How to Get Your Child in Professional Modeling

So you think your child has what it takes to become a professional model? Now how do you break into the business? Well, the good thing is you don't have to pack up and move to New York or L.A. for your child to make it, as there are casting agencies located right in your own town. Before shopping your child around, follow these expert steps that will help get your child noticed.

Invest in Good Headshots

Your child's headshot needs to display their unique personality. A winning look is vital to their success, so keep this in mind when selecting the final shots. If possible, include one headshot and one full length shot.

Children under 4 years of age just need one great photo. This photo can be taken by a professional or by the parents.

The ideal photo is a straight forward shot that actually looks like your child. Include a close up shot and a full length shot. Be sure your child looks attractive, enthusiastic, happy and clean. Photos should be against a blank wall. Select one bright primary color for your child with no hats, sunglasses, logos, make up, bows or fancy pageant dresses etc. The casting director needs to see your child looking like a child, so keep it simple.

Once you are signed with the manager or agent, they will require professional photos. This is standard procedure. Great headshots are important, because they are the only thing that casting directors see to determine whether your child will be called in for an audition or not. Your agent or manager will provide you with a list of professional photographers to work with. Headshots for children typically cost around $200.

Once the photos are done, the manager or agent will then select 3-6 shots they feel best captures your child and will get them noticed by casting directors. In addition to an 8x10 headshot that "pops," your manager or agent will require a ZED or Comp card that displays 4-5 photos on one card to submit to casting directors. From there, your child's manager or agent will generally upload the shots to one of the major online casting services, such as Casting Frontier or LA Casting, to get your child work. These sites require mandatory annual fees of about $36-$154.

Contact a Manager or Agent

Having an agent or manager helps you get your foot in the door. Send the agent or manager headshots of your child along with your child's age, height, weight and sizes printed on the back. If the agent or manager thinks they can get your child work, they will contact you for an audition. After the meeting, you will be asked to sign a contract agreeing to the representation of your child. From there, the agent or manager will contact you when an audition opens up for your child's type.

There are a large number of reputable modeling and talent agencies in all parts of the world. To begin, ask family members, friends, neighbors or co-workers for references, check sites such as New Faces, which keeps a running list of legit agencies or Google agencies in 4-5 big cities nearest you, then give them call.

How Much Does a Manager/Agent Charge?

A manager or agent makes money by getting your child work. In turn, they generally charge between 10%-20% of your child's gross income as a fee. Managers and agents do not get paid unless the child works. Be leery of managers or agents who require upfront costs. However, a small administrative fee of less than $50 is not uncommon.

Once your child has signed a manager or agent, they may be required to apply for a work permit and open a Coogan account. A Coogan account freezes your child's money until they turn 18. By California law, 15% of all minor earnings must be set aside in a blocked trust account, until they turn 18.

Preparing Your Child for Auditions

Keep it fun. Auditioning should be a fun experience for the child, so it is your job as parents to keep it fun. Smiling, happy, confident kids are the ones who get booked. Encourage your child to stay positive and happy. Hug them before they go into the room, and then hug them again when they come out. Let them know that they did a good job, and then pick an activity of their choice to celebrate. Unfortunately, in this business, there are more no's then there are yes's, so remain positive; their time will come.

Whichever audition your child is scheduled for, be sure the product is for one the child actually likes. It will be pretty hard for your child to walk into the audition and sell peanut butter if they don't like it. So, talk with your child about their feelings on the product before the audition.

Lastly, usually when you walk into the room, the casting director will ask the child a few questions to assess their personality. Practice with your child in the car on the way to the audition. Ask them questions that help get their personality brewing such as, "What is your favorite school subject?"

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

How to Create a Professional Modeling Portfolio

Linda Vojtova editorial portfolio shot

Do you dream of becoming a professional model? Then you need a portfolio. Your portfolio is your first impression as a model. It is the first thing clients and agencies review before deciding to meet you in person. Therefore, it is imperative to build an impressive portfolio that establishes your career as a model. These expert tips on how to create a professional modeling portfolio will help you build a portfolio that you can be proud of.

Determine What Type of Model You Are

Before you spend hundreds on your portfolio, you first need to determine the type of modeling you wish to do. Be realistic with yourself to avoid rejections and setbacks that may occur because you are attempting to enter a genre that does not suit you.

If you wish to become a high fashion model, then showcase your best light with a portfolio that includes a compilation of high fashion images. A freelance model's portfolio should encompass a wide range of shots that beautifully displays their range, and so on.

Invest in High Quality Photos

Your portfolio needs to project the best possible image of yourself. Keep in mind, these photos need to capture the attention of agencies and clients alike. High quality photos not only reveal the best you, but they also set you apart from the crowd.

Your photos should be 9x12-8x10 and in top condition. There should be no bends or folds, and they need to be stored in a high quality portfolio book. Every detail counts. Remember, this is your one chance to prove yourself to the world.

Find a Professional Photographer

When you are searching for a professional photographer, ask questions before making a final decision. Ask for a resume, clients, rates, experience, how many photos are included, and if they print the photos for you or if you are responsible for handling the print on your own. Ask for references of models they have worked with, then contact the models and ask about their experience with the photographer. They can also offer advice about which photos to include in your photos.

Next, determine the type of photos that would best display your modeling expertise. Inform the photographer of your modeling genre, and then ask for their input and suggestions on wardrobe, make up, hair and poises that would complement your type of modeling. Make every attempt to agree on your vision before you begin in order to avoid disappointments later on.

When selecting your photos, you want to select the best of the best. Enlist the aid of the photographer, once again, to help select your final photos. The photographer is experienced in discerning high quality shots, so their input is priceless; however, you have the final say. Select photos that make people notice you.

Include a variety of shots. You don't want to have multiple shots of the same background or wardrobe. Include a non-smiling headshot, a smiling headshot, a 3/4 shot and a full body shot, and the rest you can have fun with.

Headshots

Your portfolio needs to contain a variety of good headshots, also called Polaroids, that display your natural good looks with no makeup and demonstrates your ability to transform yourself into different personalities, characters and ages.

Body Shots

If you plan to apply to larger markets, then your portfolio should include body shots with you in swimwear, Lingerie, or tight fitting clothes. Do not feel pressured to include these types of photos if it is not the type of industry you wish to model for.

Less Is More

As a new model, your portfolio should include 6-12 good quality photos as opposed to a lot of poor quality ones. Established models should have 10-25 high quality photos.

Do My Photos Need To Be in Color?

Color pictures are great, but black and white photos project a certain mood. So don't be afraid to include black and white photos in your portfolio as well.

Lastly, never underestimate the power of a great attitude, so have fun!

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

How to Become a Professional Model

Linda Vojtova in Elle Australia 2014

Becoming a model is a dream come true for individuals who find themselves enamored with the world of beauty, fashion, glamour and travel and who enjoys being the center of attention. 

To become a professional model not only requires strict research to ensure you sign with a reputable agency, but it also requires a strong commitment on your behalf. If you are determined that you have what it takes to become a professional model, follow these expert tips to help get you in the door.

Take Care of Yourself

First thing's first. To become a professional model means you have to take care of yourself. According to Model Management-one of the top modeling agencies in the world, this means keeping a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, working out regularly, getting quality rest and avoiding alcohol and smoking. Take care of your hair and skin. Get your hair trimmed regularly to keep it healthy and keep make up at a minimum. If you choose to wear makeup, wash it off every night to avoid break outs.

Have a Good Attitude

A good attitude and a friendly personality always makes a good impression with agencies. Show confidence. Project yourself as the perfect candidate for the job. Display your vibrant personality, but keep it simple.

Dedicate Yourself

Building a successful career as a model takes resilience, time and effort to navigate the ever changing world of the fashion industry. The modeling industry is a fiercely competitive environment. A strong will and confidence goes a long way in this highly chaotic world.

Apply and attend to as many go-sees and castings as possible. This is your job interview and should be treated as such.

Be Professional

If you crave a successful career as a model, then you must be professional! Nobody wants to work with a model who is negative or has an ego. Keep a helpful, positive attitude.

Fashion shoots require more than just perfect poses, you must also be willing to withstand extreme weather and extended hours with the photo studio or fashion designer. Show up on time, be prepared, answer your phone and always return missed calls.

Prepare Yourself

There's more to modeling than just turning and posing. Classes will help build your knowledge of the industry as well as your confidence. The Internet is a good place to locate the right school, teacher and class. Classes focus on niches such as curvy models, mature models, kids, voice projection, print, runway, self-confidence and more. Some classes also combine acting with modeling for an extra edge.

The techniques taught in class are some of the same techniques employed by today's top models. No matter your goals, modeling classes will teach you how to work the camera, provide make up tips, teach you how to pick clothes that flatter you and provide styling pointers.

Make Your Portfolio Shine

Your portfolio is your resume, therefore, it is imperative that it is picture perfect. Make sure your portfolio has enough variation that beautifully displays your potential as a model. Your photos should portray your comfort with the camera as well as your range of expressions and movement.

Think of your portfolio as your short story that you are telling to potential clients. In other words, be sure your story flows and commands the agency's attention.

Keep your portfolio limited to your best photos. Always select photos that display the type of modeling your wish to do. Choose a sturdy, classy looking binder to display your photos. Mix your images. For example, follow a good portrait "head shot" with a total body shot. Avoid placing similar shots in your book, such as two shots of an identical look. And don't be afraid to mix color shots with black and whites. As you grow, replace novice photos with newer ones to keep your portfolio up to date.

When soliciting a photographer, make sure their style of photography compliments the type of modeling you are trying to do. In other words, if you are trying to be a fitness model, don't go to a high fashion photographer. Always ask to see the photographer's work. Most photographers work can be viewed on their website. Observe if you like their style of photography. Do they look reputable? Is their work published in commercials and magazines that you would like to appear in? A published photographer can also recommend you to agents and really give your modeling career a boost.

It is generally okay to bring a chaperone to photo shoots with you. Beware of photographers that insists you come alone.

Model Agency Representation

If you decide to seek representation from a modeling agency, be sure the agency is reputable according to industry standards. Before you sign, read the fine print. Note commission costs, cancellation terms, duration of the contract, exclusivity and hidden costs. If you have any doubts about the agency, do not sign the contract.

Have Fun!

The professional cycle of a model is a short one, so enjoy the ride with passion. Put your heart and mind into your endeavors, and have fun!

Linda Vojtova is an International Model who has appeared on numerous magazine covers of major magazines around the world. See more of her online portfolio by visiting her website at www.lindavojtova.com

What Was Served At the First Thanksgiving

The Thanksgiving holiday has evolved a great deal over the years. Nearly 400 years have passed since that first feast, but we can look back at some of the items on the original menu to find some healthy eating tips for today's time-honored holiday.

Offer historically accurate alternatives alongside your Thanksgiving staples or trade out some of today's sides for ones more like those the pilgrims ate. This is a great way to ward off that dreaded holiday weight gain and stick to your healthy eating habits.

What Meats Did Pilgrims Eat?

Turkey and ham are often thought of as the big, important meats for Thanksgiving dinner. A mind-blowing 91% of all Americans eat turkey on Thanksgiving and we ultimately consume around 550 million pounds of it on that one day each year. There is documentation that the pilgrims ate fowl on the first Thanksgiving, but it is unknown what specific fowl were on the table. Wild turkeys, ducks and geese were all native to the area.

If turkey was eaten, it wasn't like today's turkey. Our turkey is domesticated and raised specifically for eating. Turkeys are bred to be very meaty and they weigh twice as much as wild turkeys. Turkey breast meat is quite lean, but our turkey also has very fatty skin and the sought-after drumsticks are loaded with cholesterol.

Ham wasn't on the menu at all, but venison definitely was. The Native Americans brought five deer to the feast and cooked them over spits. Deer is a versatile meat and it's the leanest of the dark meats. It's low in both calories and fat, while being high in protein and iron. This makes it an ideal meat option for a healthy as well as authentic Thanksgiving.

Shellfish and Fish

Seafood doesn't often appear on our Thanksgiving menus today, but it's worth considering. Shellfish like mussels, clams and oysters were plentiful in the New England area and easy to harvest as well. The first Thanksgiving may also have included lobster. All offer high amounts of omega-3s and iron. Bass was often caught and eaten, so it was likely a part of the banquet. Like other fish, bass also has lots of omega-3 and is a great source of protein. Bass does have higher mercury levels though, so you may want to consider other fish like trout or salmon.

Vegetables

Because the first Thanksgiving celebrated the fall harvest, there were vegetables aplenty. Beans, carrots, onions, cool-weather squash, spinach and cabbage were common crops that were likely cooked and eaten. Meats were probably rubbed in herbs and spices and could also be boiled with onions and other vegetables for flavor. Beans are an excellent source of protein and squash are a great source of fiber. Leafy greens and other vegetables are packed with vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants as well as delicious flavor. Having a variety of vegetables adds color and nutritional value to any modern Thanksgiving dinner.

Yellow corn is considered by many to be a Thanksgiving staple. Maize (which is also known as Indian corn) was grown and harvested by the colony and likely appeared at the first Thanksgiving. The pilgrims didn't eat their corn like we do though. It was removed from the cob and made into cornmeal then that was made into a type of corn mash or porridge.

What about Potatoes and Pumpkin Pie?

Mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie, like corn, are two Thanksgiving staples. Potatoes were not yet being cultivated in North America at the time of the first Thanksgiving, so they obviously weren't eaten. Potatoes though are one of our modern additions that is actually very nutritious as long as you don't smother them in gravy or butter. Baked potatoes or roasted redskin potatoes make great side dishes.

Pumpkin was probably eaten at the first Thanksgiving, but not as a pie. It was more likely just cooked right alongside butternut and similar squash. The pilgrims had no access to wheat flour to make a pie crust and they also didn't have ovens for baking. In fact, there wasn't any bread at all. This means there was also no bread-based stuffing or rolls. Cutting back on bread is a great way to cut back on carbs. As far as desserts went, there were plenty of fruits and berries from blueberries to raspberries and grapes. Cranberries were grown, but too tart to be eaten and without sugar, so instead they were used only for dyes.

Recreating The First Thanksgiving

The first Thanksgiving didn't include a great deal of bread or dairy. It was very heavy on fresh vegetables and meats. The two were also likely combined to make very savory stews. For a historically-inspired Thanksgiving you should definitely spend time in your produce section. Possibilities are endless with vegetables and you can even use them in place of bread-based stuffing.

About Linda V.

Linda Vojtova is a Czech-born International Model, who has been on many of the world's most popular advertisements and fashion magazine covers. Linda V. has a passion for sharing her interest in fitness, diet, and overall health and well-being with her followers.

The Magic of Wheatgrass Supplements

Wheatgrass Juice

If you are looking for an amazing super-food as well as a green food then wheatgrass is the answer. As a super-food it is jam-packed with vitamins and minerals and it also imparts users with many health benefits. Because it is a green food you know it was cultivated organically without potentially dangerous synthetic chemicals, which is an added bonus.

What Exactly Is Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass is a type of wheat, which you probably know is a type of grass. It is both cultivated and harvested in much different ways than common wheat and if you cultivate it yourself at home it looks like nice, green grass. 

Along with it's lengthy list of health benefits you may also run into it going by a number of other names. Some other names for wheatgrass are couchgrass, dog grass, cutch, durfa frass, quackgrass, quitch grass, scotch quelch, twitch grass and even witch grass.

It is derived from the cotyledons of common wheat. A cotyledon is part of the embryo of the seed of a plant. In grasses, such as wheat, the cotyledons are highly modified into unique "seed leaves." Wheatgrass is often compared to malt wheat in the growing process, but it is actually allowed to grow longer than malt. Properly harvesting and utilizing your own wheatgrass can be tricky and also involves a special juicer. Luckily, you can buy the raw product, juice, a powder form and even a tablet at most specialty food stores.

Benefits of Wheatgrass

Like any super-food, wheatgrass has high concentrations of vitamins, minerals and amino acids. It contains large amounts of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, calcium, iron and magnesium. It has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties as well as improves your immune system.

Wheatgrass does a few other great things in the body as well. It increases your production of hemoglobin, making it easier for your red blood cells to transport oxygen. This keeps you energized, feeling great and is one of the factors contributing to wheatgrass' immune-boosting. This also helps to purify the blood and remove toxins from the bloodstream as well as from the liver. This includes heavy metals as well as drug deposits.

Along with cleansing the blood, wheatgrass is a mile diuretic. This means that it will cleans your urinary tract. It flushes toxins from the urethra, bladder and prostate. Couple this with its bacterial-fighting qualities and it is the perfect way to deal with a urinary tract or similar infection.

Who Should Take Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass is good for everyone. Not only does it have all of these benefits, but it also has little no negative side effects and is safe in both food and medicinal quantities. Some people do not like the flavor, but the pill and tablet forms can remedy that. Most people choose to take a shot of wheatgrass juice or they mix the powder in with another fruit juice or in smoothies. The nutrients in wheatgrass as so concentrated that you do not need much to reap the benefits. In most cases you simply need to follow the instructions on the packaging to make wheatgrass a part of your diet.

People with diabetes, high blood pressure or high cholesterol can all benefit greatly from the effect wheatgrass has on red blood cells. It improves digestion and also eases the symptoms of respiratory conditions, including the common cold and sore throats. Because it is so great at cleansing the body it is a staple of any detox regimen as well. Again, it is also an excellent way to deal with urinary tract infections, bladder infections and even kidney stones.

Depending upon why you want to start taking wheatgrass, you may consider consulting with your doctor or a dietitian. If you are interested in wheatgrass for a certain condition, you may need to take it different or in a different amount. Dosing may also change depending on your short and long-term plans for wheatgrass consumption.

Legality of Wheatgrass

Currently, wheatgrass is a very popular health food. There is also a great deal of scientific research going on that pertains to its benefits. Because of its many benefits with basically no side effects, there are no regulations at this time. Not only can you easily buy wheatgrass in its many forms, but you may also grow you own at home. This is a very economical option for those with patience and a green thumb. Wheatgrass is definitely worth trying. 

About Linda V.

Linda Vojtova is a Czech-born International Model, who has been on many of the world's most popular fashion magazine covers. Linda V. has a passion for sharing her interest in fitness, diet, and overall health and well-being with her followers.

Healthy Vegetable Salad Recipe from Linda Vojtova

Hi, and welcome to my very first blog. My name is Linda Vojtova, and I am an International Model, who has done work for some of the biggest brands in fashion.

As a swimsuit model, I am particularly cautious, as I'm sure you can imagine, of my weight, but I do love all kinds of food. I have been able to mix my passion for gourmet food with maintaining my weight with salads.

The pre-packaged salads you find in the markets bore me. Often, a salad for me is a meal, and I'd to share some of the ingredients I use in salad to not only make them delicious, but healthy too. I hope you find my blog interesting.

My Super Salads

Salads are a powerhouse of nutrients and fresh flavors. They are refreshing; they are fun, and you can make them anyway you'd like. This time of the year people start eating more salad, but you can maximize the health benefit of salads by adding these super-healthy vegetables, nuts, fruits, cooked beans, lettuce, and salad dressing:

Asparagus

Add elegance to your salad with the creamy, savory taste of asparagus. Asparagus is rich in dietary fiber, which is great for lowering bad cholesterol levels and regulating blood sugar levels, antioxidants, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, B-Vitamin complex, and essential minerals.

Summer Squash

Add the colors of spring and the taste of summer to your salad with Summer Squash. Squash is a good source of fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, folate, riboflavin, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, and Vitamin B6. The health benefits of Summer Squash includes: improves vision, lowers cholesterol, lowers blood pressure, fights cancer, controls PMS symptoms and more.

Pistachios

Add an exotic flare to your salad with the addition of warm and toasty, green pistachios. Pistachios contain many nutrients such as protein, fiber, Vitamin B6, thiamin, phosphorous, and magnesium which are great for controlling your weight and helping with heart problems.

Grilled Fruit

Grilled fruit adds a sweet and smoky flavor to your salad. Let your salad wisp you away to the islands with the tropical flavors of sweet, juicy grilled pineapple, exotic, grilled plantains, and creamy, shredded coconut.

• Pineapples - Pineapples are a great source of Vitamin A, C, calcium, potassium, phosphorous, and fiber. Its nutrient content is great for strengthening bones, keeping gums healthy, alleviating arthritis symptoms, lowering your risk of Mascular Degeneration, and improving digesting. 

• Plantains - This banana-like fruit is a great source of fiber, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, niacin, B complex vitamins, folate, iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. They contain more Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and potassium than a banana and are great for providing starch and energy, soothing kidney and bladder problems, and easing menstrual discomfort.

• Coconut - This "super-food" is rich in good fatty acids, fiber, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. The health benefits of the coconut include: provides a nutritional source of energy and endurance, supports tissue repair, helps protect against kidney and bladder infections, protects against liver disease, helps control weight, reduces inflammation, helps kill bacteria associated with ulcers, cavities, throat infections, gingivitis and more.

Canellini Beans

Add warm, buttery, meaty flavor to your salad with cooked Cannellini beans. Cannellini beans are a great source of B Complex vitamins, zinc, potassium, iron, essential minerals, saponins, isoflavins, soluble fiber, and more protein than any other plant based food. They provide a good balance or protein and complex carbohydrates, which provides a slow steady source of glucose.

The Best Types of Lettuce

Not all lettuce is created equal; add the following lettuce to your salad to really boost its nutritional value.

• Romaine - Romaine lettuce is said to be the healthiest of all lettuce. It adds a variety of flavors and textures to your salad and is a great source of Vitamin A, K, C, B1, folate, fiber, biotin, and molybdenum. 

• Spinach - For a tender texture, with a light crunch, add or use Spinach leaves as your salad base. Spinach is rich in folate, Vitamin C, K, A, E, B vitamins, calcium, iron, copper, fiber, protein, and omega 3 fats. The nutrient content in Spinach is great for prostate health, regulating eye health, keeping bones strong and healthy and more.

• Endive - Endive lettuce provides a fun way to enjoy your salad in a aperitif-like fashion. Endive lettuce is a great source of Vitamin C, A, B vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals. This lettuce is great for protecting against oral and lung cancers, lowering bad cholesterol, and maintaining eye sight.

Top it Off with an Easy Low Fat Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup fresh raspberries
• 2 Tbsp organic raw honey
• 1/4 cup raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
• 3/4 cup olive oil
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp basil
• 1/4 cup water

Directions

Place ingredients into a blender. Blend until smooth, and enjoy!

-Linda Vojtova

International Model