*Selling Fast*
Nikki's Peplum Dress
Now at only RM55/pc!

Code: AP005
Colour: As per picture
Details: Free Size, fits size S to M, soft cotton, stretchable waist line, attached with zipper at back panel.
Status: Available

Sandra
Now at only RM45/pc!

Code: AP004
Colour: Pink Lace, White Lace, Black Lace
Details: Free Size, fits size S to M, cotton, attached with side zipper.
Status: Available

Milky
Now at only RM49/pc!

Code: AP003
Colour: As per picture
Details: Free Size, fit size S to M, smooth cotton, open-button at front panel, match perfectly with pair of skinny jeans or legging.
Status: Sold Out

The Wild Roses (skirt)
Now at only RM39/pc!

Code: AP002
Colour: As per picture
Details: Free Size, fits size S to M, Smooth cotton, with 2 zipper pockets at side, stretchable waist line.
Status: Sold Out

Karena's Lace
Now at only RM49/pc!

Code: AP001
Colour: Black, Navy Blue
Details: Free Size, fits size S to M, lace & smooth cotton, comes in 2 separate pieces, both piece are attached with zip.
Status: Sold Out

Why Agency Kickbacks are a No-No

For the record: the only way modeling agencies are able to make money legally is by taking a commission out of each gig they book for their models. This is why I repeatedly state why it is important that you avoid agencies that require any type of upfront payment before offering you a contract. However, this has not stopped some agencies (even the legitimate ones for the most part), from doing stuff under the table or in a way that won't get them in trouble. Agency kickbacks are one of them.

Here's how a typical kickback works:

Step 1: The agency signs a new model with no upfront fees or other funny stuff. Harmless enough.
Step 2: They tell the model that she/he must organize photoshoots in order to build their portfolio. The agency will give the model a list of recommended photographers that they encourage the model to work with.
Step 3: The model works with one of the agency's recommended photographers and pays for the cost of the shoot, makeup artist, stylist, comp card printing, etc.
Step 4: The photographer gives a percentage of their cut to the agency.

Step 4 is the "kickback" part and is a big no-no. The agency should not be receiving any money when it comes to the portfolio stage--the only time they should see profit is once they book their model work and are able to charge their agency fee/commission. Some agencies have done kickbacks under the table as a way to generate additional income but this is not good business practice. Does it stop agencies from doing it? No.

Those within the industry usually know which agencies do these kickbacks, although it is difficult to find out for yourself. Even if you asked the agency and/or the photographer whether they deal with kickbacks, what's to stop them from lying to you? The point of this post is not to figure out how to track down the truth--that's a huge challenge that I wouldn't even know where to begin talking about. I simply want you to be aware of the fact that when it comes to paying for your portfolio shoot when signing with an agency, it's okay if you pay as long as the agency isn't getting a cut from it. When you sign with an agency, find out all your options for choosing photographers. The agency should not force you to use one of the photographers they recommend. They should be open to allowing you to choose who you want and deciding whether to accept the images that you get as a result.

Different Types of Promotional Modeling

There are a variety of sub-categories in the modeling industry, including promotional modeling. While not known as the most interesting or credible part of the modeling world, this has not stopped many men and women from seeking work in this field. If you enjoy meeting new people, are great at selling a product or idea and want to experience something different, then you should give promotional modeling a shot. For general information about this type of modeling, check out my blog post on the subject:

Promotional/Tradeshow Modeling

There are even sub-categories in promotional modeling, such as regular promo modeling, retail modeling and brand ambassador/spokesmodeling.

Regular promotional modeling involves handing out promotional/marketing materials and free samples to customers as well as educating people about the company you are representing. This usually takes place at tradeshows, conventions and other related venues. For that event you are the face of the company and are responsible for drawing interested customers to the booth or stand.

Retail modeling is very similar to promo modeling but takes place in actual retail stores. For example, you might get a retail modeling gig passing out makeup samples to women in the cosmetics section of Macy's or handing out samples of hair conditioner products at Wal-Mart. Or you could even participate in playing video games for a new title coming out at a local game store. The possibilities are endless for retail modeling.

Brand ambassadors can be thought of as "managers" that oversee as well as participate in a promotional event. As the name implies, brand ambassadors represent a particular brand/company and must be very knowledgeable in that brand's identity, services and products. You'll commonly see this term used in relation to models promoting alcohol. Most brand ambassadors are 21 years of age or older due to the nature of the products they are promoting. Promo models in this position typically get paid well and are hired for future events for the brand they are representing.

Spokesmodels are chosen to represent a certain image that customers associate with a particular company or product. They are typically asked to appear at a certain company's events throughout the year. So instead of just working one or two events, they may sign you on to make special appearances, which could also result in higher pay. By seeing a regular face, customers will come to establish the connection between your appearance and the presence of the company. Being a spokesmodel is a great position that could lead to future opportunities including being a part of the company's ad campaigns.