My Facebook Saga Concludes

So after weeks of unanswered emails trying to figure out why my original Facebook account was disabled, I received an email from The Facebook Team, stating that they have removed content (photos) which violated the Terms of Use and Statement of Rights and after reviewing my situation have re-enabled my account.  It appears that nothing has changed and pictures I felt were pulled mistakenly have not been removed either.  Needless to say, I'm hoping the drama with Facebook has come to an end, but it's been quite a saga to get my original account up and running.  It helps to have friends who know people and who support you along the way (thanks, SS).

I will probably phase out my other Facebook account which I created after my original was suspended, but for now I will keep both so that I don't miss out on any networking opportunities I may have initiated.  I'll be directing folks accordingly.  Oh, and refer to my "Lurking in the Grass" post below because I've been quite aggressive with my privacy settings, allowing only supporters of my modeling progress and career to view my portfolio and other albums and posts.  I will be monitoring those lurking snakes like a hawk!

KISS the Runway - Fashion Show

This past Saturday (Feb. 13) I participated in Baltimore's KISS the Runway Fashion Show as a runway model.  Sponsored by Coors Light and DTLR, the event consisted of dozens of male and female models, fashion designers, a 50-foot runway platform, and special guest Diva Davanna, the 10-year old runway sensation seen on America's Next Top Model and the Tyra Banks Show (From New Jersey).  It wasn't my first experience doing runway, but this was by far the most ellaborate and higher end shows I've done.  I had been preparing for this event for a couple of months by traveling to Baltimore for auditions and fittings and maintaining my strict diet and workout regimen in case I had to bare my body for the runway. 

The show started at 6pm, but the male models had to show up at 2pm for fittings, makeup, and anything else the coordinators needed.  I met some really fun people and reconnected with others, so the 4-hour wait was somewhat bearable.  However, because we were all told to stay close by, I was unable to grab a substantial lunch or dinner until after the show, which wrapped around 9pm.  Life of a model I guess! =)

The most notable moment of the show occurred at the very end, with Kantankerous Couture's lineup.  I had modeled two other designers' clothing line with ease, but I knew I had to really WERQ it for the finale.  Jonthan Winkles, the man behind Kantankerous Couture, made 3 flashy outfits for me to model so I knew the challenge I was facing to rush back and prepare for the subsequent ones. 

The first two walks of the finale were great, but I had to sprint back and put on my silver gogo boy outfit (the finale), including the 10lb. hooker boots (it's always the shoes causing drama)! I went as fast as I could - they were shouting for models!  I got the silver top and shorts on just fine, tied the boot laces the best I could with the help of Jonathan and another model, and made it out on the runway JUST in time.  I had nailed it...!  =)

So in the end I had a blast, endured some stressful situations, and partied on the town with my favorite desginer.  It was a lovely welcome to Valentine's Day!  KISS.............xoxoxo

Photoshoot - Julian Vankim

The snowmeggeddon that struck the surrounding areas of DC couldn't keep me from venturing out to Chantilly, VA for a photoshoot with an upcoming photographer, Julian Vankim.  I won't reveal his age, but this young guy has a bright future ahead of him if he maintains his enthusiasm and passion.  He has a lot of great skills and techniques (especially with lighting), and luckily he had a great subject to work with earlier this afternoon! =)

I see potential in him so I decided to spend my Friday afternoon at his studio.  He's already been churning out photos, tagging me on Facebook, and continues with the post-editing process on the others.  We took over 800 shots, so he'll be pretty busy.  Here is one I received already that I really like.  Thanks, Julian!

**UPDATE  2/15/2010** 

I've been receiving images throughout the weekend, so I thought I would share some of my favorites from last Friday's shoot.  I'll be receiving a few more that aren't Facebook-worthy, which means they could receive the "M" rating (mature) from Model Mayhem, so be sure to check back to see if they make their public debut here (and they have).

Tony Veloz in Sapna Magazine!

In documenting my experiences with modeling, it's only fair that I show love to individuals I've worked with who succeed at their own endeavors and passions. One of my photographers, Tony Veloz, did a photoshoot for Sapna Magazine on South Asian American female models. The shoot took place at Marakesh Restaurant and Pasha Lounge in Washington, DC. Kudos, Tony!

To become a fan of this amazing artist, please visit his Facebook Fanpage

Reunited with Jimy Kosmakos/Y.M.I.J

I ended up venturing out in the 20+ inches of snow that fell on DC this weekend for an ad hoc shoot with my good buddy Jimy Kosmakos/Y.M.I.J.  We spent most of the time just hanging out and talking about the modeling/photography industry than actually shooting, but it was a fun evening. Any time spent with Jimy is guaranteed to be eventful and enjoyable in some way or another.

In the end, I think we turned out some cool images. I'm only expecting a couple pictures back (maybe one more he said), and I got two of them back today. This guy is quick. One is soft, natural, and very simplistic. The other is on the opposite end of the spectrum which we called "Dirtyboy," a more dark and dirty portrayal that he envisioned.  They're both great additions to my portfolio!

**UPDATE** (2/11/10) -------------------->

I received the 3rd image from Monday's photoshoot. It's so cute and charming!  Jimy caught me smiling so naturally and he captured it in this awesome B&W photo.  This completes our 2nd successful collaboration and have already begun looking ahead to our 3rd - a couples shoot!  Yeah, this one should be quite exciting and fun! 

Paul Reitz - NYC Photographer

So this Wednesday I'm meeting with Paul Reitz, a NY-based photographer whose portfolio is most impressive! He's enjoyed success in Ohlala magazine many times, so you can imagine how thrilled I am! He's going to be in DC for business and has asked me to have coffee with him on Wednesday. I hope to have a phototshoot scheduled with him after our discussion!

**UPDATE**  Due to Snowmegeddon, we'll be meeting another day.  Stay safe, Paul.

What is a Hewolf?

This is Hewolf! Jimy Kosmakos/Y.M.I.J became inspired by my enthusiasm for modeling that he decided to transform me. So I'm a real Hewolf now! Owwwuuuuu!


(Special thanks to Amber for helping me pick a name for my portfolio)

My First Ever Blog!

Wow, I'm blogging now! Okay, just a little heads up of what you should expect to read. I'm attempting to document my modeling experiences on a regular, on-going basis. And I'm talking DETAILS! From inspirations I come across, conversations with other models or photographers, and anything under the sun that would encourage or motivate other male models to advance their passions into a rewarding passion and/or career. I've titled my blog, "Hewolf" after the name of my professional portofolio that contains my modeling work. I hope you enjoy what I post and let me know if you have any suggestions, questions, or comments. I'm about to hit the 'publish post' button now...