Requirements
dating photos | dating clothing | writing costume guidelines | drafting patterns | movie/theater consulting
All consulting is charged hourly or monthly, unless otherwise specified in Rates
What do I need to Date an Item?
Photographs
Scan of entire photograph including edges/mat and back at 100-150 dpi
Save in .jpg format
Do not try to lighten/darken or improve contrast- I have a program that I can do that if I need it.
Size of photo
Type of photo if known (i.e. CDV, Tintype, or Cabinet Card)
Any markings on photograph including City, State, or Photographer.
Dresses- Extant Garments
Good photos are essential, and a scan of the fabric itself is best to discern texture.
Photos should include, back bodice- showing seamlines, inside construction photos
on skirts you may turn them inside out and photograph front and back
bodices should be laid open and a photo taken of the inside.
close-up photos of seams, fasteners and decoration details are useful.
Note: I am interested in trading dating/description services for use rights of photographs
Email photos to research@shootingstarhistory.com
Putting together costume guidelines for historic sites or groups
I need to know the area, and date or range of dates that the group is trying to portray. Any first hand accounts or existing photographs of the site or area are useful as well, as I can select possible patterns that "mesh" with the local history. This is something that I love to do and non-profit agencies will get a special rate- please email me and ask for more information
Drafting a Tailor's Pattern from a photograph or Fashion Plate
Yes, I can do this- a few things you need to know 1. I retain rights for any pattern I draft 2. Tailor's patterns do no come with directions, nor are they "perfect" some slight adjustments may be required 3. They are not for the beginning to moderate seamstress. The price for drafting a tailor's pattern is $50-100 depending on complexity.
Movie/Theater Consulting
I am familiar with period etiquette, activities, and social structure of both "out west" and the eastern society.
I can suggest appropriate costuming, props and activities.
I am not a script editor, however I will proof scenes for historical accuracy.
I CAN read the script for historical accuracy, but reading is also charged at the hourly consulting rate.
Time spent emailing, researching, compiling information, reading, writing, receiving calls, returning calls, and calculating will be included in consulting time. I do have a monthly rate for those that retain my services monthly in which you are allotted a maximum of 8 hours a week of my time. Therefore, any services that will take them over their 8 hours (such as returning calls or emails, doing additional research, etc.) will not be completed until the next week, unless I happen to have the extra time and personally wish to spend it.
My services as a costume designer can also be requested- this service is negotiated after I have an idea of what the script entails. For this I will need to go over the script in order to make suggestions, etc.