Tween Makeup

Eric Mull

Eric Mull

Eric Mull

At age 12 I wanted to wear makeup,  I started by wearing eyeliner only to “play” in.  Then I “forgot” to remove it. My mom got so upset when I left the house with it on.  My daughters now try to play that same game, but they don’t have a chance of winning it.  Yes it is just makeup, but the rule in my house is: No makeup until age 13.  As much as I love cosmetics, I feel girls should not fast forward.

       While working in a salon in 1994, my coworker and I came up with an idea that is in many salons now; glamour birthday parties. We offered packages for hairstyles, age appropriate makeup application lessons, and manicures. We decided to invite the local newspaper out to spotlight this new idea.  Once contacted, the editor seemed eager for the story.

The first party was set for a young lady turning nine.  The birthday girl and her friends showed up as did the newspaper. The girls giggled the whole time and left with smiles on their faces.  The event couldn’t have gone any better, and we were confident that a good review was ahead.  A week later things changed very quickly.  We couldn’t wait to see the paper; however, as we started to read the article, we realized our salon was “thrown under the bus.” They showed pictures of the night, but asked readers to give their opinion on this idea for young girls. They asked if this is too much for kids. WOW, we never saw that coming at all!

   The mother called us to complain and stated that her daughter was being teased at school.  The newspaper readers were so mean spirited. One actually said young kids should go on their birthday to nursing homes to read to residents…COME ON! My salon, coworker, and I wanted the press and we sure got it. In present times, I wait until the paper contacts me and I ask a lot of questions before I speak. 

Attached is a link from the Cleveland talk show Good Company.  The segment features my daughter.  Parents, please take the time to watch it for pointers on tween makeup. Girls, remember; less is more.

 http://www.wkyc.com/video/default.aspx?bctid=587331558001

The Young Ones

Many of my friends ask me, “How many stage moms do you run across?”  My answer is, “In Cleveland, just a few.” To be honest, the young ones really want to act.  Some are perfect for it.  When these children come see me, I want them to have a positive first experience etting headshots.  I want them to have fun, and I assure them that this will be a great time.

I once had a young actress with blonde hair and beautiful blue eyes tell me she was ready to be beautified.  I told her “You are perfect the way you are and makeup really isn’t needed.”  Just two weeks ago a child actress, started asking about my job as I groomed her for photos.  She inquired, “How long have you done this job?” Also, “What famous people have you met?”  At the end of the shoot, she told me that I did a good job and she had a nice time.  She then gave me a hug and said, “Thank you!”  It made my day.

   These actors in training really want to excel, but the parents are confused as to where to start.  Here are some tips for the parents of child actors… 

Plan ahead!  Many parents would like to submit photos right away to agencies in LA or NYC, but don’t have a plan in place if the child actually lands a role.  This fact is foolish.  If you plan on going to a major market, think it through and consider what you and your family are going to do if your child is cast.  If you have other children, are you able to move the whole family?  Does everyone want to leave Cleveland?  Will you have a job when you move?  Most likely your child will not be able to support you right away with this new role.  Some actors have actually landed roles and then the family realizes that they cannot relocate.  What a waste of time and money!

 

Be reasonable!  Here is a news flash: if you think Hollywood will fly your child across county because they LOVE the child’s pictures, guess again. Agencies/studios want talent in that state. You may go to another market audition and work to build your resume, but don’t wait for a “Golden Ticket” to come to you.  If your child is acting regularly, a parent must prepare themselves and their child for an unusual amount of missed school.  Production is Monday through Friday usually 9 to 5.  Agents don’t want to hear about your child’s grades or sports schedule; this isn’t their problem. They will just go to the next child actor willing to miss the necessary hours of school, and your child will lose out.  Many parents tend to home school their child actor, so there isn’t a conflict.

Be smart!  I think the best advice the public can received is: if anyone wants you to pay money up front to be in an agency or ask you to buy a package, DO NOT SIGN ANYTHING and don’t work with them.  Odds are they are shady.  They will take your money and your child will not work.  It is okay to set up a photo shoot on your own.  You might want to pay a fee to the agent for exposure on their website to show your child’s portfolio.  Many clients book talent this way; it is wise to invest your money in this common practice.

Finally, go with your gut, ask questions, and do some research. Also don’t think it will happen overnight and add credits to your child’s resume.  Being in plays and taking acting classes helps. Don’t quit your day job.  You will need that for funding your young ones career until it takes off.  As time goes on, you will see if this business is for your child and your patience.

Eric Mull/Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/Karen Siat

Tips for Your Photo Shoot

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

Eric Mull/ Karen Siat

As promised, I want to give some industry tips on my blog. After having more than a few models and actors come unprepared, I thought I should share some insight on how to get the best photo. 

First off, try to calm your nerves.  Most people come in and say, “I hate taking pictures.”  If this is true, you are the wrong business.  I think it is normal for many to express this thought internally, but do so only the night before when rehearsing in front of a mirror.  It is OK to be anxious but be confident.  If you lack confidence, it will show through your expressions.

Second, be prepared on your shoot.  Take advice from your acting coach or talent agent.  They know best; they want you to work.  It is important to look closely at your wardrobe.  You might have clothes that should not be used in a photo shoot. Here are some wardrobe secrets: If your clothes are dirty or faded, too small on you, or have pilling on the fabric, DON’T BRING THEM!  You would be amazed how many people will.  Yes, even the dirty part is true and gross.  Make sure the items are laundered, pressed, hemmed, intact (no rips, tears, or strings showing) and well fitting.  Then make sure your clothes are on hangers, placed inside a garment bag.  This will save time and ensure you will look your best.  Don’t forget your shoes or undergarments.  Women, ALWAYS have a nude and a strapless bra in your bag.  I can’t tell you how many gals come in with light clothes and ONLY dark bras.  Guys, if you are doing a body shot, bring boxer briefs and please make sure they aren’t an old pair or baggie.  Trust me, I have seen this on past shoots and it was not flattering.  Swimsuits for ladies are best in a bikini style, not a puzzle cut out or one piece.  Neither of those suits photographs well.

Next, if you have been told not to wear any make up, DON’T.  You can exfoliate if your skin is dry and moisturize as needed. The most important tips are as follows: get your eye brows shaped, retouching doesn’t always work to fix this, and schedule a teeth cleaning beforehand with your dentist.  As much as you can whiten your teeth, you would not believe how much yellow tarter can be between them and it doesn’t look good when you smile.  Gals should not wear colored polish.  A neutral or French style is most appropriate.

Finally, remember to bring snacks.  The photo session may take a few hours and you don’t want to loose your energy. You may want to bring along a water bottle to help maintain hydration.

I hope these tips will help you when planning your big shoot. Remember to relax and have fun!  It will definitely show on your disc.