One of our biggest motivators when creating AC was to bring customers and vendors together. As a niche industry, it's hard for those passionate about or just getting into the style to find the means to express themselves - whether that's through the way we choose to dress or do our hair; or by finding amazing photography and art to plaster over our bedroom walls. Plus, if you know us, you know we both love to shop! Because of this mindset, we've always encouraged vendors to upload images of their products and use PinupLifestyle and Alt Collective as a tool to really promote their brand. 

However, several members of the community have expressed concerns over the huge numbers of product imagery that appear in the photo stream. This has created some back and forth conversation and idea-generating sessions behind the scenes of PL. We changed the rules over on PL and the same rules apply here on AC.

From now on, photos of products will only be approved when the products are modeled (on a real person). Now this doesn't mean to set up a tripod to take a picture of the side of your head to show off all 100 different hair flowers you have in stock. Shoot for top quality. Beautiful girls make up this entire community, most of which would be more than happy to model your product. It takes only a minute to reach out to someone you admire or relate to!

So, you don't have yet any images of your products being modeled? No problem! Head on over to the Casting Calls area and post a thread looking for a photographer or model to take on the project. Many times when a photoshoot is set around a product, the images from which will be used for product promotion or on a vendor website, both photographer and model are willing to donate their time to work together. This is a great opportunity for models, especially those that have experience and are looking to get a taste for product modeling. Maybe you have a few photos of your products being modeled and feel it's enough. Upload them to your page and include details below the image that will direct members to your store website to purchase the item or find more.

We really feel that this is a great, permanent and scalable solution for us on PinupLifestyle. It may take some getting used to, especially if you're a vendor that's been here for awhile. Take advantage of the Casting Calls area to get your designs modeled and displayed in the best possible way!