M.I.M's Ramata in Shanghai!

 

Yes, we've interviewed a model working in Shanghai before, however, M.I.M's Ramata offers us a different perspective on the Shanghai market, being a dark skinned model where Caucasian is often preferred.

Name:
Koundienetia Ramata Coulibaly

Mother agency:
MIM (Models International Management)

How long is your contract?
3 months

What could you tell us about the market for new models/models whom have not yet been?:
Shanghai is a commercial market where the girls are mainly booked for catalogs or presentations. Models do not need to be super tall or super slim to work in Shanghai, however they do prefer young girls, but there are always a few exceptions. It is a money market, so models have to be prepared to spend long hours going to castings, as agencies here make you work hard and constantly.

What is something interesting/different about the city?:
Even though I don't normally take Transpo or the Metro, Shanghai has the largest bus system in the world.

What is the shopping like?:
The shopping in Shanghai is not the best. There are a few boutiques from amazing local designers but they can be quite expensive, so I often find myself going to Zara or H&M. There is a market called Qipu Lu's Cheap-o Loot and it is amazing! You can find  great purses and accessories for really cheap prices, and you can often bargain for 60% less then the price they give you. If you have small feet there are great shoe finds. Although the shoes aren't the best quality, they are very affordable.

Any  current fashion trends that stand out/ different that you have noticed?:
The people in the city are very animated and their style definitely fits their personalities. They love anime and they often dress like them. There are a lot of bright colours, patterns, girly shirts, bows, etc. They are basically grown ups dress like kids.

As far as trends go, I have noticed a big trend when it comes to shoes - they love platforms

How do you feel your look stands out in this market?:
As mentioned, Shanghai is a really commercial market, and they prefer really young girls with long hair and big blue eyes, which is the total opposite of me.  I mostly go to request castings, show castings and do direct bookings because the local brands aren't ready to use me yet.

This is actually to my advantage as there are no other black models here and I believe I am one of the first to even come to Shanghai! Not only am I black, but I am also a high fashion model, so most high-fashion clients either book me or editorial Asian models for magazines ,catalogs or campaigns.

It is the first time in my life where I book more photo shoots than fashion shows. It has been exciting because even some commercial clients get inspired by my look and book me. I shot a wedding catalog and a bridal show, which are both firsts for me, and it was amazing but one of the spectators at the show screamed when she saw me! hahaha

Having worked so many markets, what about Shanghai as a modeling market stands out to you the most?:
The market is pretty much the same everywhere I have been. I do have to say when I shoot magazines, the behind the scenes team is really big here in Shanghai. I've had shoots where I had eight people on set, sometimes even more!

The type of models that clients are booking stands out to me, as they come in different shapes and sizes.
Most fashion shows are booked direct, or even when you go to the castings they rarely ask you to walk, which is unique to this market.

For catalogs, shows and presentation castings, the models will attend wearing super bright colors and even colored lipsticks. I saw a model show up wearing purple lipstick and the client loved it. Compared to Europe where they want models to arrive with simple clothes, and very minimal make up.

Something you'd recommend to eat for somebody who has never been?:
Everyone should try tea boiled black eggs , super market tofu and street kebab spicy meat. I'm addicted to tofu and vegetables, it's fantastic!

M.I.M's Nina in Tokyo!

Models International Management's Nina is currently in Tokyo with top agency 'Cinq, Deux, Un' for her second contract in the amazing fashion market. We got the scoop on the Tokyo scene thanks to Nina..

Name:
Nina Larocque

Mother agency:
M.I.M (Models International Management)

How long is your contract in Tokyo?:
Around 70 days, and I will also be traveling to Osaka in November

What could you tell us about the market for new models/models whom have not yet been?:
The market is very good as it is mostly high fashion. Lots of editorials and runway shows which are so fun. However Tokyo is great because there are other opportunities for commercial models to work here as well.


What is something interesting/different about the city?:
The Japanese are the nicest people I have ever had the pleasure to work with. Japan, as a whole, is a beautiful country with an extravagant culture that never ceases to amaze me. I feel completely as ease in this city, and considering I am thousands of miles away from home I feel really safe here. This is actually my second trip to Tokyo, I went last summer so now that I'm done school I can stay for longer. On my days off, I love traveling throughout the city there is so much to explore.


What is the shopping like?:
Anyone can find something that fits their personal style since there are many stores of all types and ranging from different prices. I love it! They have a lot of American stores that I'm use to shopping at but also some really interesting new stores that have become my favourite.


Any current fashion trends that stand out/ different that you have noticed?:
I have noticed that everyone dresses to impress, with many different styles that express their personality. In women, high heels are always worn, regardless of the weather or distance she must walk. Also, they love to accessorize with adorable jewelry, false lashes and a well maintained manicure.  As for the men, their main attire consists of the typical workman business suit.


Make-up trends that you have noticed?:
False lashes are worn by most of the teenage girls along with bright rosy cheeks. They look doll like.


Favourite thing about working in this market?:
Everyone is extremely easy to work with, although the language barrier makes communication very difficult, the people are so nice and understanding that it makes job fun. There are models from all around the world that come and work here. I have made so many friends that it makes working here such a blast.


What is the currency used for this market?:
The Japanese yen.


Something you'd recommend to eat for somebody who has never been?:
Pork dumplings are one of my favorite things to eat.

"Who's that model?" Interview with cover model Tristen @ M.I.M

photo Martin Rondeau

photo Brian Ypperciel

We've been getting a lot of amazing feedback and questions on our FALL 2012 cover, one question we keep hearing is "who is that model?". So, we thought we would sit down and find out a little bit more about the rising star Tristen from Models International Management in Ottawa.

You've only recently started modeling world and there seems to be a fair amount of buzz about you and your potential, how does that feel?:
After only being with Models International for about a year, I feel amazing with what I have accomplished so far! When I first got into modelling, I thought it would just be a hobby I do every now and then, but it has turned out for the better and I am constantly busy with jobs. It has been a very unexpected outcome, but I am very happy and grateful with what has happened so far.

What was the experience like shooting the cover for the one year anniversary issue? Can you tell the readers a bit about the process behind the make-up and hair?:
The shoot was pretty insane, as you can see from the picture. No one really told be about the concept of the shoot other than it was going to be elaborate, which it was indeed. I arrived in Montreal at 9am and right away we started on hair and make-up. The hair had many steps to help it stand up straight, which included me lying on the floor so the stylist could shape it! Then for make-up, I was painted completely black from my chest up which included inside my ears, lips, hands and everywhere else! It felt weird at some points but it was all worth it to get the amazing shot! In total, the hair and make-up took about 5 hours, then we shot for probably less than an hour. The whole experience was new, since it was my very first cover shoot but it was an amazing experience to work with the team that made it all come together. So even after a long day of hair, make-up and shooting, I still had tons of fun and can't wait to do more "elaborate" shoots!

What made you decide that you wanted to be a model?:
As I was growing up, I would always watch modelling shows like Canada's and America's Next Top Model, and I had always thought about starting but never actually did. Then as I got older, I became more interested in the fashion industry, and all of my family and friends encouraged me to get into the modelling business. So after looking into several different agencies in Ottawa, I finally met with Sophie from Models International and since then she has supported me so much and I have been loving every moment of the work I have been doing.


What is your favourite aspect of the modeling business?:
My favourite part so far would have to be participating in fashion shows. They are so much fun! Walking down the runway while everyone stares at you! I was a bit nervous my first few shows, but once you get up there, all of the nerves go away and it is an amazing feeling and just a lot of fun! I do really enjoy photo shoots too, but runway shows are much more interactive, with the crowd and lots of cameras at the end of the runway.

What do you hope to accomplish in your career?:
Throughout my modelling career, I really hope to travel to a lot of places like Paris, Milan, New York, Tokyo, and all of the major fashion cities. I have never really traveled so I hope modelling will give me that opportunity. I also hope to accomplish my goal of being in some of the big fashion magazines around the world.

Best piece of advice to give to a new model starting out or is unsure about getting into the business?:
Modelling can really help your self confidence and teach you about all different new techniques to apply to your everyday life. Before I started, I had no clue how to dress fashionably or do my hair and make-up, but once I started I improved a lot, which gave me more confidence to succeed in this business, and other parts of my life. If you do want to get involved in modelling and want to make it a potential career, you just have to practice practice practice! Posing and walking may seem easy but it takes a person to know what they are doing to succeed. Which is why you must practice poses and walking in front of a mirror at home. I still pose in front of a mirror at home, as do most top models!

Models International Management is seeking new faces!!

MIM's roster is growing, and with models in such high demand from local clients, they are searching for new faces!

Join MIM between 11am and 2pm in the Centre Court at St. Laurent Shopping Centre as MIM searches for the next Fresh Face of Ottawa!

Accepting applications from males and females in four categories:

Kids (ages 5-10)

Teens (ages 11-17)

International (women: height 5'7"-5'11"; men: 6'-6'3")

Lifestyle (ages 23+)

No experience required.

M.I.M's Renee in Hamburg!

As promised Models International Management's Renee is sharing with us some tips on the modeling market of Hamburg, Germany!

Name:
Renée Mittelstaedt

Mother agency:
Models International Management (Ottawa, Canada)

How long is your contract?
My contract is two months.

What could you tell us about the market for new models/models whom have not yet been?
The most important thing to remember when modeling in Hamburg is to always be on time. The clients do not like it when their models are late for jobs and castings.

What is something interesting/different about the city?
I really like how the city is right by the water. When the weather is warm, it’s great to take a walk along Elbe River and watch the ships sail into the harbor. Moreover, the Alster Lake is a great place to sit down and read a good book on a sunny day. 

What is the shopping like?
The shopping in Hamburg is amazing. There are many malls, markets and small shops where ever I go. I love going to the Euro Passage mall, which is located in the city’s center.

Any current fashion trends that stand out/ different that you have noticed?
The current fashion trend that I’ve noticed is bright clothing. However, I believe that’s an international spring/summer trend but it’s the one trend that caught my eye.

Make-up trends that you have noticed?
I haven’t noticed many make up trends in Hamburg. Most women keep their make-up very natural and light.

Favorite thing about working in this market?
My favorite thing about working in this market is how everything is very organized. I like how there is a schedule and it is always followed to the letter.

What is the currency used for this market?
The currency used in this market is the Euro.

Something you'd recommend to eat for somebody who has never been?
I would recommend trying the sea food in Hamburg. The city is right by the water, therefore the restaurants have access to the freshest sea food. There is a variety of fish and shellfish prepared differently, so one can have whatever their heart desires.

photo proved by M.I.M (Ottawa)

Models International Management's F/W 2012 Show Package

Ottawa Fashion Week F/W 2012 is fast approaching and with that said, the agencies are getting ready.
In bigger markets come show season you can expect to see the show packages from the modeling agencies touting whose in town and whom you should expect to see on the runways. Smaller markets tend to pass up on this even if there is a fashion week. This season however M.I.M shared a wonderful surprise, their F/W 2012 show package beaming with some amazing faces! (To top it off, the show package has a real slick appeal to it too).

Going through the list of faces, certain names grab your attention in anticipation of seeing them work the runways. So here are our picks of who we expect to be seeing a lot from this season. (Take a look at the full show package below!)

Victoria - If you've been to Toronto or Montreal Fashion Week, then M.I.M;s Victoria is no new face for you! The veteran of the runway will no doubt be a staple for this seasons shows.

Delaney - Delaney has that runway charm that we fully expect to win over many designers this season.

Tristan - This new face has the legs for the runway so we can't wait to see her use them. (p.s. we love her eyebrows).

Gabriel - His cool stare, accompanied by a smooth strut will no doubt assist him in securing a place in several shows.

Santana - Santana's demure and classic demeanor give her a fantastic chance of being booked by several designers.

Photos courtesy of Models International Management (Ottawa)

Models International Managements' Renee in Greece!

M.I.M's Renee is one of their fastest rising faces in the agency! Saying she has worked is an under statement! Renee has been a successful model in Toronto, Montreal, New York, Cape Town, Miami and many more! Currently Renee finds herself in the European market of Athens, Greece! (Before her next stop to Germany!)

We asked Renee a few questions regarding her stay and what new models can expect from this market.

Name:
Renee Mittelstaedt

Mother agency:
Models International Management in Ottawa

How long is your contract?:
My contract is one month.

What could you tell us about the market for new models/models whom have not yet been?:
I have only been in Athens for a short time; however one important piece of advice I have is be prepared to walk a lot when you’re here. The Metro is new in Athens so there aren’t as many stations, therefore when going to castings you will most likely be walking the majority of the time. Moral of the story, bring comfortable shoes!

What is something interesting/different about the city?:
The thing I found interesting about Athens are that the sidewalks are made of marble. It’s a random thought, however it’s the first thing I noticed when I got here.
 
What is the shopping like?:
At the moment, shopping is really good. Many of the stores such as H&M and Zara, are having great sales and they are very close to the Athens Flea Market. Athens Flea Market is a large market place with different knick-knacks for tourists. So, one can buy some fashion staples and some tacky souvenirs all at the same time.

Any current fashion trends that stand out/ different that you have noticed?:
It is winter here in Greece, so evidently many women are wearing lots of layers and fur coats. Although, I also noticed many of the women here generally have a pair of nice sunglasses, rain or shine.
 
Make-up trends that you have noticed?:
I noticed that many of the women here keep their make-up very simple. They usually wear concealer, mascara and eye liner.
 
Favorite thing about working in this market?:
My favorite thing about working in this market is the relaxed atmosphere. I never feel like I am pressed for time when going from casting to casting in the city.

What is the currency used for this market?:
The currency used for this market is the Euro.

Something you'd recommend to eat for somebody who has never been?:
I would recommend taking advantage of trying as many locally grown cheeses, fruits, and vegetables as possible. The other models and I had a plate full of different cheeses, fruit, and vegetables which included the Greek feta, figs, grapes, and olives. I find it much nicer to stay in and make a meal with everyone, instead of going out every night.

Renee - photo courtesy of M.I.M Ottawa

Next time from Renee, she will share with us her experience in Germany! Until then!