The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Caroline Burne

Caroline Burne’s photography is larger than life. Just take a look at her images of the Top 5 from the Phase Eleven shoot in Cycle 1 of #ProjectScouted. After having set up, the location resembled a Hollywood movie set and the Top 5 ladies were the starring heroines. Currently working as a principle studio and freelance photographer, Caroline discovered her passion and flair for photography rather recently but has made serious headway and rapid progress. This year, Caroline promises to give the Top 10 girls the experience of a lifetime with a shoot that they will never forget.

Lee Folkard Photography: How did you discover your passion for photography?

Caroline: I only got into photography in my late twenties. My boyfriend was photographing the scene at the time and I was instantly drawn to it.  I bought a Nikon D60 and started shooting social pics at night clubs. And then, only two months later I sold my little D60 and upgraded to a D300. I haven’t looked back or questioned my choice in this field since. Apart from learning about the industry and the technicalities of photography on my own, I also felt it was important that I learnt the fundamentals of the art in order to better equip myself. So I went to Vega School of Brand Leadership and completed a year of studies, after which I began working for a studio.

LFP: What do you love most about photographing people?

Caroline: The aspect that I love the most about photographing people is that moment when a client who insists they aren’t photogenic or is very shy comes out of their shell in front of the camera or sees themselves in a way they haven’t seen themselves before. In that moment, you can see a genuine happiness because you have shown them something about themselves that they may have been longing to see. They hold their heads a little higher and walk with more confidence than they did before.  That’s always a good moment for me as an artist.

LFP: Is there anyone that you dream of shooting?

Caroline: I would love to shoot Bjork! I’m a big dreamer! I just feel that she knows how to take risks and bring the dramatic to everything she does, which really appeals to me.

LFP: For you, what makes a beautiful photograph?

Caroline: I find it really hard to say what makes a photograph beautiful. But I think it’s just that feeling you get when you’re looking at an image, whether it’s the mystery of a black and white cityscape or the allure of a secret hidden in a subtle smile or just a soft glow emanating from the image. I think that a beautiful image is one that manages to evoke an emotion.

LFP: Having been a part of #ProjectScouted last year, what made you want to return to Cycle 2 this year?

Caroline: Last cycle I met some really amazing people with awesome skills and talents. I was fortunate enough to work with the beautiful Charelle McAllister and what Charelle can do with a make-up brush is nothing less than pure perfection. I love that the Project presents the opportunity to network with people who are experts in their fields and also the chance to work with them. When you get that opportunity to meet and work with new people, especially in this industry, you take it!

LFP: Any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls who you will be shooting?

Caroline: My advice to the girls would be that they should not just rely on being ‘a pretty face’. You need to bring character and personality to each one of your images because you never know which shot is going to be that perfect one. Practice your angles and posing before the shoot if you can – elongate your neck, always pose with tension, and don’t stay in the same pose. Always mix it up, keep moving, take chances, and be innovative!

LFP: It’s going to be difficult to better on your shoot from last year. Are you willing to share any info about the phase you are shooting?

Caroline: I’ll just say that this year it’s all about the glam!

This is the point in the Project when there is no room for complacency from the girls as we are down to our Top 10, with 11 having been eliminated after the Shoelaced Clothing fashion show last week. Inspired by the pioneer photographer, Ansel Adams and his words, “You don't make a photograph just with a camera. You bring to the act of photography all the pictures you have seen, the books you have read, the music you have heard, and the people you have loved,” Caroline brings depth and poignancy to her work. This phase is going to be the most demanding yet because we know that Caroline will be pulling out all the stops.

Phase Seven : Brief : #ProjectScouted

hey there, 

welcome to the brief...

This week is all about glam, personality and how well you work with your fellow project scouted models. 

Each group will get a set number of frames so be aware of lighting, your angles and working as a team. Goodluck!

Venue: Thompson Bay Beach, Ballito (meet at the tidal pool)

Call Time: 7:00am

Make-up: Golds, bronze, full fake lashe

Hair: wet and sleek or high buns

Accessories: thick gold chains, chunky bangels (anything you dont mind getting wet.

Outfits: long sleeve button down shirts with collar. Sheer/ prints or colour etc. i will be supplying a couple tops but bring if you have. 

Remember your clothes will be getting wet. I will also be supplying pasties (don't worry, nothing is going to show that shouldn't show) for  protective covering so we don't have strings and straps sticking out all over the place.  

bottoms are fine or something with a little more coverage as I don't doubt the water is going to be chilly. 

You won't be seen from the waists down, so don't worry too much. You might like to wear shoes or slops as the tidal pool floor can be a little rocky and this will help with when trying to balance. 

yours sincerely

Caroline

The #ProjectScouted Shoelaced Clothing fashion show sets the trend at The Factory Café

Fashion may change daily, but Shoelaced Clothing has proven that style is eternal. The Shoelaced Clothing fashion show, a highlight in the #ProjectScouted calendar, took place on Saturday night at The Factory Café in Glenwood and pulled out all the stops once again to show that Durban is not falling behind in any way.

Ryan Francis, designer of the label, was the man of the evening as all his dedication and hard work came to fruition as the stunning #ProjectScouted ladies walked the range, specially designed for them, and captivated the huge audience that turned up for the show. Before the show, amidst the madness of hair, makeup, and rehearsals, one would never have said that this relaxed guy with his easy smile was busy preparing for a major showcase. “There's no stress, hey. We've all put in a lot of hard work but it’s all worth it. I know it’s going to be an awesome show!” he said. And it certainly was.

The Factory Café is one of those few Durban spots that manage to transition from a chilled daytime hangout to a metropolitan night time hotspot. Having chosen the venue for its uniquely urban atmosphere, Ryan also wanted to honour one of the great artists who had marked the space with his work. He said, “The café having one of Pastelheart's pieces here definitely played a role in us choosing the venue. He was a historic Durban artist.” Shoelaced Clothing is also the first label to host a fashion show at The Factory Café and having now set the standard, it will not be the last.

With his inspiration for the line stemming from the Black Fashion movement, Ryan focussed his attention on the dramatic and the striking in his pieces. The breathtaking makeup, done by the talented budding artists, and some established graduates, of Make-up theCollege, was futuristic and on trend as seen at the recent Tokyo Fashion Week. Ryan's designs paired with gorgeous custom-made Becca Blair bags accessorizing the girls' looks, these elements put together created an edgy, daring and magnetic line-up. The special surprise appearance of the Brissett Twins, ambassadors of the Shoelaced brand, also created quite the stir and added a new dimension to show. An even bigger surprise, one that no doubt did not get noticed by many, was the front row visit from the only Durban based judge in project; Shelley Ferreira. Shelley used the opportunity to get a closer look at the top 20 before helping to decide which 1- move on. 

Owner of the college, the lovely Jacqui Bannerman also stopped by to show her support to her girls and to offer a little advice here and there, “This is the best kind of practical work our students can do. Being at a show like this exposes them to the working world of make-up and that's why we're so enthusiastic about being involved in the Project again this year”, she said.

With Just Green, our Project DJ, and Ryan Rockwell on the decks; the Firmin Twins, two of our scouts and also uber talented musicians serenading the audience; and the fantastic services of Cathy Vere owner of Hedgehog Party Services enhancing the venue with her professional and perceptive touch; this was a night to remember. Mithesh of Sound Solutions supplying the Sound and lighting that provided that professional finish rounded up a night to remember. The skilled videographers Mdumisi Nxele, Robbie Muller, and Brittany Hurrell were also there capturing the hype of the day that ran from a 10AM call-time for the Project ladies and crew to 11PM when the party ended. And, of course, our awesome photographers – Roy Esterhuysen, Simphiwe Mkhwanazi, Jerome Stoffels, Nilufer Yucel, Dalton Green, and Zaheera Engar – were all over the show getting you those behind-the-scenes shots.

Nothing is impossible when the right mixture of elements is combined. The Shoelaced Clothing fashion show is testament to that. It’s going to be extremely difficult for our judges to eliminate 10 of these lovely ladies, but this is where the best are separated from the good. But having reached here, these girls now have an experience of a lifetime already along with beautiful images to recall every moment by.

Behind the scenes images used here are from Roy Esterhuysen. More images can be seen on his facebook page and also the facebook page of Simphiwe Mkhwanazi. 

The first video done by Mdumisi of MEL Media & Productions can be seen here: https://vimeo.com/125405325 

The #ProjectScouted team behind the camera – Simphiwe Mkhwanazi

Anyone who has met Simphiwe Mkhwanazi has not been able to resist his infectious warmth and passionate spirit – both of which he brings in volumes to his work as a photographer. Having been one of the photographers involved in the Project last year, Simphiwe rejoins the crew this year with even more experience behind him. Currently in his final year studying towards a Bcompt Degree in Accounting Science, this ‘rural boy’ – as he refers to himself – has a keen eye for fashion which translates into magnetic images. Working with Simphiwe is as much an enjoyable experience as it is a learning one as he always improving and honing his skills behind the camera, with his shooting and editing. It’s no wonder that his work is always on point and on trend.

LFP: What do you think is the coolest thing about Simphiwe?

Simphiwe: I'm always myself; just a really happy guy who’s always laughing and kidding around. I'm really the same person every day. I am a bit weird but I’m worth getting to know, I think. Haha! Actually there are many cool things about me but I won’t blow my own horn! Haha!

LFP: Having been one of #ProjectScouted’s photographers last year, what do you love the most about the Project?

Simphiwe: I really love the interaction with likeminded people; I mean we are all similar in the fact that we love art. Although our sense of art may be different, it's great to learn new techniques and share your views and passions with others. I also feel #ProjectScouted has done a great deal for promoting individuality while teaching the girls and even everyone involved to be a team player. And that’s a really valuable lesson to learn in your working life.

LFP: What were some of the best moments during the Project last year for you?

Simphiwe: Where could I even begin? I enjoyed all the shoots I attended but I especially loved being behind the camera and taking pictures when I could. It's impossible to pinpoint any actual moments; I just had some really boss times.

LFP: How did you discover your passion for photography?

Simphiwe: Well, I've always been really interested in fashion and beauty. I had always loved taking pictures; I remember my dad had an old film camera many, many years ago. When he was away at work I'd borrow it (without asking) and play around with it. Then at school we would take pictures of one another with our cellphones. Eventually, I managed to save up and bought my first camera in 2013 and started taking pictures of my friends on campus and I guess things escalated very quickly. I’m loving the direction my photography is taking!

LFP: What do you love most about photographing people?

Simphiwe: I really enjoy photographing humans, because you get to interact with them in a whole different world. It's all about creating art and going through the emotions for those few minutes but then the image lives a lifetime. I mean, you can literally see a person in a different view and that, my friends, is pretty awesome.

LFP: What is beauty to you?

Simphiwe: To me, beauty is art; something that is pleasing to the eye. I find beauty in many things and in some things that other people may not even consider. I believe beauty is not definite as some things require more attention than others. I think that we see things the way we are and if we can nurture beauty within us, we can see beauty everywhere.

LFP: What are some of the images you’ve shot that you are most proud of?

Simphiwe: It's really difficult to say which series of images I am proud of the most, because I always put in 100% effort on set and I always try to get great images. And if I release the images, I am proud of them. Therefore all the images you'd find on my Facebook page (www.facebook.com/simphiwekevinphotography), I am extremely proud of. Every image has a different message and a different memory behind it.

LFP: Any tips for the #ProjectScouted girls?

Simphiwe: Take a lot of selfies! Feel the emotions with each selfie. Also check out online magazines or even Tumblr and check out posing guides on the Net. The Project is a serious platform for opportunity and being prepared will definitely help.

LFP: Are you willing to share any info about the phase you are shooting in the Project?

Simphiwe: I think surprises are the best!

Simphiwe will be one of the many photographers shooting the Shoelaced Clothing fashion show happening on Saturday at 17:00 at Factory Café. The girls need to be prepared to be judged on any of the images taken on the night, meaning that they will have to be in to win it. Don’t hesitate to say “hi” to Simphiwe at the show to see why he manages to bring out the best emotions in people.

Capturing the #ProjectScouted moments in motion – Videographer, Mdumisi Nxele

Having fallen in love with the art of film, Mdumisi Nxele is fascinated by the feelings motion pictures can evoke. One of the favourite parts of his creative process is in blending different images to tell a story of emotion and experience. Mdumisi will be joining our brilliant team of videographers for the Project and will be behind the camera to capture the memorable moments of the Shoelaced Clothing fashion show happening on Saturday at Factory Café. He is talented and insightful about his work, realizing the impactful role that video plays in our age. Read more about this passionate guy below.

Lee Folkard Photography: What sparked your interest in videography?

Mdumisi: I fell in love with the art of film and I was fascinated by the feelings it could evoke. When I started creating my own videos, I just thoroughly enjoyed blending in different images and creating emotions from it.

LFP: What has your journey been like in turning your passion for videography into a career?

Mdumisi: It definitely hasn't been easy; it’s actually been very challenging for me. But I love the fact that I'm growing and getting to explore and discover myself more as a person through this art and also that I'm meeting the most interesting creative people along the way. Everything that I have put into my career has definitely been worth it.

LFP: What motivated you to want to be the videographer capturing the #ProjectScouted fashion show happening on Saturday?

Mdumisi: When Lee first explained the concept of the Project and also the fashion show to me, I got extremely excited to have the opportunity to be involved in something so fresh for Durban and that also involves so many creative people. The fact that I've never done something like this before also requires me to think out of the box and will expose me to capturing video in a different setting. This is a great opportunity for me!

LFP: From what you know so far, what do you love the most about #ProjectScouted?

Mdumisi: I like the raw, unprecedented feel it has. I love how this Project gives everyone a platform to just be, no restrictions with full expression. Anything that allows me to go all out creatively has me hooked. I also love how it gets a whole host of people involved; designers, photographers, videographers, models, and others.

LFP: What has been your most memorable experience as a videographer? What has been some of your most enjoyable projects?

Mdumisi: There was a traditional Zulu wedding I did last year in Ulundi that I loved getting to capture. It wasn't at all like the way we have functions here in urban areas. In the rural areas, it’s raw and everyone is involved. It's like everyone is drunk on culture, dance and song. I particularly enjoyed the creative approach my partner and I had the freedom to give it and we got to take what we learnt in the city and apply it in the countryside. It also put us on the spot because nothing was choreographed. It was a matter of being at the right spot at the right time for the desired composition. I absolutely loved it! This is one of my fondest memories.

LFP: Do you have a specific style of videography? What sets you apart from other videographers?

Mdumisi: I don' like going according to the rules. I love real stuff that hasn’t been orchestrated in any way. I love evoking emotion and I particularly love fusing the right music for the right work.

LFP: What was the learning process like for becoming a videographer? How do you keep current?

Mdumisi: I'm still very new in the industry so I'm still learning. But then again, I suppose one never stops learning. You have to move with the industry and with the times. It's about always being updated; watching a great versatile body of work – old and new and by different artists.

LFP: What do you imagine your future to be as a videographer?

Mdumisi: My main goal is to be a well-established cinematographer.

Judging from the success of last year’s fashion show, you don’t want to miss out on it this year. But if you do, Mdumisi will be covering all the bases. This is a milestone in the Project as well as a major achievement for the 21 girls who will be walking in the show. Come out and show your support and meet the faces behind the Project that is still ‘doing it for the people’.

Two weeks too long – The #ProjectScouted Top 25 get suited up at Phase Five

It’s one of the great pleasures in life to meet like-minded people; people who are as passionate about their goals and desires as you are, people who will support and encourage your dreams even ahead of their own. Everyone at #ProjectScouted has found these people and being in each other’s creative, zealous presence has become a necessity. A two week hiatus seemed incredibly long, but the team were back together on Sunday on Florida Road for the Phase Five shoot featuring the stunning Top 25 girls.

Having shot Phase Four and produced entrancing images, Jessica Lee of Van.Go Photography came back at it to shoot Phase Five this week. (Don’t forget to read about this stunning girl on the blog!) This shoot was in complete contrast to her previous one, as the girls traded their ethereal femininity for suave sophistication. The shoot - titled "Suit and Tie" - took place at the park on Florida Road and as always attracted the attention of the public like moths to a flame because there is no resisting the pull of the Project.

Jessica’s insight behind the theme of the shoot was to portray the Top 25 as strong, independent women in the guise of the 21^st century man of class. Arriving with black skinny jeans and white collared shirts, with the rest of the props and clothing provided, the ladies had their makeup done by the lovely girls of Make-up the College, who have done a tremendous job in bringing the themes alive each week through their artistry.

Shooting in the vicinity of the park across the road from the Spiga D’Oro restaurant; Jessica placed the girls with strong posing and drew out their feisty personalities, which was also channelled through their dramatic makeup and slicked -back hair. The shoot had an urban, metropolitan feel – certainly exuding the sense of being shot in the heart of Durban – whilst remaining intriguingly womanly.

The Project has gained speeding momentum this cycle, with the media being inundated with news of the shoots and the team involved. Having featured in the latest The Umhlanga magazine, #ProjectScouted has Durban abuzz. The recent announcement that the winner of the Project will also receive a full magazine spread in The City magazine, also collaborated by FabMagazines, to the value of R45 000, has lighted the spark of determination in the girls’ eyes. This is going to be a remarkable genesis to one lucky girl’s career.

We love seeing parents and well-wishers at the shoots and even found a few budding parental photographers out to support their daughters while capturing the memories behind-the-scenes. With Just Green our Project DJ keeping the atmosphere pulsing with his mixes, it really was the perfect way for the girls still at school and university to end off their holidays.

One of the biggest highlights in the #ProjectScouted calendar is the fashion show featuring the designs of Shoelaced Clothing by Ryan Francis. We can hardly believe that this phase has arrived and takes place next Saturday at The Factory Cafe with the Top 20 girls – plus the Wildcard! – getting the opportunity to showcase their ramp skills after having honed their photographic abilities. Come meet the faces behind the Project – there is no charge to view the show and we will be celebrating till late!

“There is no good and evil. There is only power and those too weak to seek it.” And #ProjectScouted Cycle 2 has seen that power and separated the weak from the strong.

images used shot by: Dalton Green Photography

#ProjectScouted - Phase Five Brief

Brief by Jessica Lee

Phase 5  Brief- Suit & Tie

Photographer- Van.Go photography

Theme- Suit and Tie

Date- 12^th April (Sunday)

Venue- The Park across from Spiga D’oro on Florida Road

Time- 8am

For phase 5 I have gone with a theme that will challenge the ladies. All girls will be dressed in suit and tie and will get to live in the shoes of a classy man. It’s all portraying the 21^st Century man of class.

Theme and dress code-

All Ladies must wear a pair of Black skinny jeans, a white collared shirt and black heals.

The rest will be provided.

Hair and Makeup-

The hair must be slicked back or tied up in a tight high pony tail.

The makeup must be done to highlight the cheek bones and jaw line just like that of a man. Which means lots of contouring to create a strong jaw line. The ladies can either choose between a dark lip with a nude eye or a nude lip and dark smokey eyes.