Getting started in pinup......in these hard economic times.

[Kristy C]

So, I've got a question. Bernie? and any other ladies who would like to chime in.....all feedback is welcome.

How do you get started when you have absolutely ZERO cash to put towards it? I feel that this is the biggest issue holding me back. Me and my husband have been, and still are going through hard times. I know alot of us are with the economy and all, I can't be the only one. So maybe this can help out some other girls too.

I try to get as many TF* shoots as possible, and some of them have turned out o.k., but as we all know, shooting TF* doesn't always produce favorable results. I know alot of girls get their start by shooting with photographers like Roy Varga, Lesley Slenning, Viva Van Story...just to name a few. I envy girls who can afford to shoot with these wonderful talented people....and if I had the money I would book with all of them. Like seriously, if I won the lottery it would be the first thing I would do!

Then there's the wardrobe issue. You know what they say.... when you shoot in something once you shouldn't shoot in it again. So even if I was getting alot of TF* shoots, I wouldn't have the money to buy a new outfit each time!!

I know that some treasures can be found and thrift stores but I am the worst thrift store shopper!! I just can't seem to find cool stuff like everyone else.

And we're still not through.....there's the makeup issue. Not all makeup photographs well, and as we all know MAC, SmashBox, and whatnot are the best. I used to be able to afford MAC, but not anymore.

Does anyone know what drugstore makeups are the best for being photographed??

I look forward to your creative ideas and suggestions!

[Wink Holliday]

This is a great question, and should turn into a wonderfully useful thread.
I, too, struggle with finding makeup that I can afford but will also hold up under studio lighting. I do pretty well finding clothes and underpinnings at thrift stores and on eBay, so I can't complain there... it's finding proper stockings that helps keep me in the poorhouse! I have found a large assortment of styles and prices at mytights.com and stockingstore.com, but I'm always open to more suggestions!

[Sweet 'N' Dandy]

I know alot of makeup artist willing to do trade to build up their portfolio. The ones I use usually come prepared with eyelashes and everything.
You should check out this pin up contest:
www.myspace.com/vivalasvegasphotoshoot

If you are going to be at Viva Las Vegas it would be an amazing chance to shoot with a very talented photographer for free. She is also offering great rates on shoots there.

[Dynamite Dames Photography]

Hi there!!

Just thought I would drop a little note in here. I know I find myself being in a situation much like your own. I know its hard to be able to pay a photographer.. but sometimes if you get to know them you might find that you're able to trade them for some sort of service for shoots you know? I know thats how I get my hair done, and other items I need. Just a thought ;)

Also, for makeup...ebay is always a good way to go! I just bought new makeup (all MAC) for the price of what I would have paid for say, Loreal at Wal Mart. And if you look long enough (it can be quite time consuming) you can find sellers who are offering free shipping. That way you are just paying exactly what they are selling it for.

Clothing: try putting up some stuff on ebay, then using the sale money to get something new! That way you're basically recycling your items. Also, find stuff thats pretty versatile.. that you can change up, but use a few times and it won't look like your doing the same outfit over and over.

Sorry, I know this is lengthy.. but I surely hope maybe it's helped you in some way or another!!

XOXO

[NolaChick™ {Madam}]

As far as clothes, I get stuff off of ebay (like a lot of the ladies here). I also get creative. If I wear something in one shoot and I want to wear it again, I change the look up a little by adding different stockings, or trying a different hair style. As far as photographers...are you on ModelMayhem? There are tons of TF photogs on there and alot of them are really good!

For the makeup, I keep it very simple when I don't have a makeup person. Go look at some of my pics. You'd be surprised at how far you can go with drugstore makeup if you know how to use it. The only MAC makeup I use is my foundation. I keep the eyes simple with a soft brown shadow, black liner and mascara and I use a little color on my cheeks. Most of the time, for lips I use a blue red. It's very "pin up" and makes for a classic look and a lot of times will bring the whole look together.

Oh! And when you wear stockings be verrrrrry gentle with them so that you can use them a bunch of times before they get snagged up! ;)

[PunkGirl_Inc]

I like the Ebay comments.. selling on ebay can get you a good stack of cash, depending on how you do it.. and buying stuff with the money you make is a great way to keep it even, and not touch your everyday budget! I do it ALL THE TIME.. sell an old pair of shoes.. get a new shirt! try to look for your cosmetics there too.. i mean, even if it IS a trial size tube of smashbox foundation for a dollar.. itll get you through a few shoots looking flawless!

As far as photographers go.. I saw someone post this in a different thread.. i think it was about starting as a pinup.. but it applies here..
do you have a friend? do you have a digital camera? do you feel like looking pretty today?
then go out.. strike a pose and have your friend photograph you. Even without mega awesome photoshop skills, you should be able to come out with a few good photos for your portfolio or whatever..

About thrift stores: I have shopped at thrift stores for over 12 years.. i am after all a punk girl at heart.. i would find out when the deliveries came in, and go the next day, after the shipment was processed.. and you have to go often! especially In a larger city setting, you have to.. all the great stuff walks out first.. It helps, also to give yourself a lot of time.. you have to rummage. and it might look like a sea of paisley and polyester old lady frumpy dresses.. but if you go through the rack, you might be pleasantly surprised! I could go on and on about all of the great things ive found.. and if you have a resale shop near by.. they are WAY better than thrift stores.. I knew a lady who owned one, and they would go to estate sales every month or so.. i told her what i was looking for, or what i would buy.. and she would come back with the best antiques and vintage clothing! And DONT BE AFRAID to buy it if it is just a little TOO big.. again with the alterations.. you can alter anything to fit you.. especially if its too big to begin with! Most dry cleaners will only charge a few bucks for a hem here or a dart there.. and if you only paid a dollar or 2 for it in the first place.. you still come out on top! I know im going on.. so ill stop, but i hope something i said was helpful!

[Miss Jess {★}]

Trade, trade, trade! Make yourself a valuable asset, and you will be able to bargain with photographers. If someone can use you in their portfolio, and you bring a complete look to the table... then you will be able to get work. I have worked very hard on my own look, for YEARS, to make myself a valuable asset who can take care of my complete look for a shoot. I have 2 apparel design degrees, so clothing is not difficult for me (I just make what I need/want for each shoot) - however, I did have to work very hard and practice a lot with hair and MUA to acheive a high standard for my personal look. Accomplishing my own COMPLETE look for shoots has opened a lot of doors for me. Believe me, it works - but it can't be halfway, no photographer wants floppy victory rolls or wonky false eyelashes in their port.

I'm still learning, still buying every vintage hairstyling book I can get my hands on, practicing makeup applications, working as a stylist for other shoots every moment I'm not personally modeling, etc. Continuing education in this industry is an eternal process, but I promise with practice you will be able to bring assets to the table that photographers (and stylist/designers/etc.) will value enough to trade for.

I DO recommend taking a basic sewing class and teaching yourself how to tailor thrift store/vintage finds, that will help your wardrobe immensely. Remember, practice makes perfect!

[ROXI DLITE PHOTOGRAPHY]

Hi Kristy,

Roxi here, Im a model and photographer, being on both sides of the camera has taught me lots of little tricks. For starters, you don't always need cool cloths to be a pinup model. Often times being creative is what will get you noticed. Perhaps you can borrow some things from friends for your shoots? As long as you have a decent portfolio of your work, it's easier to have companies send you items or model for them.

As for make-up M.A.C. came out with a new line that is less expensive called Gosh ( I think ) Its available in Canada at Shoppers Drug Mart, and may be available in the states in the future if not already. Ive played around with it and its basically the same quality as MAC but just a little more affordable. I find the most important item of makeup is your foundation and powder when being photographed. Mascara doesn't really matter its all in the brush you use to apply it. Also, I find cream blushes photograph better as well.

- hope this helped.
xo
Roxi Dlite

[Ama Lea Photo]

As a full time "pin up" photographer trust me we're feeling it too!!!! We make our living off taking awesome photos that aren't a necessity to life (like food, electricity, house payments, etc.) so of course it limits us in what we're able to achieve as well too. I would definitely suggest trying to find photographers who are willing to trade. I would also use the down time to teach yourself hair and make up tricks so you won't need a hair and make up artist. I don't think you need the best make up lines to accomplish this.. you're not wearing it for a full day.. just a few hours for a photo shoot. I've shot ALL brands of make up.. and some of the worst is actually MAC (studio fix... ugh). Also, try to talk to photographers! Tell them what kind of budget you have and see if they're willing to work with you. I know I have become way more flexible as many others have as well.

[Kristy C]

Thanks for all the thoughtful comments! There are some really good ideas here....I'm gonna try being a little more Ebay savvy since it seems to work for everyone else.

I hope this thread helps not only me but others in my positon as well. It's nice to have such a supportive community to turn to about what we all love most!

[Frankie Fairlane{★}]

this is all so helpful!!
xox
FF

[Soda Shop Sue]

or if you have your eye on a cute dress in a orginal sahop in your town.... why dont you make a cover letter including information on where you will be wearing the dress.... introduce your self to that local business, and see if they will lend it to you for the shoot.... you could even trade them for a 8x10 of you in that outfit FRAMED, for the store!

you should try it... maybe that cute shop needs new art on the wall, and they would like there clothing to be in a cute pinup portrait, starting you!

as for varga/Viva van story.... i wish i could shoot with them ! and like PUNK GIRL mentioned, get your friend to take photos of you, put your minds together, and try to OUT DO varga!
xoxo Soda Shop Sue

[Anita Fixx]

Become buddies with a make up artist and watch what she does. Also watch shows like "What not to wear" I learned a lot of make up and clothing tips from that show..believe it or not. When you can invest in some nice things do it! I do know it's tough.. I have to work like a dog and save every penny then wait for some sales to buy good quality stuff. I scan flyers for hours looking for deals. Don't know if they have it in the U.S.A but AFTER Christmas here they have Boxing Day (now it's Boxing WEEK) you can find great clothes, make-up, shoes, etc. at half the price sometimes.

Check out local shops see if they hire models and work out a deal.
For example in Toronto there's a lingerie store that uses live window models. They give an option of gift certificates or a cheque. I always went with certificate! That way I got corsets, stockings, garters, bondage gear, etc. WITHOUT spending any cash.
Yup, when you're poor it's all about strategy.