South Florida Fashion Photography

Wed Nov. 19th I attended a networking event hosted by a friend of mine Renda Writer who is a poet and hosts several open mike nights here in South Florida. I exhibited 6 of my images along with my portfolio. There were over 100 artists that attended the event and I had the pleasure of meeting most of them! It is always such a great feeling when people walk up to me and say “its so great to meet you TRACY MENDY..we are fans of your work”! I have fans!!! I have always recieved compliments from people I have worked with but for someone who Ive never met to say that they have been following my work and are excited to meet me finally really makes me proud! I have always had a large network of fellow artists friends but meeting even more and seeing them all in one place made me realize how much talent is out there and especially right he in my neighborhood!

I want to thank Renda for hosting a great event! I am very grateful to have been a part of it!

you can check out Renda’s Poetry and Events at www.rendawriter.com

How much does it cost to get started?
There is no fee to visit or list with an agency. Becareful of agencies that want to charge you to be put on their website or for un necessary photos or “potfolios”.   a model will need professional photos (which is what your agent will use to market you in the industry) but an agency should never push their “staff” photographer on you or tell you that you MUST shoot with a certain photographer.  What a reputable agency will do is give you a list of several professional photographers that they have worked with and trust. That way YOU decide which photographer you feel comfortable working with. Unlike some fashion agencies, who may assist a model in getting together their comp card/portfolio, most commercial models pay for their own comp card, but do not need a portfolio.
Modeling schools or classes are not necessary to break into the industry, and a model is never asked what training they have had. Your agent takes a percentage (usually 10-20%) off of the money you make from work you’ve booked through their agency. Again, Keep in mind…There is NO CHARGE to be listed with an agency!!

How do I find a reputable agent?
If you are looking to get into fashion modeling, visit with the big agencies, with names well-known in the industry. Elite, Ford, Next, Boss and Wilhelmina are all in the Miami area, and there are other good fashion agencies around the state as well. If you know a successful model, ask them who they use. Commercial models can visit the Screen Actor’s Guild website (www.sag.org), they have a list of franchised agencies. Those marked “Full Service” represent commercial models as well as acting talent.  You can also visit the “model advice” section on this site where I have listed the reputable agencies in the area.

I think I could be a model, how do I know if I have the right look?
If you have a basic idea about the modeling industry, perhaps you’ve looked through a book or two, you know what an agent looks for in photos, and you’ve learned what the laws are–so you’re confident you can tell the real deal from the shysters, then what are you waiting for? Go and visit the agencies in your area that represent the type of model you think you are qualified to be. They will let you know if they are interested.

What is a comp card?
A composite card, also called a comp card or zed card, is a model’s self-advertisement.  It is used by your agent to send to clients to help you obtain work. It is also what you hand out on go-sees, castings/auditions, or when networking with potential clients. It is typically a 5.5″ x 8.5″ card, with headshot and your name and agency on the front, and 2-4 photos and stats on the back. It is usually in color, but can be black & white. There are many variations, and different agencies prefer different styles. Some comp cards are only printed on one side with a single photo, some fold like a traditional greeting card, and contain more images. Fashion agencies generally have a specific format that all their models follow, while commercial agencies often have all different types of modeling comp cards, that were chosen by the models, not the agency. A comp card is usually best when it contains a really great headshot, that shows a model’s facial features in a flattering fashion, eyes that can communicate with the camera, and a selection of 3/4 and/or full-length shots that show the model’s figure and range of looks. It is best to have on your composite card the type of shots you are most suited to doing. If you are only 5′4, it’s probably not in your best interest to have only a selection of fashion-type shots, as it is unlikely that will be the type of work you are going to be hired for. Your agent can help you figure out what looks are most marketable for you.  If you have specific questions about designing and printing your comp card or would like advice on what photos to use please email me and I will be happy to help!! tracy@tracymendyphotography.com

Related Link

Need a Fashion photographer for your next photoshoot, Contact Tracy Mendy Photography for your Fashion Photographer.

I just wanted to give a special thanks to Joel and the staff at Pro Lab which is a family owned and operated photography lab located in Pompano Beach (www.prolabofpompano.com) for all of their help with the printing of my images for my photography show October 5th @ Blue Martini in Fort Lauderdale.

They are extremely helpful and friendly and promised me my prints sooner than expected. Joel also offered me a 30% discount for being a member of the South Florida Camera Club. (www.southfloridacameraclub.com)

I definitely recommend Pro Lab of Pompano for all of your printing and photography needs! 

PRO-LAB OF POMPANO
www.prolabofpompano.com

2651 East Atlantic Blvd. Pompano Beach, Florida 33062 (954) 785-4607

Related Link

Need a Fashion photographer for your next photoshoot, Contact Tracy Mendy Photography for your Fashion Photographer.

My friend Renda Writer (www.rendawriter.com) hosts an open Mic night at Kevro Art Bar (www.kevroart.com) in Delray Beach. He always calls to invite me in to see the show and I am always unavailable. This Tuesday however, My prior engagement had been rescheduled so I called a friend of mine from the South Florida camera club (www.southfloridacameraclub.com) who I knew would enjoy such an event. We headed up to Delray and pulled up to this small place which is located 2 blocks south of Atlantic Avenue alongside the train tracks. When we walked in the first thing that crossed my mind was the expression “never judge a book by its cover” as simple and quaint as it looks from the outside once you walk through the door its as if you are walking into another dimension. The place is full of energy with its the large scale photographs hanging on the wall and funky lounge furniture. There is a bar that serves beer, wine and specialty drinks and of course the stage where performers of all types including poets, singers, musicians, bands, comedians, rappers, storytellers, magicians, vocalists, yodelers harmonica players and other talented individuals all come to showcase their work. My friend and I grabbed seats at the bar and for the next 2 hours were completely entertained by these random characters all coming to life once they hit the stage! I really encourage all of you that have any talent (or think you have any talent) check out Kevro Art Bar Tuesdays for open mic night! Sign up starts at 7:30 and the first performer goes on at 8pm.  I think this will be my new Tuesday night hang out!! Hope to see you all there :)         www.kevroart.com

LOCATION
Kevro’s Art Bar
166 SE 2nd Ave., Delray Beach FL
OPERATING HOURS
Art Bar hours: 
Tues Open, Wed Private, Thurs - Sat Open
Art Bar phone 561.278.9675

Art Services & Photo/Video Studio available:  By appointment
Studio phone 561.274.0007

Related Link

Need a Fashion photographer for your next photoshoot, Contact Tracy Mendy Photography for your Fashion Photographer.

Last week I had the pleasure of meeting Karine Melissa who is the producer of the Annual Fashion Designers Expo. Karine is an established swim wear designer with a crochet couture swim collection that is “too fabulous to get wet” Karine started this venture to help showcase emerging designers and models that were looking to get exposure in the South Florida Industry.  The Event will take place  Novemeber 4th - 8th at several different Miami venues. 

Since a portion of the procedes from the Fashion Designers Expo will go to benefit the American Cancer Society, Karine is looking for runway models, makeup artists, photographers and back stage assistants who would LOVE  to volunteer their time to a good cause in exchange for exposure and contacts in the industry.

you can email me for further details or visit www.fashiondesignersexpo.com 

make sure you tell Karine Tracy Mendy referred you!

 

Related Link

Need a Fashion photographer for your next photoshoot, Contact Tracy Mendy Photography for your Fashion Photographer.

Hello Friends!

I wanted to invite you all to my model networking event Oct. 5th at Blue Martini in Fort Lauderdale (details will be posted as things are finalized). My guest list includes models I have had the opportunity of working with as well as models I plan on working with in the near future. I have also invited the industries top makeup artists, stylists, designers and photographers so that everyone can meet and mingle and hopefully one day collaborating with each other!

I have been a part of the industry here in south florida for over 10 years and have met some very talented professionals that have helped me become the artist I am today. One thing everyone tells me is that I have great people skills and I think that is probably what is most important in my type of work. Of course some talent helps also but I would not be where I am today if I hadnt worked so hard on building relationships and staying in contact with these people throughout my career.

I am excited to bring everyone together and look foward to a good turn out!

There will be live entertainment and cocktails and I will be showcasing some of my latest work!

If I have not met you already please make sure to introduce yourself to me at the event!

See you all soon!

xoxo

Tracy Mendy

Related Link

Need a Fashion photographer for your next photoshoot, Contact Tracy Mendy Photography for your Fashion Photographer.

Last week I had the pleasure of collaborating on a photo shoot with a friend of mine, Hungarian fashion Photographer Zsolti Szabo of studio38miami.com. We shot on location in Aventura and had a great time coming up with creative ideas for a collection he was shooting  for a Jewlery Designers website. The Models I had suggested were Juliana and Caroline of cosmix school of Makeup Artistry. I had met the both of them who were students when I used to work there. Not only are they both talented Makeup Artists but they just happen to be gorgeous and friendly and extremely photogenic so you can imagine how much I enjoy working these girls! It was a fun day and I got some great shots..I hope Zsolti is happy with what he got as well and I look foward to working with him again in the near future!

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If you would like to get into modeling, you will need to have an agency to represent you. Fashion modeling agencies represent models for runway, editorial and catalogue work. The typical fashion model is between 5′9-5′11 for women and 6′0-6′2 for men. Commercial models model products and services that generally exclude fashion. This category of modeling is also referred to as ‘lifestyle’ modeling. There is no height, size or age restrictions, like fashion modeling. Acting ability is a plus, as many commercial models are actors as well. Many commercial modeling agencies operate as a division of a talent agency.

Top Florida Fashion Agencies:

Wilhelmina   License Number: TA 0000650
Model Criteria:  Fashion models: females who are at least 5′8, and males who are at least 6′0. Lifestyle/commercial models: female and male models over age 30. Also represents children ages 0-12, plus size and actors.
Open Call:  Monday thru Friday, from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm. Casual dress, hair pulled back, simple makeup-if any.
Mail Submission:  Submit at least 2 clear full-face headshots and a full-length body shot. It is suggested that you wear a bathing suit or boxers in the body shot. The most important aspect of the photos is that we can see you in a natural setting. No make-up is needed. Please do not send nude photos. You can submit a composite, if you have one, but still have the headshot and body shot. Please do not mail in a portfolio. Also include you name, measurements (height, bust, hips, waist, eye color, hair color, age) and a contact phone number and address.
Address:  930 Washington, 4th Floor, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  Women/men: (305) 672-9344. Kids: (305) 531-5475
Other:  Open calls are held Thursday between 2 and 4PM. You must bring in your photography. Some models enter with a portfolio and composites, others just have snapshots. These are both acceptable. Dress casually with simple make-up. Be natural and patient. Please note that WE DO NOT HAVE OPEN CALLS FOR CHILDREN. Kids must submit through the mail.

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Ford Models   License Number: TA 0000249
Model Criteria:  Girls who are 5′8.5 or taller and between the ages of 16 and 22. Also represents men, plus size.
Open Call:  None listed.
Mail Submission:  The pictures should be natural, no makeup, one full length shot and one face shot. Photos are not returned. They give a NYC address for mail submission: Ford Models, 142 Greene Street, New York, NY 10012
Address:  1775 Collins Avenue, Suite 216, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 534-7200
Other:  Open call for Men, Women and Plus Size models Thursdays from 3-4pm. Must bring photos.

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mc² (Formerly Karin Models)
Model Criteria:  Women: at least 5′9, with a dress size 4-6. Men: at least 6′0.
Open Call:  Info not available.
Mail Submission:  Send recent snapshots, including a facial close-up (with little or no make-up) and a full-length body shot.
Address:  846 Lincoln Road, Penthouse, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 672-8300
Other:  Has an online submission. Prefer non-professional photos.

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Irene Marie   License Number: TA 0000012
Model Criteria:  Women, men, lifestyle, plus-size, childrens, TV/film, hair makeup and styling divisions. No other details available.
Open Call:  Info not available.
Email Submission:  If you are interested in becoming an Irene Marie model, please email them at prospect@irenemarie.com. They will send you instructions on how to submit your photos for review.
Address:  728 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 672-2929
Other:  They also have online submission, and a MySpace page under irenemaremanagement

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Elite Model Management   License Number: TA 0000353
Model Criteria:  Females between the ages of 13-24. Girls 17 and younger should be at least 5′6. Girls 18 and older should be at least 5′8.
Address:  1200 Collins Avenue, Suite 207, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 674-9500

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Next Models   License Number: TA 0000332
Address:  1688 Meridian Ave., Suite 800, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 531-5100
Other:  Their website is under construction.
 

Click Modeling Agency   License Number: TA 0000275
Address:  161 Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Phone:  (305) 674-9900
Other:  Has online submission. Divisions focusing on Women, Men, Plus Size, Runway, Showroom, FIT, and Television Commercials. The talent division manages actors and actresses for film, soap and legit work. Also has a full service Hair/Makeup and Styling division.
 

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SAG-Affiliated Talent Agencies:

Commercial Modeling Agencies

The following agencies are franchised by the Screen Actors Guild (SAG). Most have commercial print modeling divisions. Where known, website and agency info has been listed. Please follow individual agency submission instructions.

Alliance Talent Group, Inc., 2734 E Oakland Park Blvd., Suite 101, Fort Lauderdale, 33306, (954) 727-9500   License Number: TA 0000648

About:  Represents actors, models, spokespeople and stunt performers.

Boca Talent and Model Agency, 829 SE 9th Street, Deerfield Beach, 33441, (954) 428-4677   License Number: TA 0000038
About:  Has online submission. Does not represent children under age 3.
Coconut Grove Talent Agency, 3525 Vista Court, Coconut Grove, 33133, (305) 858-3002   License Number: TA 0000083

Famous Faces Ent. Co., 3780 SW 30th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, 33312, (954) 321-8883   License Number: TA 0000171
About:  Represents lookalikes, stage/screen talent, voiceover, promo, print and fashion models.

Green Agency, Inc., 1620 Drexel Ave., Miami Beach, 33139, (305) 532-9225   License Number: TA 0000504
About:  Represents actors, voiceover, and print models. Has a kids and a Latin division.

Louise’s People Model & Talent Agency, 863 13th Avenue North, St. Petersburg, 33701, (727) 823-7828   License Number: TA 0000362
About:  Represents commercial print models, including babies, seniors, plus-size and spokespersons.

Martin & Donalds Talent Agency, Inc., 2131 Hollywood Boulevard, #308, Hollywood, 33020, (954) 921-2427   License Number: TA 0000466
About:  Represents actors, voice-over talent and commercial print models from babies to seniors.
Website:  Martin & Donalds Model & Talent Agency, Inc

Roxanne McMillan Talent Agency, 12100 NE 16th Avenue, Suite #106, Miami, 33161, (305) 899-9150   License Number: TA 0000368

Marion Polan Talent Agency, 10 NE 11th Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301, (954) 525-8351   License Number: TA 0000903

Posh Models, Inc.,  17109 Orangewood Dr., Lutz, 33548, (813) 746-5190   License Number: TA 0000858

Runways, The Talent Group Inc., 1688 Meridian Avenue, Suite 500, Miami Beach, FL 33139, (305) 538-3529   License Number: TA 0000036
About:  Has online submission. Represents actors and models age 15 or older: females size 2-6, 5′9-5′11. Males size 40R/L-42R/L, 5′11-6′2. Petite models size 2-6, 5′2-5′5. Plus Size models size 10-16, 5′8-5′11.
Website:  Runways The Talent Group

Stellar Talent Agency, 3001 W. Hallandale Beach Blvd., #303, Pembroke Park, 33009, (954) 241-7376   License Number: 0000157
About:  Represents actors and print models. Has a kids/teen division.
Website:  index

World of Kids Inc., 1460 Ocean Drive, Suite 205, Miami Beach, FL 33139, (305) 672-5437   License Number: TA 0000420
About:  Specializes in representing babies and children, also represents adult actors and commercial print models.
Website:  World of Kids, Inc_ - Home - Miami, FL

The idea behind this site is to provide advice and the necessary resources to anyone who is trying to get started in the South Florida Modeling Industry. We will cover everything from building your portfolio and submitting to Agencies to what to bring with you on a casting. If anyone has any comments or would like to share any personal experiences we encourage you to do so! We hope you enjoy this site and that it brings you one step closer to pursuing your dreams!

South Florida Fashion Photography is where you will find samples of fashion and lifestyle photography done by Tracy Mendy Photography as well as some personal advice about photography and modeling. South Florida Fashion Photography is to be informative to anyone looking to get started in the industry or models looking to network.