Today I checked my email and found out that I’m now all over the Bolandi Classics website. The pictures are from a photoshoot we did back in June 2007, shot by the one and only, and very talented Jef Harris. I did this pro bono, since they are a relatively small and new company in Ottawa. Check out the website for the pictures! In addition, if you happen to be interested in their services, make sure you tell them I sent you. And hey.. by all means, follow that up with an attempt to get a discount!

As for work in Taiwan, I booked another job. This one was for a beach and swim wear catalogue. The garments were from a local Taiwanese clothing line called Honor. Some of the stuff I wore for the shoot was a bit small for my taste.. but to each his (or her) own! I had fun on this one, as always. Lastly, I’m being considered to for a rather important role in a commercial. More on that if I get the role!

Yesterday morning, two of my roommates and fellow “PT” models and I took a cab to a studio in Taipei. We had a catalogue shoot for Charles River which was outdoors and outside of Taipei. So, we all hopped into a small bus together, models, photographer and crew, to a city three hours south of the capital. It was so warm, and such a beautiful day. Quite the contrast from a chilly and raining Taipei morning. The weather greatly contributed in making the shoot a very pleasant experience. Then, after we were finished, we were treated to a traditional Chinese lunch. Let me say I ate more than my share. The chef seemed quite pleased to see foreigners enjoy the food as much as we did. A great experience overall!

As for today, I finished shooting my first TV commercial in Taiwan! It was for a company called Chi Guan, advertising new residential buildings. My role consisted of being a business man, walking down the street and noticing the buildings. Pretty simple job! Got a close up and everything. I also had a chance to have some interesting conversations with the other actors as well, espesially from an older guy from Holland and a fellow Canadian, both now making their lives in Taiwan. I can see why they would, it really is nice over here!

Today I had a photoshoot for a Snow Fox catalogue. I worked with Ksenija on this one, who is also with PT Models. We were photographed seperate, and together for a series of shots. Afterwards, we mostly did simple shots for the rest of the product line.

I had a great time as usual and the people there were very friendly. The more jobs I get the more I want to work!

Today I had my first gig in Taiwan. This was for a catalogue showcasing PGA Tour’s clothing. They took shots of me, along with another guy and another girl, together and on our own, wearing different outfits. I had a good time and learned a lot in terms of modeling, especially tailored to work in Taiwan. Also I’m thankful that Sylvere from France (the other male model), being a decade older than me and having a lot more experience, was there. He gave me a few tips and I picked up some things by watching him work. I also noticed some things by taking a look at some of the shots after they were taken. I felt that by the end of the shoot I became better at posing. Keep in mind acting is my focus here!

Although barely anyone spoke English, and those who did only knew basic words, the crew was great to work with. Most of them were very nice and helpful. I love the Taiwanese people! This was a great first job. On top of that, the photographer is well known in Taiwan and works with many clients. He has a lot of power when it comes to booking models for shoots. Also, he has a reputation for delivering great pictures.

As for the picture on the top right, it’s a behind the scenes shot of the photoshoot. The guy is making sure the light is good.

A great start! Looking forwards to the next jobs. I already have news of a small role in a TV commercial.. more about that soon!

This year, I celebrated New Year’s Eve at rooftop party, very close to the famous Taipei 101 in Taiwan. It was a great night in a fun atmosphere, spent with new friends, along thoughts of family and friends back home.

On the top left is a picture from the amazing fireworks display, visible from the party. We heard it was the last time they were going to have it firing from the skyscraper itself. So we were lucky to see it!

For those who’d like to see pictures from my trip to Taiwan, just click to the link I set up for my Facebook album: “Around the World: Taiwan”. No need to sign up to view them.

Finally, I’d like to take time to wish you all a great 2008! I hope this year will be a great one for all.