Katie Bishop

May 5, 2008

Katie Bishop Well, it is official. I now have less than two remaining weeks in Tokyo. Though this thought seems a tad depressing... oh wait! It's not a thought, it's a darned realization! Haha, anyway, Tokyo has been one hell of a ride that will be forever embedded into my memories and heart... leaving me anxiously awaiting the next time I will be able to return.

Though one fine adventure must come to an end, another turns the corner. That's right, in approximately 9 days I will be off to Shanghai, China! I'm very interested to see the ways in which these two countries differ; how the people live, their habits, the cleanliness, the food, the shopping, the parties, and most of all... how you are treated as a foreigner, as well as a model. This is one adventure I couldn't pass up on.

My roommate and friend, Ariane, has spoken extremely highly of Shanghai to me, and this comforts me. It also excites me! In fact, one of the first things I plan on doing upon my arrival is buying a pet bunny! That is, if my roommate(s) aren't allergic and/or don't already have one.

As for Tokyo these past couple of weeks, it has been incredible. Though this time around, I don't have any gruesome stories of how I've managed to, yet again, hurt myself. I've definitely had some rather interesting photo shoots though!

Last weekend I was dressed up as a hippie/Indian, and they put this MASSIVE wig on my head (part blonde/part grey). It looked like Cousin IT! Needless to say, I was about to call my manager and tell him it was a waste of everyone's day because there was no way we could use the pictures... when my crew finally caught on and suggested we do some shots (my choice of location within Hiro Park and all), with my natural hair. Thank goodness! Afterwards, they took me to Yoyogi Park (I highly suggest going there if you come to Tokyo), and we had a picnic. I LOVE the teams I work with here for photo shoots!

During the week I had another interesting shoot based on older Hollywood female stars. Big wavy hair, red lips, the whole shebang. Quite beautifully done, head shots in black and white, but in the second shot with a veil over my face they asked me to smoke a menthol cigarette and blow it up my face for a cool, almost suave look. I thought they were crazy, but tried anyway, while nearly gagging on the menthol cigarette. Haha, oh my!

Castings this week were scarce, due to the 6-7 day break called Golden Week in Japan. However, in one of them, I showed up and was then informed by my manager that they had specifically requested me for this casting because they needed "action" shots. So I had to make up, on the spot, a 3 minute routine of my Taekwondo! Haha, good thing I haven't completely lost my touch or they would have thought we were lying when my manager told them I have my black belt. I love how crazy castings can get here. I also had this music video casting where I had to dance with random shirtless men and "pretend" to kiss them. My manager was not impressed. Haha, neither was I, really... but still good for a laugh after!

My friends and I went back to visit the Navy Base, to get some Chili's and American food/shampoo's and whatnot! Gosh, it's so refreshing to go there, and then come back into Tokyo. Along the way to the base, we dropped by the ocean and walked across the rocks while watching some people hunt for Octopus. We caught some wildlife ourselves, but of course put it back where it belonged. The smell of the ocean and seaweed reminded me so fondly of home; it almost made me miss it!

I officially have two days left of Golden Week, so I plan on making a list tonight of all the places I have had yet to see, and will go venture. Sigh, my time is slowly running out in fairytale land, but I hope to be back soon. Until then, Shanghai is quickly approaching, and there is a lot that needs to get done in the meantime. I'll be sure to write once more before leaving!

I miss you all back home, and hope that all is well. Stay alert, and stay safe! *As quoted from my favourite bunny childhood protection program.*

Much love,

Katie xx

Katie Bishop is a Ford model, currently with Team in Tokyo.