The X-Factor Reference Fashion Manual

The Internet is the most powerful media tool in existence. It has changed the world incredibly. Those of you who're younger don't know another time, but many of us recall the world "BC" (aka, "Before Computer"). The computer, and the Internet as a tool for communication and information, have done as much for the world as did the Industrial Revolution..!

It is often very easy to distinguish the amateurs from the professionals online. Well known companies, of course, remain well known and their websites are just extensions of their regular business. In the realm of modeling, acting, photography, and entertainment, however, a whole new breed of individuals have emerged. Some are genuine and serious, and others have discovered that the Internet provides a great opportunity to "do no good." This extends way beyond the identity thieves, Spam scamers, and naughty stalkers. Amateur photographers may have sincere interests in becoming someone in their field, or they may have just discovered that having a digital camera is a great way to meet girls. So many indicators exist for those who do their homework and apply a little logic, though anyone can fool you. It's always best to be safe, get references, and take someone along on any shoot, meet, or activity that resulted from Net contact.

A lot of articles and advice exists for models and talent about how to use caution and the signs for detecting legitimacy in photographers or filmmakers, so this article is not intended to repeat more of that. In fact, quite in the reverse, the intent of this writing is to flip-flop and help provide guidance for YOU (actors, models, talent) to ensure that YOU present YOURSELF in a professional manner that will aide in making you appear legitimate.

Your Name

You may choose to use your real name, or you may opt to use a "stage name." Either is acceptable. Many of Hollywood's leading actors and actresses have real names that might make you laugh, or which might stutter your tongue to pronounce. Names are substituted for a variety of reasons, including privacy and the selection of something that more easily "rolls off the tongue." An observation that I have regarding models and their email or online "chat" nicknames, however, is that too often a model (or actor) will select a name that they feel is cute... but which provides a bad or false impression. When emailing or chatting with your friends on AIM, Yahoo, or with your Hotmail-type email accounts, a name like " kissybuns " might be cute and fun. When conversing with someone who may employ you for modeling, acting, or other talent work, however, that sort of cute name implies things you probably would prefer it not. Advice: Keep the fun names for between you and your friends, and select something more professional when you are doing business. Your actual name (or "stage name") is probably best, when available. Easy to remember and represents you as yourself.

Your Age

If you're under 18, your parents need to know what you are up to. If you do set something up for a shoot, film, or other venture project... mom and dad have to know. In fact, during any contact they MUST be present if you're dealing with anyone legitimate. It's well understood that teens surf the web, post on forums, set up portfolio listings, talk on chat, etc. Before your conversations go too far, however, make sure your parents get involved. A true professional photographer or filmmaker will not want to deal directly with you and will want to make all discussions and arrangements with your parents. An occasional short conversation, asking of a question, comment on some work, etc., is okay and not a crime -- but parents should be aware and should have access to conversation logs and should be told if anything unusual transpires.

Your Photos

If you're under 18, your photos must be age-appropriate. I won't harp on this because you know what is being talked about. Don't listen to photographers who tell you that sexy sells. You're not 18 and their concept of "sexy" with you borderlines on being criminal. Lingerie on children, in many places, is legal in the context of legitimate advertising material; for instance, girls underwear for a J.C. Penny catalog. It's not legitimate if it's for Joe Photographer who wants to TFP for his portfolio. If you're over 18, you have decisions to make. Maxim style photos are very popular these days and there's not crime in that at all. I noticed the other day that the SPORTS ILLUSTRATED swimsuit edition gets more and more revealing every year (we used to hide away that yearly issue back when my friends and I were in Jr. High School!). Times have changed and that cutting edge style sells product and services. Nobody should feel held back if that is the venue they desire. High quality material, even sexy, can be incredible. Don't hold yourself back if you are open to legitimate glamour - or what we used to refer to as "cheesecake." At the same time, consider your portfolio as a presentation to a mainstream client or advertising agency. Remember that many advertising people are not so "hip," and consider keeping your portfolio within a more mainstream style. Comp cards, for instance, shouldn't show lingerie photos... and they rarely even include swimwear. This should apply to your online and hard copy portfolio as well. A model or an actor may have an online portfolio. A professional model or actor will also have an actual printed out portfolio, comp card, and/or headshot and resume. Make sure your selection of images appears professional. Actors: Learn the difference between a so-called "headshot" that is just a photo of your face, and a headshot that is "theatrical." Models: Turn to a professional to help you select images for your comp cards or to include in your portfolio. Don't put in every photo you obtained by TFP! Select a range of shots that display you in various looks and styles.

Your Responses / Conversation

Talk professionally on the phone, in email, and via any chat conversations. Flirting is best left for when you're talking with boyfriends or girlfriends... not when discussing potential business. Nuff said.

BE PROFESSIONAL IN EVERYTHING YOU DO, SAY, OR DISPLAY.

Expect the same in return.