I am always fascinated by what makeup they use, brushes and if they have any tips or tricks for me. They always seem to have copious amounts of makeup with them, it’s always a suitcase full. And when I say full, I mean they are usually bursting at the seams and these are usually just the essentials.

From seeing what the makeup they use I’ve built up my own little collection of makeup to use for photoshoots based on their recommendations. Here’s what I have so far:

• Maybelline mascara’s

• L’Oréal concealer

• Urban Decay’s primer

• Nars Blusher

• Nyx Eyeshadows

• Mac foundation

The other recommendations I’ve been given:

• Kryolan

• Graptobian

• Rcma

• Makeup forever

• Naked

With the power of the internet, my mothers staff discount card for boots and maybe some stock fillers for Christmas I’m sure I’ll do able to build up quite a collection, maybe not quite as good as a makeup artists but I’ll certainly give it a shot.

Who knows if you’re a fan of your makeup maybe you should drop a couple of hints..there’s still time to get a couple of last minute gifts for Christmas xxx

A Models Day Off..

While most models run from show to show (especially during fashion week) and most who are not supermodel status have multiple fittings, casting calls and are running around with iPhones in hand; most have some common practices when not on the runway or at a photo shoot.

Models Are Still In Style.

The key behind being a successful model is a very simple concept – marketing. Even when models or supermodels are not scheduled, their appearance and reputation is everything whether they have been in a national publication or in a local fashion show. This means not leaving the house in your sweats or without combing your hair. There are simple fashion tips most can take advantage of, as most models always look fashionable even if they are not on the runway or at a photoshoot.

Model Off-Duty Hair.

There are several ways to get model off-duty hair, but the following are insider industry secrets and not common day-to-day knowledge. These secrets are for getting perfectly imperfect fabulous model looking hair. First, a less than a perfect blowout is key – slightly messy is very sexy; which also translates into romantic and beautiful. Try an air dry. Most models want to avoid curling irons and hair dryers on their day off, so they opt for an air dry while using a subtle styling. Last, if you want model off-duty hair, you want to invest in great shampoos and conditioners. Most women have to deal with hair abuse on a minor level, if they colour their hair the bar raises a notch and when it comes to models they have to deal with their hair being abused on a daily basis.

Models On Vacation.

Models are expert travellers. Many models start off with honey and water for breakfast; but the most important tip that they share is lots of water and lots of sleep. Taking care of your skin is also a number one priority and this isn’t just sunscreen, but a healthy morning and evening skin regime. In fact, most models avoid the sun period during the summer months.

Models Day off Around The Town.

Most models would say sleep here is priority number one, and not hitting the bar scene the second they are off duty. While they still stick to a structured exercise routine and a healthy diet, their off-duty activities include what most people do. This includes visiting family if they are local, heading out to parks, movies, hitting up a spa for a relaxing massage among anything else most would consider a relaxing day-off activity xxx

My Crohns Story - Part 2

By 22 I was back in Birmingham, newly single, working at a local pub and living with some friends, I was really enjoying my time. And I was planning a month long trip to visit my brother in Australia who I hadn’t seen in a couple of years. It was about a week before I went to Oz that I started to feel ill I thought nothing of it and powered through, I went to Oz and I struggled, I struggled to eat to keep up with all the things that my brother had planned but I did it because I was so excited to be in a new place and to see him. When I came back I continued to struggle with pain and exhaustion, I continued to work because I had bills to pay. The hospital was changing my medication but nothing was working, it wasn’t until a couple of months later, it took my boss to send me home from work and he told me not to come back until I was better. The next day I took myself to A&E and they admitted my then and there. I was mortified I didn’t want to be admitted I just wanted something to for the pain, I was supposed to go away that weekend to Blackpool for my sister in laws hen do, I would of still gone as well for fear of letting her down,

I still believe this is the worst my health has ever been to date. I lost nearly two stone in weight (I was down to 6 stone) I was so malnourished that they had to give me food gradually in fear that too much food would shock the system. During this two week stay they ran some of the usual tests and realised three sections of my intestines that was cause for concern, they were ulcerated and inflamed. They had a plan, the main section that caused concern was where I had on surgery several years previous one this section they performed a balloon dilation (which is very similar to a stent in the heart) They inserted a balloon into my intestines and used a balloon to stretch out this section. We had also agreed to try some previous treatment again (the infusions where I initially had the allergic reaction) as the formula has changed slightly and they were confident that this would now work. Which it did, for about a 18 months..

This February I was once again in hospital, again I was well for quiet sometime but the passing of my grandad and seeing my nan become ill was clearly too much for me to handle. I was starting to notice a pattern every time I went into hospital there was some stress or trauma beforehand. When I was 13 it was school, when I was 17 my parents had separated, when I was 22 I has spilt up with my long term boyfriend (which initially I coped with really well until I was drunk one night at an engagement party and was scrolling through facebook to see he now had a new girlfriend, a girl who I was suspicious of while we were together, yeah I didn’t deal with that well) and now a grandparent passing.

This time when I went into hospital I was a lot worse than I thought, I only went for a general appointment but the doctors where so concerned they admitted me. This was the first time I recall being on a drip for vitamins and minerals due to malnourishment, I felt better quiet quickly as another change in treatment was issued I was changed from one infusion to another as it turns out my body built up antibodies to fight the drugs.

Which brings us to now..The same thing is happening again, my body is building up antibodies to fight the treatment, not work with it. Good going aye. And as of yesterday it has been confirmed that a second surgery is now needed. There are two section that are inflamed one in my small intestine and one where the join is from the small intestine to the large (this is where I had my previous surgery). The plan is to remove both of these and the bit in between as they are quiet close together and re-join the healthy bowel together. All that’s left now is to meet the surgeons, who I already know from my previous procedures, and set a date which will be in the next 3 months. So now I just got to wait and stay as healthy as I can so that I’m strong enough for surgery. Which may be difficult but I’ll definitely try and although the idea of surgery sounds daunting I’m quite happy with this plan, the fact is there is a plan and I feel I’ve needed surgery for a while now I was kinda just waiting on the doctors to say when. And I’m very optimistic for after. After my last surgery I was the healthiest I’ve ever been for a good 18 months. I’m excited to feel that way again.

In a weird way I’m grateful for what I’ve gone through, this illness has taught me so much about my body and myself which I would not have no known. I am a lot stronger then I give myself credit for, I am much more understanding and compassionate and I work a lot harder for what I want and although whatever I want will take me a hell of a lot longer than most to get there if I’m determined enough I will get there.

This blog is for all of those who think Crohns and Colitis are just stomach problems. For those who have loved ones that suffer with these illness’s be sympathetic, there’s a lot more going on than you realise, they are putting on a brave face for you. And of course this is for those with Crohns and Colitis who have suffered/are currently suffering to let you know, you are not alone! We can get through this together and we will xxx

Side Notes

Between 18 – Present I realised that Crohns causes a lot more complications then just with your stomach. As it’s classed as autoimmune disease meaning the immune system attacks and destroys the healthy tissue in the body. This has led to a lot more complications than just what you see e.g cysts on my eyes, tonsillitis, shingles, erythema nodosum, problems with my joints, my hands, my back, anaemia, fatigue and weak bones in general.

List of medications (Not in any particular order) – Pentasa, Azathioprine, Mercaptopurine, Budesonide, Vitamin B12 Injections, Methotrexate Injections, Humira Injections, Infliximab Infusions, Vedolizamab Infusions and of course the infamous Prednisolone (Countless times)

Links to Crohns Websites (For those of you wanting to learn more or want official explanations) –

https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/

http://www.crohns.org.uk/

http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Crohns-disease/Pages/Introduction.aspx

My Crohns Story - Part 1

My explanation of Crohns. This is the description I give to me when they ask me what my illness is. I say that it doesn’t usually affect my on a day to day basis (a little white lie). But when I get ill, a number of things can happen mainly I can have ulcers throughout my digestive system or my intestines become inflamed and swell up. A hell of a lot of symptoms occur with this but this is the easiest way I can describe it, I understand this isn’t very informative but it’s the basics.

Let’s start at the very beginning. My diagnoses. In all honesty I don’t remember a lot about this. I was diagnosed with Crohns around my 8th birthday. I think I was suffering for a few months before diagnoses. I have a couple of very specific memories of feeling ill the first is of myself at dinner with the family and my mom had cooked spaghetti Bolognese I remember having just one bite and it caused pain so I spent the rest of the meal just pushing the food around my plate to make it look like I had eaten much more. I also recall Christmas day. I was lying on the settee in excruciating pain, I couldn’t move and my brothers had to pass me my presents and help me open them.

The main symptoms I recall was stomach pains, from the smallest bite of food, even from drinking water, I was being sick a lot, I was extremely tired and had no energy and my hair was falling out (which I didn’t know at the time as I was still at the stage of my mom doing my hair). So after a few months of extensive tests including endoscopies, colonoscopies, biopsies, bariums, X-rays, Ultrasounds, EUA’s (Examination Under Anaesthetic), White Blood cell scans, Blood tests, Urine tests, MRI scans and MRE scans I was diagnosed with Crohns Disease. I had no idea what this meant. I was way too young to understand this. All I knew was that it was painful to eat so I didn’t want to eat. Simple. Be careful what you wish for..after I was diagnosed I didn’t eat for 2-3 months. I was given a NG (nasogastric) tube, which is a feeding tube, it is inserted through the nose and goes down the throat into the stomach. I had to have this tube in constantly and for 22 hours a day I would be hooked up to a machine which would pump through a feed made up of all the vitamins, minerals and healthy calories my body needed in order to recover and become healthy again. This along with some strong medication did indeed do the trick and I remained well and virtually symptom free until I turned 13.

As if being 13 years old isn’t hard enough, with school, puberty and boys, I also had to start worrying about my health. By this time my medication had changed a couple of times into a slightly stronger tablets, but from what I recall my symptoms came on pretty drastically. As in within a couple of weeks I went from being as healthy as someone could be to my mom driving me up to the hospital in the middle of the night because I was in so much pain I couldn’t walk, I couldn’t keep any food down, it even got to the point where I was bringing up my own stomach lining because there was physically nothing else to come up.

A week or so later I was due for surgery. I was in the theatre for over 4 hours. The operation itself was called a laparotomy, during this operation I had about 20 inches of my intestines removed as they had become so ulcerated and inflamed they had actually collapsed on themselves and far beyond the point the point of medication doing anything. The part of my intestine that had been removed was the terminal ileum, which the connection joining the small bowel to the large bowel

It was at this point I started to realise the severity of my illness and that I was going to have to learn how to look after myself. I had 3 months off school to recover from this operation, I had another change of medication and went back to having the NG tube but by this point the feed that went through the tube had been modified so that you could actually drink it in little 300ml ‘milkshakes’. So I would have 6-8 of these a day along with the NG tube at night (by this point I had learned to pass this myself). When I went back to school after the April half term I remained well again for at least 18 months, and I mean extremely well.

For a few years after I still struggled with what me and my family would call blips. Where I would have a few weeks of being bad but then it would resolve itself by either my liquid diet or change in medication, the medication was getting stronger as I was getting older, I started having to give myself injections (A list of medications will be supplied at the end). This was the worst of it until I turned 17 I when I ended up back in hospital. Twice.

I was in for ten days was out for a month back in for another ten days because I hadn’t recovered properly the first time. We believe this was caused by stress ‘at the time my parents had split up a couple of weeks before’. I didn’t cope with it too well, this was my body’s way of telling me I need to deal with things and voice myself, cry, whatever so that I don’t bottle thing up and cause this damage to myself. Another change in medication occurred I was now given infusions (I would be on a drip for a day) administered by the hospital. To this day I think this was the most dramatic turnaround I have ever experienced, after my first treatment I got home had a 20 hour sleep, woke up and felt incredible. Unfortunately although the feeling remained I was only on the treatment for about 6 months as I had an allergic reaction where my temperature rose dramatically after that I taken off this treatment.

I was now due to change hospitals. I was 17 and had been looked after by the Birminghams Childrens Hospital for nearly ten years. I was incredibly lucky to have this kind of care on my door step. I was now being transferred care between two hospitals to Derriford Hospital in Plymouth (I was due to go to uni in Plymouth) and Queen Elizabeth back in Birmingham for when I needed treatment during the university breaks. During the ages of 18-21 (my time at uni) again I suffered with blips and other side effects of Crohns but nothing that a quick medication change for my liquid diet couldn’t fix.

Hairburst Review

Every woman has different problems with their hair. Some struggle with split ends, others have trouble with thinning hair, the majority of us can’t obtain the shine, length or volume they desire.

I fit firmly in the middle camp, I’ve got thinning hair and I’ve been struggling with hair loss due to the copious amounts of medication that I have taken for years, that combined with normal styling with straighteners/curlers and during my 3 years at uni my hair went through a variety of colours.

I strive for longer, thicker, fuller hair. I’ve been tempted to get hair extensions for years but was put off by the cost and maintenance of them. So I decided to look at shampoos and tablets. This time I brought Hairburst capsules, one of the most raved about hair vitamins on the internet, my Instagram feed is filled with ‘Before and After’ pictures. Now I’ll admit I was pretty skeptic, I mean we all know how those pictures can be faked with either hair extensions, photoshop or just clever hairstyling so I was pretty anxious to get started and see if anything would occur.

After 2 weeks, I was considering giving up. I didn’t notice a thing, but I figured I had nothing to lose by continuing the regimen. I already had the product, and I brought the 3 month pack with 3 bottles containing 60 capsules (it’s cheaper that way). Perhaps I was being too impatient.

After a month, I realized I was being too impatient. I noticed some small signs that my hair was improving: less hair was coming out in the shower, my hair was strangely thicker and felt stronger.

These weren’t massive improvements but now I have finished the 3 month pack. I’ve noticed some serious improvements in my hair. It’s thicker, stronger, and more brilliant than before and my hair seemed more lustrous. It’s much, much stronger than a three months ago and it doesn’t crack when I’m straightening it or curling it like it used to. It’s less brittle and actually feels soft and plush when I run my hands through it, it looks longer to the naked eye. I’m not sure if you can see much difference in my before and after pictures (which you can view on my Instagram) but I can notice it myself.

The only problems I have with the product is that it’s kinda expensive, and it takes much longer than sprays or shampoos to be effective. But I think it will remain consistent as opposed to wearing off like with a spray when the moment you stop using it stops working.

All in all, it’s a good product. My hair became thicker, longer, stronger and altogether healthier, not longer as promised. On the downside, it takes a while to work. It’s also a bit pricey (£60 for the 3 month supply from Holland and Barratt)..but I think I’m gunna give it another go. I may not have mermaid locks yet but maybe one day my hair will be strong enough to use like Sindel from Mortal Kombat (I’m wondering how many of you will get that reference)

Remember everyone’s hair is different. If you want your hair to improve in any way give it a go, if you do give it time and let me know how it goes xxx

Untitled

I apologise for not posting a blog last week. In all honesty I didn’t forget I seem to be experiencing the dreaded ‘writers block’. I don’t think any inspiration has even come back but I had the feeling that if I just started writing something the words will come…

Yeah that didn’t work.

So I may just ramble a bit and see what happens.

For those of you that have watched fashion shows before you know that when you watch a show we see some of the most beautiful women in the world showing off their spectacular bodies with the confidence that is the envy of many. You might think that you could never be as sure of yourself and your body as they are but many of these models are not all they appear to be. Behind their façade of confidence, many models suffer from severe insecurity.

You Need To Look Better

Imagine for a moment that throughout your life, people are telling you to be thinner, look more tanned, and generally look better. Everyday people are telling you that you can do better, you aren’t good enough. How would that make you feel? People can take the occasional criticism but constant, every day of every year; that is a lot to handle. Many models don’t handle the stress well and suffer from the constant voice in their head telling them that they don’t look good enough. Maybe now we are getting closer to understanding how these seemingly perfect looking models aren’t quite as perfect as we imagine.

Finding somewhere to Belong

The main thing every person craves is to find somewhere they fit in. Being able to relate to other people is key to any friendship. There are not a lot of people in the world with similar experiences to models which can give them difficulty finding that acceptance. When we feel like we don’t belong it can make us feel uncomfortable and eventually leads to us questioning ourselves. Understanding is hard to come by when others think that you have it all. Models are perceived as successful, beautiful and have nothing to trouble them. It is understandable that these opinions from others make them feel unsure of themselves.

Reality is any artist that doesn’t live a normal lifestyle can struggle with day to day activities, I’m not saying this for sympathy or anything like that. It’s just to make people more aware and think a bit that’s all.

Well that blog didn’t turn out too bad. Did it? xxx

Makeup Tips for Headshots

I recently posted a blog which was general tips on how to achieve a good headshot during this I covered clothing, lighting and briefly mentioned makeup. Well since then I’ve had a few lovely young ladies ask me about the make up for a headshot. Fearing that they might look too fake/overdone which unfortunately can happen.

I’d like to point out now that I am not a makeup artist! And I really don’t know too much about makeup apart from my years of getting expensive makeup on the cheap (all thanks to my lovely mother for her staff discount at boots!) and from being on sets and photoshoots. So here is my (non-professional) advice.

Natural Look, not ‘Light’ makeup

For headshots, you want natural look makeup. ‘Light’ makeup is good as long as it is natural and evenly applied. If you apply foundation makeup too lightly, the application tends to be uneven, and you can see a mottled pattern in the picture. To avoid this, use enough amount of foundation with attention to make it uniform. Also, don’t be afraid to use a lot of setting powder, compared to when you are going to, say, a workplace or a party. What you need is good coverage combined with natural look finish.

Always good start is a clean and healthy skin, well moisturized. Use primer where appropriate.

Colour of foundation

Match the colour of foundation to the natural colour of your skin in neck/chest area. Some people (especially with fair skin) often choose a colour darker than the skin tone, and that is fine for social events. However, in photography, always match your foundation colour to the rest of your skin. If you prefer to alter the skin tone in your photograph, the whole skin colour can be adjusted to warmer to make it look most attractive during editing.

The best type of foundation is liquid type. For headshots, oil-free (water or alcohol based) or those that contain just right amount of oil is best. In particular, oil-free matte finish foundation is most common for beauty headshots, but it is a bit difficult to apply as they dry quickly, and it also makes caky look if applied too thickly. Avoid ‘sheer look’ as they have a bit too much oil to give excessive shine in the pictures, but sometimes oil based or silicon based foundation is used with a lot of powder. Powder or compact foundation doesn’t quite give the right level of coverage for photoshoots.

Lips

The colour of the lips should be one notch darker than the best look in person. The lips should be shifted in the direction of darker red. Also, lip gloss is often effective in making the lips fuller.

Eyes

Wax your eyebrows a couple of days in advance. Trying to reshape the brows through retouching process is possible, but costs more time and money than getting them waxed in real life. Fill in your brows, especially if you are not going for a retouching option. Make sure your brows are clear and dark enough when viewed in soft natural window light.

Mascara is also appropriate for headshots. Darker colour works better for mascara, so black is usually the best choice, even if you normally use brown. You can wear false lashes for most types of work other than the actor’s headshot. In photographs, the lashes do not look as long and drastic as you see in the mirror.

For natural look headshots like actress audition or corporate bio, there is no need to use heavy eye makeup at all. But if you are going for more styled photographs, the eye accents should be one notch heavier or vibrant.

Keep this in mind: the photographic lighting biases your face colour to the lighter side, and eyes are where you get the most attention.

Blush

Use blush in one small notch darker than the best look in person. However, please make sure to make a few well diffused applications in small quantities. The first time should be applied and spread in a wide circle, and the second and third in progressively smaller areas. This is to make sure that the edges of the blush are gradual and not abrupt. You can always add more, but once you apply too much in one application, it is hard to blur the edge or remove some.

Powder

Don’t be afraid to use a lot more powder than usual. A lot of setting or finishing powder is routinely used in fashion and beauty photography to reduce shimmer and make the skin look matte. You will realize that a professional makeup artist will keep applying powder every 10–20 minutes of the shoot to prevent shiny skin. You should bring yours and apply extra powder regularly.

For party makeup, shimmer can look great, but in photography, use matte finish.

Hair (also for men)

You may want to use hair spray, gel, and other products to tame frizz and make your hair look healthy. Make sure to avoid products that give a matte look. These are fine for some situations, but not for a photo shoot. Matte finished hair will look dull and lifeless in pictures. Instead, use hair products that enhance shine

Now casting directors can see the best version of you xxx

Actors Convention. Yes they do exist!

Last weekend I had a stroke of luck. Where I accidentally walked into an actors convention. It was genuinely purely coincidental. I happened to be in Manchester for an audition, this audition was being held at the Royal Northern College of music. When I walked in I was confused and disappointed as there was a line of actors going out the door.

Although I was invited to this audition it was being held as an open casting call which I call cattle calls. That's what it feels like herding a load of actors into a cramped space who all have big personalities and even bigger hair.

Anyway tangent over, back on track. Turns out half of the que was to get into the conference itself which I had to get through to get to my audition upstairs.

I already experienced some luck that morning as I was the second one in the audition room, although my time was at 11:30 me and another actor just happened to be sitting next to and talking to the casting director who just brought us straight through.

After the audition I went to see what all the fuss was about downstairs. It was called Surviving Actors, a company that hosts acting conventions and trade shows they hosts several of these conventions but this was to be the final one in Manchester after 6 years.

On today's agenda was a series of seminars and workshops by various actors, writers and casting directors as well as the open casting call and career advice sessions for actors. In between those you could have a walk around, network and visit the stands, which varied from actor training, voice over work, headshots and theatre book stalls.

I found this all really interesting! There's only so much research you can do about the business online but when people are talking to you and explaining what they do, it feels so much more personal, I find comfort in that. You can tell if someone doesn't know what there on about when you’re talking face to face, it's harder to tell over email.

I spent a good couple of hours walking around, talking to people, exchanging details and cards. Abit of good old unexpected networking. I would advise any actor to go to a Network Event like this. I believe Surviving Actors are hosting another convention in February in London, but don't quote me on that double check on their website or with good old Google.

Being an actor can be abit isolating and you can get stuck in your own ways. This is just about exchanging ideas, being open minded and you never know who you might meet ;) xxx

Chronically Motivated - Part 2 - Starting Out

When you first make the commitment to be healthier and go to the gym and start your ‘fitness journey’ you have to be aware of how much dedication is needed and remember to stay motivated.

You know who you are. As hard as you’ve tried, you’ve never liked going to the gym. Maybe you’ve even hired a personal trainer a few times, hoping the added expense and accountability would be enough motivation to turn you into a regular gym rat.

But it didn’t work.

You won’t turn into that fitness freak that you follow on Instagram overnight #fitness #gymlife

Let’s be honest, every time you’ve started an ambitious workout program with the goal of getting in shape, something–you’re not even sure what–cuts you short before you’ve reached your goal.

Deep down though, you know what the problem is: you don’t like working out. It’s hard, it’s uncomfortable, it’s sweaty and the free weight section has a weird smell. You don’t like how you look in those stupid skin tight clothes, ain’t nobody got time for that!

But still you wonder about those people who are in the gym all the time. What’s their secret? How do they stay motivated day after day and year after year? Are they a different species? Or is there something they know that you don’t?

Few people on this earth were born with an innate love of the gym. But what generally separates people who like working out from those who don’t is pretty simple: fitness.

Working out sucks when you aren’t in shape. But the good news is that you don’t need to become a complete meathead to get to a place where exercise is no longer a pain. Just like learning to cook, once you reach a minimum proficiency level–in this case fitness level–exercise stops feeling bad and starts feeling good. And just like with cooking, the only way to get there is to Just Do It*.

If you’re just starting a workout program your goal shouldn’t be to get buff or lose weight. The first step is getting to a fitness level where you no longer hate to exercise. And for that all you need is consistency.

When you first start your program don’t force yourself to do anything too hard or unpleasant, just make sure that you stick with it and never quit. There’s no reason to torture yourself at the gym. Once you’re in better shape you will enjoy pushing yourself a little harder every now and then. But until you get there, just make yourself do something. Anything. Just do it regularly and don’t make excuses.

The key to being consistent is making your workout so easy/convenient/fun/awesome that not doing it just feels stupid. Here are a few tips to set you up for a lifetime of fitness.

Here Are My Tips For Starting & Sticking With Exercise

1. Commit to consistency

This is worth repeating. Make a commitment to sticking with your plan. If you find yourself not able to meet your goals, change them so they’re easier.

2. Take baby steps

If your sign up for a marathon you don’t leave your house the next morning planning to run the whole 26 miles. You’d start with a 3K, maybe, and go further a little bit at a time

3. Pick an exercise that’s fun

Not all exercise happens in the gym. Like to climb rocks? Ride a bike? Swim? Whatever floats your boat. Start with the fun stuff and work your way up.

4. Bring a friend, make it competitive

Having a workout partner is one of the most effective ways to be accountable and make your workout fun. Making it a competition is also great for motivation.

5. Join a sports team

Even better than one friend is a group of friends. Intramural sports teams are a fantastic way to get a few weekly workouts.

6. Get into music, podcasts and audiobooks

If your schedule isn’t conducive to group activities, your iPod still got your back. Put together an inspiring workout mix, download some of your favourite music, podcasts and audiobooks to get you inspired and pumped.

7. Get a dog

You know what takes a lot of energy? Puppies! If you can’t motivate to exercise for yourself, at least do it for the puppy

8. Caffeine charge

Sometimes a long day can make an evening workout seem impossibly difficult. At times like these, caffeine is your friend. After about half an hour you’ll need to workout to burn off that extra energy.

9. Get some nice workout clothes, shoes and mp3 player

New toys are fun. Sometimes it’s the little things that help the most.

10. Reward yourself

Doing something consistently is an accomplishment, even if your actual task seems small and insignificant. If you’ve been exercising regularly, don’t forget to pat yourself on the back for many jobs well done. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication. I know it sounds boring but it will be worth it if you have patience. Don’t forget your first victory: That you have started!

*Dear Nike, please don’t sue me :) xxx

The Headshot

The headshot. It’s easily the single most important marketing tool for an actor, and it’s amazing how many people do it wrong just to cut a few corners. Actors, it’s time to take it more seriously. When that little headshot jpeg pops up on a casting director’s computer, you want them to say, ‘Yes, bring that person in!’ Not ‘Yikes, she kinda scares me.’

Your headshot is your calling card. From which people will hire you, and you will make lots of money for them. It will be sent out and emailed to tons of casting directors and agents, who see hundreds of these every day, on their desk and on their computer. If your headshot is bad, you look bad. You want to be seen as a pro, not an amateur, so the way you present yourself in your picture is everything. If you want people to take you seriously, you must have a good, high quality, killer headshot. Not one taken with your iPhone, not a Facebook photo of you outside with the wind gently blowing your hair, and not a glamour shot with palm trees in the background.

Here is what you need to keep in mind when it comes to your headshots:

1. Go pro. Spend the money. It’s worth it. Go to a professional, who is trained, understands lighting, and takes headshots for a living, not some friend who happens to have a decent camera who ‘sorta knows a little about photography.’ Save those pictures for Instagram, and leave the headshots to the pros. Good headshots are expensive to get them done professionally but there’s always photographers offering discounts and one off prices. In my opinion and experience if the headshots look cheap, they probably are. It makes you look like you don’t care about your career.

2. Go for personality over glamour. Make sure it looks like you. Chill with the airbrushing. Casting directors expect you to look just like your headshot, and will not be happy when you show up looking totally different, or 10 years older. It’s not about looking pretty, it’s about representing your type, your age wrinkles included. It should look like you on your best day and who you are now.

3. It’s all about the eyes. Just like with on-camera acting, it’s all about the eyes, and what’s happening behind them. It’s your close up, your moment. Your eyes should be perfectly in focus, alive, and energized, and not dead and glazed over. There should be strong inner thoughts, implying a backstory and a life behind the eyes. A good headshot photographer knows how to bring this out in you.

4. Pay attention to framing, lighting, and background. In general, a good headshot is chest up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows, unless you are going in for ‘The Phantom of the Opera.’ Three-quarter shots are also good for print, and extreme close ups are good for, well, nothing. Look directly into camera, and the focus should be on the centre of your eyes, not your left ear, or your shirt collar. Maybe the background is slightly blurred, which means it’s shot with a good, high quality camera with a high-depth of field, which makes you stand out.

5. Natural light vs. studio. Some photographers do both, as they offer a different look and feel. Natural light gives a very real, ‘film’ look, which I prefer. Studio lighting tends to be a little more polished, with a more neutral backdrop. Both can be wonderful. If you are more of a sitcom actor, perhaps a good well-lit studio headshot is more suited for you. If you want to look like you are on ‘True Detective,’ then go for the outdoor look.

6. Clothing and props. I once saw a headshot of a guy with a bird on his head. Why? Because he wanted to stand out. I get that but let’s not go crazy here. Keep it simple and classy, and follow the standard format. Professionalism gets you noticed, not desperation. Leave the statement shirts at home. A simple, solid colour shirt with a little texture that fits you well and matches your eyes should do the trick. No graphics or anything you think might distract from your face. And no props! (You know that, right?) If you think you are going to play cop roles, you don’t need to wear the outfit in the headshot. It’s a bit much, and very limiting.  I also have to point out, don’t show a lot of skin! Ladies, this means no excess cleavage. Guys, keep your shirts on. Casting directors want to see you…but not that much of you!

7. Don’t go crazy with the makeup. Yes, lots can be done with retouching. There is no need to put on tons of makeup. As I said earlier you want to look like yourself on your best day, and not look like you tried too hard. Girls, be yourself, do your hair the way you would for every audition. Guys, bring some oil sheets to take down the shine, and maybe use a lightly tinted moisturizer to take out the redness and even your skin tone. Some people spend way too much on makeup, only to have to get their headshots redone afterwards because they look fake in all the photos.

8. Constantly update your headshot, I go for every 12-18 months. Or whenever you've undergone significant physical change, such as weight loss/gain or changed your hair cut/colour.

9. Make sure the headshot looks professional. Usually a standard 8x10. Opt for a matte finish. No fancy fonts here either. Neither the border nor the printed name should draw attention away from your face! The aim of a headshot is to have your face grab their attention.

10. The most important find a photographer that gets you! You have to vibe with the photographer, and that person has to make you feel very comfortable, as you will hopefully be using this headshot for a couple of years and sending it to everyone in town. Research photographers online, look through their portfolio books, ask for a consultation, get a feel for how they photograph your type, your ethnicity, your gender, etc.

Last of all, you may attach your cover letter or C.V to your headshot. Be sure the staple does NOT cover important contact information or your headshot that you’ve worked so hard on. Just go be yourself and show what makes you unique. Capture you xxx

Being an Extra

Bet you’ve all wondered what life is like for an extra! You haven’t? Oh right..well I’m going to tell you all about it anyway.

Ever watched BBC Extras written by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Marchant? Well they pretty much nailed the life of an extra, trying to make the mundane exciting, waiting for the next phone call about the next job and awkward encounters with celebrities and ‘real actors’.

I’ve had a few of my friends ask me what it’s like to be an extra? Who have I met? What exciting places have I filmed? I kinda have to fib slightly because when I tell them the truth they end up looking abit deflated.

Being an extra is not a glamorous job. It’s a normal job, it has it’s perks but at the end of the day your starting from the bottom and hoping to work your way up. Most extras are actors secretly hoping that this will give them the break they need to crack the acting business by meeting the right contact on this job or by being given two lines to speak to a leading actor. 99.9% of the time, this is not the case.

You can work some odd hours, especially if you’re on a location, you usually have to work around the business that is renting the space to you, so if your filming in a shop your most likely there once it’s closed and the customers are gone, same for pubs your usually there early hours in the morning before it opens.

Part of the job criteria is waiting, a lot of waiting. You are either waiting in the green room, waiting for transport, waiting on set to be told what to do/where to stand etc, waiting in between takes while they reset everything, like I said a lot of waiting. So you either have to keep yourself busy with a book (nothing that involves headphones otherwise you might miss something important) or you have to be an incredibly social person and make the group of people you’re working with your new best friends.

Being an extra/Supporting artist/Background artist is exactly what the title suggests. Our purpose is to fill the screen, make situations look busier, look normal, create an atmosphere. Unless you do get given a line or two your face probably won’t even be on the screen, I’ve seen my arm a few times and the back of my head, only really seen a quick glimpse of my face a couple of times.

And yet I love doing it! I like to use this as practice. Practice of working on a set without any of the pressure, the main thing I need to worry about is continuity, whatever I do on the first take, I’ve just gotta repeat that several times over until I’m told to stop or do otherwise. With this practice maybe when I do get the chance to be a lead being on set won’t be as daunting because I should know how everything works and the rhythm of filming.

I also use this time to speak to the other extras to learn about what agencies there with, who they have worked with and take any tips that they offer me. I would do the same with the main actors but we’re usually not allowed to talk to the leading actors, unless in a professional manner, there’s probably been one fangirl who was an extra that hassled an actor for pictures or an autograph and has spoiled it for the rest of us, I am usually quiet good at keeping it cool, but if I meet someone ridiculously famous I can’t guarantee I’d be able to control my inner fangirl xxx

Building a Modelling Portfolio

An actor friend of mine recently asked for advice on how to break into the modelling industry. After getting over myself, I gave him a brief explanation, as much as I could on messenger without it looking overwhelming.

Now I’ve had some time to think about it, I’ve got some more to say. The main question he asked was ‘how do you get the work?’

I think my answer to that disappointed him, I’ve built up a good reputations and mainly work on recommendations as well as being with a couple of agencies.

But before you even think of agencies you need a strong portfolio.

If you think about it in the same way as applying for a regular job, you need some basic knowledge and experience.

A portfolio is exactly that.

Showing that you know what you’re doing. You know what lighting works best for you, what angles are good, how to work with the camera.

Unfortunately in order to build up a portfolio it usually means doing a lot of shoots for free. It is known as TFP (time for print), neither you or the photographer or MUA is getting any money from this. It is purely for portfolio basis.

You will be doing these shoots for sometime until you have a decent sized portfolio. I still do them every so often just as a refresher.

The point of a portfolio is to show how good are you are at modelling. Make sure it shows your personality, how diverse you are. Unless you’re going into a specific area of modelling e.g fitness model, hair model you need to show that you’re a chameleon.

To organise and book these shoots there are quiet a few legitimate modelling casting websites. I won’t go into that now (that’ll be a whole separate blog) Besides what works for one person might not work for another, as long as you do your research you’ll know which is right for you.

You can also use the power of social media, mainly facebook. There are plenty of modelling groups on facebook that’ll be based in your area, your country, even some that post international shoots if you happen to be holidaying somewhere nice and sunny with good scenery why not take advantage

Once you have a portfolio in place be sure to have two copies. One that is an online copy on a website or facebook page with a wide range of pictures. The other should be a hard copy, a physical portfolio with a dozen of your best pictures that you can take to castings with you.

That’s all I’ve done. So good luck and I’ll see you out there! xxx

Forever in Line

I hate going to castings. I know they are an important part of being a model but sometimes I wish they’d just book from my pictures.

I know, it sounds like I am whining. Going to castings are like interviews, you just have to do it to get the gig, but what if you had to interview every single week for a job you do every single day? It gets sort of old. I mean, how often does the same casting director have to see you before they get an idea about what you look like?

That One Casting

I remember one casting that I went to that was just ridiculous. An agent sent me to an open-casting for a fashion week show. Now normally when my agent sends me somewhere I don’t have to worry about there being a lot of people. I’m with a pretty good agency. So I generally don’t have to go to the castings that more amateur girls go to, but this one was different.

This show was looking for ‘fresh faces’, faces they haven’t seen before. Since I had never worked with this casting director, I qualified as a ‘fresh face’ and the agent didn’t hesitate to send me.

I wish he had.

When I got to the location, there were about 150 girls waiting in line. I could tell that most of them were not agency models. They showed up in party dresses, gaudy clothes, and things I wouldn’t wear even if they were paying me. One girl had a pair of shoes that drew more attention than her face! Sure, she was rocking those stilettos, but good luck remembering what her face looked like.

I amused myself by rating the girls in my mind on a scale of 1-10 – sort of like what I imagined the casting directors were doing inside. Girls with un-proportional shapes, awkward walks, and loud personalities rarely scored above a 4. I counted 75 girls that I would have scored that way. The girls who looked like they’ve actually been to a casting call before were few- maybe like a dozen or so. You could easily recognize them with their solid white or black shirts, skinny jeans and a nice pair of heels.

After I spent nearly an hour playing ‘guess who makes it through’ I turned my attention to the girls standing immediately in front of me. There was this girl, a 5’10 brunette with attitude oozing out of her in front of me. I noticed her bra-strap hanging out of her blouse as she leaned impatiently on one leg.

“Excuse me,” I tapped on her shoulder.

When she turned around, I noticed her face. Sure, she was pretty. But she had enough makeup to do three photo shoots back-to-back.

“Yeah?” oozed out of her.

“Your strap is showing,” I smiled at her, nodding my head at her shoulder. Lifting her over-manicured finger, complete with diamond insets and a sunset, she popped the bra-strap back into place. Without any type of gratitude, she turned around and shifted her weight to the other leg.

I didn’t see her after that casting. I was kind of wishing I would. She definitely had potential, she just need a little – well, a lot of guidance.

My deep thoughts about the pretty girl with the attitude were interrupted by the sounds of a slamming door and high heels stomping out of the room. There goes another one of my fours.

How I love the casting game.

Chronically Motivated

I named this weeks blog Chronically Motivated as it sounded a lot more inspiring then ‘let’s get back to the gym’.

I say back to the gym because I haven’t been to the gym in quiet some time, a couple of months in fact. I know it’s bad but it’s been for genuine reason, my health (of course) like your surprised.

Now I’m starting to feel better and I want to get back to my healthy lifestyle.

Since I had my worst flare up which was about 2 years ago I have adapted a healthier lifestyle, I eat a lot better and I’ve been going to the gym for just over a year. The purpose of this was so that whenever I next get ill I am that little bit stronger to fight my condition.

Considering I’ve never exercised before in my life I thought I was doing pretty well..but I stand corrected. I have been inspired by a professional body builder who I believe has colitis and a colostomy bag and she is ripped!

It is incredible to see! I didn’t think people with my condition or similar could actually transform their bodies like that because of the way digestive illnesses are and how they breakdown food but I have definitely been proven wrong.

I’m not saying I want to be a body builder I’m saying I need to be stricter with myself, my diet and exercise regime needs to be more disciplined and like anything else by documenting it will encourage me to stick to it.

What is really sweet is how supportive my family are about this, especially my brothers. They are helping me out without even realising it! The one brother which I still live with has recently become vegetarian and so is teaching me all about food, what to cook, what meals I can make, what’s still good for protein and calories. My other brother is in the army is obviously enjoys his fitness and loves going to the gym. He brought me a book from Mens Health called ‘Big Book of Exercises’ and he is teaching me more about the training side, and what kind of routine to have, rest days, your primary and secondary muscles stuff like that.

So combining the knowledge that they are both sharing with me and whatever research I do on my own I should be alright.

As I said I am doing this for health benefits. It’s time I started making my health my number one priority. I am a firm believer in that exercising and eating right won’t cure me, that’s not me being negative – that is fact, because that is not how my illness works but it might keep me well for a little bit longer. Especially as my illness is usually caused by environmental factors and is more stress related, but then again going to the gym and realising whatever stresses might help me control my illness more. I am doing this for strength purposes, as I mentioned earlier to help me fight my condition when I next fall ill and maybe the deterioration in my health won’t be so drastic.

This is where writing this blog comes in. I know my blog is usually for professional purposes but seeing as things are a little bit slow at the moment I thought that once a month I will write a blog dedicated to my health and fitness journey. This will help me keep focus, educate myself and actually stick to something.

I know most people post about their ‘gym journeys’ after they’ve achieved their goal but I think why not write as I’m going through it. It will be hard and a struggle, so why not struggle together xxx

The Art of Self Promotion

What makes you different from the rest? This can be a confronting question to answer – the curse and lure of SELF PROMOTION (tooting your own horn, in other words.) In my personal experience there are two types of categories that make this topic interesting and controversial. Having discerned these differences – excusing my blatant stereotyping and generalising – there are those that love hearing their own praises and those that love singing their own praises. One does not discriminate over the other – both are valid entry points for the elusive and tricky task of Self Promotion.

Arguably these are times of the maverick – independent thought provokers who are influencing instantly. Viral videos can spell overnight success for innocent and humorous commentators. With celebrities and artists; whether recording, performing or traditional modes, there is a need for clear and direct points of view.

Is it easier to sing your own praises when you have an alter-ego to hold the weight of your accomplishments? Writers can use fake names, designers are under an umbrella of a huge conglomerate company and there are those with different social media profiles (CatFish, though that’s a bark of a different kind).

We know the beauty industry is a competitive business. Models are constantly being weighed – no pun intended – against one another for bookings. It is no surprise in the age of Instagram that models are taking their careers to different heights by promoting their lives. Naomi Campbell is no shrinking violet. Known for her vivacious personality, striking looks and biting tongue, she is never one to back down from a challenge or afraid of telling everyone her attributes. Kate Moss, on the other hand, has never been interested in taking interviews or selling herself – at least verbally – but those close to her are quick to say what a pleasure she is to work with because of her youthful spirit.

Finding pleasure in validation is only half of the equation when choosing to Self-Promote. We are told from an early age speaking about personal accomplishments reeks of arrogance. Having looked into the different ways in which people relate to the world (in true pop psychology), it’s not what you say, but how you say it. It’s not what you do, but how you do it for your own personal circumstances.

There are a few universal rules to Self-Promotion that if adhered to can aid with the pride and pleasure of selling yourself to the right market. Censorship is important; being modest will allow others to transcend your message – life is best when there is mystery and wonder so we can anticipate more from each other and from ourselves. Being obvious in the delivery of your talents (whatever you bring to the table – professional or otherwise) solidifies your objectives, dreams and promises. The most daunting part of the process is perhaps picking a lane of interest and running wild in it. There is definitely a quiet dignity in refining and moulding yourself in the eyes of the public – a lifelong adventure that is not as easy as creating something you love and putting it out there.

No matter which of the two types you may fall into – sometimes it’s a combination of both – there is no denying that it comes down to you. Remember, tooting your own horn is just another way of letting people know you’ve arrived, when done with a healthy dose of humility xxx

Your shoot or mine

Just curious…how many of you have ever thought about dating a male model?

It’s easy to see how it can be tempting they are attractive, they understand your career, and they make excellent arm candy. If you find the right one, they are truly a female model’s best friend.

But there are some challenges to dating a male model; way beyond finding one that is heterosexual or actually interested in anyone other than himself with male models you have to be able to separate the real from the fake, because just like many things in a model’s life they aren’t always what they seem.

I once dated a male model (very briefly) before I realised what I was truly looking for in a relationship. We had met in-between shoots, I was wrapping up with a photographer and this model showed up early for the photographer’s next shoot. As the photographer was recharging cameras, changing lights etc, I got talking to this model and we developed some chemistry off-camera. It wasn’t that he was attractive; I get the luxury of dealing with attractive guys all the time it was his personality. I connected with him on a personal level, making him seem like he was real (unlike everyone else in this industry).

But that is where it ended.

Our first date consisted of him talking about all the shoots he had been on. Our second date was all about his pet peeves and favourite designers, and on our third date he invited me to be his date at a runway show party.

After a while, it felt more like a job interview than a date.

And that is the challenge of dating male models. When your job is to be attractive, you tend to look for mates that add to your career rather than hinder it. Male models cannot afford to be seen with ugly girls, and female models are an easy solution. A female model is a pre-screened mate; guaranteed not to detract from the value of your brand.

Dating a male model has its perks, but it can be challenging. You have to be able to separate the guys that are actually looking for a relationship from those that are looking for career advancement, and it can be tricky, like applying individual eyelash extensions tricky. It’s not impossible though.

Male models can be boyfriend material, but just like any other guy you have to be selective. If you can find that one guy that is actually interested in you and you are able to talk about things other than work consider it a score xxx

Networking Tips

How many times have you been told that an acting career is all about networking? I’m guessing about a million and one, right? Well, there’s definitely a lot of truth to that statement, and you’d be a fool not to take it seriously.

If you want to be successful, working on your craft should be your number one concern, but let’s face it: Talent is not enough. That’s why you have to know how to network. 

But what exactly does ‘networking’ mean? Some actors believe it’s about going to the right parties so they can meet the right people. Others think it’s all about kissing the right asses. Those are both valuable skills, but sorry, they have nothing to do with real networking.

Simply put, networking is creating relationships with industry professionals who might be able to help you in a direct or indirect manner.

1. Be professional

Adopting the right tone when you communicate is essential, as are correct spelling and grammar – no text-speak or slang. Keep messages brief, polite, professional and to the point.

You will meet thousands of contacts throughout your career, and forget most of them, unless you keep a record. Create a contacts file on your computer, and a profile for each person you have ever met in the business – every fellow student, tutor, playwright, actor, director, etc.; what they look like, where you met them, and so on. Add new people every week, and update once a month.

This isn’t school, where it’s cool to do as little as possible; this is the business where graft counts. To stay in the game for the long term, it’s important to remember to cultivate contacts in the generation before you as well as the established figures you meet. In ten years’ time the fresh-faced wunderkind you vaguely remember could be producing a movie with you in it – if they know who you are.

2. Start with those you know

You already have a network. The people you train with are your most valuable asset – there is a bond there which may survive a lifetime, so stay in contact and share those contacts. This is not just a matter of swapping names, it’s about going to see people in shows, meeting casting directors and writers and theatre directors, and then keeping a log of those you’ve met.

If you hear of a job going for someone you know, tell them. If you can recommend them, even better. Like for you, these initial contacts will gradually widen their own circles of contact and influence. Some of the people you share grotty flats with and see at old school reunions will end up running the very companies you’re both desperately trying to get work with now. Staying in contact with each other and promoting each other throughout your careers is essential.

3. Never turn down an invitation

Most actors tend to isolate themselves when they’re not working, and then reconnect when they are. But it is impossible to tell when you will make a valuable contact – and for that reason you must go to any gathering you can, to learn, and to network. This is especially true of something you’ve actually been invited to, and can gain entry for free!

Get out there, and meet people in the flesh. Go to first nights, to talks, to festivals. If you are invited to a play reading, be there, and stay and talk afterwards. Somewhere out there are people who could employ you, and would do so if they know you existed. Go find them.

4. Be the first to keep in touch

If you go to see a show you like, send a message of thanks to the director. Again, keep messages brief (two lines is good), businesslike and positive. If you get a casting, ditto: a short message of thanks to the director, producer and casting director. Let people know if you have a show on – send emails to everyone on your contact list.

These rules are not to be applied sometime, or next week, or when you feel like it. If you are serious about this career, they should be applied now, today, every day. Your next job may depend on it.

5. However, do not overstay your welcome

Majority of people will appreciate you coming over to pay them a compliment or strike a quick conversation about their work. However, don’t forget to leave them some breathing space and split when you feel the time is right (after making a connection, obviously). Plus, it isn’t such a bad idea to get to know more than one industry folk during these gatherings. Once you have charmed the soul out of that producer, let them miss you while you go and find your next target.

Ever heard the saying ‘It’s not what you know it’s who you know?’ xxx

Fringe Festival

Fringe Festival

Even from the moment we stepped onto Edinburgh High Street in the pouring rain lugging our bags from the train I knew it was going to be a good week. You could just feel the atmosphere of what was to come. Walking down the high street we were handed dozens of flyers about various performances, saw street artists such as magicians, stunt performers, dancers, and musicians. The streets were bustling; it was loud and crowded but you don’t mind when you’re genuinely interested and want to know what’s going on.

The thing I found about the Fringe Festival is that there is something for everyone. There really is if your with your family there are kids shows, if you can’t afford a lot there are street performances and performances that are part of the Free Fringe, if your with your partners and want something a little more adult, there are sex classes (that is not a lie there is a class called the Wank Bank Masterclass) and of course if your there for theatre, it’s everywhere in its many shapes and forms.

It’s also a great place to make some contacts if this is the industry you want to be involved in. Those of you who read my blog will know that I recently created a business card for the purpose of taking it up to Edinburgh to test the waters to see how well it would work. And I’m not gunna lie it went down pretty damn well. I wasn’t just throwing it at people, I gave my card to specific artists/creatives who I thought it would be a benefit for me to know. These included performers, directors, an agent or two. It doesn’t necessarily mean they’re all going to get in touch, maybe none of them will, but I have noticed an increase in activity of people viewing my website and facebook page so it’s doing something.

I was also going to do a review about the shows that I saw, but looking back I know this is impossible to do, during the week I easily saw a dozen shows, and that’s just me counting them off the top of my head. So instead here are the top 5 recommendations of performances to see at Edinburgh (in no particular order):

1. Baby Wants Candy. This is a musical theatre group who create a new show every single night! No two shows are the same. When the show begins the actors ask audience members to shout out what the title should be of the show, once they have agreed on one the show begins. Improvisation, comedy and music at its finest.

2. Driftwood. This performance was a circus act, which included physical theatre, contemporary dance, gymnastics, ariel hoops and trapeze artists. With only 5 performers enclosed in a small performance space of a circus tent meant there was no room for errors. You are hypnotised by the movement and strength displayed in this piece.

3. Giant was the name of the performance created by Human Zoo whose performance tells a moving story of three generations living together. They achieve this through clowning and physical theatre but also includes puppetry and live music. If you’re looking for something a little different watch this show!

4. Another Fucking Variety Show. Is exactly what it says, this late night show hosts a variety of acts including a woman who loves headstands, a drag queen, a comedian and loads more, this show has something for everyone….over the age of 18.

5. And finally ‘Axis of Awesome’ this is a show that I had prebooked to see and I’m so glad I did. I learnt about this musical trio a few years ago from their hit song ‘4 Chords’ they are youtube sensations. This show will have you in stitches with their witty songs, comic timing and the fact that they are having just as much fun up there aswell.

The Edinburgh Fringe Festival is still going on for another couple weeks until the 29th August! If you have a few spare days get there see some shows, meet the performers and enjoy! xxx