Posts
Thanks for your support of my blog. I have since migrated and redesigned my blog presence into an online magazine called Natalie Minh Lifestyle Magazine. Please bookmark the new site: http://www.NMlifestylemag.com
See you there!
Recent Posts
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Dear Diary
Just got back to Los Angeles after working in Las Vegas since last Tuesday. I filmed and shot an fitness home gym infomercial and a number of athlete/model photoshoots at the iconic Gold's Gym on Flamingo Rd (a fun place this past weekend as most all of the Olympians were there for other publication photoshoots). Definitely a work week and not so much pleasure as I had a few deadlines hanging over my head after shooting all day. Can't complain though, business has been doing fantastic and I'm learning to work smarter with a team rather than tackling this business by myself.
After working 16 hour days all the way up until Saturday, I got a much needed break and made it out to the Olympia expo. Saw so many of my fitness friends, loved it! Nicole Moneer Guerrero, Tianna Ta, Scott Welch editor in Chief of Muscle Insider, Hidetada Yamagishi, Krissy Chin and husband Troy Johnson, etc. Funny thing is that I work so much, I see my remote fitness friends more than I see my non-fitness friends who are here in LA locally.
After the expo, I went to see Cirque du Soleil's KA, which was the most amazing feat of martial arts, acrobatics, lighting, and set design I have ever seen. Tens of millions must have been invested in that moving and changing set design, highly recommend anyone in Vegas to see. It in fact inspired me in my photography as well, My creativity can push out so far after seeing this show.
Happy to be back in west LA aka home base, even if it's only for one day. Tomorrow early morning I fly out to Sacramento to work with the newly crowned WBFF Pro Bikini Diva World Champion, Chady Dunmore... two days of glamour, excitement that is just going to blow you away. The travel schedule for the next month looks like this:
Travel Schedule:
* Olympia Vegas: September 21 - 26
* Sacramento, CA: September 28 - 29
* Chicago: October 1 weekend
* Belgium: October 6 – 11
* NPC Nationals, Atlanta: October 15 - 16
* FMI 2010, Redondo Beach CA: October 20 - 24
* Beijing, China: November - January 2011
Business has just taken off since this summer in a big way. I have to attribute it to this book that was given to me by a friend, No B.S. Wealth Attraction for Entrepreneurs. This book was ballsy and blunt, and relit my fire as an entrepreneur. Very quickly I got out of a funk that I was in, got organized, hired an 8 person staff of professional retouchers, videographers, assistant, IT guys, and sales leads. Gotta bet big to reap big. :) By the end of the year there will be alot of new developments coming and business expanding in many areas.... looking forward to sharing the details in the near future.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
After working 16 hour days all the way up until Saturday, I got a much needed break and made it out to the Olympia expo. Saw so many of my fitness friends, loved it! Nicole Moneer Guerrero, Tianna Ta, Scott Welch editor in Chief of Muscle Insider, Hidetada Yamagishi, Krissy Chin and husband Troy Johnson, etc. Funny thing is that I work so much, I see my remote fitness friends more than I see my non-fitness friends who are here in LA locally.
After the expo, I went to see Cirque du Soleil's KA, which was the most amazing feat of martial arts, acrobatics, lighting, and set design I have ever seen. Tens of millions must have been invested in that moving and changing set design, highly recommend anyone in Vegas to see. It in fact inspired me in my photography as well, My creativity can push out so far after seeing this show.
Happy to be back in west LA aka home base, even if it's only for one day. Tomorrow early morning I fly out to Sacramento to work with the newly crowned WBFF Pro Bikini Diva World Champion, Chady Dunmore... two days of glamour, excitement that is just going to blow you away. The travel schedule for the next month looks like this:
Travel Schedule:
* Sacramento, CA: September 28 - 29
* Chicago: October 1 weekend
* Belgium: October 6 – 11
* NPC Nationals, Atlanta: October 15 - 16
* FMI 2010, Redondo Beach CA: October 20 - 24
* Beijing, China: November - January 2011
Business has just taken off since this summer in a big way. I have to attribute it to this book that was given to me by a friend, No B.S. Wealth Attraction for Entrepreneurs. This book was ballsy and blunt, and relit my fire as an entrepreneur. Very quickly I got out of a funk that I was in, got organized, hired an 8 person staff of professional retouchers, videographers, assistant, IT guys, and sales leads. Gotta bet big to reap big. :) By the end of the year there will be alot of new developments coming and business expanding in many areas.... looking forward to sharing the details in the near future.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Belgium/Antwerp Photoshoot Sessions - Oct 6-11
I'm coming to Belgium on Oct 6 - 11th and only offer 1/2 day and full day shoots.
The Belgian star talents that I've worked with before: Xavier Van Dooren (@Dominique - Celebrity category), Mr. Belgium 1999 Maurizzio, Gini model Sven Smits, Belgian pop singer Telihana, Bikkembergs model Christophe Dethy, Model/Actor Filip Hebbrecht, Fiona Dewaele (3x Beauty Queen), etc.
Full Day Session – 1000 euros
• 7 hours shooting
• 7-8 outfit changes
• 15 finished pics in web and print size for your portfolio
½ day Session – 600 euros
• 4 hours shooting
• 3-4 outfit changes
• 8 finished pics in in web and print size for your portfolio
To reserve time and date, a nonrefundable 25% PayPal deposit is required, which will apply towards the shoot balance.
The Belgian star talents that I've worked with before: Xavier Van Dooren (@Dominique - Celebrity category), Mr. Belgium 1999 Maurizzio, Gini model Sven Smits, Belgian pop singer Telihana, Bikkembergs model Christophe Dethy, Model/Actor Filip Hebbrecht, Fiona Dewaele (3x Beauty Queen), etc.
 |  |
Full Day Session – 1000 euros
• 7 hours shooting
• 7-8 outfit changes
• 15 finished pics in web and print size for your portfolio
½ day Session – 600 euros
• 4 hours shooting
• 3-4 outfit changes
• 8 finished pics in in web and print size for your portfolio
To reserve time and date, a nonrefundable 25% PayPal deposit is required, which will apply towards the shoot balance.
- Hair/Make up is up to you
- Model Releases must be signed.
- The best images will be uploaded to my online Gallery where you can purchase prints and merchandise. You will be sent the best proof-marked websize images via web couple of weeks.
- Each image that you want professionally edited will be $25 each. You will receive web and print size of each edited image which would be suitable for commercial or portfolio.
About the Photographer
Natalie Minh started working in the industry as a model in Europe and North America and learned the craft over the years working in front of the lens. Over time this evolved into a career as a photographer where Minh trained under renowned fashion, beauty, glamour, and commercial photographers in Paris, Milan, and Belgium. Her images are being used by well-known modeling agencies throughout Europe, advertising campaigns globally, and published in a number of international magazines.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
Links
photography@natalieminh.com | 1-424-258-0530
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Try About Time Model Search Contest
Try About Time Model Search Contest
Do you have what it takes to become the next ABOUT TIME Spokesmodel? Win a chance to appear in their next national print ad campaign, which will be shot my me.
The winner gets a free photo shoot with Natalie Minh
www.natalieminh.com
(3x European Physique Champion and professional fitness photographer).
Runner-up (1) $100 worth of About Time products.
Finalists (10) One 2lb container of About Time Whey Protein.
Do you have what it takes to become the next ABOUT TIME Spokesmodel? Win a chance to appear in their next national print ad campaign, which will be shot my me.
PRIZE INFORMATION
Grand Prize (1) Featured in the next About Time national print advertisement campaign. The winner gets a free photo shoot with Natalie Minh
www.natalieminh.com
(3x European Physique Champion and professional fitness photographer).
Runner-up (1) $100 worth of About Time products.
Finalists (10) One 2lb container of About Time Whey Protein.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Recent Natalie Minh Fitness Shots
My assistant, Elliot Smith, and I were playing around with our lights and testing how much caffeine was running through my system. Lots of jumping, clean stock photography images were created, fun! My creativity juices start to flow late at night and I remember being up til 4am working on these just editing away.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Atlanta Photoshoot Sessions - Oct 15 - 16
On Oct 15-16 weekend, I'm looking to come out to Atlanta on request but need 10 spots booked for it to be a go. I can be down there Thursday - Sunday. First 10 spots is $200, thereafter is $250/hr.
To reserve, I need 25% non refundable deposit (unless <10 people reserved, I will not come to Atlanta and will refund the deposit).
About the Photographer
To reserve, I need 25% non refundable deposit (unless <10 people reserved, I will not come to Atlanta and will refund the deposit).
- Hair/Make up is up to you
- Model Releases must be signed.
- The best images will be uploaded to my online Gallery where you can purchase prints and merchandise. You will be sent the best proof-marked websize images via web couple of weeks.
- Each image that you want professionally edited will be $25 each. You will receive web and print size of each edited image which would be suitable for commercial or portfolio.
About the Photographer
Natalie Minh started working in the industry as a model in Europe and North America and learned the craft over the years working in front of the lens. Over time this evolved into a career as a photographer where Minh trained under renowned fashion, beauty, glamour, and commercial photographers in Paris, Milan, and Belgium. Her images are being used by well-known modeling agencies throughout Europe, advertising campaigns globally, and published in a number of international magazines.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
Links
photography@natalieminh.com | 1-424-258-0530
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Monday, September 6, 2010
WBFF Pro and 2010 Arnold Classic Bikini Champ Chady Dunmore
The new tag team of It Girls - Natalie Minh, photographer and Chady Dunmore, Model
We had our first test together in Los Angeles at my apartment where we ran through a couple of looks. Together, we were absolutely blown away by what was produced - it was like evey shot taken was perfect which is rare for a first test. I can't even imagine the beautiful work that will be coming in our future.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Doing What You Love For A Living
I found this blog post on Moku Studios, a Creative Design team based in Hawaii. I thought that this sums the entrepreneur angle quite nicely.
I love creating design for a living. I love the aloha lifestyle. I love working for myself. I love being able to surf when the waves are perfect. And once you’ve tasted that freedom, it’s hard to consider doing anything else no matter how difficult times may get. It can be done. With some risk and sacrifice you can do what you love for a living. Here are a few tips I’d like to share to get you on your way:
1. You Don’t Have To Be A Starving Artist
Most people don’t believe they can be paid well to do what they love. This is simply not true. Unfortunately, it’s a trap many creative people fall victim to. They’ve been raised to believe that all artists are starving, and the work they provide isn’t of any value. There are hordes of people that prey upon this, sometimes unknowingly. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard phrases such as, “It will look great in your portfolio.” Be wary of these words. It implies that they are doing you a favor, and it’s an attempt to elicit cheap work. Phrases like these are traps for artists not confident in their abilities. Which brings me to my next point.
2. Have Confidence In Your Abilities
If you want to be successful doing what you love, take pride in your work and be confident that your time and abilities are worth money. You are providing a skilled service that comes with years of education, talent and hard work. When is the last time you heard of an architect designing a house for $50? Just because your work might not be tangible doesn’t mean it’s not real. In most cases it took a great deal of time and energy to produce. Not only will you be doing yourself a favor by charging fair rates, but you’ll be helping the entire industry.
3. It’s 1000 Times Harder Than Doing What You Hate
But potentially 1000 times more gratifying. Doing what you hate for a living is easy. Essentially your entire life is a strict schedule. As long you color within the lines, your bills will be paid every month. If losing your job is the worst case scenario, you’ll still get unemployment. It’s a relatively risk free lifestyle. That’s what’s so appealing, and so difficult to sacrifice. Doing what you love takes a degree of motivation, dedication and responsibility rarely found in a day job. Not to mention the risk of going broke. You have to set your own hours and be your own boss. It’s easy to fall in to negative routines when you don’t have the constant threat of being fired. Also, your work load will increase 10 fold, and 90% of it will be completely unrelated to doing what you love. But when something you’ve created does get exposure with your name on it; man it’s a great feeling.
4. Always Be Productive
I love to surf, but I can’t do it all the time (as much as people think I do). Work takes priority. And if I don’t have any client work, I always stay productive with personal projects, marketing, promotion, updating my website and much more. In fact, I usually work at least 12 hours a day and most weekends. Although I’ve been trying to cut back on the weekends. I’m lucky if 2 hours a day are actually billable work time. When I do surf, it’s a meditative state for me. The place I go to clear my mind, stay healthy and reflect on what I’ve done and what I need to do. Which I consider to be productive and just as valuable as working.
5. You’re Crazy
The second you decide to give up a successful career to pursue doing what you love, you will be labeled crazy. It’s unavoidable my friend. Your family and friends probably will not understand. And people will secretly want you to fail. There’s a quote from The Pursuit of Happyness, “If people can’t do something themselves, they wanna tell you you can’t do it.” So, be prepared for opposition. If you’re like me, the corporate lifestyle and monotonous daily grind seems crazy. Personally, I think waking up at 6 a.m. to sit in traffic for an hour to sit in a cubicle for 8 hours twiddling my thumbs to sit in traffic again for an hour every day is insane. It’s such a weird concept to me, but to each his own.
When doing anything on your own there’s a potential for great success and great failure. The trick is to keep your head above the water. Don’t become too disappointed and more importantly; don’t let your failures make you bitter. Because you will experience failures. Clients don’t want to work with bitter people. Be proud and happy doing what you love. If you’re good at it, work hard and stay inventive — success is bound to catch up with you sooner or later.
I love creating design for a living. I love the aloha lifestyle. I love working for myself. I love being able to surf when the waves are perfect. And once you’ve tasted that freedom, it’s hard to consider doing anything else no matter how difficult times may get. It can be done. With some risk and sacrifice you can do what you love for a living. Here are a few tips I’d like to share to get you on your way:
1. You Don’t Have To Be A Starving Artist
Most people don’t believe they can be paid well to do what they love. This is simply not true. Unfortunately, it’s a trap many creative people fall victim to. They’ve been raised to believe that all artists are starving, and the work they provide isn’t of any value. There are hordes of people that prey upon this, sometimes unknowingly. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard phrases such as, “It will look great in your portfolio.” Be wary of these words. It implies that they are doing you a favor, and it’s an attempt to elicit cheap work. Phrases like these are traps for artists not confident in their abilities. Which brings me to my next point.
2. Have Confidence In Your Abilities
If you want to be successful doing what you love, take pride in your work and be confident that your time and abilities are worth money. You are providing a skilled service that comes with years of education, talent and hard work. When is the last time you heard of an architect designing a house for $50? Just because your work might not be tangible doesn’t mean it’s not real. In most cases it took a great deal of time and energy to produce. Not only will you be doing yourself a favor by charging fair rates, but you’ll be helping the entire industry.
3. It’s 1000 Times Harder Than Doing What You Hate
But potentially 1000 times more gratifying. Doing what you hate for a living is easy. Essentially your entire life is a strict schedule. As long you color within the lines, your bills will be paid every month. If losing your job is the worst case scenario, you’ll still get unemployment. It’s a relatively risk free lifestyle. That’s what’s so appealing, and so difficult to sacrifice. Doing what you love takes a degree of motivation, dedication and responsibility rarely found in a day job. Not to mention the risk of going broke. You have to set your own hours and be your own boss. It’s easy to fall in to negative routines when you don’t have the constant threat of being fired. Also, your work load will increase 10 fold, and 90% of it will be completely unrelated to doing what you love. But when something you’ve created does get exposure with your name on it; man it’s a great feeling.
4. Always Be Productive
I love to surf, but I can’t do it all the time (as much as people think I do). Work takes priority. And if I don’t have any client work, I always stay productive with personal projects, marketing, promotion, updating my website and much more. In fact, I usually work at least 12 hours a day and most weekends. Although I’ve been trying to cut back on the weekends. I’m lucky if 2 hours a day are actually billable work time. When I do surf, it’s a meditative state for me. The place I go to clear my mind, stay healthy and reflect on what I’ve done and what I need to do. Which I consider to be productive and just as valuable as working.
5. You’re Crazy
The second you decide to give up a successful career to pursue doing what you love, you will be labeled crazy. It’s unavoidable my friend. Your family and friends probably will not understand. And people will secretly want you to fail. There’s a quote from The Pursuit of Happyness, “If people can’t do something themselves, they wanna tell you you can’t do it.” So, be prepared for opposition. If you’re like me, the corporate lifestyle and monotonous daily grind seems crazy. Personally, I think waking up at 6 a.m. to sit in traffic for an hour to sit in a cubicle for 8 hours twiddling my thumbs to sit in traffic again for an hour every day is insane. It’s such a weird concept to me, but to each his own.
When doing anything on your own there’s a potential for great success and great failure. The trick is to keep your head above the water. Don’t become too disappointed and more importantly; don’t let your failures make you bitter. Because you will experience failures. Clients don’t want to work with bitter people. Be proud and happy doing what you love. If you’re good at it, work hard and stay inventive — success is bound to catch up with you sooner or later.
Monday, August 23, 2010
LAS VEGAS Photoshoot sessions - 9/22 - 9/26
I will be offering a photoshoot package to the athletes and anyone else interested in Model Portfolio development in Las Vegas from Wednesday September 22 through 26.
On Location Photoshoot
Las Vegas! I will be offering a promotional rate of $250/hr.
About the Photographer
On Location Photoshoot
Las Vegas! I will be offering a promotional rate of $250/hr.
- Model Releases must be signed.
- The best images will be uploaded to my online Gallery where you can purchase prints and merchandise. You will be sent the best proof-marked websize images via web couple of weeks.
- Each image that you want professionally edited will be $25 each. You will receive web and print size of each edited image which would be suitable for commercial or portfolio.
About the Photographer
Natalie Minh started working in the industry as a model in Europe and North America and learned the craft over the years working in front of the lens. Over time this evolved into a career as a photographer where Minh trained under renowned fashion, beauty, glamour, and commercial photographers in Paris, Milan, and Belgium. Her images are being used by well-known modeling agencies throughout Europe, advertising campaigns globally, and published in a number of international magazines.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Now based in Los Angeles, her work has branched out into the Fitness Arena where she contributes to publications such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle, Ultra-Fit Mag, etc. Fitness celebrities include 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler, IFBB Hall of Famers Shawn Ray and Kevin Levrone, 2x Arnold Classic winner Kai Greene, IFBB Japanese superstar Hidetada Yamagishi, 2009 IFBB World Champion female bodybuilder Alina Popa, Internationally ranked fitness competitor Oksana Grishna.
Her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
Links
photography@natalieminh.com | 1-424-258-0530
Growing Up in a Immigrant, Big Hearted Family
This morning I reflect on my childhood and how it affects my outlook on life and feeling towards those in need.
My parents immigrated to the United States, immediately following the Vietnam War in the 70's. Their young marriage was going through a massive challenge that no one could have anticipated..... the war separated them from 1975-1979: 4 years on different continents, post-war environment (family members becoming prisoners of war, communism taking away family business and property), and a young child (my older sister) in the middle of this. Neither of them wanted to be separated, but war circumstances dictate above wants. In 1980 they were finally reunited and I was born (can't imagine the stress of an unexpected baby on top of not seeing each other in four years).
But they fought for their family, home, and their new life in America. My father became a refugee social worker and during my childhood we also fostered refugee children... alot of fun in my house from a kid's point of view!! I watched my parents selflessly raise many children like their own, be there at the toughest points in their lifes, and make a difference. We were certainly not a rich family, we had middle class struggles and my mother often worked two jobs to add supplemental income. I believe that it was my parents' love of children and conviction in representing a stable home for kids to look up to which kept them together during the tough times.
I saw them go through immigrant challenges while growing up: they spoke/wrote broken English, had a tough time tutoring me on my studies because the curriculum was in a non-native language (luckily I was quite nerdy, enjoyed self study, reading by myself), cultural differences in raising your children eastern vs. western culture style.
Until I moved to a foreign country in my adulthood could I appreciate what its like to be "a fish out of the water" as a foreigner. And still, I had the advantage of full corporate support, a top education, and resources. My challenges as a foreigner were minute like what my parents experienced, yet was enough to teach me to appreciate the depth of their character.
"Hardship builds Character."
My inspiration to succeed is based on this story. I work hard to honor my parents and allow them to live their dreams vicariously through me as I am a product of their life's efforts. They missed opportunities in life because of the war, communism, having a family to raise, and providing stability to kids who needed role models to look up to.
Surround yourself with those you admire for their character, intellect, selflessness, and drive.
Stories like this are the foundation of America's Declaration of Independence and can be summed up from the direct quote -
By the way, happy birthday Mom - I love you
My parents immigrated to the United States, immediately following the Vietnam War in the 70's. Their young marriage was going through a massive challenge that no one could have anticipated..... the war separated them from 1975-1979: 4 years on different continents, post-war environment (family members becoming prisoners of war, communism taking away family business and property), and a young child (my older sister) in the middle of this. Neither of them wanted to be separated, but war circumstances dictate above wants. In 1980 they were finally reunited and I was born (can't imagine the stress of an unexpected baby on top of not seeing each other in four years).
But they fought for their family, home, and their new life in America. My father became a refugee social worker and during my childhood we also fostered refugee children... alot of fun in my house from a kid's point of view!! I watched my parents selflessly raise many children like their own, be there at the toughest points in their lifes, and make a difference. We were certainly not a rich family, we had middle class struggles and my mother often worked two jobs to add supplemental income. I believe that it was my parents' love of children and conviction in representing a stable home for kids to look up to which kept them together during the tough times.
I saw them go through immigrant challenges while growing up: they spoke/wrote broken English, had a tough time tutoring me on my studies because the curriculum was in a non-native language (luckily I was quite nerdy, enjoyed self study, reading by myself), cultural differences in raising your children eastern vs. western culture style.
Until I moved to a foreign country in my adulthood could I appreciate what its like to be "a fish out of the water" as a foreigner. And still, I had the advantage of full corporate support, a top education, and resources. My challenges as a foreigner were minute like what my parents experienced, yet was enough to teach me to appreciate the depth of their character.
"Hardship builds Character."
My inspiration to succeed is based on this story. I work hard to honor my parents and allow them to live their dreams vicariously through me as I am a product of their life's efforts. They missed opportunities in life because of the war, communism, having a family to raise, and providing stability to kids who needed role models to look up to.
Surround yourself with those you admire for their character, intellect, selflessness, and drive.
Stories like this are the foundation of America's Declaration of Independence and can be summed up from the direct quote -
That all men are by nature equally free and independent, and have certain inherent rights, of which, when they enter into a state of society, they cannot, by any compact, deprive or divest their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property, and pursuing and obtaining happiness and safety.
We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all Men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.
Q&A - Self Confidence
Here's a question that I received via email which I would like to share with you...
------
I have struggled quite a bit in the past few years. I was in an emotionally abusive relationship for 2 ∏ years and I allowed that to eat away at my confidence. I finally got out of it about 9 months ago, but have not been able to truly motivate myself to get back in the shape I used to be in. I grew up dancing and absolutely loved it. I stopped dancing a few years back though. I also love kickboxing and regular gym workouts when I’m motivated. My eating habits are also not the best. First of all, growing up I was super skinny and never had to worry about my weight. I could eat all the fatty foods in the world and not gain a pound. Now that I’m a little older, this is not the case anymore. I am also a stress eater. So, I really need help with my eating habits, because they have never been great.
My main goal is to be confident with myself. I want to be a healthy person and feel great.
I am 5’5” and about 139 lbs right now. This is the heaviest I have ever been. The last time I really felt great about my body was a few years back when I was working out hard and I got down to 125 lbs.
------
Q
Thank you for getting back to me Natalie. It is amazing to me that you are so diversified in the fitness/modeling/photography industry. I have some modeling experience as well.I have struggled quite a bit in the past few years. I was in an emotionally abusive relationship for 2 ∏ years and I allowed that to eat away at my confidence. I finally got out of it about 9 months ago, but have not been able to truly motivate myself to get back in the shape I used to be in. I grew up dancing and absolutely loved it. I stopped dancing a few years back though. I also love kickboxing and regular gym workouts when I’m motivated. My eating habits are also not the best. First of all, growing up I was super skinny and never had to worry about my weight. I could eat all the fatty foods in the world and not gain a pound. Now that I’m a little older, this is not the case anymore. I am also a stress eater. So, I really need help with my eating habits, because they have never been great.
My main goal is to be confident with myself. I want to be a healthy person and feel great.
I am 5’5” and about 139 lbs right now. This is the heaviest I have ever been. The last time I really felt great about my body was a few years back when I was working out hard and I got down to 125 lbs.
A
I can understand your struggle with relationship and how it impacts your life... I went through a tough breakup myself a few years back and it was the negative energy from that experience that I channeled into my fitness (otherwise would have eaten me alive!). For myself, I said that the “greatest revenge is massive success” so that was part of the motivation to move to Europe, start a new life, and to transform my physique into a world class one.
My mother also gave me wonderful advice during this time and that was "When you are having the worst day, put on some nice clothes, do your makeup and hair, make yourself feel beautiful, go outside and put a smile on your face. Your day will feel better." The little things you do to improve your life and how you feel makes a huge difference.
Set yourself a goal of losing 2-3 lbs a month and determine when you would reach your goal weight. I’m 5’4, 130 lbs off season and 122lbs on season @ 16% bodyfat ( I carry a lot of muscle). I used a 4 month goal and did weigh-ins every week to keep myself in check. You can do it!! Here’s a blog that I wrote on my motivation to stick to my program.
Here’s an interview that I did that is extremely comprehensive regarding my lifestyle, diet, exercise, motivation, life goals.
In addition, take a look at this site which features interviews of many normal people like you and me who are now fitness models or fitness competitors.
My mother also gave me wonderful advice during this time and that was "When you are having the worst day, put on some nice clothes, do your makeup and hair, make yourself feel beautiful, go outside and put a smile on your face. Your day will feel better." The little things you do to improve your life and how you feel makes a huge difference.
Set yourself a goal of losing 2-3 lbs a month and determine when you would reach your goal weight. I’m 5’4, 130 lbs off season and 122lbs on season @ 16% bodyfat ( I carry a lot of muscle). I used a 4 month goal and did weigh-ins every week to keep myself in check. You can do it!! Here’s a blog that I wrote on my motivation to stick to my program.
Here’s an interview that I did that is extremely comprehensive regarding my lifestyle, diet, exercise, motivation, life goals.
In addition, take a look at this site which features interviews of many normal people like you and me who are now fitness models or fitness competitors.
Best of luck, let me know if have any questions and I’m rooting for you!
Natalie
Natalie
Monday, August 9, 2010
Fitness Model Tip
With the recession still upon us, I find that many companies and magazines are leaning towards stock photography rather than commission a photoshoot (which is much more expensive). If you are a fitness model, this means that you can take advantage of this situation by commissioning your own photoshoot in order to share publishing rights and then use those images to market yourself to various companies and magazines. Create the kind of images that are being published today such as studio shots, exercise and lifestyle routines and have them ready for the next big opportunity.
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Internationally published photographer based out of Los Angeles.
Natalie Minh started working in the industry as a model in Europe and North America and learned the craft over the years in front of the lens. Over time this evolved into a career as a photographer where Minh trained under renowned fashion, glamour, and commercial photographers in Paris, Milan, and Belgium. Her images are being used by well-known modeling agencies throughout Europe, advertising campaigns in Australia, and published in a number of international magazines such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle and Ultra-Fit.
Now based in Los Angeles, her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
http://photography.natalieminh.com
------
Internationally published photographer based out of Los Angeles.
Natalie Minh started working in the industry as a model in Europe and North America and learned the craft over the years in front of the lens. Over time this evolved into a career as a photographer where Minh trained under renowned fashion, glamour, and commercial photographers in Paris, Milan, and Belgium. Her images are being used by well-known modeling agencies throughout Europe, advertising campaigns in Australia, and published in a number of international magazines such as Muscular Development, Marathon Muscle and Ultra-Fit.
Now based in Los Angeles, her services are available to not only commercial clients but models looking to develop their portfolio as well.
http://photography.natalieminh.com
Make White Fish more Tasty
Tilapia. Orange Roughy. Cod. Yellowtail. You name the white fish and my nutritionist will tell you to eat it multiple meals a day. Like anything, it gets old real fast and you start to hold a grudge against this super protein packed food. Here's a couple of things I eat with my white fish to make it go down easier:
It's sour and fire so it kills all resemblance of fish and it's smell. I mince it and mash it into my fish. Really tasty if you like spicy food.
Green Pickled Jalapeno Peppers
It's sour and fire so it kills all resemblance of fish and it's smell. I mince it and mash it into my fish. Really tasty if you like spicy food.
Can't Believe it's Not Butter Spray
0 calories and it comes with Fabio. Yeah baby!
Sashimi Style
Soy sauce, wasabi, ginger. Costco's fresh fish is top notch and ready to eat sashimi style if you do it the day of purchase.
If all else fails, I refer to All Recipes.com for inspiration.
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Song du Jour - Second Sun & Paul Harris Doing it Well (THE EC TWINS & Tim B remix)
Warning: This is a real life example of living in Los Angeles. ;) I absolutely love the E.C. Twins (British twin DJs) and been seeing their shows around Hollywood since the Springtime. They throw the BEST pool and evening Hollywood parties.
LONG LIVE HOUSE MUSIC!
FMI Conference Los Angeles - Official Photographer
I'm pleased to announce that I'll be one of the 7 official photographers shooting at the FMI Conference Los Angeles, October 20-24.
For those who want to shoot with me but can't squeeze it into your top 3 choices, I am also available to shoot outside of FMI for one-on-one sessions, as I am based in Los Angeles. You can contact me at photography@natalieminh.com for more details.
Look forward to seeing you there!
For those who want to shoot with me but can't squeeze it into your top 3 choices, I am also available to shoot outside of FMI for one-on-one sessions, as I am based in Los Angeles. You can contact me at photography@natalieminh.com for more details.
Look forward to seeing you there!
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Sneak Peak Behind the Scenes of 2nd Shoot with 3x Mr. Olympia Jay Cutler
Egg Yolk Face Mask
Now I eat usually 8 egg whites a day and I go the traditional route of buying whole egg cases from Costco. Always felt a little bad about throwing out all of those yolks but I've found a DIY crafty solution - the egg yolk face mask. You may think that this sounds gross but check out the facts:
It is a magic potion to youthful skin. It is the mother-load of beauty treatments. The secret to the fountain of youth, but it needs to be done seriously and consistently. Egg is food for the skin, and just like all other foods, eating is something that needs to be done ongoing(ly) and with consistency. Egg yolk annihilates free radical damage in it’s tracts.
Here’s Why (source: Acne.org forum):
Egg yolk is packed full of all types of skin loving vitamin A retinals, and unlike the chemical compounds acquired through a prescription, the compounds in egg yolk are completely natural… and because it comes in the form of a placenta the cells are predisposed to program themselves to making whatever they touch to be the best it can. Basically, placenta cells adapt to the purposes that they are exposed to, placenta cells are ‘basically’ akin to stem cells, and because these retinals are natural rather than synthetic, most likely (in almost all cases) they will not create the initial irritation retinal products are famous for.
An egg yolk is an amazing accutane and retinal cocktail with far more potency then the synthetic retinal and accutane compounds developed by pharmaceutical companies. In addition, the natural retinals and accutane found in egg yolk are far more complex than the manmade varieties. In fact, science is only partially aware of the wealth of retinal vitamins found in nature. So when your skin is absorbing these natural vitamin A retinals your skin is literally drinking in far more nutrients then science is aware of or can even imitate synthetically.
Budget wise, egg yolk gives the budget conscious a far more lavish beauty treatment than anything the wealthy can dream up.
Egg yolk exfoliates the skin at such breakneck speed, sloughing off old skin cells, and turning out brand new plumb skin cells so rapidly that over the course of a few months, your skin will appear very healthy and glowing. And if you continue with this process over time your scars will fade and even pits will begin to smooth out.
This must be done consistently, morning and night.
So, you can simply take the raw egg, apply to your face and let dry for 10 minutes. Gently rinse off and feel your tighter, baby smooth skin! I just washed off my mask before typing this blog :)
It is a magic potion to youthful skin. It is the mother-load of beauty treatments. The secret to the fountain of youth, but it needs to be done seriously and consistently. Egg is food for the skin, and just like all other foods, eating is something that needs to be done ongoing(ly) and with consistency. Egg yolk annihilates free radical damage in it’s tracts.
Here’s Why (source: Acne.org forum):
Egg yolk is packed full of all types of skin loving vitamin A retinals, and unlike the chemical compounds acquired through a prescription, the compounds in egg yolk are completely natural… and because it comes in the form of a placenta the cells are predisposed to program themselves to making whatever they touch to be the best it can. Basically, placenta cells adapt to the purposes that they are exposed to, placenta cells are ‘basically’ akin to stem cells, and because these retinals are natural rather than synthetic, most likely (in almost all cases) they will not create the initial irritation retinal products are famous for.
An egg yolk is an amazing accutane and retinal cocktail with far more potency then the synthetic retinal and accutane compounds developed by pharmaceutical companies. In addition, the natural retinals and accutane found in egg yolk are far more complex than the manmade varieties. In fact, science is only partially aware of the wealth of retinal vitamins found in nature. So when your skin is absorbing these natural vitamin A retinals your skin is literally drinking in far more nutrients then science is aware of or can even imitate synthetically.
Budget wise, egg yolk gives the budget conscious a far more lavish beauty treatment than anything the wealthy can dream up.
Egg yolk exfoliates the skin at such breakneck speed, sloughing off old skin cells, and turning out brand new plumb skin cells so rapidly that over the course of a few months, your skin will appear very healthy and glowing. And if you continue with this process over time your scars will fade and even pits will begin to smooth out.
This must be done consistently, morning and night.
So, you can simply take the raw egg, apply to your face and let dry for 10 minutes. Gently rinse off and feel your tighter, baby smooth skin! I just washed off my mask before typing this blog :)