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.

The exceptional #ProjectScouted judges – Azhar Suleman, the model on a mission

Twenty-two-year-old Azhar Suleman has achieved more than most at his age and has taken the Cape Town modelling scene by storm with his fresh face and strong work ethic. Having moved to Cape Town only almost a year ago, this Durban boy has made many inroads in the industry and understands what it takes to make a success of oneself in front of the camera. The second of the three judges to be revealed, Azhar, who works as a full-time model, has an evident passion for the industry that he will be bringing to the #ProjectScouted official judging panel.

Lee Folkard Photography: So many guys and girls dream of working as a model on a daily basis. What is it like working as a full-time model?

Azhar: It's interesting, every day is a new experience, meeting new people and sharing different stories. But of course, it isn’t all glamour all the time. It is very hard work and you get out what you put in!

LFP: How did you become a model? Was it something you always wanted to do?

Azhar: Modelling actually came as a surprise to me. I was always an introvert and very self-conscious so when I eventually found myself in the industry by chance, I was quite surprised. But now that I am here, I can’t imagine doing anything else.

LFP: Have you always lived in Cape Town? What is it like living in the city?

Azhar: I haven’t always lived in Cape Town. I'm originally from Durban and only moved up to Cape Town in April 2014. It goes without saying that Cape Town is a beautiful city. It’s filled with beautiful places to see and people to meet. There's always something new and different to do. And the food is also just incredible!

LFP: What has been your proudest moment as a model?

Azhar: I wouldn't say there's a specific moment that I'm proud of. But I do still get really excited when I see myself in a magazine! I don't think that that feeling could ever change!

LFP: What do you think is the secret behind a good photo?

Azhar: Team work. A model has to portray the imagination of the client and photographer.  The end-product may not look good to some, but it is important to always give the client what they want.

LFP: What is the most important thing you have learnt in your modelling career, be it about your profession or about life?

Azhar: I've learnt that no matter how many compliments or negativity you get from others; always stay true to who you are and remain grounded. And this applies to working as a model and also everyday life.

LFP: Any advice to the aspiring models that are participating in the Project?

Azhar: Confidence is your strongest weapon; always believe in yourself.

LFP: How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and what motivated you to agree to being a judge?

Azhar: When Lee asked me to join the panel of judges, I didn’t think twice. It’s so exciting to be a part of something so brilliant happening in my hometown. And #ProjectScouted is trending on all the social media at the moment, so how could I not have heard about it?

LFP: Are you willing to share some of the criteria you will be basing your judging on?

Azhar: Hmm... I think I’d like to keep those criteria a little secret.

Azhar’s motto “Dream as if you will live forever, live as if you will die today” is one he bases his life on; he knows the value of every moment and of also carving one’s legacy. Perhaps this is a principle the #ProjectScouted ladies can also adopt along the way. Follow Azhar on Instagram @azhar_suleman and keep watching the Lee Folkard Photography page to see which girls make it through to Phase Four from Phase Three happening this Sunday.

The exceptional #ProjectScouted judges – Mary Lu, fashion blogger and lawyer extraordinaire

The #ProjectScouted judges will enter into the judging process from Phase Three onwards. The panel will consist of three exceptional people in their fields who will be judging the #ProjectScouted ladies based solely on their images; meaning that there could be no possibility of bias or subjectivity in their decisions. Our first judge to be revealed, Mary Lu, a fashion blogger at LoveMary Lu and a lawyer living in Johannesburg, has a pretty good idea of what composes a good image. Shooting on almost a daily basis for her blog, this stunning girl will be able to aptly judge whether the girls understand how they should portray themselves on camera based on the themes of the shoots and the way they have been styled.

1.    What inspired you to choose law as your career?

My dad always told me that I would make a great lawyer ever since I was in primary school but it wasn’t until I actually took Law courses at the University of Cape Town that I really got hooked onto Law. I actually studied both Psychology and Law so I was stuck in the middle when it came to choosing a post grad. But right up until my graduation, my end goal was to be an advocate. I just love how certain but also uncertain law can be, it makes work-life a little less mediocre.

2.    And how did your fashion blogging come about?

Actually, I started off as a beauty blogger because for as long as I can remember, I’ve always been obsessed with beauty products! I slowly incorporated fashion posts and pictures on my blog because I received a great response from my readers and, of course, I’ve always had an interest in beautiful outfits and clothing. 

3.    Although these are very different fields, they are both extremely demanding. How do you balance your blogging and your work as a lawyer?

Haha! Sometimes I think I don’t! It was almost impossible at first especially working in a big corporate law firm! But thank goodness for weekends and the help and support of my amazing man (his real job isn’t even photography!). 

4.    With the rise of fashion blogging, how do you make sure you stand out? What makes your brand different?

I must admit when I first started in 2011, there weren’t many South African bloggers at the time but now the industry has really grown and I’m really happy about it. It just shows that normal folks like us really have a say now and people out there are willing to listen, which is great! In order to “stand out” as a blogger, I think it’s really important to know yourself well and know who your target market is. I wouldn’t want to dress like someone other than myself but at the same time I wouldn’t post content that won’t interest my readers, that’s why it’s important to know your target market well. Honestly, I don’t think what I do and what other bloggers do is very different; the goal is the same. All bloggers enjoy blogging and want our readers to enjoy our content. But the difference lies in how we do it; how we promote a brand we like, how we dress the same pants or the same dress, how we spend our weekends, and how we tell our readers about it. 

5.    You grew up in Durban, studied in Cape Town, and now live in Johannesburg. What motivated these moves? What's the difference between all these cities?

Hmmm, I didn’t have a choice about living in Durban since my parents decided that one. But Durban is home home for me (that’s not a typo; there are two “homes” for me!).  I moved to Cape Town because the University of Cape Town is a world-renowned university and one of the best law schools on the continent. And now I am in Johannesburg because I feel it’s a natural occurrence, a lot of people move to the big city after graduation because that’s where all the work is. I think Jo’burg is a great place to kick-start your career. 

6.    You definitely are a globe-trotter. Where is the one place you would encourage people to visit?

Oh my gosh, this is such a difficult question for me to answer! My gut says that everyone should visit New York City at least once in their lives. It’s the one place where judgement is put aside and it opens your mind and your eyes a lot! If you think you’ve seen it all but haven’t been to NYC, then you really haven’t seen anything! And the fact that the man of my dreams proposed in Central Park is just an added plus as to why I love NYC!

7.    How did you hear about #ProjectScouted and what do you think about the Project?

How can anyone NOT hear about #ProjectScouted?! It’s everywhere! I think it’s an absolutely fabulous idea! The fact that it is open to the public (girls only, obviously!) and gives everyone a chance at the modelling game is awesome! It really puts the modelling industry to shame, with their requirements of stick-thin models and minimal height restrictions. I think photography is an art and art at its most modern and dynamic form so this Project is great to showcase that art and talent at the same time. 

8.    What motivated you to agree to be one of the judges for the Project?

As a blogger myself and having to pose in front of the camera day in and day out, I draw inspiration from magazines, editorials and other bloggers. And I can honestly say I’ve become very interested in photography myself! I often find myself ooh-ing and aah-ing at beautiful images so this opportunity to be a judge is an absolute honour.

9.    Will there be any criteria you will be basing your judging on?

I think individuality is a big one for me; knowing and embracing what you have and playing that up. I think the beautiful thing about photography is that emotion can be captured so well so being able to show emotion in a photograph is also key to a beautiful image.

As you can tell, Mary Lu is one hell of a girl and the #ProjectScouted ladies could not have asked for a more perceptive and apposite judge. Knowledgeable about the industry, appreciative of different types of beauty, and passionate about helping boost others’ careers; Mary Lu will definitely not be making any faux pas during the judging. Make sure to check out Mary’s blog, Love Mary Lu, at http://lovemarylu.com/, and follow her on Instagram @lovemarylu to see precisely why she is “not your average fashion-loving and globetrotting lawyer”.

The awesome #ProjectScouted sponsors – Bianca Van Aardt of Bianca Kim Clothing

Bianca Van Aardt, 26-year-old designer and owner of Bianca Kim Clothing, has a knack for mixing up contrasts resulting in designs that are unique and instantly recognizable. Drawing her inspiration from everything and anything around her, Bianca combines New Age culture and vintage elegance into her ranges which consist of her favourite styles of “biker meets rocker” and “Boho chic”. Her goal is for her clients to have an up-to-date look that is on par with international trends while keeping her ranges affordable, and so far she has succeeded brilliantly.

Lee Folkard Photography: How did you get involved in #ProjectScouted?

Bianca: Lee and I met at “I Heart Market” and we were both fascinated by each other’s work. He asked me if I wanted to be a part of this cycle of #ProjectScouted and I am honoured to be a part of it.

LFP: What made you want to become a #ProjectScouted sponsor?

Bianca: I love the concept, the idea, and the exposure Lee and the Project offer. I could never give up the chance to be creative and working on styling is one of my absolute favourite things to do, which I will be doing during my phase.

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

Bianca: I love how it is evolving so rapidly and how social media, especially Instagram, plays such a huge part of the process. It gives everyone involved a greater opportunity to get out there and be noticed.

LFP: How did you find your passion for designing and creating clothing?

Bianca: I’ve always had this creative passion for clothing and design. For me, inspiration comes from anywhere and even from the most unexpected things and places. I find inspiration from going on road trips, being out in nature, and from everyday life experiences. I also love looking at books and patterns and watching international trends. When I am inspired in these ways, passion automatically comes.

LFP: How long have you been designing?

Bianca: I started studying for my Bachelor of Arts in Fashion in 2007 but I have been designing and playing with fabrics as far back as I can remember.

LFP: What was the very first thing you designed and made?

Bianca: The first thing… Well, that is hard to say. In college, I designed a collection of three awful dresses in my first year. Haha! They were made of a sheer fabric with shirring elastic. Sometimes it’s so funny how fashion changes and even how our own style can change!

LFP: What is the most rewarding aspect of your work?

Bianca: I do love seeing a Bianca Kim Clothing design on a girl just walking down the street or at a music festival or concert. When I see my clothing on someone, especially unexpectedly, I get to appreciate my design and what went into it all over again. It’s truly one of the most exhilarating and rewarding feelings ever.

LFP: Would you like to share any info about your phase in the Project?

Bianca: The plans for the BKC phase of the Project are still in the early stages; all I can say is that it’s going to be incredible! The #ProjectScouted girls should definitely continue to bring their utmost best so they can make it as far as possible! #StayTuned

Check out Bianca’s website at http://www.biancakimclothing.co.za/ for her latest ranges and look-books. Also follow Bianca on Instagram, @biancakimclothing, as well as the official #ProjectScouted Instagram page for the dates and venues of upcoming phases. As Bianca would say, “love and light”!

Make-up the College owner, Jacqui Bannerman, teaches the gift of beauty

Owner of Make-up the College, Jacqui Bannerman, is clearly one of the most passionate and knowledgeable people when it comes to makeup artistry in Durban. Having had her students create the makeup of the 25 girls walking in the Phase Four Fashion Extravaganza on Sunday at the SMG Rocks Mini showroom, it is also clear that her passion and skill has rubbed off on her students with each of the models looking stunning having had their specific features highlighted. We got to know this industry-expert a little better.

Lee Folkard Photography: Who is Jacqui Bannerman?

Jacqui: I’m from Durban and I have been a makeup artist for a number of years now giving me extensive experience in this industry. I have also headed makeup and hair departments on both local and international commercials; like Vodafone, Orange, and Coca-Cola, as well as on various films, documentaries, and drama series for both locally and internationally. Also, I’ve worked on both local and international still shoots and have done a lot of SFX and prosthetics for various movies – which is an area of makeup that I totally love! Bottom line – I love what I do and I believe it shows in the passion I have for my craft!

LFP: What was your inspiration to become a makeup artist and how did you start in the business?

Jacqui: Honestly, I did not put a lot of thought into it. It was something I just thought I would enjoy. I am a Libran, so I love beautiful things! I have an all-or-nothing personality, so when I do something, I give it 100%. It’s in my nature to achieve and I bring that to my makeup! I did not know that it would be as life-changing for me as it has been. I have never looked back! I do think I was lucky when I started out though, as I did a commercial straight away. I was just given an opportunity and I have worked ever since! All we need is an opportunity in life and it can change life completely. Film was not a planned goal either; it was something that just happened. I love SFX and prosthetics in makeup and by embracing film; I found a perfect fit for me, allowing me to dabble in all aspects and avenues of makeup. Film together with television commercials is like heaven for me now! I quickly built a reputation, but I also never forget that we are only as good as our last job!

LFP: How did you become involved in #ProjectScouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Jacqui: A mutual photographer friend asked if my college, Make-up the College, would be keen to get involved with the makeup of the Project. I am always looking for opportunities to grow my students and am also trying to create a platform for them to showcase their work, so this was absolutely a win-win scenario. Doing makeup, actually being involved in makeup on set, is totally different to doing makeup at college. Projects like this are very beneficial to students and makeup artists who are starting out. True learning comes from actually “doing”, embracing different visions, and being thrown into the deep end. I am all about helping my students grow!

LFP: Do you have a favourite type of makeup or occasion to do makeup for?

Jacqui: My personal belief of a true makeup artist is to embrace all areas of makeup! I absolutely love all aspects of makeup! I love the variety of the work, where one never gets tired of anything and each job is so different. This is what has kept my passion alive over the years. We never stop learning and new products are always coming out. I absolutely love the challenge of SFX and Prosthetics, because with everything in makeup, the makeup is just an illusion. I also have a love applying makeup to people who haven’t had their makeup done before and they are blown away when they see themselves in a new light. The power of makeup can even be life-changing; this is a beautiful thing to give someone, even if it is just for a moment. Makeup never ceases to amaze me, even after all these years!

LFP: What has been the biggest lesson you have learnt in your career as a makeup artist?

Jacqui: Many years ago a good friend of mine, an art-director, said to me, “Jax, it is not how you start a job, but how you end a job that will make you be remembered and go out with a bang every time!” Other words that have also left their mark with me are, “This is how you make your money; it is not who you are!” Balance is key and this is not always easy as a freelance worker, as you want to ride every wave. Balancing family and work is something I still find difficult!

LFP: Starting Make-up the College was certainly a huge step for you. How did it begin? What were some of the challenges you faced and how did you overcome them?

Jacqui: It definitely came with challenges! I have a reputation within the industry, but am merely a name to potential students! I had to basically start from scratch and build up my reputation as a reputable college! Of course it was a hard decision, going from having your diary run by agents, never having to look for jobs myself, to now taking a step backwards and hoping potential students would have me mentor them. I take what I do very seriously and it shows! My college has only been going for 3 years and I am getting amazing results. Makeup artists who have been through my facility are working successfully within the industry; I have a few in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and even one working abroad! Word of mouth is always the best, and my reputation and credibility as a college is growing and moving progressively forward. I cannot even believe it sometimes!  I approach my college exactly the same as I did when I was a freelancer – do not take anything for granted, keep the passion, and give 100%!

LFP: What’s an average day like for Jacqui?

Jacqui: I get up at 4:30am and sort my kids out for the day. I drop my daughter off at school then open up my college. I also do all of the lecturing at my facility. I am at college till about 2:30pm on weekdays, however, on a Tuesday and Thursday I am at work until about 8:30pm as I have my part-time classes.  On weekends, I may have Supersport and I also take on half-day shoots on days that suit me. I do try and do a few commercials wherever possible, then I make up the lost time with my students, but my focus is always going forward with the college. I allow nothing to get in the way of this!

LFP: If you could have done the makeup for any big budget film released recently or even in the past, which would it have been and why?

Jacqui: There would be so many for completely different reasons; like The Grinch with Jim Carrey. Yes, it is a suit where the face is moulded, but despite the exaggerated proportions, REAL EMOTION still manages to come through! This is exceptionally difficult to get right and a huge challenge to overcome. One does not quite realise the difficulty of this. Makeup on such a large scale can also easily cross the line to looking “ridiculous”. The Lord of the Rings is another standout for me. Huge amounts of prosthetic rubber foam were used. The “Orcs” were incredibly well done! A very current movie that has just been released, Maleficent, with Angelina Jolie, is also intriguing me at the moment. Her makeup, the beauty makeup, is just perfection in every way; the highlighting and contouring is beautiful! What is unbelievable is the cheekbones, which are tiny prosthetics made by the master himself, Rick Baker. This makeup was mind-blowing! I would have loved to have been involved in this makeup, where there is just no room for mistakes, as mistakes in such specific makeup could just not have been hidden. It was flawless!

LFP: For anyone aspiring to be a full-time makeup artist, what advice would you give? Is there a secret ingredient for a successful and long career in the industry?

Jacqui: To be successful in this industry requires more than just simply being able to do makeup! It is truly a package deal. It is personality, taste, listening skills, organization skills, work ethic, and above all attitude and patience! People want to be around workers with a good attitude, especially when you are working on a 4 week shoot, involving long hours! But never give up; be determined and believe in yourself! An eye for detail is also crucial, an artistic flair is beneficial, being able to work as part of a team is vital, and keeping an eye on current fashion trends is good too. Also keep growing your portfolio, which in turn will showcase your diversity and skill as an artist.

LFP: What do you think is the biggest makeup faux pas made by young girls?

Jacqui:  Just as with fashion, NOT taking their individual features and colouring into account and following “trends” whether it suits them or not! If you do not have, for example, beautiful lips; stay clear of bright colours! I also think that young girls wear too much makeup!  They apply too dark eyeshadow and, before they know it, they look like panda bears, or alternatively someone who has just been punched in the eyes! Makeup must be age-appropriate. Looking older than one is, is not the point of makeup. If your eyes are small, you should not wear black eyeliner all around the eye. Eyebrows should also be well-defined and not too dark or hard. Teenage workshops, where teenagers learn a few skills of applying makeup to their individual features, will go a long way and is something I would strongly recommend even if it is just for fun!

Only 15 of the 25 girls who walked in the fashion show will be chosen to proceed to Phase Five; so be sure to check out their individual pics on the ramp taken by Kevin Hsu and Jessica Van Goeverden that they will be judged on. With makeup as beautiful as Jacqui’s and her students’ paired with these beauties, it’s going to be a difficult task making the cut.

Project Scouted photographer profile: Jerome Stoffels

Describing him as a photographer with a twist is an understatement. He’s a photographer who is interested in art, travelling, exploring and cattle farming. Yes, cattle farming. Jerome Stoffels is full of surprises and takes with him an easy smile and welcoming demeanour everywhere he goes, which is probably why his images of the people he shoots are always intimate and intriguing. This will be the third year that Jerome is back to a part of a Lee Folkard Photography Project and, through the way he has with people, especially those he shoots, this definitely won’t be the last. And now you can get to know more about this cool guy.

Lee Folkard Photography: Who is Jerome Stoffels?

Jerome: Hi, I’m Jerome Stoffels and I like taking and making images. Photography is like another language that I speak and I'm using it to say something!

LFP: What was your inspiration to begin photography and how did you start off in the business?

Jerome: Inspiration comes from everything around me – my family, colours, thoughts, emotions, dreams and travelling. I want people to relate to my work. For me, photography is about the stories – the lives I get to inhabit. And I attempt to capture these and then share them. Photography is like a relationship to me. I think it all started in Europe with the different architecture, cultures and spaces. I knew I would one day leave so I decided to document everything I saw with photography. I fell in love with the art and photographic galleries in London. I also joined underground photography clubs. But my first real break came when I was booked to shoot a Mercedes Benz Fashion show and it just continued from there.

LFP: How did you become involved in Project Scouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Jerome: This is actually my third time collaborating in Lee's Projects. Following the success of the last Projects, I jumped at the chance to be involved again. I also really enjoy hanging out and meeting new folks at the shoots and events. Project Scouted is probably the biggest one so far; which is an indication that everything has been organised in a very professional way. The calibre of the photographers involved and the ladies that have been scouted is like BOOM! I'm a massive fan!

LFP: What is ‘beauty’ to you?

Jerome: Beauty – Everyone is created differently. I embrace that uniqueness and celebrate it. Everyone should do that in their own way.

LFP: If you could photograph any person, alive or passed, who would it be and why?

Jerome: Wow, there are so many! But one that is at the top of my list right now is the legendary Bob Marley. He is an obsession to me, really! As much as he was a musician, he liberated people through his words. No matter what mood I am in, I can always listen to his music. I was actually doing some research on him recently and I found out he read palms when he was really young. His mother was overwhelmed with the strangers turning up at their home to have their palms read so she asked him to try something different. And that's when he started playing the guitar. A conversation and couple pics with him is all I'd ask for. But not forgetting a selfie with him too!

LFP: What would an advert advertising you, for any purpose, say?

Jerome: #TravelArtPeace

Having been born in Durban, grew up in the Eastern Cape and lived the UK, Jerome carries with him a wealth of stories and experiences; all of which he brings to his photography. His identity is made up of these places and he has been working to create images evoking the experiences of the stories, beauty, energies and emotions he has been witness to over the years. Be on the lookout on the Lee Folkard Photography Facebook page to see Jerome’s inspired images of the girls in the coming stages of Project Scouted

Project Scouted featured photographer profile: Simphiwe Simz Mkhwanazi

A photographer who initially found his passion in fashion which turned into a love affair with taking photos, Simphiwe is one of the first two photographers who will be turning out images for the first stage of Project Scouted held at one of Durban's prime new locations, Hashtag Restaurant on Windermere Road. Lee Folkard Photography had a quick Q&A segment with this passionate and fashion-indulgent photographer about his beginnings in photography and his participation in Project Scouted.

Lee Folkard Photography: What was your inspiration to begin photography and how did you start in the business?

Simphiwe: Well, it actually all started with my love for fashion. My mother is a fashion designer, specializing in Bridal, so I fell in love with fashion that way. I'd began to download cool fashion pics for no particular reason. I just always loved it! When I got to varsity, my friends and I would take pics of each other with our phones when we thought we were dressed well. And then the more I followed fashion blogs and read magazines, the more eager I was to have pictures of that quality taken. So I saved up for a camera and then continued taking pictures of my friends and me. I guess that's how it all started. From then on, I just kept taking pictures of people which I still do today.

LFP: How did you find out about Lee Folkard Photography?

Simphiwe: I found about Lee through a friend, Jerome Stoffels (LFP: Who will also be a part of the project) at the Durban Fashion Fair. I looked up Lee's work and I loved it, so I started following his work on Facebook.

LFP: How did you become involved in Project Scouted and what motivated you to be a part of it?

Simphiwe: Lee and I met, as a recommendation from Jerome. I'm always eager to take photos of people, so the chances of me saying "no" to being a part of the project were very slim. I saw this project as an opportunity to meet new people. So here I am!

LFP: What do you think makes a good photo?

Simphiwe: I think when it comes to photography, there are no rules. It’s all based on how you see the photo. If you love what you see, then that's a great photo to you. A great photo for me is one that I look at and say "I'd print this photo and hang it on my wall".

LFP: What does photography mean to you?

Simphiwe: Photography for me is about more than just taking photos; it’s my passion, my love, and my joy. I sometimes find myself editing or just staring at one image for hours and I wouldn't have wanted to do anything else with that time. My mind is always buzzing with these cool images and my imagination can get very wild sometimes. I have found photography as a platform to express what my heart feels.

Be sure to keep an eye out for Simphiwe's pics of the pretty young ladies who were chosen to be a part of the first stage of Project Scouted shot on location at Hashtag Restaurant.