MODELS
SAFFIRE
PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE MONTH
Hello, Readers
EDITORS Letter BonieFacio
Welcome Readers to our July and August issue, where we invite you to immerse yourself in a vivid tapestry of fashion and style trends. Before words are exchanged, fashion speaks. It’s a silent language that communicates affiliations, interests, and values. In an era of heightened awareness, fashion becomes a conscious choice. It becomes a platform for social commentary where individuals use clothing as a medium of self expression. As we navigate the ever changing landscapes of fashion, let’s cherish the artistry it brings to our lives, allowing us to express our authentic selves with stitch, fold and hue.
Models Magazine consistently tracks the newest fashion and style trends directly from real life runways, street style, A-list celebrities, influencers, social media, and other sources. Our fashion landscape is changing, but in the end it all still comes down to creativity. In this issue we have curated an edition filled with mesmerizing photoshoot layouts and insightful interviews.
The models from Amazing Impressions Modeling Agency took the preppy style with its preexisting aesthetics and turned it on its head using blends of hard and soft, angular and airy, masculine and feminine vibes to present delightfully daring remixes of Subversive Prepster. If you appreciate the unexpected will love this preppy with swag trend.
Our ModeLS Magazine Style Challenge, issued to all Second Life resident in our May/June issue, was Short Shorts. This lovely, leggy trend has everyone wearing seriously short shorts and by short shorts we do not mean tailored styles that hit below or somewhere above the knee. Short-shorts can be very sensual yet comfortable as a versatile alternative to the mini skirt, and can be worn from day to evening. We’ll show you the fashion responses from our responding challengees
As the days have grown longer and the sun shines brighter, it’s the perfect time to embrace the spirit of the season and all the adventures it may bring. So, as you prepare to check out of your daily routine, we hope we have given you a glimpse of a summer filled with style, and inspired you to make some unforgettable memories. Whether it’s cruising in a a vintage Mustang convertible, a summer in the Sierras, hiking in the Ardennes Forest, let’s get outside a little more this month. I’m planning my next trip right now.
CONTENT Staf-
BonieFacio
» Owner and Founder
» Editor in-chief
» Photographer
» Reporter
» Marketing & Advertisements
contact: ModeLSmagazineSL@gmail.com
Mel Licious
» Photographer
» Writer
contact: mistressgaea@ymail.com
Essy Luv
» Editor » Model
» Public Relations
contact: justsoessex@gmail.com
CashmereVanilla
» Writer » Photographer
contact: cashmerevanillacashi@gmail.com
cover Lidsa
cover photographer
Lidsa
Material in this publication may not be reproduced in any form without permission. ModeLS Magazine and the Publisher do not except responsability for advertising content. Products, advertisement, pages and services mentioned are subject of change without prior notice. Every effort is made to ensure facts are correct at publication time.
COVER STORY
PHOTOGRAPHER OF THE MONTH SAFFIRE
BLOGGER OF THE MONTH
ARTIFEX VOXEL
AIM AGENCY SHOWS SUBVERSIVE PREPSTER
Blogger Artifex Voxel
by BonieFacio
Artifex is a friendly, kind-hearted, and creative individual who enjoys sharing her journey and inspiring others. Her blog started as a fun way to showcase a few pictures, but it quickly grew into a passion. Over time, she embraced the thrill of discovering new themes and presenting engaging content.
She loves fashion and creativity, often blending different styles to create unique looks. Her blog isn’t just a showcase of what she wears; it’s a reflection of my growth and the exciting future ahead. Staying motivated can be tough, but she reminded herself of why she started and connect emotionally with my purpose.
Engaging with her audience is important to her. she aims to write more and interact with her readers, hoping to spark conversations and inspire creativity. Whether you’re a new or seasoned blogger, she says remember: “enjoy the journey, embrace learning, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. We’re all in this together. Happy blogging!”
https://artifexsilence.wordpress.com/
Can you tell our readers about yourself and your blog?
I like to think I am a funny and kind person. Friendly with a loving heart and a creative spirit. I take my blog seriously but I am always thinking of new themes for it just to change it up sometimes. It is a place I hope inspires others but I also use it as a reflection of where I have been and how far I have come in all these years. What a great adventure that the future is not set!
Describe how did you first get into blogging?
I started blogging for fun, to show off a few pictures. Then the bug hit and I was blogging for stores that I frequent and events that I enjoy attending. It started as a “Hey I got these pieces from this place” but then I began to take it more seriously and worked on my presentation. A few bloggers I follow really inspired me and they still do and I am still afraid to ask questions but I do it anyway. There is no ‘secret sauce’ to blogging, If you enjoy it, then do it but always be willing to help out others. We were all new at one point.
Can you tell me some of your strengths that really helped you in blogging?
Goodness, strengths! How much coffee do you have? Seriously though, I would say my strengths are consistency, you want to keep up with trends and present them to the audience in a way that is engaging. Passion, I mean a genuine enthusiasm for it. The audience can tell if you just dialed it in. Also a thick skin for criticism, Bloggers receive feedback—both positive and negative. Try and develop resilience and learn from constructive criticism.
and wiped out years of photographic content! I was lost, set adrift! I had nothing but fragments of ideas. But, after crying and cursing for a good 3 days, you realize you have deadlines to meet and yes you can ask for a grace period but you got to get back up and go so I did and thankfully, I am still here with a new server that hasnt failed yet! What I learned from that time was that BACKUPS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE! Between external hard drives, my handwritten notes and the cloud, I am pretty covered. While I think fondly of past posts and images, I embrace the chance to begin anew and I have! Setbacks are just stepping stones to growth.
What was your greatest failure and what did you learn from that?
One of my most horrific experiences as a blogger was when the hosting server of my images crashed and wiped out years of photographic content! I was lost, set adrift! I had nothing but fragments of ideas. But, after crying and cursing for a good 3 days, you realize you have deadlines to meet and yes you can ask for a grace period but you got to get back up and go so I did and thankfully, I am still here with a new server that hasnt failed yet! What I learned from that time wwas that BACKUPS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE! Between external hard drives, my handwritten notes and the cloud, I am pretty covered. While I think fondly of past posts and images, I embrace the chance to begin anew and I have! Setbacks are just stepping stones to growth.
Second Life is a big place, do you have any other interests besides blogging?
I have been thinking of adding writing to my blog posts and being more engaging with my audience.
What was your greatest failure and what did you learn from that?
One of my most horrific experiences as a blogger was when the hosting server of my images crashed
I may need some work on that though. I have various RL interests that help me a great dealknitting to help me embrace peace and quiet myself and I sketch and do some freelance graphic design but nothing I do now equals to what I have seen in SL. I always feel I am one second behind.
Why did you start with blogging? Describe your writing process, from concept to publishing. How do you stay motivated? I started when I logged in one day and really liked what I was wearing (this was way back when, the pre-mesh days) and I took a photo of it. I had no idea about shadows or depth or bringing warmth to an image. No idea! But I Googled everything from how to post a picture to what does copy link mean. It was all so new then. Then I thought of why shouldn’t I do this? I love fashion, I love making an outfit out of 2-3 very different pieces.
I have worn hats as chest pieces for goodness sake! I clarified my purpose and set my intention. i wanted to share what I did with anyone that would look.
How do you motivate yourself to keep the blog up and running?
Staying motivated can be tough, but remember why you started and connect emotionally to your purpose. Blogging helps you learn skills like web design, social media marketing, and content management. Embrace the journey. My process is unique: I let images speak for me, though that might change. I brainstorm, tweak designs, and constantly ask, “Does this work?” If I love the result after some time, I post it.
The fashion industry has a lot of bloggers, how do you get in contact or how do you pick the designers to blog for?
I’m an easy-to-please blogger who follows designers I like to keep up with their new pieces. I blog about various styles, from dark and editorial to sweet and cute. If I like something, I’ll post it. If a designer I like holds a Blogger Search, I’ll apply. The worst that can happen is they say no, and I’ll keep trying. Don’t be afraid to try—if you fear failure, you won’t be ready for success!
Model Memole Giha
by BonieFacio
Memole Giha, an Italian residing in the picturesque region of Sicily, enjoys the constant presence of the sea and a life filled with nature and animals, especially her beloved dogs. Known for her cheerful disposition, Giha’s passion for fashion extends beyond the real world into the virtual realm of Second Life, where her journey began unexpectedly.
Her initiation into Second Life fashion commenced with a chance entry into the “Miss Italy” beauty contest. As a newcomer, Giha secured an impressive fourth place, igniting a fervor for virtual fashion that continues to burn brightly. This initial success spurred her dedication to modeling, ultimately leading her to establish NovaEikon, an agency dedicated to training aspiring models.
Throughout her career, Giha has been affiliated with numerous agencies and competitions, each contributing to her deepening expertise in fashion. One standout moment in her career was during the Miss Virtual World competition, where her “wow” outfit garnered significant acclaim. Memole remains committed to her goal of continually learning and sharing her fashion knowledge, both in real life and within Second Life, inspiring others to follow their dreams and cultivate their passions.
Hello and thank you for taking the time to talk to us. Our readers are very interested in who you are, where you come from. Can u tell us a little bit about who is behind the avatar?
I am Italian and I live in Sicily, a beautiful region, where I can enjoy the sea 365 days a year. I love nature and animals and I have many dogs. My personality is very cheerful although, like everyone, I go through some ‘down’ periods. Fashion is one of my hobbies, which I pursue both in real life and in Second Life.
What was your first job intention when you came into second life? How did you feel about the fashion industry?
It happened by chance, like all the most beautiful things in the first and second life. It all began with a beauty contest, in one of the most famous Italian lands. From there it awakened my passion for fashion in Second Life, a passion that endures. The first login into Second Life catapulted me into the orientation island of Itland. There were some billboards where a beauty contest was advertised “Miss Italy”. Even though I was a newbie I decided to participate. I remember that period as full of amazement for all the new things that I slowly managed to learn. Against all odds I ranked fourth, and from that moment on I never stopped,
What are your hobbies and interests besides Second Life?
It’s working in environments where I feel stimulated and can constantly learn. I love jobs, where I can contribute my own ideas and be creative. I am particularly interested in working for foreign agencies, where I could further test myself
Let’s get into your favorites.
1. What is your favorite personal style?
So if I’m talking about personal style, real is casual chic, on SL it varies. I’m fascinated by fantasy fairies in the woods, or a style like Lolita Gothic.
2. Who are your favorite designers?
Dead Dollz - Kiddo Oh, eclipse design -Thetra Blackheart, UTOPIA@Design** -Elisabetta Hyun, lucia esposito - swallow, Atrophia - neo1991, Salvy Barone - RichB., VESTA, The emporium&PLBrunhild Uriza, and many others!
3. Who are your favorite places to visit?
I don’t have a particular place, it doesn’t matter to me!
4. What is your favorite Movie?
The Devil Wears Prada, I had never seen it and on the occasion of a MISS SL competition Frolic had us do the devil wears prada as a challenge, I played the role of Adrian Grenier, and dear Frolic was Miranda Priestly, he noticed who was perfect in their role.
None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are? How did you decide to be a professional model? Who or what inspired you?
It may seem absurd that I did everything alone. The competitions certainly helped me, for me the challenges were a way to increase my knowledge in the fashion field. That aside today, would I participate in another competition? due to personal experiences I will only do it lightly and without commitment for sure. My decision to be a professional model? I earned it with respect, seriousness, punctuality and a lot of commitment.
Are u currently in an Agency? When did you sign with an agency? What agencies are you currently part of?
I am currently the owner of an agency called NovaEikon, we train models. The first agency way back in 2007 was itland fashion, which made me fall in love with SL fashion. From there there was a succession of various agencies, moda italia agency, ElaCor where I began to teach the art of modeling, Jen Top models, K.V.Models and Jador Fashion Model who introduced me as a personal model for her brand to Frolic Mills. From that day I began to be part of various agencies.
Can you share the funniest or most interesting story that happened to you since you became a model?
A very memorable moment for me was during the Miss Virtual World competition. Frolic had given us the assignment to make a “wow” outfit. I did my best and when he was reviewing us he had me come to the front. I thought I had done something wrong, so I was worried. But I went to the front and he said “This outfit is WOW” I was surprised and happy that I had succeeded with the assignment. It is something I will never forget.
Tell us about your education: Have you attended fashion modeling courses? What related courses or studies have you taken? Does it costs a lot of money? or can you teach yourself?
Everything I know about the world of fashion is part of an experience acquired over the years. I have trained models who are recognized as Professional models by many agencies. My only diploma was given to me Ad Honorem by Evane agency, who recognized my validity as a teacher and model.
What advice would you give someone starting out?
The first thing I ask aspiring models is: Why do you want to become a model? This question is fundamental to give advice on how to start being part of this world. Usually in my agency we do a very in-depth interview to understand the status of someone’s inventory, their personal taste and style and many other things. In the end, if we understand that the perspective student is strongly motivated to undertake this path, we recommend taking a modeling course
What do you prefer: Modeling, blogging, print work, photography, competitions? and why?
I love modeling and showcasing my creativity by photographing the outfits I create and the wonderful landscapes that this second life gives us.
What do you think about the competition in this industry, and the relationships models have with each other?
Competition energizes me, but envy, though unfounded, thrives in fashion like in real life. I don’t understand envy, and it saddens me that others feel it, especially in an industry meant for entertainment.
Where do you see yourself in a year from now? Do you have any dreams or goals you want to have achieved
A life without dreams is like a garden without flowers. I have so many that I can create an endless meadow. In Second Life, my main desire is to continue my fashion journey, always learning and sharing. Each new piece of knowledge feels like a dream come true.
If you could change something in the fashion world in SL what would it be?
fashion can be elitist and doesn’t always recognize merit. Greater transparency would improve fashion competitions in Second Life.be wonderful if fashion weeks returned to SL.
SUBVERSIVE PREPSTER
ALL POSES SPONSORED BY ARMONIE
ALL POSES SPONSORED BY ARMONIE
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Read up about the styling
2. Join ModeLS Reader group (secondlife:///app/group/5239fef3-47e7-e856-26e0-9a667c2f1394/about)
3. Make sure your styling & picture is stylish and be inspired
4. Send your picture and styling card to modelsmagazinesl@gmail.com “”before THE DATE ON THE PICTURE”
subject : ModeLS Magazine Styling challenge (your name) styling card (example)
HAIR : brand name - item name
NECKLACE : brand name - item name
PANTS : brand name - item name
5. You will get contacted by boniefacio to make appointment for the picture if you are selected
Understanding Physically Based Rendering (PBR) BonieFacio
Physically Based Rendering (PBR) has become the norm in 3D graphics due to its ability to generate more realistic and visually appealing textures. In Second Life, the use of PBR improves the overall visual experience. This rendering technique simulates how light interacts with surfaces, resulting in a more natural appearance.
What is PBR?
PBR, or Physically Based Rendering, is a shading model used to create realistic textures by simulating the physical properties of materials and how they interact with light. It considers factors such as light reflection, refraction, and diffusion to produce images that closely resemble real-world materials. PBR relies on two primary texture maps: the Albedo map (which defines the base color of the material) and the Metallic-Roughness map (which defines how metallic and rough the surface appears).
To take full advantage of PBR in Second Life, you’ll need to adjust your Firestorm viewer settings.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure your viewer is optimized for PBR:
• Update Your Firestorm Viewer : Ensure you have the latest version of the Firestorm viewer installed, as PBR support and related features are included in recent updates.
• Enable Advanced Lighting Model : Go to Preferences by pressing Ctrl+P or through the Avatar menu. Navigate to Graphics and check the box for advanced Lighting Model. This is essential for PBR to function correctly.
• Adjust Shader Settings : Still in the Graphics settings, increase the quality of shaders by sliding the Shaders quality to high or ultra. This enhances the rendering of materials and lighting effects. Ensure Atmospheric Shaders and Shadows are enabled for better environmental interaction with materials.
• Optimize Object and Mesh Settings: In the Graphics tab, adjust the Object Detail and Mesh Detail sliders to a higher setting. This ensures that high-quality PBR textures and complex meshes are rendered correctly. Under Preferences > Graphics > Hardware Settings, ensure Anisotropic Filtering is enabled for sharper textures at oblique angles.
• Texture Settings : Go to Preferences > Graphics > Hardware Settings and increase the Max Texture Memory to allow more memory for high-resolution textures. Ensure that Texture Quality is set to high to fully appreciate the details of PBR textures.
• Experiment with WindLight Settings: WindLight settings control the environmental lighting and can significantly impact how PBR materials appear. Adjust the Sky and Water presets to find the optimal lighting conditions that highlight the PBR effects.
Conclusion: PBR can be demanding on your system. Monitor your performance using the built-in FPS meter and adjust settings accordingly if you experience lag. Life elevates the virtual world to new heights of realism and immersion. Just remember to optimize your system to enjoy PBR.
PhotographerSaffira
by BonieFacio
Could you share some details about yourself, including your interests beyond photography? Additionally, could you let us know your background and the specific areas of photography that you concentrate on?
While most people I know now in SL knows me for my photography, I didn’t really start shooting in SL untill a few years ago. My biggest contribution to the [meta?] world has always been building and scripting. Sometimes just for chaos. Before SL I was a graphic designer and a website designer/ scripter so naturally after first starting to shoot I used my old tools of the trade. I feel like I have a broad specturm of ideas that don’t manage to correlate to any one particular area. I do a lot more “model” shots than scenery.
Have you undergone any formal training in graphic design, or do you have a background in it? Additionally, what sparked your initial interest in delving into photography within Second Life, and which aspects of virtual photography do you discover to be the most captivating or challenging?
I am self-taught and have had many years in graphic design prior to diving into SL’s vast photography world. I’ve been in SL for over 16 years now, and back in the begining there was photographers but the amount of depth and detail we can achive now in SL is what really drew me into the art. I saw what other extremely talented photographers were capable of and I became driven to make my own mark on the virtral world. I think the most challenging part is injecting depth and life into a photo, not just a souless screenshot but an image that can tell a whole story on its own.
What 3 words describe your personal photography style?
Captivating, meaningful, soulful
I’m sure many of our readers will be intrigued to hear how you actually make your pictures regarding windlight, size of the pictures, pixels. Do you have a favorite that you always turn to? And what do you think makes the best angle to take a picture?
It really depends on the mood of the picture, I have made almost all of the windlights I use, and sometimes I just turn it all off in pitch-black and set up my own lighting to get the effect I desire. I typically shoot in 4k but have gone larger in some cases, and just like with lighting I feel like the angle is dependent on the picture, but I tend to imagine a person as the camera and what they see before I shoot.
Is there a specific photograph you’ve taken that holds a special place in your heart? If so, could you share the link and tell us what makes that particular image stand out to you?
This photo is abit of some of my newer work and what I feel like I am capable of. Apart from just the details and editing I put into this, I had a feeling I wanted to portray. Of all the things that we go through in life, the ups and downs, there are small moments where we may just forget those things and just be free from it all. Even if it’s just a fleeting moment in time, while we may be the closest to true happiness in that moment. I wish we could all get more opportunities like this. son that decided to do pictures and then I did it. On my work I’m mostly trying to show something real on screen, despite being a virtual reality, so there is a connection between the environment and my avatar. Sometimes I’m photographing a situation, sometimes I’m trying to translate a feeling of mine into an image. The goal of my photography is to express feelings I’m unable to do with words, so it works as therapy. Music is my main inspiration.
Lastly, could you provide insight into the projects currently occupying your creative focus? Are there particular areas you wish to explore in the future? Additionally, do you have any aspirations or dreams within your photography journey, and do you believe you’re making progress toward achieving them? Currently I am still mostly occupied in SL with photography. Being in SL for as long as I have, I’ve done almost everything there is to do, I’ve built, scripted, ran stores, owned businesses, all that jazz. For my photography I feel like I am still not “there” yet, there’s many more emotions I would love to portray and many more stories I’d love to share. I have been considering working on sort-of a “light novel” of SL photography in which I tell a continuous story, but it’s taking me a lot longer to set it up just the way I imagine it.
Is there something else you would like to say to our readers?
Anyone can be an artist! There is nothing that somebody knows that you cannot learn. If you have an idea, a dream, a want, go for it!
I’m a quiet introvert psychology student that enjoys the silence and the calm of my home and gets annoyed by the chaotic noisy world outside. I’m just a normal person that decided to do pictures and then I did it. On my work I’m mostly trying to show something real on screen, despite being a virtual reality, so there is a connection between the environment and my avatar. Sometimes I’m photographing a situation, sometimes I’m trying to translate a feeling of mine into an image. The goal of my photography is to express feelings I’m unable to do with words, so it works as therapy. Music is my main inspiration.
New and exciting oppontunity awaits you!
We do live shows with Designer items, as well as, Fun shows for models to display their most creative creations. We are always looking for new and upcoming designers, or established Creators.
Contact Jenni Eros, Owner ReVel Talent Model Management http://maps.secondlife.com/secondlife/Garden%20Eden/158/158/3202
COSMIK
CLUB is Hiring!
Positions: DJ’s and Managers
Working Hours: 08:30 AM - 04:00 PM SLT
Join our vibrant team at COSMIK CLUB and be part of the ultimate entertainment experience! We are looking for talented and enthusiastic DJs and Shift Managers who can also DJ/HOST to keep our dance floors buzzing.
Contact BonieFacio [APPLICATIONS]
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