KMF TALENT-Global being is forum for Industry Players and Stakeholders to interact, share views, exchange ideas, expand opportunities and exploit the potential within, in a closely knit society, comprising of all that are linked to the modeling hub.
KMF is an acronym of Kenya Modeling Fraternity established as a concept of Immortal Dream Consult, a specialist Concept Development firm, that deals with Corporate, Social, Cultural/Themed Events and Consultancy.
KMF TALENT-Global serves not only modeling and Fashion but also General Talent through a unique online talent management portal www.kmftalent.com. It is set upon two broad objectives to:
(i) create a professional working environment for the industry to thrive.
(ii) construct an industry infrastructure supported by an administrative framework to regulate operations among industry players.
The vision is to bring together the Fashion, Modeling and Talent Industry Players in order to achieve sustainable vertical growth, individually and collectively by working to create solutions that meet both the requirements of business and the broader needs of society, within the industry's context.
Other specific objectives include:
a. Uniting the Industry Players as a Fraternity in order to create a solid recognition of its existence and spur vertical growth[1]
c. Discover, nurture and support new talent and expand opportunities[3] for expansion and income generation
d. Create, Expand and Strengthen links across the globe to promote better understanding of the industry, while improving cross cultural relationship with each other[4]
[1] Establishment of KMF-TALENT Global on Social Networks Facebook, Twitter, My Space, Google Groups, etc
[2] Research and pass recommendations on training, curriculum and sound management practices
[3] Involvement with Juniors, Schools, College/Universities and other institutions
[4] Introduction of KMF - Culture & Talent Exchange Programs
[5] Setting up of www.kmftalent.com and Social Network groups and pages to share and exchange information
[6]Sustained organization of Fashion, Talent Shows and Exhibitions, Workshops, Exchange program and Awards
Though not exclusively,Industry players include Casting and Advertising Agencies, Modeling Management Firms, Advertising Firms, PR Agencies, Image Consultants, Legal Fraternity, Modeling Contest Organizers, Models, Media, Fashion Designers, Fashion photographers, Event Organizers, Salons, Beauty Centers, Make up artists, and Hair designers, Film Makers, Dancers, Modeling and Dance Choreographers, Musicians and Actors and Actresses, Entertainment Spots, Corporate Sponsors, The Government (Youth, Gender, Culture, Ministries), and all other interest parties.
DOES KMF WORK WITH MODELS and ARTISTES?
Yes. We have developed programs that cover all theory and practical knowledge necessary for models and clustered other talent i.e. Music, Dance, Presentation, Dj-ing, DVj-ing, Acting and Acrobatics and identified trainers for each. Charges vary. In coming future, we will be launching the High School, Campus Exclusive, Mature/Senior and Infant programs. We have also initiated a unique wing KMF PURITY MODELS for Spiritually Oriented members. Currently we are training KMF TALENT-Juniors, KMF-Model of the Year Quest contestants and making inroads to the High Schools and University sectors for talent scouting and nurturing. Model of the Year is a competition featuring models of ALL SIZES and GENDER largely ran as an informal experiential course, for starters. The next round of registration to this is Feb 2011.HOW DOES ONE JOIN KMF?
You are already on your first step to join KMF. First is to understand the KMF Online Talent Management orientation.
KMF is not yet a Commercial Agency, though we fully acknowledges the need and pressure to have it function as one. It exists only as grounds to educate, structure and serve the fashion, modeling and general talent industry, with practical ‘agency role’.
Over the short span KMF has existed since 2009, many have come to appreciate our hard work and call on us from time to time to:
- Supply Models(all age and gender for runway and commercial purposes, Ushers and Hostesses
- Recommend Artistes (Musicians, MCs, Dancers Percussionists and even Acrobats
- Train Models and Judges for contests
- Organize and Choreograph Fashion Shows for Colleges and Institutions and events
- Outsource for Decor, Lighting, Sound and DJ services
- Audition and Provide Presenters and Voice Over Artists
- Scout and recommend venues for Corporate, Private and Family functions
- Recommend Fashion designers, Makeup Artistes and Photographers for events and weddings
- Direct photography for development of Models Portfolios and Prominent people and events
- Supply information to the Media on the industry
- Advise on Image (Personal, Group and Corporate)
- Create and develop concepts for advertising, product and brand launches
- Generate ideas for Video Production, TV Shows, Documentaries and Features
With this easy selling position, we accept commissions (usually 20%) for work done by those we link up. Otherwise we negotiate payment for other services we offer direct. This applies to members of my facebook group (KMF TALENT-Global©), models whose professional portfolios and businesses whose profiles we have, those who follow us on the social media, blogs and other platforms. This way, KMF TALENT-Global remains an open forum, where all interested industry players can join, share and exchange ideas for free.
We are however developing a Commercial Online Talent Management System, where you or your business can be signed up or listed for commercial purposes.
It is efficient and more productive. It follows therefore that contact is established online through pictures and information available in our database. I market the system, your talent or business is seen by clients and those interested, worldwide, you get booked, your services are hired we all make sense of our interaction.
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS TO JOIN?
For Artistes (Musicians, Dancers, Acrobats) we require Official name, stage name contact details (phone/email) and nicely done clear digital pictures, profile and demo cds or DVDs.
For Artistes (Musicians, Dancers, Acrobats) we require Official name, stage name contact details (phone/email) and nicely done clear digital pictures, profile and demo cds or DVDs.
For Models, we require Official name, NICKNAME, contact details (phone/email), Bio data, a proper professional modeling portfolio (see article below for more details), and definitive list of role preferences.
For Businesses (Designers, Stockists, Equipment Suppliers, etc), we require Business Name, Service list, Contact details (phone/email/location) well done clear digital pictures of select products, equipment or supplies. A business profile with any necessary information potential clients might need.
You do realize this may not be cheap, I caution, because we are refining trends while setting standards but the results are worth it. To make it easier, we organize group photo shoots (for models and artistes) with selected photographers to help those interested. It is also part of the training necessary especially for all Models across both Commercial (advertising on Print and TV) and Runway/Fashion, in both Male and Female gender for all age, sizes, creed and race.
Group shoots (Artistes and Models) are done once (in one day or over a few days) at a cost of about KES. 5,000 per person. Individual shoots done once (in one day or over a few days) cost around KES. 10,000 per person, depending on Photographer of choice, Location and Logistics. I prefer to direct the shoots because that way, we get the shots we need, enough to select from, shots we are excited to market. For Businesses, it costs in average KES. 15000 to KES. 35000 depending on the size (branches), variety and nature of products, location(s). BUT YOU HAVE A CHOICE TO DO IT ALL ON YOUR OWN, your photographer, location of your choice, but ensure it captures our aspirations. Most of this will be evident when the system is complete, do yours NOW, we are already working.
WHAT IS NEEDED FOR PORTFOLIO SHOOT?
Basics. Studio shoots can be done anytime, outdoor shoots are best between 9am and 11.30am and 3pm to 6pm on sunny weather. Prepare yourself/product and accessories for the photo shoot in advance. The model/product is the subject; expression, mood/set is the target; location, furniture, clothes, jewelery and shoes are accessories.
General. You have a manager, let him/her recommend an experienced photographer, identify a creative experienced photography director and consult a stylist to help you select accessories. Invest in a qualified makeup artist and hairstylist. Sufficient sleep prior to the shoot day is advisable. Light meals and plenty of water or juice and light meals on the day of shoot does it well. Be on location in time. If doing bikini or lingerie shots, remove all unwanted hair, do not wear tight clothes or undergarments
Avoiding very light colors like pinks in all, try to have at least 2 sets of each.
Casual wear-fitting and lose denims (jeans), pencils, shorts, khakis, hot pants, dirty denims, jackets, shirts
Long sexy fashion dress, plain and decorated, short dress (free and figure hugging), mini skirt, fitting and lose matching tops, ethnic fabrics and scarves, bikini and anything lacy, some lingerie and boxers or speedos (optional). A formal office suit (skirt or pants) will be good. Shoes and heels to match, Gold, Black and Silver may do depending on what you have to wear plus have the necessary jewelery.
Just as a guide, though it may vary, here is a likely breakdown of the cost to produce a well done portfolio:
Photographer - KES 4000-8000 Studio, Equipment, Service (shoot and editing)
Director - KES 2500 - 5000 Concepts, Character analysis, Poses, Angles and Expressions generations
Makeup Artist - KES 2000 - 4000 On set with correct products and variety for change-over to suit concepts
Hairstylist - KES 1500 - 3000 On set with necessary supplies, tools and equipment
For now, visit www.kmftalent.com follow the link to our facebook group, join, read more about us, interact and follow us on our blog www.kmftalent.blogspot.com
KNOWING YOUR MODEL TYPE and OPPORTUNITIES
There may be variations in terminologies and clusters of model and modeling types across the world, here are some that can help you know where you belong and the possible opportunity areas for each type.
1. HIGH FASHION Female model with high cheekbones, long necks and square jaws. Prime age 14-19 years old reign supreme. Mainstream range height is 5.9"-5.11" with an exception of between 5.8"-6.0" based on age against height. Weight needs to be between 108-130lbs, proportionately to height and the Dress sizes 6-8. Desired measurements are 34B-24W-34H (+2 Inches as an exception). This is for Runway Catwalk.
2. GLAMOUR TYPE – PRINT AND EVENTS (HOSTESSING, USHERING, TRADESHOWS AND SHOWROOM) Glamour modeling follows guidelines of what different magazines want. Most will have models with oval face as it appears sexier. It is driven by whatever sells. One must be a pretty fit as they show a lot of their body. Most work is in posing in magazines more revealing shots and lots of lingerie. Other work is in promotional tradeshows, floor modeling, hostesses, launches and car events. They are mainly in Size 12
3. PETITE – RUNWAY AND PRINT. These are models in Height: 5.2"-5.6" and wear Dress Size: 2-4. Petite models work on the runway rarely as they mainly serve designers, boutiques and outlets with petite divisions. They can do makeup ads
4. PLUS SIZE – RUNWAY AND PRINT. A large part of the female population are Size 12 and above. A plus size model usually has broad shoulders and is big boned with beautifully classic features. They must be curvy with proportionate features. Generally, Plus Size models range between Height: 5.2"-6.1" and will fit Dress Size: 12-14. They may also do makeup ads as again size doesn’t matter.
5. EDITORIAL – PRINT This is most exciting and is what propels you to fame, to the Supermodels (Women Height: 5.8 and a half -6.0" with Dress Size: 0-5. and Men Height: 5.11"-6.1”, fitting Size: 32-36. These are models who know exactly what to do in front of a camera. Expressions and creativity come in handy. You can NOT be shy.
6. MATURE – PRINT AND COMMERCIAL This is the reserve of those advanced ages of 40+. Most work is in Print and Television commercial advertisements mainly pushing brands and products that target users in that group.
7. TEEN – PRINT, RUNWAY Here most jobs are commercial print work, catalogue, some high fashion, if you within height and weight requirements as above. The age between 13 -17 years and guardian consent is advised due to contractual needs applicable in the country of operation.
8. BODY PART – PRINT This is a specialty type. You model your foot, hand, leg, neck, etc. You have to have a perfect body part; that means no veins showing, perfect nails if hand or foot, no scars, no wrinkles, clean, NO blemishes. E.g. for hand part, hands with long slender fingers do. Models in this must show their strong part with their portfolios and Comp cards.
9. MALE – PRINT, RUNWAY AND COMMERCIAL Male modeling cuts across commercial to high fashion. You need to be perfectly fit to get hired on most jobs and because there are so many out there competing for the same roles. You have to stand out get the role. To be competitive a Height: 5.10"-6.2" works. If you fit the standard Suit Size: 40 though it may vary from client to another, then you stand a chance. Best begins from Age: Late teens into late twenties.
10. SHOWROOM – PRODUCT DEMOS AND PROMOS This is for runway show within an outlet. It could be when introducing a new collection or product. They are the models you see standing as mannequins and showing clothes at a fashion party. It requires that clothes look good on you. Women who wear dress sizes 2-6 can do well.
DISCLAIMER:
KMF, KENYA MODELING FRATERNITY, KMF TALENT-Global, www.kmftalent.com, www.kmftalent.blogspot.com, STAFF AND ASSOCIATES ARE NOT AN APPOINTEE OF ANY ENTITY LOCALLY OR INTERNATIONALLY. WE DO NOT SEEK YOUR ENGAGEMENT ON BEHALF OF THIRD PARTIES, UNLESS ON CONTRACT BASIS AS MADE CLEAR AT THE POINT OF ENGAGEMENT. ANY OPPORTUNITY GOT THROUGH US IS SUBJECT TO TERMS AND CONDITIONS SET ACCORDINGLY.
YOU ARE WELL PREPARED, NOW GO DO YOUR PART, LET US REPRESENT YOUR INTEREST.
TONY CHIRAH
Founder/Consultant
how does one get into your company. i have this great taste of fashion.
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