creating the show

A Must See Brand: Narrative Cosmetics

As a makeup artist by trade, I am always looking for new options to add to add to my working kit that will add to my work or give me a wider range of options. Having found Narrative Cosmetics, in particular the FX range, I am really excited about the possibilities to create and for my work in film and TV the budget friendly side that will be a major plus going forward.

While the range offers up a wide array of beauty oriented products, it was the cream palettes from the FX range that first caught my attention and after a little research I can see there being so much more to the Narrative Cosmetics line that needs to be seen.

The FX range covers all the basics and with the addition of a YouTube channel with tutorials, you can utilize the range to create anything from a simple bruise to a creature with minimal fuss and maximum impact. Designed to meet the highest professional standards Narrative Cosmetics is fast becoming the go to brand for creatives across mediums.

Competitively priced, and expanding the range to support a wide range of requirements, you can go from theatrical to HD standard easily and with film and TV being a primary focus of my work, access to silicone compounds for quick wound creation or going old school with wax, the medical grade adhesive is a must see for the cost alone, Narrative has the scope to be a real kit staple.

If you are a makeup artist, no matter the stage of your career, passionate about FX and makeup then I strongly recommend you check out the range from film to fashion you will find something that will boost your kit and open up new potential in your creative work without losing out on quality.

To learn more about the Narrative Cosmetics range see:

Narrative Cosmetics Website.

Narrative Cosmetics YouTube.

Narrative Cosmetics Instagram.

Narrative Cosmetics Facebook.

Source: https://narrativecosmetics.com/

Smoke Not Included Updates

‘*Smoke Not Included’ is well on its way for it’s Fringe debut and already gaining attention for its quirky story and social media savvy sharing not just updates on the cast and crew but giving us insights into the crowdfunding campaigns progress:

“I’m feeling incredibly proud that we have managed to get to this point, it didn’t feel long ago that we were just having the conversation on creating HeadlessActing. Our first play is coming to the fringe this year, I’m so excited, it’s a great cast. The play is funny and random and weird, which is what makes it brilliant” - Kayleigh Gallacher

HeadlessActing and the team behind the project are enthusiastic about the show and of course the potential of live theatre in Scotland, pushing their comedic, quirky project as hard as possible to give not only a platform to talent but some light relief to the audience in this one act play.

“I’m absolutely ecstatic to get started with this wonderful bunch! We’ve had some bumps recently but it’s looking like we’ll be well underway by April 20th! We really have something unique here and I can’t wait to share it. We’ve got lots of plans for the future! Two shows are coming next year! We will be working with a variety of different writers on one of them! Our Five Year plan has definitely grown…” - Brandon Ferguson

With the Fringe firmly in their sights, the scope of this project goes beyond a simple stage play comedy and opens up to wider possibilities that with time I am sure will make HeadlessActing developing other projects in the background. A company to watch not just for their performance but social commentary and satire. 

Moving into the future we can see so much potential for the company not just on stage but in the future TV (or even the now much lauded internet services) where stage shows are given as much of a voice as TV and film, however for now they are playing smart and building their platform based on vision and grassroots support.

To learn more about Headless Acting or ‘*Smoke Not Included’ see:

*Smoke Not Included Crowdfunding Campaign.

Smoke Not Included TikTok.

HeadlessActing Instagram.

HeadlessActing Twitter.

HeadlessActing Facebook.


Introducing The FP Arts Short Film Festival

Film Festivals are a huge part of not just getting your film seen but establishing yourself in the market and it is a real pleasure to see The FP Arts Short Film Festival (founded by Fulfilment Pictures) is bringing this option to the East Kilbride area with its festival opening the doors to networking on a local level and films from the global market together creating a monthly and annual event calendar that is going to change the landscape of film and open up the doors to creative talent across the spectrum.

With two winners each month from the jury’s choice, and a winner based on the audience feedback, this will give people from across the world a chance to have their work showcased. Designed specifically for short films (between five and eighteen minutes including credits), The FP Arts Short Film Festival is gearing up to be the social event of the creative calendar and a chance to network with likeminded people.

The festival categories are:

  • Best Short Film - (With a cash prize of £5,000 and a trophy)

  • Best Actor

  • Best Actress

  • Best Director

  • Best Cinematography

  • Best Original Score

  • Best Editing

  • Best Make-Up

  • Best Sound

  • Best Production Design

*Each category winner receives a trophy, certificate and laurel for their film.

  • Requirements:

  • Your film must have been completed after 1st of January 2023.

  • Running time including credits must be between 5 - 18 minutes.

  • If not in English, have English subtitles.

To learn more about the festival or book tickets see:

The FP Arts Short Film Festival Film Freeway.

Fulfilment Pictures Website.

Event Tickets.


Source: https://filmfreeway.com/FPArtsShortFilmFes...

An iKonic Start To 2024

As The House of iKons hits its 10 year anniversary, there is much to be celebrated with designers and creative talent from across the world joining the ranks, the talent and spectacle of the iKons show has become the standard bearer for how an independent fashion event can become a platform for music, design and creative talent that breaks boundaries.

“Amongst the many accomplishments of iKons as a show and platform it is worth noting their continued work promoting talent which has become something of a regal affair with Her Majesty Queen Sirikit of Thailand as the UK Ambassador of the Royal Thai project bringing the exquisite design and cultural heritage of Thailand to London and showing the potential of fashion to showcase her country in the most spectacular way.

Not just a showcase front of house with designers and models but backstage with a creative team behind the scenes who work hard from the makeup team to the dressers, House of iKons has become a hub of talent and a springboard to so many new and amazing talents:

Schedule of designers that showcased and exhibited on Saturday 17th February 2024, Sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour.

Doors open for Exhibition 11.00am

Exhibitors:

  • La Pham x Empower Women Asia

  • Silvia V Crafts

  • Love Collection

  • VIP 360

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • POL Magazine

  • Josh Rosales Photography

  • The Nose Family

  • B’Leo

Segment ONE 12.30pm

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson

  • MALONGWENA PRIDE BY DME

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • CLC Couture

  • Grand Finale: House of Musa Represented by Lynette Medina

Segment TWO 3.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Celebration of Thailand & House of iKons Fashion Week London

  • Sonata

  • Norma Ebanks represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Love Collection

  • Anna Flowers Designs represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Taylor Fangman

  • Idol Jose represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Kéarnna Rhea

  • YS Clothier represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Grand Finale: House of Laith

Segment THREE 6.00pm

  • Presentation by COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • Grand Opening: La Pham

  • Blueprint Effect represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • Bold Black Dresses represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Joan Madison Couture

  • Recep Demiray

  • Grand Finale: Tykorchélli

For further information on The House of iKons see:

House of iKons Website.

House of iKons Facebook.

House of iKons Instagram.


Source: https://www.houseofikons.com/

The House of iKons 10th Anniversary Show

In what will be the 10th anniversary of The House of iKons show, the accolades just keep racking up. A leading light of the independent fashion event scene and one of The hot tickets of the fashion calendar, House of iKons is striding into 2024 with February showcasing some of the best and brightest the fashion world has to offer from across the globe.

The House of iKons has gone from strength to strength over the last decade and showcased a huge array of designers, given voice and a platform to creatives of all stripes to showcase their skills.

As they move into a new phase of the fashion journey it is impossible not to be in awe of the work of CEO and Founder Savita Kaye and her team whose hard work and boundary pushing approach to fashion and the creative arts has seen the rise of designers, makeup artists, and crew moving in circles ranging from the catwalks of the world to meeting with Royalty and dignitaries from film, TV, red carpet, politics and some of the biggest stores in the world.

With the schedule for February packed full of artisans, designers and creative talent showcasing not just their brands but their collective artistic skills, The House of iKons has become The place to be seen, The place to showcase, and ultimately a platform for talent.

Schedule for Show Saturday 17th February 2024 Sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour:

Doors open for Exhibition 11.00am

Exhibitors:

  • La Pham x Empower Women Asia

  • Zaira Christa

  • Silvia V Crafts

  • Love Collection

  • VIP 360

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • POL Magazine


    Segment ONE 12.30pm

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson

  • MALONGWENA PRIDE BY DME

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • LC Couture

  • Grand Finale: House of Musa Represented by Lynette Medina


    Segment TWO 3.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Celebration of Thailand & House of iKons Fashion Week London

  • Sonata

  • The Fashion Life Tour 

  • Love Collection

  • Anna Flowers Designs Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Taylor Fangman

  • Kearnna Rhea

  • YS Clothier Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • House of Laith


    Segment THREE 6.00pm

  • PRESENTATION by COSELF Represented by UKCNDEA

  • Grand Opening: La Pham

  • Blueprint Effect Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Her Rise Heritage

  • Bold Black Dresses Represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Music Performance - Eltee

  • Joan Madison Couture

  • The Fashion Life Tour

  • Sharnel Guy

  • Grand Finale: Tykorchelli with live performance Sam Tinnesz

  • AFTER PARTY from 8.30pm till Late - Music, Finger Food & Drink

  • Live music performances by Damien Soul & Paisleigh B

    For further information on The House of iKons or to purchase tickets see see:

    House of iKons Tickets.

    House of iKons Website.

    House of iKons Facebook.

    House of iKons Instagram.








Source: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hoi-fashion...

Frustrations Within Casting

casting woes

Being an actor or working in the creative arts has always been something of a passion led career path with many feeling they cannot get a foot in the door thanks in part to the ability to gain parts, an agent, or that elusive and somewhat necessary profile with the #1 casting directory. This has come to a head now and people are feeling pushed out with the system being called elitist, we at the lost creatives wanted to share some insights and options that are gaining ground and opening doors to people with a few added options that even at the lowest budgets, can make the dream become a reality with strategic work and a little planning.

As regular readers will know, we advocate for indie film and the creative talent behind it from the cast to the crew with our own allegiances being openly stated.

We are happy to endorse creative and commercial avenues of filmmaking with companies such as New Village Video and HOD TV being two of our favoured routes,

*It is worth noting that HOD TV has parameters that you need to match to get through their vetting process, we have this in a document and will share with those who require it through email.

In casting terms, it is not quite as simple, there are certain sites and companies that have all but cornered the market and are seen as the gold standard, this however, has been changing slowly and we want to talk about 2 of those options and are open to hearing from new services that may appear or alternative options at any time.

vShowcards: a game changing paid for service with a dedicated team who not only help and support their members with advice, but a multi-faceted company that takes on actors and crew giving them a manageable route to showcase themselves and promote their skills to multiple audiences and welcome new and established talent because the site was built by actors, there is more understanding of the challenges out there.

Casting Callback: a free at point of use service for the UK, I personally checked out the layout and actors pages to see how it works and I am impressed, the company ethos is simple, they want to the creative arts to be open to all backgrounds making it one of the best of the free services for its open platform and honest approach to the industry.

With just these 2 options under your belt, it offers up scope in particular to new entrants, and with the media market slowly getting back on its feet with global financial concerns, it shows that no matter what your background, no matter your financial status as an actor or filmmaker, there is a means to promote and market yourself and fortunately, in this content hungry age, platforms available to sell your work.

Lost Creatives will be using these platforms both for casting and for promotion over the next year and focusing on opportunities outside the mainstream with digital TV and film being our goal and of course, supporting creatives across the spectrum with the blog being open to those who need support to promote their projects.

We will be talking in our next blog about commercial avenues for short films and touching on team building for projects with small budget.

Indie Film Thoughts

There is a lot of concern at the moment with the BBC daytime drama Doctors being cancelled, it was a mainstream way for people to gain a foothold in the industry and seen as a staple of daytime TV for many. People are naturally, wondering what this means for those entering the media market from the cast side to crew.

Changes to the market are always difficult to navigate and people are now looking for alternative avenues within the mainstream but overlooking the potential of commercializing ideas in the indie sector and utilizing avenues that are already in place such as HOD TV and the fantastic New Village Video whose platform is focused on the indies and the classic old school “straight to video” movies or the more familiar “streaming service original.”

Talks are underway for collective motion to pull new and emerging talent into pools and building something fresh. What this means is the indie scene has an opportunity to build a new network, a new platform and create.

With this in mind The Lost Creatives is willing to support and to start we want to share the books and sites we feel will be a major benefit to this:

Distribution and sales avenues.

HOD TV submissions a specialist in horror and thriller, the terms are fair and commercialization is possible, a full breakdown of the requirements is available, just drop us an email and we can share the details.

New Village Video, a friendly, open minded team who accept all genres of film and advocate for the indie scene while supporting and selling projects with success.

Books

Don’t F*ck Up Your No Budget Movie by Ivan Peric, a fantastic and personal insight into creating a feature film with a low budget, Ivan talks about the perils and offers up his own tried and tested path to creating a film and getting it sold by planning strategically. A real must read and a part of the lost library of books.

Opening Doors For Working Class Actors by Patricia Jones, a wonderful and open insight into the world of an actor giving you a clear and honest way to start out as an actor. Patricia Jones is a wonderful lady who talks honestly about her journey and gives pointers to those who would otherwise feel they cannot make the leap into the arts.

Cast and Crew

vShowcards, an alternative to the main networking and actors/crew sites, vshowcards is actor run and supported by various casting agents, production houses across the world, and offers a cohesive platform for you to market yourself to the media landscape.

Over the next few weeks we will be exploring avenues of marketing and other elements of the creative industry with a view to showcasing the potential for the indie scene.

Talking Theatre With HeadlessActing

Theatre is a major part of the cultural scene and we are happy to talk to one of the people aiming to put Scottish talent on the map with a series of shows aimed at the stage and building on their own experiences in the field, from sourcing funding to casting, HeadlessActing is pushing the envelope of the creative arts.

Why don’t you start by introducing yourself and telling the lost audience what you do in the creative arts? 

My name is Brandon Ferguson and I’m an Actor and writer.  Recently, I created the production company ‘Headless Acting’ as a way to produce and perform some of my own  pieces of writing. Currently, HeadlessActing is working on two plays with a third being in early development.

You have been talking on social media about your recent Fringe show and plans to do more stage work from a Scottish perspective, can you tell us more about that? 

Yes, I have just finished my first ever run at The Edinburgh Fringe Festival, I was playing ‘Peter’ in “Alba” which was written by Jack Byrne and Jordan Howat of ‘Action Theatre Scotland’. I had a wonderful time working on that. I’d never smiled more in my entire life, on the stage and off.

Once the Edinburgh Fringe was over I was just so eager to jump into something else, I decided it was time to create my own work. The Theatre industry in Scotland is dying a slow and painful death, whether that’s to do with ticket prices or even just that theatre is seen as “posh.” I wanted to fix that. I wanted to bring in a brand new audience, reach people who may never have stepped inside a theatre before. 

I had written a play about an event in Scottish history, but this play was a huge task. I would need a big team and a lot of funding. So,  I chose to start with something else, something smaller. So I wrote “*Smoke Not Included” which is a Stoner Comedy on the Stage. This play is one act, one location and four characters. What better way to bring in a new audience than putting on a stoner comedy haha.

Something we have noticed is you are very theatre focused with stage being a major part of your social media showcase, can you tell us what made this your focus as a creative? 

I’ve always been interested in theatre.  I never got to see much of it prior to being in high school, but I was always so entranced by the theatre. The sets and costumes, the actors! It’s magic! Buy a ticket, grab a drink and sit and enjoy the show. You might see a perfectly executed performance, you might see actors breaking character and causing everyone to laugh, you might even happen to see a story that touches you in a way a TV show or Movie never could. I like to say that theatre is just a live action book. When someone reads a book they can imagine what is happening and what the world may look like. Well, on the stage it is the exact same! The audience has a suspension of disbelief, you don’t need backdrops and a full room of sets. You just need the actors and a few important pieces of set or prop and the imagination of the audience does the rest. It’s great! 

“There’s also what I said before about the theatre industry in Scotland dying. I don’t think I could just stand back and watch that happen. I had to create. I had to try and show people that theatre isn’t scary, it isn’t too posh for you and it shouldn’t be too expensive.”

You recently talked about a crowdfunding campaign for your projects. Can you tell us more about the project and what is being planned?  Will you focus solely on theatre or expand into other areas of work? 

We are raising money for our first production, “*Smoke Not Included” , on Kickstarter, we still have a few hundred pounds left to raise. I couldn’t even describe this play to you if I tried, it’s quite silly, lighting and sound is used in a way to emphasise humour, there’s a lot of fun moments but at its heart, there’s a nugget of sadness. Neil, Jacko, Lauren and Aaron are our characters. They all have quite interesting relationships with each other. I won’t say too much haha. We’re currently casting for Aaron and Neil, submissions are open until 20th October. We are planning on going to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival next year as well as having a few performances in Fife. We also intend on filming the production and posting that on YouTube sometime after we finish doing the show. This is a way to combat theatre shows being short lived. We’re kind of immortalising it on YouTube haha. 

I do believe that HeadlessActing will remain working in theatre, but that’s not to say there isn’t a short film or two in the works.

What does the future hold for you and your team in media and creative terms?  What can we expect to see from you?

Currently HeadlessActing has a 4-Year plan. We aim to cast, rehearse and perform a show every year for the next four. We want to work with as many Scottish creatives that we can! I can’t say too much right now but we are working with a Scottish Artist and a Scottish Musician on one of our projects right now. We are also aiming to cover a wide range of genres. Starting with Comedy, then Horror, then History, Then Noir. If you’re following our Instagram (headless_acting) and our Twitter (@HeadlessActing) you’ll see we post updates all the time! Right now we are casting for *Smoke Not Included. We’ve received a lot of submissions and the self tapes are coming in now. We’re very excited for what the future holds.

To learn more about HeadlessActing or to support their work see:

*Smoke Not Included Crowdfunding Campaign.

HeadlessActing Instagram.

HeadlessActing Twitter.



















Source: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/19046...

The House of iKons September Show 2023

London fashion week is the social event of the fashion calendar with House of iKons standing high in the field with good reason, this top 6 show worldwide has become the go to event for buyers, designers and creatives of all stripes to showcase their talents to an audience that spans the globe.

“From the simple to the sublime, House of iKons has new reached new heights with The CEO of the Company Savita Kaye was honoured to receive a prestigious award from the Government of Thailand on behalf of Her Majesty Queen Sirkit of Thailand. Making this show and CEO Savita Kaye Herself an iKon of regal proportions.”

From the catwalk to the big screen, there are no limits to the range of the House of iKons show as this September has shown, there are no limits to creativity and each season they continue to outdo the last and leave the audience (in person and online) in awe.

Sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour.

Segment One Show

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson 

  • CLC Couture 

  • Fantasma 

  • Grand Finale: Love Collection 

Segment Two Show

  • Grand Opening: Celebration of Thai Arts & Culture by Bangkok Event Management Co Ltd

  • Kat Couture 

  • D’BPHOR represented by The Fashion Life Tour 

  • Jennifer Younger 

  • La Petite Wardrobe 

  • Hafanana represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Postcode Fashion

  • Anvi Couture represented by The Fashion Life Tour 

  • AU10TIC

  • Grand Finale: Stephan Russell

Segment Three Show

  • Grand Opening: Zaira Christa

  • TSafari

  • Wanda Beauchamp

  • Perry Jones represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • TAMTA

  • Saima Chaudhry represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Adrianna Ostrowska

  • TUVZA represented by B20 Events 

  • Shameless Opinion represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Grand Finale: Andre Soriano

    Image credits: 

    London Show: Ram Eagle

    New York Show: Johnny Jones


    For further information on The House of iKons or opportunities to get involved in the show see:

    House of iKons Website.

    House of iKons Facebook.

    House of iKons Instagram.


Showcasing Creative Talent with The House of iKons

Considered by many to be in the top of the social calendar for fashion week, The House of iKons is returning this September with their stable of designers and creatives for what is set to be a high light of the fashion calendar and a chance to be seen (as a designer) and showcase (as a creative) with the backstage being as much of the prestige, as the front of house.

With some of the worlds top designers attending and showcasing at The House of iKons show, it is no surprise that the backstage team are as big a part of this as the front of house, taking fashion events into a new realm and offering a platform that is fast becoming the benchmark for excellence with good reason.

“Schedule for Show Saturday 16th September 2023 the show is sponsored by Girl Meets Brush & The Fashion Life Tour.”

Segment One Show: 12.00pm

  • Grand Opening: Jhay Layson 

  • CLC Couture 

  • Fantasma 

  • Grand Finale: Love Collection 

Segment Two Show: 3.00pm


Segment Three Show: 6.00pm

For further information on The House of iKons, how to get involved, or to purchase tickets see:

House of iKons.

Tickets for The iKons Show.


Source: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hoi-fashion...

Time For a Change

The last few weeks have been really hard, a combination of ill health and just general contract negotiations have meant that we really haven’t had the time to update the website. However, this has been a positive overall and allowed us to really prioritize the future of the Lost as a concept.

One of the biggest things to come out of this has been our creative director JamesC has made the decision to close his current portfolio website, we have maintained control of the domain name, and will be starting from scratch with a new fresh work in conjunction with a select number of very good photographers hand picked from a list of contacts and sources, the images from which will be submitted to publications.

We are also looking at reshuffling all the domains we own and bringing a more mixed media focus to our work with films of varying lengths and commercial status being worked on to change the very restricted state we are in.

Over the next month there will be more updates and galleries showcasing fresh work and taking the whole Lost concept back to basics and putting the energy where we want it to be as a whole with a focused print/digital fashion portfolio and a slate of smaller video projects that have been carefully researched and plotted around our requirements for festivals.

More updates will be released soon.

The Behind The Scenes Podcast is Now Live

If you are a mover, shaker or media maker, then the Behind The Scenes Podcast is the place to be seen and a must for keeping up with what’s happening. Started as a way to bring the behind the camera people to the forefront, it is already offering up insights into the background work of the creative realm that would otherwise be unseen and showing how much deeper the work goes than just the stage or a screen.

We are privy to some of the upcoming interviews (one of which will be our own JamesC) and know how much time and effort is going into this from a purely creative stance, it is already on our watch list. Lost Creatives being a behind the scenes blog, we are fully behind Stephen the founder of the Behind The Scenes Podcast and cannot wait to see more and highly recommend watching and subscribing to the channel and other social accounts.

A special nod goes out to the cast and crew at City Theatre who are amongst the early interviewees and offered up some interesting insights into the world of theatre casting and acting.

To learn more or to subscribe see:

Behind The Scenes YouTube.

Behind The Scenes Twitter.

Behind The Scenes Instagram.

Behind The Scenes TikTok.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/@BTSinfront

The iKons Show: a Creative Masterpiece

In the realm of fashion there are few shows that resonate quite the same way as The House of iKons, their February show for 2023 has attracted some of the leading lights of fashion, Royalty, and creative talent creating a platform that has taken the industry by storm.

From the opening segment to the finale, it was a perfectly executed showcase of design, makeup, models that covered the widest spectrum of sizes, gender and age, proving once again that fashion lives and cannot be stopped.

Bringing together people from across the globe, it has become a badge of honour to be part of the iKons show with creative talent travelling from far and wide to be a part of the show.

It is though a credit to the vision of Savita Kaye whose leadership and business savvy that has brought this show to the forefront of the fashion calendar and earning the iKons show a top 6 place in the global fashion calendar for the innovation and overall spectacle of the show. With a backstage crew of exceptional talents keeping things moving and a front of house team whose hard work help share the event, we know that the September show (already in the works) will be as big, as bold, as spectacular a show as previous events and take this British fashion event to not just to London but the world.

Opportunities are open to all who want them and The House of iKons on your CV the potential is endless.

For more information on The House of iKons or to find out more about getting involved see:

House of iKons Website.

House of iKons Instagram.

House of iKons Facebook.

Source: https://www.houseofikons.com/

Talking Politics and YouTube With That Preston Journalist

Building on his early success, Ashley aka That Preston Journalist, has opened up to The Lost Creatives about his journey as a podcaster and journalist in the YouTube sphere.

Since we first talked to you about your You tube channel and political commentary, what has changed for you as a podcaster and how has that affected your channel? 

When we first spoke, my channel was very much in its infancy. Since then, it has grown bigger than I thought and continues to pick up around a thousand new subscribers each month. As a result, it no longer feels like a hobby or a past time, it is now something that is very much part of my daily routine. As the audience grows, the content I put out has to be taken more seriously as well. When I first started, I was talking to maybe 100-500 people, now the channel generates 50,000-100,000 views per day so it has to be good. 

Working to YouTube restrictions on what you can talk about is difficult, but when it comes to politics, most things are OK. I have also been asked by other channels to appear with them as well which I have done on many occasions, but the main passion is always with the daily content. 

“It is also quite nice to be recognised by people in the street, I am by no means a celebrity, nor do I wish to be, but it does happen sometimes and it is always nice to hear that someone enjoys the channel because it takes up so much time and a lot of effort goes into it.”

One of the things that stands out about your work is you talk from a working man's perspective rather than the usual political bubble stance. What do you think makes this important and how can people be more involved in the discussions? 

One of the biggest compliments I get is that I am a working class man from a working class background. I am not part of the establishment, I live and work in the same streets and towns as the people who watch me, this means I am far more relatable than someone sat in a studio in London who knows nothing about life outside the M25. 

I am very lucky to have an active audience who leave thousands of comments on my channel every week. Its fantastic to see so many people engaged, it shows that the content is interesting and thought provoking, which is exactly what I want. Also, in terms of YouTube, the more comments and interaction you get, the more it aids the channel algorithmically.

Are there political aspirations in your future or do you have other goals in mind that you can share with us?  

I have harboured political aspirations in the past, but to be honest, I, like many millions of people in this country, am politically homeless. This, I feel, helps the channel because it gives me some impartiality. I can never say never about maybe standing for a party one day, but it won’t be any of the current parties, they all represent the same things and do not represent me. 

I would like to do further media work, perhaps radio or even TV discussion shows, but they are such a closed shop to anyone who isn’t, or hasn’t in the past been a part of the media scene. I am in no hurry to do either really, my channel gets more views a day than some organisations who spend millions of pounds on presenters etc… such as GB news and Talk TV. IF any opportunities did come my way, there is no way I could sacrifice my YouTube channel, it has taken a lot of dedication and hard work to build it up to the position it is in now and I wouldn’t throw it away for anyone. 

What message would you like to convey to your viewers and potential viewers in terms of what you are doing as a podcaster highlighting the political realm?  

The idea of starting the channel came to me because I was so frustrated with the group-think media we have in the UK. Whoever you watch on the TV, whether it be the BBC, ITV, SKY etc… They all say and think the same things, it's just a big echo chamber. 

I wanted to present a different side to politics in this country, what I would consider to be the opinions of the silent majority who are not represented, but these are the people who decide elections, they deserve to hear news from all different aspects. 

If anyone reading this is wondering whether or not to give it a watch, I would ask them to ask themselves, do you believe everything you are told by the mainstream? Is there not another point of view out there to consider? If the answer is yes, then my channel is the place for you. 

I discuss all sorts of subjects in relation to politics and try to remain impartial most of the time, but I do it with passion, so the impartiality lapses sometimes, but I feel that adds character to the videos and debates. Some people who watch my channel don’t even agree with me most of the time, but they keep watching, so I guess that means I am doing something right, if people keep coming back for more, the content must be worth watching. 

To learn more or to subscribe to “That Preston Journalist” Channel see:

That Preston Journalist YouTube.

That Preston Journalist Twitter.







Source: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUN5C_NVA...

Building Your Team Featuring Vshowcards

Something I have seen quite a lot of when on social media is the individualist aspect of marketing, by that I mean promotion of just one aspect of what you do as a creative, forgetting that when it comes to a shoot be it film, TV, or photographic it is a team affair.

One of the biggest reasons we say this is because our own creative director JamesC has reached out to the team behind vshowcards and will be working with them to assess a proposal for upcoming projects.

Networking, promotion and just old fashioned relationship building over time can be a difference maker in the world of film and TV, we rely on each other to make a shoot run smoothly and efficiently so having good relationships with the team make a huge difference.

With Vshowcards you have access to the a huge number of professionals within industry that will support your moves and if you reach out are willing to help and support, you just need to ask.

From an industry standpoint there is so much more than just your skillset to consider, you are a part of a team, the machine works because we do and supporting each other is the way to move forward and building your team is a lot easier when you have all your information at your fingertips and know you can reach out to others with questions.

To learn more about the Vshowcards set up or to join see:

Vshowcards Website.

Vshowcards Facebook.

Vshowcards Twitter.

Vshowcards Instagram.

Vshowcards YouTube.

Source: https://www.vshowcards.com/

Project Notes

A habit our creative director JamesC picked up when living in India that we are actively pushing again, is keeping a notebook and pen to hand, ideal for writing down phone numbers or emails, sketching ideas for photos or as we know he did frequently, outlining plots for TV or film projects.

JamesC has in the last few weeks come up with ideas that will work as short films for festival entry or expanded into a much longer concept that need to be padded to suit the plans for 2023.

Festivals are going to be a very heavy focus of the work ahead, we have spent a lot of time checking options of annual, quarterly and by far our most favoured, monthly film festivals that take film and photo projects.

Of course our favourite book for filmmakers “Don’t F*ck Up Your No Budget Film” by Ivan Peric, plays a heavy part in our thinking because this insightful first hand account of low budget creation is designed to shape your work into a commercial project and works well with our own thinking and add to this the very savvy and again, first hand account of Patricia Jones book “Opening Doors for Working Class Actors” which when combined with Ivan’s book has the scope to create a great combination and open up the projects we have to fresh talent and with the right focus and marketing (kept within a budget) see a series of smaller films and Web TV projects built with a commercially viable slant that will benefit all involved.

We will be using the Vshowcards site for casting and actively encourage people to check them out not just because we think it is a fantastic network site, but for the various casting calls that are available.

Expanding notes on our plan will be slow released through the blog and we will be working hard to get this push running with the Lost Agency supporting it and of course led by our own JamesC who will be front and centre with upcoming interviews including the Behind The Scenes Podcast, amongst the other elements at play.

Stay tuned for more updates and sneak images of our notes.

The iKons Return in 2023

As we move into 2023, The House of iKons is gearing up for their first showcase of the year. A creative spectacular of talent in design, makeup, and backstage talents of all stripes, being part of the iKons show is a step in fashion that no one wants to miss.

“Known as a platform for talent, The House of iKons is the ticket to have, the place to be seen, and the show to work for those established or entering the fashion arena.”

With their connections to the global stage (a top 6 show worldwide for the independent fashion scene), their ties to Royal households including the prestigious and forward thinking Thai Royal family, have taken the show from its London base to a global stage bring designers and talent from across the world to the table and giving them a unique voice in the fashion world.

The February show is the first stage in the calendar that this year features a spectrum of creative talent and as always will be open to new people who want to add to their CV with prestige.

Schedule for Show Saturday 18th February 2023

Networking & Exhibition Starts  from 12.00pm till 8.00pm:

Exhibition doors open from 12.00pm:

  • Vip 360

  • Raaj K Asthetics 

  • Love Collection 

  • PamPinay 

  • AveriStar

  • Fantasma

  • JCIDEL

  • Park Pharmacy 

  • Zilli Coffee

  • Nacharee Thai Kitchen 

  • Zaira Christa 

  • InfiniteAloe

  • Tawa sponsored by Nydia Crick

Fashion Show: Segment ONE 2.00pm

  • GRAND OPENING: Love Collection

  • Adriana Ostrowska

  • DNB Couture represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • JCIDEL

  • Hafanana Swimwear represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • DivaBigg

  • Music Performance: Anya Kay

  • Jhay Layson

  • The Fashion Life Tour

  • Therese Marie Collection

  • Apple World Collection

  • Love Collection

  • Andre Soriano

  • GRAND FINALE: Yalacity supported by HM The Queen Sirkit of Thailand Department of Agriculture 

SOLO SEGMENT - DivaBigg 4.00pm

Premier of Documentary - ‘Fat is Fashion’ & Fashion Show of DivaBigg collection.

Fashion Show Segment TWO 5.00pm

  • GRAND OPENING: PIMPA Paris 

  • Fantasma

  • Chavez

  • Jhay Layson

  • Maria Mahlmann MM REMIX

  • Music Performance: Myles Smith

  • The Fashion Life Tour CLC Couture

  • The Fashion Life Tour

  • Links by Gwen

  • Adriana Ostrowska

  • Music Performance: Cooper Phillip

  • Pam Pinay

  • Perry Jones represented by The Fashion Life Tour

  • Zaira Christa

  • Tawa sponsored by Nydia Crick

  • GRAND FINALE - Will Franco

To learn more about The House of iKons, or to book tickets see:

House of iKons Website.

House of iKons Instagram.

House of iKons Facebook.

House of iKons Tickets.

Image credits: Mark Gunter, Ram Eagle, Mok Photography, @ch_photoz, Jessica Smith, @mtuck1967, @jalb_films, Mariana London, Andreas Münchbach, Alfred Brandl.

Source: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/hoi-fashion...

Introducing The Behind The Scenes Podcast

Entering into the podcast field and offering up a new perspective on the industry is the team “Behind The Scenes” whose upcoming podcast is creating massive buzz before they launch to such a degree that creatives of every stripe are seeking them out to talk.

Going behind the camera is something we at the lost creatives can appreciate to such a degree that our own creative director will be interviewed, and we are supporting the move fully, the leading voice behind this; Stephen, worked as a supporting artist and saw first hand what goes on and the hierarchy of the industry and wanted to give a voice to those who usually don’t get the chance to share their stories. Opening the door to so many new and established faces, the Behind The Scenes podcast is set to be the place to be seen and heard in 2023!

To learn more about the “Behind the Scenes” podcast and subscribe see:

Behind The Scenes YouTube.

Behind The Scenes Twitter.

Behind The Scenes Instagram.

Behind The Scenes TikTok.

Source: https://t.co/fnNxnR5E49

Working The Makeup Dept Budget With Desired FX

In the world of film and TV, budgets can be the biggest constraint alongside time, to the creative process. For the makeup department often this means we have to search out cost-efficient options to create a particular look or downgrade the process to fit the money available, thankfully, there are services like Desired FX that can help with this and give you a budget-friendly, professional add-on to your kit that will push the department ahead.

From silicone wounds to scars, tattoos including bruising and standard designs, Desired FX offers up a range of products that will work for most scenarios and even offers a studio custom service to allow further scope for creativity on a budget.

With increasing options in the digital market from Amazon to HOD TV (Horror on Demand), the indie film sector has never been so popular with the on-demand film/TV sector becoming bigger year on year, but budgets being tight in the circuit, having the option of a team like Desired FX who can provide cost-efficient options for the FX department, there is scope to bring a different dimension as a department head working smart with the available funds.

To learn more about Desired FX or to purchase see:

Desired FX shop ( 10% off on all products with the promo code "JamesClark10")

Desired FX Instagram.

Desired FX Facebook.

Source: https://www.desiredfx.co.uk/

Nepal Cultural International Film Festival 2022

As they move into their 4th year, Nepal Cultural International Film Festival 2022, has showcased films from across the globe and given a new voice to the people in the film world from their base in Nepal, the jewel in the crown of South Asia.

Bringing not only the beauty and culture of Nepal to the global stage, but the NCIFF is also now amongst the most coveted festival awards received in the region, showcasing a wide array of films both feature-length and short with awards in multiple areas including:

  • Best International Women’s Film.

  • Best International Children’s Film.

  • Best International Human Rights Film.

  • Best International Cultural Film.

  • Best International Environmental Film.

This 3-day event has attracted audiences from across the world and with new options available for sponsorship there are now even wider opportunities to get involved and not only promote your work as a filmmaker but to showcase your brand to a wider audience.

To learn more about the festival or opportunities to get involved see:

Nepal Cultural International Film Festival 2022 Film Freeway.

Nepal Culture and Film Center.

Source: https://filmfreeway.com/NCIFF-2022