Category Archives: Photographers/Models

Books, Interview, Life Issues/ Motivational Posts, Photographers/Models

An Interview With Anika Pavel

I’m so excited to welcome onto the blog this week ex Bond Girl Anika Pavel. Anika came to England from her native Czechoslovakia (Trnava, now part of Slovakia) in the 1960s to be an au pair for a year, based in the town of Ipswich, Suffolk. Unfortunately in 1968 the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia and she was unable to return home. Her good looks and poise helped her gain financial independence and she became a fashion model, gracing pages of women’s magazines…. a Playboy Bunny… a Bond Girl … an actress … and a writer. Her memoir, “Encounter With The Future”, is interesting to read as she navigates the different stages of her life from Czechoslovakia (Slovakia) to England; to Asia and settling now in the USA. Such a fascinating insight into those heady days of the late 60s /early 70s….. Hi Anika 👋

Hello readers. My name is Anika Pavel. I live on Cape Cod Massachusetts. Pretty poetic given my ties to the Bee Gees music as you will find out below. 

 “Encounter With The Future” is your memoir from when you left your home country of Czechoslovakia in the 1960s  for a year’s experience as a au pair in England at the tender age of 18; your life as a fashion model, as an actress, and as a Bond girl,  eventually settling down in the USA; what made you decide to write down your story? 

I arrived in England wide eyed and eager to learn. The plan was to be an au pair for one year, then go home. I was soaking up the English experience when in August 1968 the Soviet Union invaded my homeland and nobody could be sure if it would be safe for me to go back. I became a model by chance, although fashion was in my DNA. My father was a tailor and I made my first outfit on his old PFFAF foot-powered sewing machine at the age of seven. Supervised by dad of course. 

My parents always said I was never short of words. I remain a story teller with an elephant memory. So when my children asked me to write down the stories I was telling them, I decided to go to school and learn how to write properly. To my surprise my essays began to get published. I was asked to put the essays into a book and as a result, Encounter with the Future was born. 

What helped you through your toughest moments when you first left your family in Czechoslovakia; and when the Soviet Union invaded your homeland?

Being alone in London and knowing my family was in a country full of tanks and soldiers, was hard. Getting through the difficult moments was rough. I can’t sugar coat it. But when you have no choice, you just go on till it gets better. The Bee Gees song about the mining disaster made me feel lucky that I could feel hunger and I could feel cold, because I was alive. I never complain to people around me. I did not want to be labeled; “wet” do you remember that expression? Is it still used? 

Oh yes, Anika, that expression is still used!

I loved your writing style and the honesty that shone through. Did you find writing your story therapeutic? 

I find writing the essays therapeutic. I laughed and I cried. Let me rephrase it, I laughed a lot and I bawled my eyes out and it helped me.

For me, writing is therapy. It is not like talking. Once you say it, you cannot un-say it but you can always delete your writing. So I can just let it rip. 

How difficult was it to adjust to living in a different country? How did you get to grips with learning English?

Adjusting to living in different countries was not hard for me. After all, I grew up on “Travel is the University of Life!” Learning English was harder. Actually, learning English was not hard. I could read books in less than four months. Understanding English however was a whole different matter. Thanks again to the BEE GEES song; Smile, an everlasting smile, a smile can bring you near to me… that song broke my ear barrier.  After I was able to understand that song my ears had adjusted. I shall be forever thankful. 

Becoming a Bond Girl must have been very glamorous  … of course, I love Bond films especially The Spy Who Loved Me 😊 Was it nerve racking being on the film set? What was your favourite modelling/acting experience ?

Being on the set of The Spy Who Loved Me was exhilarating. I inhaled every last drop of air in the Pinewood studios. It’s a miracle Roger Moore found any oxygen left to survive!  Haha!

My favorite modelling experience was to appear on three covers of a WOMAN magazine and the Close up toothpaste tv commercial. Working on James Bond was a unique experience I could never forget. I met Roger Moore in NYC when he was promoting the 50 years of James Bond. He treated me like a long lost friend. As for acting, working with Benny Hill in Raid on the Waterloo Station was very unique. Benny became a friend beyond cameras. He was kind, funny and very perceptive. 

Since your foray to England at the age of 18 from Czechoslovakia, you have travelled quite extensively across Europe, Asia and USA – Any favourite destinations?  What’s top of your bucket list?

I loved living and learning about different parts of the world but London will always be deepest in my heart. I will always be Slovak but being British is an honor I treasure. My children are now in New York so my heart tags toward the city that never sleeps as well. I have only one place on my bucket list. Australia. I have so many wonderful friends who live there, some I met in Hong Kong but some were pivotal in my life in England. I have to go and see them all.

Is “Encounter With The Future” available to purchase worldwide?

Encounter with the Future is available worldwide. You can get it on Amazon. Barnes and Noble, though you have to order it on B&N and you can also order it from my website too.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Personal yeh! I love suits, vests and ties, what can I say, my father was a tailor. I like to switch it around too. So certain trousers may find themselves dancing with a different jacket and totally funky blouse. But I love ties! Not scarves, I love ties and vests. I would wear a tie and vest with a soft silk frilly blouse! Pants are secondary as long as they are comfortable. I do love the occasional funky skirt with tie and vest. Hmm I have a need to stick my nose into my closet.  

Shoes – When I was younger, I loved very high heels. I still do but now I carry flats in my handbag. I always felt high heels give women great posture. You can’t slouch in high heels.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

I like the whole experience of shopping. Or as my friend Carolyn in London calls it RETAIL THERAPY. I used to love going to Harrods in the 1970’s and Peter Jones in Sloane Square, Selfridges in West End.  But my absolute favorite was Liberty of London! I own a whole collection of their ties and mentioned my passion for the store and their ties in one of my essays in the book. 

On line, I hit Etsy for something funky. J. Crew for something practical. I also love going to one of the little shops nobody ever heard of. I don’t shop much online. My daughter does, I think it is generational.

Oh my, Liberty’s in London was my haunt in the 1980s! Love that store! What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

What outfits am I looking for now? Something comfortable yet structured. Suit but not suit. I want to stay true to myself but I don’t want to see myself coming 40 years ago. I am also sensitive not to look like my daughter wannabe. Although we raid each other’s closets frequently… 

Boots or Shoes?

Shoes or boots. Shoes mostly because I have a very high instep and it’s a pain to take my boots off. Just ask my husband how many times he ended up on the floor pooling my boots off. 

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc

www.anikapavel.com  

Instagram@anika.pavel

Facebook@anika.pavel

Such a pleasure to have you on my blog, Anika! I loved reading your memoir and I am so glad to chat about your life experiences with you. And share a love of Liberty’s too! 😍

Linda x

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Anika Pavel.

My thanks to Anika Pavel for the interview and Ben Cameron of Cameron Publicity & Marketing for a review copy of Encounter With The Future.

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Books, Interview, Music/Entertainment, Photographers/Models, Vintage

Merchant Of Venus Book Tour

I’m so pleased to be part of the Merchant of Venus book tour and so pleased to be able to introduce to you this wonderful investigative memoir, The Merchant Of Venus : The Life Of Walter Thornton, by two of Walter’s daughters : Nancy Thornton Navarro and Adriana Thornton-Cornejo. What is amazing is that they had no idea how famous their father was until after he died, and this book is really about their journey of discovery as they uncovered the fascinating life of their father, Walter Thornton. Here’s a summary of their book:

BOOK SUMMARY

Imagine losing a parent and discovering he had a secret life you’d never known about. You and your siblings embark on a quest to uncover what it all meant, becoming enmeshed in a series of images and anecdotes found in newspapers, magazines, books, and documents. Ultimately, you realize your parent was not just famous, but VERY famous! Walter Thornton was famous during a time when it was easy to be forgotten (1920s to the 1950s), making the discoveries about his life all the more engaging due to the involved process of uncovering them.

Through alternating perspectives presented by two sisters, the Thornton saga unfolds in a whirlwind of surprising revelations, thrilling with unexpected drama, adventure, and glamour. Just imagine beautiful models, pin-up girls, Hollywood royalty—Thornton was a true trendsetter. This book unveils the captivating story of Thornton’s rise from an orphan to a charismatic male model to a visionary who transformed advertising by founding the first-ever agency for advertising models. But hold onto your hats because there’s more! Get ready for dramatic twists, encounters with models who transformed into Hollywood legends such as Lauren Bacall, Susan Hayward, and Grace Kelly, and a hint of McCarthy-era intrigue—it’s a gripping tale worthy of the silver screen itself!

Publisher: ‎ Tile House Publishing, LLC 

ASIN: B0CZF5WH15

ISBN-13: 979-8989273553

Print Length: 240 pages

THE INTERVIEW

I am so excited to welcome onto the blog, Nancy and Adriana . Hello ladies, please introduce yourselves.

Hello! I’m Nancy Thornton Navarro,(L) a former trademark and copyright attorney who has also served as the Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Irving, Texas Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. I currently live near Dallas with my husband and I’m a proud mother of three.
Hello! I’m Adriana Thornton-Cornejo (R) . I’m a Full time Programmer, 2D Artist, and CAD Drafter at Focus 360, a company serving the Home Building Industry. I’m hoping that, with renewed public interest in my father’s life and career, I can one day open a Walter Thornton Museum. I live near Los Angeles with my husband and our two sons.

Who came up with the initial idea to collate your findings about your father and to write this very intriguing investigative memoir?

The initial idea to collate findings about our father and write this investigative memoir was a joint effort between my sister, Adriana, and myself. We both recognized the historical significance of our family’s story and felt compelled to share it with the world. Through our individual research efforts, we gathered information and collaborated by sharing our findings on Google, which was a fascinating experience as we uncovered new pieces of information together.

I really enjoyed reading your book, “Merchant of Venus: The Life Of Walter Thornton” and I particularly enjoyed how you wrote the chapters …uncovering each new piece of information a bit at a time, taking me, the reader, on the discovery journey with you. Researching your father’s earlier life must have been quite interesting…..what nugget of information truly was unexpected?

In regards to researching our father’s earlier life, every nugget of information we discovered was unexpected. While we knew him as a retired businessman, we were surprised to learn about his pioneering role in the modeling, beauty, and advertising industry for over two decades. The revelation of Grace Kelly’s presence in his model roster, as well as his involvement in the Stock Market Crash photo of 1929, were particularly astonishing to us. Grace Kelly had been a beloved movie star from our childhood, and seeing her name associated with our father’s work was truly unexpected.

The surprising and some times shocking findings of important documents and photos such as this and many other ones:
1940 Origin of the PIN UP GIRL photos and documents.
New York Post, Thursday, December 19 1940 Walter Thornton offered to brighten the lives of conscripts at Fort Dix by donating 5,000 photographs of beautiful models to decorate barracks. This is the letter he received from the army accepting his offer and was published in the NEW YORK POST. Walter Thornton as a Jude 1933:

Growing up in Mexico, were there any similarities with how your father lived and worked in Mexico compared with what you have since discovered about his life in the USA?

Regarding the comparison between our father’s life in Mexico and the USA, there were notable differences in his lifestyle. In Mexico, he led a quiet, family-oriented life, taking care of his loved ones and enjoying a tranquil existence. However, in the USA, he lived a more glamorous and fast-paced life as a celebrity, surrounded by beauty and media attention. The contrast between his two lifestyles was striking, reflecting the different chapters of his life in each country.

I was very impressed with the pin up girls of WW2 story – I had heard of them and the role the girls played during the war ; but it was great to discover the origins and why they were called pinups. Your father certainly had an eye for business and knew exactly what was required when picking the models.Having been a model himself, did he still maintain that smart look in his later years? Being his daughters, did he ever try to give you fashion/poise advice?

In Mexico he was a simple man so he dressed in simple clothing (given the good weather in Ajijic, Mexico, he mainly wore shorts, t-shirts and tennis shoes) but always maintained his shape. He never gave us advice on poise or fashion but he did buy some of the clothing we wore.

Growing up, did either of you have dreams of becoming models/ actresses or did you have other career aspirations?

Growing up, neither of us harbored aspirations of becoming models or actresses. Such career paths were not part of our world, so they never crossed our minds.

Is “Merchant of Venus: The Life Of Walter Thornton” available to purchase worldwide?

“Merchant of Venus: The Life Of Walter Thornton” is indeed available for purchase worldwide. Additionally, it will soon be translated into Spanish, and an audio book version will be released.

Knowing what you know now about your father’s earlier life, what question(s)would you have loved to have asked him if he was still alive today?

We have so many questions we wish we could ask. One would be to tell us what happened to the original manuscript of The Merchant of Venus book. According to the newspapers, it was going to get published in the mid 1950’s. What happened to his extensive collection of photography from his model agency. We know that we don’t have it all.

Are you bookworms? If so, what genres (or authors) do you usually like to read? And are you a kindle or “proper book” fan?

While we may not be avid bookworms, my sister and I enjoy reading paperback memoirs, particularly those of intriguing individuals, including the stars our father represented. Our interest in these memoirs stemmed from watching old movies with our dad, who often shared insights about the actors’ journeys to stardom.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

On a typical day, I prefer a simple ensemble of jeans and tennis shoes. However, for special events, I opt for elegant knee-high dresses, high heels, and stylish jewelry.

Adriana: I don’t own any jeans. I love dressing up for work every morning. I like to play with colors and patterns. Love black and white. Also love to mix formal pieces with vibrant colors. I love wearing hats, jewelry and purses (I have collections of these items). I like to be comfortable so I don’t leave the house without my sneakers.

Do you have any favorite shops or online sites?

I frequent a small, trendy shop called Versona near my house for its affordable yet fashionable clothing and jewelry selections.
Adriana: One of my favorite clothing stores is Chico’s. I also love to shop when I visit Mexico where I find unique handmade pieces.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish lists?

I don’t maintain a specific clothes or shoe wish list as I prefer to explore new trends and make purchases as needed. Given my status as a stay home mom, shopping for new items isn’t a frequent occurrence.
Adriana: I don’t have a wish list, but I’m always on a hunt for good quality pieces.

Boots or Shoes?

I appreciate both boots and shoes for their unique qualities. Boots are my go-to choice during winter for their warmth and style, while shoes are preferred during the rest of the year for their versatility.
Adriana: shoes and sneakers for me.

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook etc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMerchantofVenus

Webpage: https://themerchantofvenus.com

Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Walter_Clarence_Thornton

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thorntoncornejo

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@themerchantofvenus/

BOOK TOUR DATES

All photographs have been published with the kind permission of Nancy Thornton Navarro and Adriana Thornton-Cornejo. Many thanks also for the review copy of Merchant of Venus: The Life Of Walter Thornton

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Arts & Crafts, Home Furnishings, Photographers/Models, Reviews

Review: Inkifi Classic Photo Frame

Disclaimer Alert: The Inkifi Classic Photo Frame has been supplied by Inkifi for the purpose of this review, however, all opinions expressed are 100% mine.

THE BRAND/WEBSITE

Inkifi is a photo printing company, founded in 2012, and based in Manchester, UK. Making the most of the digital age, Inkifi prints photographs direct from your instagram site or from your phone – and you can personalise your photo displays using the digital tool on the website. I placed my order via the company’s UK website using photographs from my iphone to create my photo frame images using the website tool. There is also a website for customers in the USA and an iPhone app which displays some but not all products.

THE PRODUCT

Inkifi sell a wide range of photo products from photo frames through to photo books. I ordered the Classic Frame 16 x 16” in Black (https://inkifi.com/wall-art/instagram-frame.html ). The Classic Frame comes in a choice of colours for the framework to match your decor – white, black, natural; it comes in 3 sizes: 12 x 12” , 16 x 16” or 20 x 20” . You can also pick the number of photographs to feature into your frame: 1,4,9,16,or 25 (I chose 9). The photo frame itself is sturdy and well made.

The digital tool on the website is relatively easy to use with plenty of helpful tips if you need it. Downloading my photos went very smoothly. It was easy to move the photos around on the screen so that you can envisage what the end result will be like. If I have one little criticism, it is that there should be more guidance on the margins we have to play with, especially at the tops of the photos. On screen, the photos look well aligned but upon receiving the finished photo frame, there isn’t much of a gap and the heads are very closely cropped! A minor issue though.

PACKAGING/DELIVERY

I was extremely impressed with the packaging! My photo frame was well secured with cardboard on both ends and well wrapped with oodles of bubble wrap. Delivery time was just as impressive too. The photo frame takes on average 2 – 3 business days to produce. The photo frame comes ready to hang, which is really useful.

PRICING

I was pleasantly surprised how reasonable the prices for the Classic Photo Frame. There are a couple of add on prices to the basic one – if you wanted a natural wood frame rather than black or white; number of photos; and delivery is speedy anyway but if you really can’t wait then a faster option is available. After briefly looking at the USA site too, prices seem pretty comparable. For under £50 you can own a quality gift that is pretty special.

CONCLUSION

I was extremely impressed with the photo frame quality and with my display of pictures as a whole. My frame is a great way to show off my family pictures from my daughter’s recent wedding. But any occasion could be featured – the Classic Photo Frame would be a great gift for Father’s Day, graduations, birthdays, holidays… the list is endless. My verdict: 9.5/10

For pinning later

Linda x

All photographs are by Linda Hobden

My thanks go to Inkifi for supplying the Classic Photo Frame for this review.

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Interview, Photographers/Models

An Interview With Photographer Nina Kraft

My guest today on the blog  is Los Angeles based photographer, Nina Kraft, who began her career in Hollywood as a highly regarded make-up artist.  The images and storytelling of cinema were the inspiration that sparked her career transformation into a sought-after photographer. Nina worked on major studio motion pictures, as well as on magazine covers and commercials, working with international icons such as Herb Ritts, Annie Leibovitz and countless others. Nina is now known for her collaborative working style in creating contemporary and unique looks in fashion, advertising and portraiture. Her style is influenced by her love of indigenous people and animals and her activism. Nina’s work in fashion, commercial, portraits and lifestyle photography is raw, earthy, elegant, real and unique to every client. I’ve followed Nina’s career for a few years, so it was great to catch up with Nina recently …hi Nina!

Hi, I’m Nina Kraft, photographer.

After beginning your career in Hollywood as a highly regarded make up artist, what inspired you to change your career to become a highly regarded photographer instead?

I worked in films, for a long time, travelled the world and enjoyed my career. After having 2 boys, locations for 6 months at a time was not an option. I always loved photography/cinematography and the art of lighting. It was the natural choice for me to move into photography after my kids. I had worked very closely with the cinematographer as a makeup artist and learned a lot from those wonderful collaborations.

I am, and have been for a few years, a big fan of your photography – I particularly love your black & white and street life observations – although your fashion work is just as  stunning too. What is your favourite style of photography? 

I shoot fashion, advertising and portraits, which I enjoy very much.


Have you got a favourite place where you enjoy taking photos? What makes this place so special?

My long term dream is to go to Africa and spend a good year there telling the story of the all female anti poaching rangers like the Akashinga and other groups that have put their lives on the line to save animals from poachers. Many of these brave women were help captive in wars and sexually assaulted. I write as well as shoot, I want to tell their stories and looking forward to making my dream project.

Growing up, what were your career aspirations?

Growing up all I wanted to do was save animals but I ended up in Hollywood were I met many wonderful creative people, had a great career and travelled the world.

If I visited you in Los Angeles & we go on a “photo tour”, what places would you recommend us photographing?

If you are touring Los Angeles, I would recommend photographing the coast north of Malibu. There, you will find beautiful coast lines combined with majestic cliffs. Also Joshua tree in the desert.

Boots Or Shoes?

Currently my life style is about comfort. I love wearing uggs when possible and also my favorite boots are still Rag and Bone.


The Links…
http://www.ninakraftphotography.com

https://www.facebook.com/NinaKraftPhotography
https://www.instagram.com/ninakraftphotography/

For Pinning Later

Thanks Nina for sharing your gorgeous photos with us …dear readers, pop along to Nina’s website and prepare to be wowed!

Linda x

All photographs have been published with kind permission of Nina Kraft

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Interview, Life Issues/ Motivational Posts, Music/Entertainment, Photographers/Models

An Interview With Leslie Brooks

From Australia last week to the USA this week, and I’m pleased to welcome onto my blog the vivacious Leslie Brooks, US model, TV & Radio personality, social media influencer, Shatterproof Ambassador and mother of 3!  This lady has tons of energy, very smiley and very stylish …. and I had tons of questions to ask her! Hi Leslie!

 

Photo by David Sigal

Hi! My name is Leslie Brooks. I currently live in Columbus, OH. I grew up in Dayton, OH and went to college at Ohio University where I received my Bachelor of Arts in Spanish. After graduating I was discovered by a modeling agent in Louisville, KY and began my modeling career. I consider myself a semi-retired model now taking jobs in print work, commercial work and tv hosting. I am also a mom of 3 (my favorite job ever 😉). I am a social media influencer on Twitter with over 145k followers. I also work as an Ambassador with the nonprofit Shatterproof organization.

What does the charity Shatterproof do and what does being an ambassador entail?

Shatterproof is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to ending the devastation addiction causes families. As an Ambassador I am part of a national network of volunteer peer leaders, educating and empowering others to learn about and support Shatterproof’s mission. Ambassadors are committed to promoting the Shatterproof vision and representing the organization. This is a very personal mission to me. Sadly I lost my only brother to addiction when he was only 32, and in 2013 my father committed suicide after years of struggling with the disease.

You have been modelling for over 20 years. What inspired you to become a model? Has their been any noticeable changes in the field of modelling since you first started?

Growing up I was always a tall, skinny girl. But with big hair and braces, I never quite felt attractive. However in 1997, an agent named MJ Kaufman approached me about modeling. I guess being tall and skinny was actually a blessing 😉. So much has changed over the years of modeling but most notible is the introduction of Social Media. Now men and women who may never have had an opportunity to model are being discovered via Instagram and Snapchat.

Being a social media influencer, you need to have regular interaction on social media. What social media outlet is your personal favourite? What is your least favourite & why?

My favorite social media outlet is Twitter. A few years ago an agent from LA recommended I use Twitter to build a brand and following. I started out with about 200 followers. I quickly learned how much fun Twitter is and began to gain a large following. I love being creative and telling jokes so this has been a great forum for me to be connected to thousands of people all across the world. My least favorite outlet is Snapchat. I just can’t quite get into it. Although my preteen daughters are pros. Ha!  

Photo by Jackie Goudy

You are a mom to 2 girls and a boy – would they like to follow in your footsteps and become models/TV personalities or have they got other plans? What do you like best about being “mom”?

My daughters are 12 and 11. My oldest would love to follow in my footsteps and either model or act. I also have a son who is 7. Currently his career goals are to be a male model and then a zoo keeper. Ha ha! Being a mother has been my most challenging yet most rewarding job ever. I always wanted to be of service to others, it just so happens I get to be of service to my own children. Helping them navigate their way in the world. If I can raise kind, happy and brave children then I will feel my work has been done.

Let’s talk food… what is your favourite meal? What food genre is your favourite when eating out?

My absolute favorite food is crab legs. I also love French fries. My husband and I are quite adventurous with food so we love going out to try different cuisines.

You have travelled to some seriously cool places.If you could visit any place in the world, money no object, where would you go & why?

I’ve been blessed to travel a lot especially in the last few years. In the past 18 months, I’ve been to Hawaii, Grand Caymans, Southern California, Jamaica, Mexico, Iceland and the Dominican Republic. In June I’ll be traveling to Costa Rica. If money and time were no object, my dream trip would be to Australia.

Personal Photo of Leslie and her husband, Troy

Out of the places you’ve travelled too – where was your favourite place? Which place left you disappointed? Favourite family location?

My very favorite place I’ve traveled to so far has been Grand Caymans. The water is the most spectacular blue I have ever seen. The people of Jamaica have been the most kind. And Iceland is so spectacular. A landscape I’ve never seen before. Many times I travel with my husband for his work. But we also try to take a few family trips as well. We are taking the kids on a Disney Cruise next month. I’ve heard great things about it and I can’t wait to experience it with the kids.

Have you got a favourite style icon, past or present?

I like to think of my style as classic glamour. Jackie Kennedy Onassis was the epitome of this style.

I like dresses from the 1950s; tunic dresses of the 1960s; the hippy styles of the 1970s; the colours of the 1980s… what decade of fashion are you drawn towards? Which popular styles of any decade didn’t/don’t float your boat?

I always love how in fashion what goes around comes around. I’ve enjoyed when the fashion from the 70s came back. Flowy dresses, bell bottoms. But I tend to stay with classic styles that don’t follow a trend. Fitted dresses, classic colors, and pumps.

My favourite colour is green although glancing at my wardrobe most of my clothes are shades of blue! And I love red for nights out! What is your favourite colour?

Of course all black can be stunning. However I love a splash of color. I also love the current look of prints and floral patterns. My favorite color is red.

I have a passion for music – I listen to most styles – what genre floats your boat?

My personal playlist is quite eclectic. Everything from Kids Bop lol, to 90s R&B. My all time favorite artist is Prince. I really do believe he was a musical genius.

Describe your perfect day.

While I do enjoy a night out at a fabulous restaurant, I’ve really become a homebody. A perfect night would be with my family at home. Watching a movie or playing a board game.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

During the week I tend to dress more comfortably. Fitted jeans and a tee or blazer. Nights out I love to wear dresses. Summertime is my favorite time for fashion. Lots of sundresses and white denim is a constant staple.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

I love Saks Fifth Avenue. But also do a lot of shopping online. I love Intermix and Forward.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

I’ve recently become obsessed with Balmain blazers. I recently purchased my first. It is a beautiful fitted red double blazer with gold buttons. Because they are such a classic staple, I’d love to add a black and navy to my collection. My favorite brand of shoes is Christian Louboutin. In fact I just picked up a fabulous red t-strap stiletto yesterday. There is something very sexy about that red bottomed sole.

Boots or Shoes? 

I like boots in the winter months. Especially ankle booties. The summertime I live in flip flops and heeled sandals at night.

Links you would like to share e.g. Blog/facebook/twitter/etc

You can find me in Twitter at www.twitter.com/leslie_annie

Instagram at www.instagram.com/leslieannebrooks

Fabulous chatting to you Leslie! Shatterproof is such a worthy cause although I am sorry to hear of your personal bereavements, I’m sure your personal experience has and will help those who find themselves in a similar situation.  On a brighter note, red T- strap Louboutin stilettos sound exquisite … and yes, very sexy! Love it! 🙂

Linda x

All photographs have been published with kind permission of Leslie Brooks.  The photographers are David Sigal, Jackie Goudy & Leslie Brooks.

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Books, Interview, Music/Entertainment, Photographers/Models

An Interview With Rufus Publications

If you are passionate about music, books and publishing, there is no career finer than the job that my guest, Mark Smith, does! Mark is a publisher with the independent publishing house, Rufus Publications, that specialises in creating and distributing high end coffee table books about bands and music.  Working directly with artistes and bands, the books and the photography bring to life some iconic concerts.  I’m thrilled to welcome Mark on the blog, to find out more…

Hi! I am Mark Smith, a 52 year old publisher from Newbury Berkshire. Married (30 years) with three sons, a daughter and a plethora of grandchildren based in the UK and South Africa.

Mark (left) & David Coverdale at his studio in Reno

Who or what inspired you to pursue a career in publishing?

I have worked for myself since I was 19. I ran a design and marketing company until 2007, stopping after having a small stroke (probably stress induced). I have always loved books, music and films so I decided to start a business that would encompass these passions in 2010.

Rufus Publications specialise in creating & distributing high end coffee table books about bands & music. What were the reasons why you decided to stick with bands & music?

Well, I’m starting with the music I know and love. The biggest surprise is how long it takes to pull a book together. I thought it would take 4 months but really it’s a year or more.

What has been the most popular publication so far?

AC/DC followed by Zeppelin and Deep Purple.

David Coverdale on stage – photo taken by Mark for the new Purple book)

What has been your favourite book to date?

We are just launching a Whitesnake book and we worked directly with David Coverdale and his producer MIchael McIntyre, following the band on an arena tour of the UK and taking many of the shots used in the book. This time we haven’t licensed other people’s work so we have more freedom. They have been fun and professional to work with and we got to visit the band’s studio in Reno. Good fun. We are also working with legendary guitarist Peter Green on a forthcoming title. He’s amazing to work with and it will be quite some book.

You have worked with bands in the past such as AC/DC and Deep Purple, however, if you were given the chance, who would you love to publish a book about?

We would love to do Metallica and perhaps some of the more obscure American blues artistes. We are also considering some classic film books.

A spread from the forthcoming Peter Green book

Most of your books are designed, printed & bound in the UK. Are they available to purchase outside the UK?

We ship anywhere in the world. We are passionate about UK production because we have lost so much to China and England used to be a major centre for book production.

I have seen AC/DC a couple of times, including the concert  where Axl Rose was the lead singer. My last concert was to see Paul Rodgers. What was the last music concert you went to?

The Iron Maidens and Bernie Marsden a few weeks ago and The Darkness next week.

A shot of Meatloaf and Dee Snider (Twisted Sister) confronting each other backstage at the Monsters of Rock in 1983 (from the forthcoming history of the festival). Photo by PG Brunelli

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

Jeans, t-shirts and converse boots.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

Amazon because I can’t buy music in Newbury but the internet has taken the fun out of the high street.

A classic guitar photographed in the Rufus Publications studio, from a forthcoming book on rare & unusual guitars belonging to Bernie Marsden. Photographed by the Rufus Team

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

A decent striped jacket, if I can find one that fits.

Boots or Shoes?

Boots. They’re chunkier!

Links to follow & discover Rufus Publications:

www.rufuspublications.com
www.facebook.com/rufuspublications

For pinning later

I do hope you enjoy seeing The Darkness next week – I saw them live in 2004! I really enjoy seeing bands that put on a show – like Metallica, Alice Cooper, Kiss, AC/DC, David Bowie and Whitesnake – to name a few that I’ve seen.  Dear readers, do you like seeing live bands? Any favourites? Do share your stories…

Linda x

All photographs (apart from the Pinterest photo) have been published with kind permission from Rufus Publications and the photographers have been credited in the article.

The Pinterest photo was taken by myself,  Linda Hobden, at a Status Quo concert held at Newmarket Race Course in July 2015

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An Interview With Mo Endfield

Being the wife of a celebrated film director (Cy Endfield – who directed Zulu, amongst others) and a model in her own right, I’m so excited to welcome onto my blog Mo Endfield.  I wanted  to know all about her new book about being a film director’s wife, her uber glam life as a model in 1950s, her marriage to Cy and what her fashion tastes are like today …. And I’m sure you’d love to find out too! Hi Mo & welcome!

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Hi!  I’m Mo Endfield.  My interests now are my family, friends, films, theatre (especially musicals) long walks and reading. Also I must start exercising more. A few things that happened in my life I would change – wouldn’t we all?

I was lucky enough to read a preview copy, thank you, of your book, “The Film Director’s Wife” – a tell-all autobiography of your life, how you and Cy met, and your life together.  What attracted you most about Cy?

I met Cy in January 1952 because he was dating my best friend Peggy Priest for several months. Through Cy I met Jack Berry and Chan Canasta. We didn’t “get together” until1954. Cy fascinated me
because he was like a guy from another planet. ( ” The Film Director’s Wife” p46:  ‘I had never met someone like him. I had never met such a sophisticated charmer. He made me feel very, very nervous and tongue-tied. I instructed Priest, “Don’t ever leave me alone in a room with him.” I was bewildered by his sneaky verbal assaults and sly digs. He laughed at my acquired Roedean accent. Cy liked to lounge on my bed with Priest, and goad me, smiling his silly smile.)

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Although your parents refused to attend your wedding to Cy, you had a happy 40 year partnership.  Did your parents decision make your early married years difficult? Did they accept Cy in the end?

My father died just 2 weeks after we returned from our honeymoon in France and Italy – a brain tumour, he was only 54. My mother had lost both her daughter and her husband. I remained close to her, she lived with us for the last 10 years of her life. Her relationship with Cy was always politely cool. Dying aged 87 she said to Cy, “Take care of her for me, Cy” which was the closest she came to acceptance.

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As a child what books did you enjoy reading? What genre of books do you enjoy reading now?

My favourite book was Dombey and Son, everything by Charles Dickens. Also Snow White, when I was 11 I tried to set up a play (with me playing Snow White) but it proved a bit difficult to find 7 dwarfs in Menston. I have belonged to a book club since 2007, we meet once a month for several hours, all contributing hot food
and wine (very lively!) We choose a book in turn, the last two were Little Boy Lost by Marghanita Laski and a memoir of Irene Nemirovsky by her daughter – both great reads.

As a former model you rubbed shoulders with many celebrities including Christian Dior, Terence Stamp, Jean Shrimpton and Michael Caine. Who was your style icon at the time?

My style icon was the American model Suzy Parker (my daughter Suzannah was named after her.) Also meeting the model Barbara Goalen ( foot size 2 ) and Fiona Campbell-Walter.

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Out of all the things you’ve experienced as a wife of a film director – what experience did you enjoy the most and what was a nightmare experience?

My most enjoyable experience – when Cy received the accolades he deserved after ZULU :
“Three times I’ve had to remake my life,” declared Cy Endfield, who’s now on top of the heap as director of Zulu, one of the biggest grossers in British film history.” New York Herald Tribune.
A nightmare experience – Cy struggling to find work in England 1952/62 – as he was unable to make films as America would
not accept any film directed by anyone named on the Blacklist.

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Hypothetically speaking, if “The Film Director’s Wife” was made into a film, what actors would you pick to be the main characters playing yourself and your husband?

Peter Sellers and Anouk Aimee.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

I’m happiest in trousers and loafers, Adidas and Nike. Like to get tarted up occasionally in a posh frock. I love shoes – currently I’m wearing Chanel, Ferragamo, Cardin, Russell and Bromley and Prada. Never heels.

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Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?  Do you have a clothes/shoes wishlist?

Never. I don’t want to be tempted ! When I was a model, I was often given clothes, or at much reduced prices. The result is I cannot pay full price for anything. For years I would trudge around sales, now I tend to buy from catalogues – current favourites WALL, PURE and ARTIGIANO.

Boots Or Shoes?

Boots in winter, shoes all year. I am wearing Emma Hope and Robert Clergerie. My favourite ankle boots I bought a long time ago in the Harrods sale. They cost me £3 ! I don’t like the current fashion for clumpy boots with short skirts, but I guess that’s an age thing.

Links you would like to share:

Copies of The Film Director’s Wife can be purchased from The Book Guild, here: http://www.bookguild.co.uk/bookshop-collection/biography/film-directors-wife/
The book is also available from any good bookshop.

It’s been fabulous chatting to you Mo and like you, I do like a good bargain – ankle boots from Harrods at £3! – one of my favourite bargains was a brand new NEXT dress that was handed in to a local jumble sale, tags intact, for sale for 50p – I was so pleased it was my size.  I had seen the dress in NEXT a week or so prior to the sale priced up at £40 or so!  Dear readers, have you got any bargains you’ve picked up over the years in your wardrobes?  Do share!

Linda x

All photographs have been published with kind permission from Mo Endfield.

 

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An Interview With Photographer Michel Haddi

Global celebrity photographer, Michel Haddi, is on my blog this week.  Michel has photographed many high profile celebrities including David Bowie, Johnny Depp, Keanu Reeves, Angelina Jolie, Janet Jackson, Jennifer Lopez.  He has published a few photographic coffee table books … And his latest is “David Bowie The Legend”.  Seeing as David Bowie was my all time favourite performer,  I just couldn’t wait to ask Michel about his book, his photography, and what it is like meeting these iconic celebrities…. Welcome Michel…

What made you want to pursue a career as a photographer?

I always wanted to be an artist. My first love is movie making/films but I didn’t know anyone in the film industry, but I did in photography – I suppose it was a short cut!

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Your current “David Bowie The Legend” book of unseen David Bowie pictures has aroused a lot of interest – he was my favourite musician – what was the background to the book & the reason behind creating the book?

I have a publishing house too and I thought it was a good idea to do a book on David Bowie , like I will do one on Blondie or Liza Minelli. I decided to launch a new collection called The Legend.

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Your work has appeared in many famous magazines such as the British, French & Italian editions of Vogue America as well as I lived there for 14 years and many advertising campaigns for companies such as Saks New York, Armani, Yves Saint Laurent, etc. What has been the most unusual photoshoot request you’ve had ?

Maybe a shoot I did for American Esquire in the desert in Las Vegas having a trapeze artist from the Cirque du Soleil flying in the middle of nowhere.

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What has been your favourite photoshoot to date?

All of them. I don’t have a special one, always the last one. I worked with Emmanuelle Seigne,  the wife of Roman Polanski for a magazine called The Collective (it’s a magazine from the London designer Osman). I really loved that shoot as Emmanuelle is a great actor and a great looking girl.

You have photographed many high profile celebrities, including David Bowie, Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie etc among others. If you were given the chance, who would you love to photograph that you haven’t already?

I did a shoot at Paisley Park – I was supposed to work with Prince and his band. I worked with the band but Prince didn’t show up. This is a regret.

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You’ve published a quite a few fashion & beauty books – have you got a preferred location for fashion shoots?

Not really, depends what I have in mind. The new one is called The Blue Hour – it was shot in Paris and it’s all about Paris.

I’ve seen & admired your fashion shots, model shots, and celebrity shots, so, what style of photography is your absolute favourite? When you are not working, do you do photography for fun?

Thank you! I only like it when images look like snips of a film. In fact when I tell a story now, if I don’t shoot I write screen plays.

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Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

I have a tailor in London,  Anthony Sinclair,  so everything comes from my tailor.  I wear a Crombie with maybe a tight fit sweate,  pin stripe trousers, black gloves and black Adidas footwear.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites ?

None  –  my only pleasure is to see my tailor and be pampered.

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What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

Maybe another 3 piece suit – dark blue pinstripe – very 70s! Anthony Sinclair used to make the suits for Sean Connery in the James Bond films. I like this flavour, as being tall the style does suit me perfectly.

Boots or Shoes?

I used to wear boots like bikers boots but I am much more into the Adidas black label to cut the strict look of a suit nowadays.

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 Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook/twitter etc for more information about you and your book “David Bowie The Legend”.

http://davidbowiethelegend.co.uk/

www.michelhaddistudio.com

www.mhspublishing.com

Oh wow Michel, Blondie is also another favourite of mine – as a teenager in the 80s I tried to style myself on Debbie Harry’s look – just wish I had her voice to go with the ensemble! 🙂 Well, dear readers,  who in your eyes was or is a “Legend”?  Who was your style icon as a teen?  As always, do tell, I love reading your comments!

Linda x

All photos have been published with the kind permission of Michel Haddi. 

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An Interview With Model Debi Jones

Back in 2013 I first interviewed the lovely model Debi as she relaunched herself into the modelling limelight after a break from modelling in her teenage years to bring up her son and to pursue her love of music and dancing  (she was known as Dancin’ Debi ). Nowadays, Debi is in front of the camera, on the fashion runways, behind the camera and is mentoring young ladies who wish to pursue the modelling dream.  Hi Debi and welcome back to the blog!

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Hi Linda, my name’s Debi Jones but I am also known as DebiJ – Classic Model…. (I think the word “Classic” is a polite way of saying.. “Mature”).

You started modelling as a teenager, and after a break to have your son and pursue other pursuits, you re-entered the modelling world in 2013 in your late 40s. I interviewed you in 2013 and am pleased that your career has taken off and other avenues have been opened to you too, including mentoring young newbie models and taking photos yourself. What a busy bee! So, when you was a child, did you hope to be a model or photographer or fashion designer or make up artist or dancer or something else?

Oooo, that’s a hard one…. as a child, I wanted to be a singer, sadly though, being tone death doesn’t bode well in that industry. I then went through a stage of wanting to be an artist as I’m quite good with a pencil… and then it was a dancer. Sadly, I was always taller than most of the girls and where ever I went to dance classes, I ended up being the male part; although I did a stint of dancing in night clubs for a while. I used to look at magazines all the time and “wish” I could be like the girls on there, but my body shape and face always held me back….or so I thought. I got a break and happy days, suddenly, I was one of those girls… despite the body shape, though mainly, it was my legs that were
in demand!

What inspired you to try your hand at modelling as a teenager? What inspired you to re-launch your modelling career in your 40s?

Back in 1983, I went to Spain with my friends. We came home all sun tanned up, and decided to go for a night out. When we got to the club, there was a competition, Miss Elliots Lovely Legs… unbeknown to me, my friends entered me…. all these gorgeous, slim, barbie type girls were strutting their stuff on the catwalk and when it came to my turn, I danced my way up there with a smile (I didn’t know what else to do and was so embarrassed).. I WON! I couldn’t believe it. The prize was a photo shoot in Seven Kings with a fashion photographer, I really can’t remember his name. I was terrified, took a chaperone and everything – and despite looking like something out of Bananarama, it kind of went from there. This time round, I was approached on social media by a photographer. At first I thought he was a weirdo, but my son encouraged me to give it a go. As soon as I stepped in front of the camera, I realised how much I missed the buzz..the feeling of being anything from polished and pristine to rock queen… it was an escapism from the reality that is life. Looking back on the images now, my posing left a lot to be desired as did some of the actually photography ..but yes.. that was how I got back into it.

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Have you been to any unusual or strange modelling locations? Have you had any strange/unusual/bizarre modelling experiences?

Oh yes… more than a few now lol. I’ve been stuck in underground bunkers with rats running round my feet and dirty water up to my ankles, rolled around in mud banks at the beach when it was windy and raining, in a pure white gown. Multi Storey Car Parks, up trees in very high heels, but the most amazing was the Coldstream Guards Barracks at Windsor Castle… that was an experience of a lifetime. Actually shooting with the Guards in their full dress uniform and then later me in their “action man” stuff… I admire those guys so much… that is one heavy outfit!

To date, what has been your most favourite photoshoot?

Hmmmm…. It would be unfair for me to say “which is my favourite”, truth is..out of 100 shoots, I enjoy 99. I have a few photographers that I work with quite regularly now and I love working with those as they are used to my madness and my ways and they let me express myself and try ideas that I may have, as well as their own… but I’ve also worked with some excellent photographers that I have never met before.. you just don’t know what you’re getting. I loved being a part of Mariana and Jilani’s Urban Angel Project last year. We shot in the Shoreditch and Brick Lane area of London. The actual shoot didn’t take too long at all but we spent the day up there. The concept of Urban Angels is, despite appearances, there are so many people lost in London, whether they live there, work there, they may look like they have many friends on the outside or a wonderful life, but we really don’t know what is going on in there head. I was the fallen/rebellious angel. I don’t smoke anymore but had to be smoking a cigarette and instead of the normal, innocent angel in virginal white.. I was wearing a black business suit..no shoes, sitting on the floor of the street with massive angel wings! We caused quite a stir. I really enjoy the shoots I do with my good friend, fellow model, Joanna Chamberlain and photographer, David Morley…. We go all out to have fun and make beautiful colourful images… One last year was the Mad Hatters Tea Party in the Magical Forest. Craziness! We are on hold with shooting at the moment this year as Jo organised a Vintage Catwalk Charity Show in support of M.E. in April. Jo also makes hats and she showcased those, along with some wonderful 1940’s/50’s attire… so for the first time in many years, I was back on the catwalk for that one!

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Is there any style of photoshoot /modelling / famous photographer that you would like to try that you haven’t yet experienced?

Oh wow.. MANY photographers and styles I admire – I would have loved to have been in front of Helmut Newtons Camera… what a genius… the models he used were always sharp, edgy, sexy and quite severe! I’m hoping to get to work with a favourite photographer of mine this year as we have been discussing for quite some time, his ideas are madder than my own..but I really don’t want to jinx it so my lips are sealed.

When I first interviewed you in 2013, you had long curly brown hair and was tentatively dipping your toes, so to speak, into the modelling pool again; now, in 2016, you have a slick short blonde crop that is very edgy and your photos are very slick and polished. You have transformed before my very eyes – and you are looking fab! What do you feel you have learnt most about modelling the second time round as an older lady? Advantages/ Disadvantages?

Oh thank you, Linda. Well… I’ve had to learn what suits me for a start..and what I’m good at… I’ve learnt not to trust everybody’s word, I’ve learnt to be guarded when approached by so called “agencies”, I’ve also learnt to keep my mouth shut when someone asks for my advice, unless of course they specifically have come to me for mentoring. The advantages are, not too many people mess with me… they don’t try and take advantage as they now realise, I know what I am doing, and as much as I love it to bits and enjoy it (even more now)…. I also take it very seriously.. not myself..but the work. I still believe I’m quirky not beautiful..but… it seems quirkiness is liked. The disadvantages are, I’m watching my self age … I’m more conscious of body changes etc..it’s hard to embrace that when you’ve spent your life dreading it. I recently hit the menopause, the weight went on..my energy levels dropped.. the hot flushes were out of control.. and my hair became even thinner.. hence.. the change of style. All is under control at the moment and thankfully, I’m at a weight I’m happy with and I’m loving my hair!

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You spend a lot of time helping and mentoring younger models – what advice do you give to those wishing to pursue the model path? Do you have any advice to those older ladies who are considering turning their hand at modelling?

OK… again, this is a really difficult question..it seems, through the magical world of the internet, everyone can be a model (so it is believed). In some ways, it is true, but because the local camera club want to take some piccies of you, it doesn’t mean you will be featured in the next Vogue! Don’t get ahead of yourself. NEVER hand over money to agencies ..well … people claiming to be agencies, and ALWAYS check their credentials.. I can’t emphasise this enough… I have seen so many people stung. LEARN and LIVE your trade, research! If you want to get into what I call the REAL world of modelling… it’s a whole different kettle of fish. It isn’t a case of going along to a studio or a location with a bag of clothes and trial and error. Whole teams of people can be involved, timescales are of the essence. You have to work really hard, be spot on, accept that “your makeup and hair may not be how you normally wear it” and do as you’re asked – don’t play the Diva! People are paying for your time and experience. It really gets my goat when you see people set up dodgy agencies or companies that state “Experience Model or Model Trainer, Catwalk Training”, when I know full well that some of these people have never been on a professional shoot in their life, they have never walked a catwalk.. they just have had their photos taken, very well sometimes… not so well on others.. and they’re trying to get an easy buck by taking advantage! Youngsters, please, beware. As for the more mature lady… the only advice I would give anyone if they wanted to try modelling is… “GO FOR IT, LOVE IT and most importantly, ENJOY IT”. Always remember though..we are now ladies of a certain age, and what looks good on a 20 year old doesn’t necessarily mean it will look good on us.. and yes.. I have made that mistake. A 50 year old model doing a tea-pot pose and sniffing her underarms in a spandex dress… isn’t ALWAYS attractive lol !

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Hypothetically speaking, if you could go anywhere in the world for a photoshoot, where would be your dream location?

I’ve been lucky enough to shoot in Paris and last year Cyprus, but NEW YORK… I would LOVE to shoot in New York… and yes.. I’d definitely do my take on Audrey Hepburn at Tiffany’s… It would be rude not to!

You have an interest in photography – what photographs do you enjoy taking for pleasure?

HAHAHAHHA don’t tell the photographers I work with that! Lol. Yes, I love to take pictures. Apparently, I have a good eye for an image… right now the flavour is landscapes and skies, but my dog is becoming quite good with the poses.. and between you, me and your readers, I do like shooting people (with the camera), though I would never say I am anywhere near good enough to take it up, it’s just a little hobby.. I can’t wait for the weather to improve!

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Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing when not modelling?

Well, right now, I’m sitting in a sky blue all in one,  and it’s not a onesie lol. It’s from River Island. Oh, and I have bare feet. At work I have to be smart, so it’s quite classic stuff, court shoes or boots depending on skirt or trousers. At home, there’s nothing better than to chill out in a pair of leggings and big baggy top! Comfort to the max.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

I do… I love Boohoo, Republic, Next. I don’t just stick with these though… If I see something, I like it, If I can afford it, I will buy it. Whether it be High Street or Designer… I will say, I’m partial to the odd charity shop too..you can get some excellent bargains sometimes if you shop in the right places, and not the same as everyone else is wearing!

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wish list?

I recently saw THE most amazing catsuit – tailored, but with palazzo pants – it was white, with embroidery..absolutely stunning.. I can see that, this year, on me, in Cyprus with a great big floppy hat and sunglasses! Perfect… one problem though…. It was one of those pop ups you get come up when browsing a certain social networking site and for the life of me I don’t know the name of the company who made it… so,if anyone can help??? Lol

Boots or Shoes?

As much as I love boots, it will always be the same for me… shoes all the way. They make the legs look longer and with a good heel, the calves look shapelier.. I just love them!!

Links you would like to share e.g. website/facebook/twitter etc so that readers can follow you and your career.

www.facebook.com/dancingdebimodel
https://twitter.com/dancingdebi
http://dancingdebi907.wix.com/debijanemodel

Ah Debi, it has been great chatting to you again and I’m so pleased that age has not been a barrier and that you can enjoy modelling once again. I think your photos look absolutely fab! The white catsuit sounds intriguing- I’m sure we’ll all be on the lookout for that -let’s hope you and it will be united soon!  Dear readers, have you gone back to doing something that you enjoyed as a teenager after a gap of many years, like Debbie?  Have you taken up netball or some other sport that you had once enjoyed?  Do tell of your experiences…I’d love to know 🙂

Linda x

All photos have been published with kind permission of Debi Jones. Photos are by Arrow Photography of London; Matt Allen; Paul Amey; Chris Mansfield; Marianima & Jilani.

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An Interview With Author Robert Trautman

Meet Bob – author, accomplished gymnast, competitive figure skater, licensed helicopter pilot, professional photographer, electronics engineer, parent, identical twin AND this week’s guest on my blog!  Bob’s philosophy is that “the meaning of life is to live a life with meaning” and that is truly apparent as you read his memoir-infused self-help book, “Life’s Essential Primer: Adventures, Choices, and The Success They Can Bring”.  I caught up with Bob recently to find out more as well as finding out what lurks in his closet….

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Hi! I’m Bob Trautman. Sure, the book says “Robert”, and that is my formal name, but not only is that what my mother used to call me when I’d get into trouble, it’s also so very formal, and I’m far from a formal person.

Congratulations on publishing your book, “Life’s Essential Primer: Adventures, Choices And The Success They Can Bring” – a memoir-infused self-help book outlining the principles and life philosophies you have derived from  your own amusing, real life adventures. What inspired you to put pen to paper and write your self-help memoir?

Thank you very much! I’ve enjoyed writing short stories throughout much of my life, but it was really my friends and coworkers who finally provided the impetus needed to pen this book. Everybody shares their little adventures when conversing with friends, or when engaging in idle chitchat with coworkers at the office. My very best friend Michelle, who is also the editor of this book, has gone so far as to tell acquaintances, “Bob is the REAL ‘most interesting man in the world’”. This is a reference to the popular character in the Dos Equis beer ads. Ironically, I don’t like beer at all. People I knew eventually started telling me that I should write down the various stories that I’d frequently relate…so I did.

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Your book shares your life experiences – apart from being an author, you are also an accomplished gymnast, competitive figure skater, licensed helicopter pilot, professional photographer, electronics engineer and a parent – and hopes to provide children and young adults a framework to efficiently prepare their educational paths to become successful adults.  What do you feel are the main “roadblocks” stopping a person from having a successful life?

There are a number of roadblocks or detours keeping, or delaying many young people from achieving success.
a. They haven’t established practical goals. This could be because their parents haven’t exposed them to a wide variety of activities, or they’ve been over-protective, thereby not allowing them to engage their natural curiosity that would normally happen with free play.
b. They either engage in activities that adversely affect their focus, such as watching television or playing  addictive video games , or becoming addicted to alcohol and/or drugs, or they don’t engage in activities that help keep them focused on their goals.
c. They lack discipline to reach their ultimate goals. Young people today appear to want everything NOW, but they don’t want to put any effort into getting it.
If they can set practical goals, stay focused on those goals, establish a plan to achieve the goals, and have the discipline to work towards them, then they can succeed in reaching them. It won’t be NOW, but, with this technique, it’ll be MUCH sooner than any of their peers who don’t use it.

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Your book contains many valuable lessons that others can learn from, for example, your mantra that the “Meaning of Life is to live a Life with Meaning”.  What, in your own mind, was the most valuable lesson you learnt from your life experiences so far?

Aside from the “setting goals, remaining focused, and having the discipline to finish” technique I’ve described above, the most valuable lesson I’ve learned is this: Be kind to others, and be an optimist.

Although you live in the USA, is your book available to purchase overseas?

My book is available all around the world via online book stores.

Are you looking at writing other books in the future?  What topics would you like to cover?

I am currently working on a fiction series. They’ll be action-adventure centered around the small town in which I currently reside. The main character is a young woman whose capabilities and talents substantially reflect my own.

What sort of book genre do you like reading? Favourite books or authors?

My favorite genre of books to read is action-adventure. My most favorite author is Clive Cussler (Raise the Titanic, Sahara, etc.). I enjoy all of his books. Next, would be Dan Brown’s writings (DaVinci Code, Angels & Demons, etc.). Following those, it would be murder mysteries by authors such as Margaret Truman (Murder at the Pentagon, Murder in the Smithsonian, etc.)

You have travelled widely, including spending time in Hawaii and California, among other places. Where was your favourite place to visit and why?  What place is at the top of your “Must See” travel bucket list?

Although I may have traveled more than many, I wouldn’t say that I’ve “traveled widely”. Of those places to which I have traveled, I’m particularly enamored by the Hawaiian island of Kauai – the “Garden Island”. For peoples’ bucket-lists, I highly recommend that they hike the Kalalau Trail to Hanakapiai Beach – what I call “the perfect beach”, at least once.

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Being a professional photographer, what genre of photography excites you the most?  Any photography genre you would like to try that you have little or no experience of, as yet?

My favorite genres of photography would be landscape/scenic photography, and model photography with emphasis on pinup and boudoir. These offer incredible levels of creativity, and often produce some of the most stunning images. There is no type of photography that I want to do that I haven’t already done.

When you’re not writing, what hobbies/ past times do you enjoy nowadays?

I especially enjoy reading to relax, but for a creative outlet I love doing photography on personal projects, and tinkering with fun electronic circuits of my own design.

Personal now – what outfits and shoes would you normally be found wearing?

 I’m not exactly what you’d call a “fashionista”. At my studio, you’ll most often find me in jeans, a polo shirt, and sneakers.

Do you have any favourite shops or online sites?

 As my wardrobe is pretty basic, I’ll just get my clothes wherever they’re the cheapest. Also, I have never purchased clothing for myself online, so, no; I don’t have any favorite online sites for that.

What’s next on your clothes/shoe wishlist?

At this time, clothing and shoes are purely utilitarian to me. As such, until it becomes permanently stained, torn, or otherwise unwearable, I have no list from which to wish.

Boots or Shoes?

Except for a brief period in my early teens when I’d worn Wellington boots because their heels gave me added height that I didn’t otherwise have, the only boots I’ll wear these days are for snow in the winter. Therefore, boots or shoes? I’ll go with shoes.

Links you would like to share:

I’ve listed several links of interest related to my book, below:

Book Website: http://www.essentialprimerbook.com
Book Trailer Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_93J86AcEfc
Book Author Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=auYOjEf7kYA
Book Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/EssentialFanPage

Thanks Bob for joining me on the blog today – you’ve given us much food for thought. I’m a great believer in free play – as a youngster growing up in the 1970s, it was what we did even though I was brought up in East London.  Today, living in a rural area, it gives me great delight to see my sons outdoors playing whatever the weather and they do balance their love of the outdoors with a love for computers too – as 21st century kids seem to do effortlessly!  Biking, den building and being an intrepid explorer were my favourite games (Sindy dolls went it rained!) as a young girl –  Dear readers, what activities did you enjoy as a youngster?  Did you enjoy free play? Do tell!

Linda x

All photos have been published with kind permission of Bob Trautman.

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