NCMerfest 2015

[Sherielle]

Well now I'm bummed. I was hoping to be able to go in 2016. I looked at getting a vendor table but it was prohibitively expensive for a small artist like me. Honestly, I can get a cheaper table at most comic cons by at least half than what they wanted at merfest. I wonder if they were able to get more vendors in if it would be more lucrative or at least soluble?

[Arella]

I'm going now :D

[MermaidShannon]

Yay!

[LauraLWatson]

I don't know the history of MerFest, but maybe a year or two of a national mermaid day, with national participation (and NC Merfest coordinators tracking numbers of partcipants and social reach with specific projects) could build momentum for a national convention with sponsors and vendors. Go back on the local level with mini-merfests in several locations, all on the same day with a united theme and purpose, and once we prove we are a market to take seriously, THEN have a national convention. And hopefully not loose too much money on the first few conventions. Conventions are wonderful and build friendships (networking even), but they are expensive to attend and to put on. Building a solid base at the grass roots level might help offset future costs.





I think the whole point of the big convention is that it functions differently than a meet-up and swim. There's a lot of us who already have regular meet-ups and swims, and while that's nice, it's really not the same as having a big event to look forward to where you get to meet your mer-friends from all over the country/from other countries. There's an atmosphere that's missing with the small things that is there with the big ones.

...

Local meets are great, but I'm never going to get to meet, say, Arion or Raina, in person, at a local meet the way I would at Merfest. It's not really feasible for any of us without a huge Con to bring us together.

[Mermaid Galene]

Oh, Pearlie, silly mergirl, haven't you heard of global warming? The past few summers we've had heat indices well above 100ºF.:cool: It's ever so much fun, and makes us joyfully look forward to temps 100 or more degrees less than that a few months later...

[AniaR]

25924

[PearlieMae]

Galene, no matter how hard you try, I will not give up hope of a tropical merfest.

Minnesota? No.

[Mermaid Enora]

yea! another merest, hopefully I can make it to the next one.
How about in Texas? :)
Its a warm 104 degrees here in the summer!

[Mermaid Lorelei]

Georgia maybe?

[Arella]

Or Michigan? We have a huge amount of shoreline and a new Aquarium at Great Lakes Crossing :)

[Mermaid Aika]

Yay! Hopefully I can go to this one!

[Winged Mermaid]

Yay, there will be another one :yay:Will have to start saving my pennies now :)

[Mermaid Wesley]

You better make the next one Iona. I know quite a few mermaids who want you to be at this one and are sad that you can't. We need the Iona mermaid! <3


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Winged Mermaid]

You better make the next one Iona. I know quite a few mermaids who want you to be at this one and are sad that you can't. We need the Iona mermaid! <3

Aw thank you Mermaid Wesley <3 That makes me feel so loved ^_^ I'm dying to come to one, I really hope finances work out in my favor for the one in the summer! Hope he'll announce the place/date soon so I can try and get a cheap flight!

[Mermaid Galene]

OKay, Pearlie, you win. Hawaii. Yeah, Hawaii! Might as well dream big!

[Lorelei]

Ugh, I so wish I could make it but it's difficult for me to manage going to any events on the east coast. >.< Damn expensive flights.

[Mermaid Wesley]

~ONE TIME OFFER~ (copied from facebook)
If anyone is looking for a fabric tail for NC Merfest.....
I am experimenting with something new! I will make a maximum of 2 tails with a unique scale print body and mermaid-shaped lexan monofin for $150. I will bring the tails with me to give to you at Merfest! If you are interested in this one-time offer please message me privately so we can discuss what you would like! I am willing to add on extras for a fee, so if you are even only a little interested, please come talk to me. If you are NOT attending Merfest, I will only ship one of these two experiment tails after I am sure that no one at Merfest is interested. Shipping costs will be added to the price if I decide to ship it to you.

[Merman Arion]

An update about NCMerfest. I posted this on my personal facebook and I would like to share it here too

"Hi guys,

it's with a great disappointment that I'm sharing officially the news :

I finally WON'T be a part of the January edition of NCMERFEST and it's actually my own fault BUT on the bright side, something VERY GOOD came out of this and I'm going to share it to you all.

For those who don't know, I made a deal with my dad a few months ago and we agreed that he would offer me any trip with his miles in exchange for me finding a real job. At that moment, I was struggling to find a job since a year. Then, in October, I succeeded by signing a permanent contract with an agency and since then, my new job has been going well and the two month trial ended last Friday. I worked really hard and I focused a lot so I could keep on working to deserve this very special trip. Last Monday, I checked with the agency employing me if I could go and after finding a replacement for me, they agreed to give me 3 exceptional days so I could be with my mer friends. I was good to go, all that was left to do was telling my parents. Yesterday, I wrote a mail to my Dad and a few hours later, I got a call from Skype and he was in the kitchen waiting for me to talk. My mom was with him. So we talked. A LOT. I told them about Mermaiding, how I discovered it, the merfolk community, MerNetwork, the new friends I have in my life, the annual merfolk convention.. I showed them the NCMerfest website, the video of me swimming with my friend Marijke in the Netherlands, Raina's professional page and her books that I read, my friendship with Claire the professional mermaid in Paris, I told and shared to my parents EVERYTHING.

I got A VERY supportive reaction from them. They were glad to see that I found something to be passionate about, they were very impressed by my swimming skills and they were more than willing to offer me the trip to NCMerfest. Except that they couldn't do it. And it's my own fault. Before skyping me, my dad did some research online and every flight that I could take with the miles were booked at this time of the year. Everything else was too expensive to buy because of the Christmas holidays. If I had told them two months in advance, we could have done this but at that moment, I had not even started my new job and it would have been too presumptuous to ask. I wanted first to make it work. Job was my priority. HOWEVER, they told me the offer still stands for any place that I want whether it's the USA, Australia, Hawaii, or Singapore so I can be with my friends sharing the same passion. Even the third edition of NCMerfest this coming summer is possible. I was so happy I was nearly about to cry in front of them. I realized how great my parents are and how blessed I am to have them. Stupid me was afraid to tell because of how conservative they are but in fact, I should have trusted more their love for me since my birth. They did everything to make my life better since they found out about my deafness when I was 2 years old, they were worried and cared about me when I came out as gay, and they still care very much now that I told them I am a merman.

I'm sorry for letting you all down by not coming for January. I wanted to go so badly since the first edition and I really believed in my chances this time. Heck, I was VERY optimistic but I guess for something that big, it's really all about timing. I'm sad to not be with you all but know that you all will be in my thoughts. Thank you for being a part of my passion, thank you for being a part of my life and thank you very much for your support.

Alex"

[PearlieMae]

While I cannot say that I am not terribly disappointed, I am so happy that things have turned out so well for you! Blood is thicker than water and people love you more than you realize, I'm sure. I can't wait to meet you in person, if not in January, then soon! So much love from your Pearlie Mae!

[AniaR]

I'm so so so glad your parents are being supportive frenchy! I'm sad I wont see you, but I am so happy for you too

[Mermaid Galene]

It sounds like some really great things have been happening in your life, Arion. That's ultimately what's most important! Congrats.

[Keiris]

You will certainly be missed Arion!

[BayouMermaid]

My fiance and I are going to merfest! I wasn't sure that I'd be able to, but my man (knowing how important it is to me) agreed that we could make this our Christmas present to help with the cost.

I realize since I'm not super active in the community that others probably won't know me, so I made an introduction video. If you'd like to watch it, I'd really love that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mYe8kG4KPw

Can't wait to meet everyone!
Also, Raina, I've got a stack of books for you to sign :D

[AniaR]

Haha woot

[MermaidShannon]

Raina are you going to sell your retired tail!

[MermaidShannon]

IM REALLY EXCITED TO SEE EVERYONE. Oops all caps. Ok so I'm bringing a ton of tails because I haven't picked my "colors" yet. I have my my pinkie tail , my mertailor and scale top, my Mimosa tail that I'm unboxing and Melissas old Mike Van Daal tail. I don't have time to repair it and it's latex so it can't exactly be repaired according to Mike because of it's age. I'm going to bring it as is. Do you guys think airbrush painting over it in matching colors will suffice? I think this girl still has some life. Any advice? I'll bring my airbrush and paints in case anyone has the merballz to help me.
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/242bd68aebae1d6a6be78aa279a8e545.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/2c3f0b4369af29ee2b1f712f9dfca6a3.jpghttp://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/fb8adc0f12555d51861d3bb73e8463bc.jpg
http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/14/12/19/d8ccfa4ddb1aa918064a9d789199bb70.jpg

[AniaR]

hop into the tail making section of the website there's loads of tips. plus thom shouse knows a lot about latex repairs too :) he's on FB and very helpful to anyone who asks

[Mermaid Sirenia]

So sad I'll be missing out on seeing you all! But I hope everyone has a great time! I have a friend who is coming to town to visit me during those days.. she's an photographer (she's only a senior in high school and has already won awards for her work, including a silver key) so we might be doing a photoshoot if it isn't too cold!

[Rivertee]

Awesome Sirenia

[LauraLWatson]

Bayou Mermaid- where can we get a copy of your book?

[BayouMermaid]

Bayou Mermaid- where can we get a copy of your book?

It's on Amazon :) Search "The Mermaid of Lake Pontchartrain". It's a kid's book.

[LauraLWatson]

It's on Amazon :) Search "The Mermaid of Lake Pontchartrain". It's a kid's book.

Merry Christmas to me and my mers! The MerFriends are always looking for books about or by mermaids to add to our "rainy day"/ storytelling collection. I'm excited!

[BayouMermaid]

Awe thanks, Laura :)

Also, Daphne Clem posted this in the NCMerfest fb group and I thought it was good info:

"MERFEST PACKING PREPSo Merfest is next week...
Things can and will likely get rowdy this week between production for some of us, and holiday travel for a lot of us. To come back from that din, and then pack yet again for next week may get discombobulating. Hopefully this list will help focus packing and prep.
I'm also adding a link here for luggage, in case that's something people need as well. http://www.fastcompany.com/…/buyers-guide-the-best-carry-on… (http://www.fastcompany.com/3039190/buyers-guide-the-best-carry-on-bag?utm_source=facebook)
http://mernetwork.com/index/image/gif;base64,R0lGODlhEgASAPeCALTttfLy8mHSYNTm1FfPVt3 r3CmEJ6jqqRd7FmvWa/T484Pdg93733fad/b69k7MTfPz88DbwDSLMlmgWI/hkEKTQZvGmju0OpzmnIe6hg92DQx0Cvz8/Bp8GPf398jgyCeYJj RPv///z 4PsXjxWeoZkW3RKnaqmrVak26TITOhGOxYWGuYaDfodjm1z2UP EvISsPdwk pTszhzO717i6ILZzbnTGJL1 tXnCtb1W4VPn8 YvYi/Dy8KThpHPJc rz6R2DG2KsYhyKG v064ncisrgysHewF jXi6QLUiWRzuxOs3izdP11W/Mb0uwSiqHKRF7Dy6eLWKlYNbl1nO7ch2TG Xs5TihN3OvcsbexcDcv226bdnn2cPxxfDx8Nrq2pfNlxSAEki2 R5PLlFW6VTGSMD 1Pj6rPWWvZTKeMJTfk32/fbLWsjeuNnzAfPz9/DiqN0K1Qo7Xj7/fvxt GmrOaiKFIE63TdPk02qqaWrGadnp2X7NfsDxwcr1zNT41hmQF////wAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA CH5BAEAAIIALAAAAAASABIAAAj/AAUJHCiwAA2CCAfCsaBkA5Q6CCZoSSgQzA0hJxhobELmxRQHCA d0YAOopMmSaSqAFKjAwJs/MGP sRHICws9AzPg8MOzpx8VgaoE8qFhgEADLQAoXdonEAkRYQJxyS KowJ0DWAPxOPAjEB0OHIBYmSNBUAQzGDAEkhFoT6AjHjzwCaRj TQezSSgEWtFjS6A2ECC4CFSGQhEEVYMsCGQkQIArXwJQCYRnwQ InZQUZsJMi0AzHAfIEGtOg9JMcAjNgSWAiEBMIXQLJSUAbRVGW BtAIOBPoQ6AlAoILUFOC4AAEcQhcCHSBgHMCUkKsHDigBogRD7 LDcDMEiQKKOyxUDdggJkrEGBQTFiCSPiAAOw==
Most of you are coming in Thursday the first. For those coming in that time and leaving Monday (recommended, so you don't miss the Luau), you got four nights and five days to figure out what to bring and what to wear. Here's me thinking aloud on what to include; should be handy too for those that are new to this Con. Feel free to add to this list on other stuff to include:
For Carry-on (or checked if your tail stuff is carry-on)
-Whatever you normally bring in your purse/wallet
-Cash money for food and vendors
-Camera (on your phone, GoPro, etc)
-Outlet USB chargers and car chargers for your devices
-Waterproof casing for your phone (optional, if you have it)
-Basic toiletries (shampoo/conditioner, face wash/soap, lotion)
-Chapstick
-Headache/allergy meds
-Padlock/combo lock for the locker room.
-Book/Kindle/Nook for the car trips/plane ride


Makeup and Water Gear
-Waterproof makeup (if you have any)
-Makeup remover
-GenTeal protein eye drops (see Raina's Vlog on this)
-Face creams, lotions
-Goggles/Snorkel Mask
-Sinus Saver (if you have it. I tried to get them to come, sorry)
Mermaid Gear (Likely checked baggage, unless you opt for this as your carryon)
-Your tail(s)
-Your top(s)
-Accessories (jewelry, props)
-Oils (if you're wearing a silicone tail. If there are any you recommend, comment!)
-At least 4-5 large towels for changing and drying yourself each day
-Bikini bottoms or trunks
-Swimsuit
-Monofin (optional)
-Swim fins (if you're a mertender taking pictures)
- Competition Tail (If you are a part of the Tail Competition)
Clothing/Shoes (Carry-on or Checked Baggage)
-Comfortable shoes
-Pool shoes
-Four days worth of clothing (dress in layers; pool area can be humid. Outside will be cold, hotel will be warm)
-Sleepwear/slippers
-Evening wear for Saturday Ball (if attending)
-Shoes for Saturday Ball (if attending)
-Four days worth of under garments (sounds silly and common sense...until you travel and pack everything, get there and realize after you shower that you'll have to go commando for 5 days. It really sucks. It's not something you can lend from other people either...)
-Laundry Bags (so your groady wet and worn stuff is separated from everything else."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/ncmerfest/

[Rebekah.fish]

Is anyone still looking for room mates? Mine just canceled on me last minute.. any takers?? Couples are acceptable!

[Mermaid Meara]

So I had my flights canceled ( twice) due to weather. This means I will be missing the breath hold class I have a ticket for. Does anyone know if I would be able to get a refund? Or maybe sell it to someone else?

[Arella]

Maybe talk to Christomer?

[Mermaid Wesley]

I'm on a plane! I can't wait to meet everyone! I'll be in a purple tail if anyone's looking for me! ;)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MermaidShannon]

I'm
In the hospital. Severe food allergy yesterday and still
Haven't been release.d. Dying here. Really
Hope
I can make it. I'll be in this tail http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/01/01/3a9d176eefdcb215523b715600686b15.jpg

[Merman Chatfish]

I'm
In the hospital. Severe food allergy yesterday and still
Haven't been release.d. Dying here. Really
Hope
I can make it. I'll be in this tail

Oh no! Hope you get well soon. This is a bad weekend to be sick!

[Princess Pearl]

I love how people aren't identifying each other by face, but by tail. :)

[Carolina Mermaid]

I'm so pissed I can't come. Have fun everyone!!!

[Yulia]

Woah, you guys, look at this!
Mertailor posted it, so maybe he made it?
https://scontent-b-ams.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/10888476_1024763664207882_6650593825307241908_n.jp g?oh=15f07fc3bee71f1fa9b631751dc0f6a5&oe=55304B93

[Seraphina Suds]

Wow! And that's one of his main girls, too. (Ashley I think.) That's pretty impressive!

[Merman Chatfish]

Wow that is crazy impressive. Would love to see more of that tail and how it moves.

[Mermaid Sirenia]

I'm usually not a huge mertailor fan, but wow!! I saw a picture of a mermaid like this, and have been wanting to see it turned into a tail ever since!

[PearlieMae]

it's pretty awesome in person but I haven't seen it swim. I do know that now I want to have lobster for dinner!

[teeth4u]

That tail is really cool!!! It kind of look likes a bug to me but it's really unique and intricate

[Seraphina Suds]

Does anyone have pictures from the wedding? Cookie is from my pod and I was really sad I couldn't be there.

[Mermaid Kelda]

It kind of look likes a bug to me but it's really unique and intricate
Well lobsters are crustaceans and are in the same phylum as insects... So I guess they sort of are bugs? ;D

[Chrissy]

Aaaaahhhhh I am so bummed I couldn't make it this year!!! But my sister having her first baby (which we are still waiting for) is very important to me!!! She told me she would try to hold him in but if I left town and he arrived I would be crushed!! I hope everyone is having a wonderful time and I can't wait for videos and pictures!!!!

[Princess Pearl]

Well lobsters are crustaceans and are in the same phylum as insects... So I guess they sort of are bugs? ;D

Ah, but "bug" is actually a scientific term, meaning an insect with a mouth designed for sucking. I have no clue how lobsters eat, so I don't know if they're bugs or not.

Yay for remembering things from Bill Nye the Science Guy!

[Mermaid Kelda]

Formally/scientifically, the only true "bugs" are those of the order Hemiptera (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemiptera).
Informally, insects sort of are crustaceans in the same way that birds are dinosaurs.
But I am not a biologist and none of this really matters xD

[AniaR]

I have barely seen mertailor lol. He is hiding out ;) the tail looks neat IRL. Like something out of a horror movie

[Sherielle]

Here is the lobster tail in action. It looks really neat.
https://www.facebook.com/video.php?v=1025000857517496&fref=nf

[maressa]

Eeeee! Seeing that tail in action makes me sooooo excited for my lion fish tail with its tendrils :D

[maressa]

Thats a pretty nifty tail! Not my taste but it's quite a work of art.

[Mer_Adella]

Posted on FB (has daphne tagged) I saw a post that talked about merfest. I will try and post it on here. But the main point is that there will be another merfest......in Cazumel, Mexico ......>:(

[Mermaidmechanic]

So, out of curiosity, does anyone have photos of the tail contest/ the winning tail? IM SO CURIOUS!!!

[-Annwyn-]

So, out of curiosity, does anyone have photos of the tail contest/ the winning tail? IM SO CURIOUS!!!

Yeah, who won? :)

[LauraLWatson]

I had the most wonderful time at NC Merfest 2015!!! I came with the intention of learning, networking, and observing this wonderful community. I accomplished all that and so much more!! So, if any of you find yourselves in Texas, I hope we can meet up again. See you all next time!

PS- The next Merfest was announced last night. Cozumel September 2015.

[Mermaid Momo]

AW :( Why'd they choose a month when School is supposed to be starting? They should do merfest in the summer, while school is out and the weather nice and warm.

[Mermaid Galene]

Cozumel! Intriguing...

[AniaR]

Finfolk n mertailor tied, jessimer, marla s, and one other

[PearlieMae]

So, Finfolk's sea Dragon tail and Mertailor's lobster tail tied-pro division; Mermaid Jessica's ice queen tail in the novice division; Marla Spellenburg's (sp?) full body - face included - Orca fabric tail; and for the life of me, I can't remember who won with neoprene. (Anyone else know?)

Mermaid Julz' latex tail got lumped in with novice silicone because she had the only latex tail...we didn't know until later that the categories were...adjusted.

There were only eight tails entered in all.

Julz, myself, and one other tailmaker (I assume) were ultimately never even mentioned or acknowledged for participating.

[Mermaid Kelda]

Julz, myself, and one other tailmaker (I assume) were ultimately never even mentioned or acknowledged for participating.
Oh damn :\ how many tail makers were there in all, do you know? Or was it just the ones listed?

[Mermaid Galene]

Oh, Pearlie, that sucks! I can't imagine how they could overlook such speactacular tailmaking talent!

[PearlieMae]

Jessica's tail was stunning and completely deserving of winning. I had technical difficulties and problems with my tail that, in my humble opinion, if they were resolved before the contest, I may have tied. Jessica did a marvelous job and we even spoke if possibly collaborating. Julz' latex tail was outstanding and she made dorsal spines that stood up perfectly, and were a marvel of engineering to do so, and I am sworn to secrecy on the process! But to change categories and throw her in with the silicone was like judging a peach in an apple contest.

As far as I know, the right of us were Finfolk, Mertailor, Jessica, Julz, Marla, myself, and one more tailmaker...(please, someone refresh my memory as to whom! )

No...two unknowns...I apologize for not remembering!

[PearlieMae]

I would also like to add that I am in no way complaining! I don't want anyone to think that I am starting some sort of drama, because I absolutely am not! The judges must have had a process that I may not be understanding at this time, I am just trying to be factual with the information I have. Merfest was an awesome event, and tons of fun for me, and I want everyone to know how much I appreciate the hard work of the organizers, presenters, and attendees for making it such an amazing time. With everything that was going on, there were bound to be glitches, but they were far outweighed by the overall excellence of the event...I applaud both the coordinators and community from the deepest ocean depths of my heart!

[MerEmma]

I haven't seen any photos of Jessica's tail I don't think?

[Mermaidmechanic]

Are there pictures? I hope that there are! I want to see them!!! X3

[Miyu]

...So basically Julz won the latex category! WOOHOO! :yay:LOL

It sucks when contests don't go as planned... How they could manage to not even mention several of so few tailmakers is beyond me.

I'm thinking maybe next merfest not have the option of "bring-your-kid-to-watch-us" tickets? I don't know any other conventions that do that, and it seems to me to be one of the main problems people had with this one - no-one can complain about mermaids wearing pasties if we're not advertised as being a children's performance! :p

[Mermaid Lunette]

...So basically Julz won the latex category! WOOHOO! :yay:LOL

It sucks when contests don't go as planned... How they could manage to not even mention several of so few tailmakers is beyond me.

I'm thinking maybe next merfest not have the option of "bring-your-kid-to-watch-us" tickets? I don't know any other conventions that do that, and it seems to me to be one of the main problems people had with this one - no-one can complain about mermaids wearing pasties if we're not advertised as being a children's performance! :p

I agree, I mean I like the idea of there maybe being some child centered EVENTS during the convention, but it seems the convention is more for adults than kids so it might be something to consider to start making it as such

[PearlieMae]

Yes, Julz won latex division technically, but no one knows it.

It's easy to overlook some things when running something as complicated as a convention/festival, along with the added logistical nightmare of having to accommodate merfolk! Remember, this is only the second one ever, and to have it run as smoothly as it did is too be heartily congratulated! The presentations, guest speakers, the mermaid ball, the vendors, not to mention late night access to the pool in the hotel, and Mermaid Cookie's in-pool wedding! Amazing!

[PearlieMae]

I wasn't involved in the children's portion of the event, so I can't speak to it...maybe someone else can chime in?

Also, photos are sure to come once everyone gets home and offloads them!

[Miyu]

From what I hear, the entire staff did an amazing job for such a new event, not to mention that mermaiding conventions don't have quite the fanbase that sci-fi/anime/furries conventions do.

IMO, we should treat it like a furry convention - kids are welcome, but people accept that it's a bunch of adults in costume, and that we act like adults.

I know not every mer wants to be in "kid-mode" every time they're in tail... So it would be neat for mer-conventions to be sort of a "safe haven" for us all to let loose and act like adults while wearing tails and shells, LOL!


I didn't realize Cookie's wedding was going to happen there until I saw pics <3 That was so neat!

[Merman Chatfish]

Marla Spellenburg's (sp?) full body - face included

Oh I hope there are pictures of the full body tail.

[PearlieMae]

I wish I could have taken more pictures myself, but I don't have underwater gear for my Nikon, & I don't fully trust my so-called waterproof case for my brandnew phone. I did get some but I have to go through them. Patience, merfolk, patience!

[MerEmma]

Thing about kids at a mer-con is that it's sort of a con designed to "ruin the magic" I feel? Like, for children there's going to be a lot of mers in and out of tails and not really many opportunities for one on one interaction... the best way to go about including children for a meet and greet of sorts would be to have a designated time or separate pool or area for a kid safe zone. I obviously don't know how they went about it for the event, this may have been what they did.

As obnoxious and plain stupid as it is, I can't say I wouldn't have expected someone of NC to freak out over pasties on a female chest. Kind of typical of the area. :/

[AniaR]

So much to say if I ever get home ugghh

[deepblue]

I'd like to see a Mer-Fest with a kids day- one period of time for kids to attend, and the mers who want to take part can. The rest of the time, I would prefer not to have kids around, and I'm a big fan of kids- anyone who has ever seen me post knows I talk about my own child a lot because she's the most important part of my personal world. But cons, for me, aren't a place for mingling with children.

[Miyu]

MerEmma, you pretty much hit the nail on the head! Inviting the kiddos into the main event does definitely take away the illusion... Plus, think of the tails left lying next to the pool - that could be horrifying to a small child! :p

I'm thinking maybe something like a small show/meet & greet/ photo op OUTSIDE the main convention areas... Have a separate area, far away from the regular bustle of the con, where the illusion is maintained and there are no out-of-tail mers, and everyone knows they'll be interacting with kids and parents. Make it very much not where con attendees will be walking around in swimsuits and carrying tails, etc. LOL!

[Triton-Mahtlinnie]

There actually is a kiddie pool in a seperate room at the aquatic center, but it was closed on Saturday and things were moved to one of the lap pools? (At least, that's what seems to have happened) I do wish that that some of the more kid-centric stuff had been further from the main pool, if only because I dislike interacting with children and know I can't be the only mer who feels the same way.

[deepblue]

Raina mentions in the other thread where this discussion is also going on (can someone merge the appropriate posts maybe?) that kid events WERE separate.

I'm just going to sit back and let the people who were there talk about this.

[PhaylennMurúch]

I think there should be a note here, The difference between the children going to see the mers and the children who are actually attending the con as mers just like everybody else. I didn't get to go this year but next year if it's at the same time Merfest is going to be just before my husband has to sit for his facial reconstruction lab. So I'll be able to go to Merfest with my son and husband. My son is a merling and getting his own tail soon and would be absolutely tickled to be able to hang out in a pool with other mers. He wouldn't be going to stuff like the ball or karaoke in the bar but a photo shoot or just swim time would make his entire existence. You should've seen the look on his face when I showed him some of the pictures from her fest and he saw the sheer number of mermen as well as mermaids. I think the children who attend to attend are there for the same reason that the adults are it's the children who come just for the meet and greets we need to have the magic protected for them.


Sent from my Shellphone using Tapatalk

[Finley the Mermaid]

I enjoyed interacting with the kids, but I agree with exdraghunt. Moving forward to the next fest, I think it's important to maintain a specified (and consistent) kids zone if we continue to keep the convention open to them. Which I hope we do, I had a blast swimming with them! I know with the pool hours/facility setup that wasn't possible this time around. But it did make it difficult when they were around me when I wanted to get out of my tail. I felt kinda weird breaking character like that. :p

[AniaR]

There was parents just didn't listen. Kids were supposed to always be in lap pool, classrooms, or vender area. Not big pool.

[Finley the Mermaid]

Deepblue the events technically were separate, but we had lots of kids in the main pool even as the kid swim and meet and greets were going on in their respective spots. I'm not sure how we could have sectioned off the main pool better though (the vendors were right there).

[AniaR]

I'm going to do a big post in my thread with loads of photos I'd I ever get home

[Triton-Mahtlinnie]

I did notice that there didn't seem to be any form of wrist-band checking. Typically, at a convention one receives a badge or other form of identification and staff are at doors to make sure that only people who paid for the event gets in. It could just be a lack of volunteer power/staffers (which I understand), but it seemed like anyone could come into the aquatic center and walk over to check out the pool.

[AniaR]

They ran out and I think switched to a stamp/ sign in. Everyone who came in had to sign forms but the volunteers were good at recognizing convention goers vs general public. They did check sean and I lol

[Mermaid Wesley]

The "silicone" category was supposed to be "silicone latex and urethane" but since all but one were silicone they just said "silicone". I do wish they had acknowledged all of the tailmakers. They all did amazing work and should have gotten publicity and recognition for it. But I believe the staff is doing their best and are still learning.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Wesley]

Whoops I did a plane post and now im waaay behind


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Triton-Mahtlinnie]

Ah, could be my mistake, then. I was never asked to show my wristband and assumed that was true for others. I also never noticed anyone standing by the entrance to the pool area or panel rooms.

[AniaR]

There was a table at the entrance ;)

[Mermaid Wesley]

I was asked for tickets and wristbands a few times but with all the craziness it's understandable.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Julz]

Well, I would like to chime in on things.... I had a lot more fun this Merfest than last one. Some things could of been organized better as people have mentioned. The thing that bothered me was that only the winners of the tail competition were mentioned. Although there were not many of us, The could of mentioned everyone.All the makers put in hard work for this. Other than people I knew personally and the pros, I had no clue who was entered. They also could of stated when the competition was going on at the pool who the models where and who their tails were made by for people to know. The models did the "work" at Merfest, without them, its just an empty tail. I am so very proud of my model, Carissa. She did a wonderful job. I look forward to our future work together. Here is a video of her swimming in her tail for the first time.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmrClQmK0Zs

[MermaidIndie]

I have some input on the whole child at merfest thing. I am fifteen and love being a mermaid, mermaiding is part of my existence and I would love to attend merfest as I'm sure many other teens who are into it would love to as well. It just seems like it's really centered around the adult crowd. It would be cool if there was something just for us where we could hang out but not be with a bunch of small children either


The crash of waves and salty air are the signs of freedom

[shimmygoddess]

There was parents just didn't listen. Kids were supposed to always be in lap pool, classrooms, or vender area. Not big pool.

I didnt realize that, was that online? My friend took her daughter with the intention of the free swim, swim with Hannah and the fashion show because that is what was promoted 'swimming with the mermaids'. I don't recall seeing anything where kids were not supposed to be in the big pool?

[AniaR]

Ed you're VIP you didn't get checked!

There really wasnt a swim with Hannah IMO. She performed, posed for photos, and was gone.

The kids being able to come is literally the saving grace that made merfest break even. If not for the unexpected amount of kids they'd be in the negative for a second year in a row. It was great for the con and vendors and great for the kids.

[AniaR]

The swimming with mermaids was in another pool with me and designated mers.

[shimmygoddess]

There really wasnt a swim with Hannah IMO. She performed, posed for photos, and was gone.

The kids being able to come is literally the saving grace that made merfest break even. If not for the unexpected amount of kids they'd be in the negative for a second year in a row. It was great for the con and vendors and great for the kids.

Really :( I assumed there was a "Group swim" with her b/c it is on the website. Group swim with Hannah from 2:15-3pm (Saturday). That was one of the reasons my friend brought her daughter. Was that supposed to be adults only? It doesn't specify that on the website.


The swimming with mermaids was in another pool with me and designated mers.

I think it is very confusing though, b/c for the public looking at the website, and it says "fun for kids of all ages" and it doesn't say " adults only" for certain events, parents are going to assume free swim is open to everyone. Seems like several mers that posted on this thread would prefer kids to not be around, which makes me confused as this event was advertised to parents and kids as a family event? Keeping specific events adults only or having kids for a certain time frame is fine too, but I think everything needs to be clear.

**edited I think the kid issue might have been in the other thread.. . my bad....trying to keep up..LOL

[AniaR]

Its pretty standard for pools to divide events up if they have various pools. This was the exact same last year... They specified what was specifically for kids. There was a kid schedule.

[AniaR]

I think photos took so long with Hannah.

[Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!]

Actually, I LOVED having the kids swimming with us. Yeah, the water was deep. Yeah, a lot of parents didn't know what they were doing. Yeah, we didn't really sign up for children's interaction.

But it was flippin' AWESOME when kids really seemed to like me, a nobody merman, and wanted to race or compete with me in my tail (and even insisted I not hold back, or mimicked me when I performed tricks like dolphin-esque tail "walking"). The parents were grateful and kind, and everyone seemed really polite. Even the disappointed parents (like those of one little girl who bought a fabric tail but whose feet were too tiny to stay in even the children's monofin) really seemed gratified to have the help of people like green-tailed Dan and myself as we swam alongside their little girl as far as she could swim. Raina's mer-adoptee from last year was also adorable. And all the kids wanted to show us their swimming skills, and many of them were on various swim teams and so those skills weren't insignificant.

And yeah, the kid attendees of the convention were awesome. Airk, Tai, Airk's brother (whose name I could've sworn was Chris, but I had great difficulty hearing him with my waterlogged ears), Meraiah's adorable children, and so forth made the whole convention more fun, to say nothing of the little octopi and mermaids at the Ball.

As for the adult content, some of the guys (like me) might have embraced each other a little too enthusiastically, and there were people of all sorts of gender identities and styles around, which might've raised some hackles as well.

[AniaR]

I loved you and I miss u so much!!! You taught me how to dolphin wiggle

[Merman Chatfish]

dolphin wiggle? *wimper* I wish I could have gone.

[Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!]

I am actually astonished that hadn't caught on long before I came on the scene... I can't be the first person to figure "dolphin wiggling" out, can I? There have to be a ton of people in better shape than I am who can do it longer.

For the unfamiliar, "dolphin wiggling" is holding your body straight up and making the full-body serpentine motion of a dolphin kick while using your arms as if treading water, but more rapidly, so that your torso rises and stays above the surface for a few moments, not unlike a dolphin "tail walking" or "tail standing". It can be really tiring, though, especially if you maintain it for long periods or do it repeatedly. I could be found floating on my back to try and catch my breath afterwards. I also had no luck doing it without a monofin.

And I loved being around you, too, Raina! Thanks so much for waving me over to your table at the mixer... I was feeling slightly a bit lost in the crowd before that, but you definitely made me feel at home. I am looking forward to seeing you again whenever I get the opportunity :)

[Mermaid Momo]

I have some input on the whole child at merfest thing. I am fifteen and love being a mermaid, mermaiding is part of my existence and I would love to attend merfest as I'm sure many other teens who are into it would love to as well. It just seems like it's really centered around the adult crowd. It would be cool if there was something just for us where we could hang out but not be with a bunch of small children either


The crash of waves and salty air are the signs of freedom
You're 15. 15 isn't counted as a child under convention terms (usually a child is 12 and under) I think you're more than old enough to hang with the older mers. The kids I think everyone is talking about are the younger ones that can be a bit clingy to mers with all their questions and stuff haha like those 8 and under.

[Mermaid Momo]

btw, does merfest have a sort of suggestion box that everyone can send suggestions to? or one of those "How'd we do?" boxes.
And I've always wondered, do they offer printed schedules? I love collecting those from other conventions I go to, those and the badges.

[AniaR]

Yep luma aka mermaid Atlantis takes suggestions and we got folders with info and schedule

[MermanDan]

I am actually astonished that hadn't caught on long before I came on the scene... I can't be the first person to figure "dolphin wiggling" out, can I? There have to be a ton of people in better shape than I am who can do it longer.

For the unfamiliar, "dolphin wiggling" is holding your body straight up and making the full-body serpentine motion of a dolphin kick while using your arms as if treading water, but more rapidly, so that your torso rises and stays above the surface for a few moments, not unlike a dolphin "tail walking" or "tail standing". It can be really tiring, though, especially if you maintain it for long periods or do it repeatedly. I could be found floating on my back to try and catch my breath afterwards. I also had no luck doing it without a monofin.

And I loved being around you, too, Raina! Thanks so much for waving me over to your table at the mixer... I was feeling slightly a bit lost in the crowd before that, but you definitely made me feel at home. I am looking forward to seeing you again whenever I get the opportunity :)

Nobody can do the Dolphin wiggle like you! By the way, you are not a nobody Merman! I thought that you were so sweet helping that little girl with her tail.

[MerEmma]

I have some input on the whole child at merfest thing. I am fifteen and love being a mermaid, mermaiding is part of my existence and I would love to attend merfest as I'm sure many other teens who are into it would love to as well. It just seems like it's really centered around the adult crowd. It would be cool if there was something just for us where we could hang out but not be with a bunch of small children either


The crash of waves and salty air are the signs of freedom

I'm fifteen as well, I consider kids to be below 11 or 12 really. :P So I don't think anyone should really be excluded from the event to be honest, just that the organization for those might need improving? Don't know though! Wasn't there. I attend MegaCon in Orlando yearly and it's been going on for ages--massive con--and it still needs improvement for the organization big time.

[maressa]

Emma the guy who does MegaCon does about 4-5 others... he basically runs South Florida's con scene, lol. The organization on all of them is pretty shot, probably mainly due to the fact that he does SO much. He's a nice guy though.

[MerEmma]

Oh, really? Wow. I didn't know, I just know that it's a very popular con that last year ended up with a fire marshal who came in and made us evacuate the 2nd floor because it was too many people, among the other scheduling issues. :P

[Joy&RaptorsUnrestrained!]

Nobody can do the Dolphin wiggle like you! By the way, you are not a nobody Merman! I thought that you were so sweet helping that little girl with her tail.


Thanks MermanDan! I didn't mean for it to sound quite so self-deprecating when I said I was a "Nobody Merman" just that it surprised me that the parents seemed to like having me, a relative unknown, and a male one at that, entertaining their kids.

[Arella]

Had an excellent time! Hope to come again next year <3

[Jessica]

Asha won the neoprene category for the tail competition:) I wish pearlie Mae and Julz had been recognized for their amazing work and I believe there was one other person who entered (fabric category I think) but unfortunately I have no idea who it was.

It it was really neat to win--I really didn't think I was going to. Honestly though I'm so proud of my mermaid mom (pearlie Mae!) and Julz I would have been thrilled regardless of who won:) I love you girls so much and I am so blessed to have you both in my life!!! (For those of you who don't know, we are all really good friends!)
I don't have many pics of the Ice Queen tail yet(just random ones I've found on FB) but I will get more on here soon! In the last picture(if they upload in the right order) I'm in the white and pale blue tail(Ice Queen) that's Hannah Burgess/Mermaid Nova wearing my parrotfish tail and the little girl is mermaid Paige.

[Merman Chatfish]

Asha won the neoprene category for the tail competition:) I wish pearlie Mae and Julz had been recognized for their amazing work and I believe there was one other person who entered (fabric category I think) but unfortunately I have no idea who it was.

It it was really neat to win--I really didn't think I was going to. Honestly though I'm so proud of my mermaid mom (pearlie Mae!) and Julz I would have been thrilled regardless of who won:) I love you girls so much and I am so blessed to have you both in my life!!! (For those of you who don't know, we are all really good friends!)
I don't have many pics of the Ice Queen tail yet(just random ones I've found on FB) but I will get more on here soon! In the last picture(if they upload in the right order) I'm in the white and pale blue tail(Ice Queen) that's Hannah Burgess/Mermaid Nova wearing my parrotfish tail and the little girl is mermaid Paige.

Pearlie Mae is your mom? Awesome!

[Miyu]

Julz, your tail is awesome!!! (also, nice music choice on that video, heehee) DAT DORSAL :jawdrop:

Wow, all these tails look so awesome! I love the shot of you laying on all the flukes in the water, Jessica :)

I'm not against kids attending, or having the "meet the mermaids" type events for the public - as Raina said, it does bring in good revenue, and I know it's awesome for a lot of the mers to get such positive interactions with kids :) I just think it may be nicer to, in the future, find a way to better section things off... which may mean eventually moving to a different venue. Some people, as noted, are actually uncomfortable around kids for various reasons (while kids are neat, I have some issues being around them too much). It would also be nice so that no-one can say that inappropriate things were happening around the public's meet-the-mermaids area.

Again, I wasn't at this Merfest, but I do plan on attending (hopefully next year, if all goes as planned).

I'm one of those "various gender identities" people :p

[courtneymermaid]

I wasn't there this year, but I would love to go next year! Thanks to everyone who has been posting photos so I can live vicariously through you all! ^_^

[Mermaidmechanic]

Cozumel next year? Anyone who doesn't have a passport yet and plans to go: get your passport now! The wait for a passport can be 6 months long and we need passports to go to Mexico now. @_@ I want to go next year so bad; I LOVE MEXICO. It is SUCH a beautiful country. I've been many times and let me tell you what, it's a mermaid's DREAM to swim in that water. It's holy hell gorgeous and there are so many great places to go.

[AniaR]

my photodump and my retrospective: http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?9872-Raina-s-NC-Merfest-2015-photo-dump-thread&p=165942#post165942


PS everyone gotta calm down about conzumel, it's an ADDITIONAL mermaid retreat under the merfest name. It's not replacing merfest. it's no different than going on the portfolio workshops. calm blue ocean everyone. It's not intended to be the same event by a long shot.

[Merman Dan]

PS everyone gotta calm down about conzumel, it's an ADDITIONAL mermaid retreat under the merfest name. It's not replacing merfest.

What a dream, eh? Just one little puddle-jumper from Cozumel is Chichén-Itzá, where one will not only find the most amazing ruins and pyramids but also cenotes.

http://www.roughguides.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/07/ME001494-660x420.jpg

[MermaidShannon]

Mexico is pretty affordable once you get there and I'm assuming it would be all inclusive. Mermaiding isn't a cheap hobby and just think how magical the crystal waters will feel

[Mermaid Julz]

yeah, I won't be in Mexico..... its not that cheap

[merstorm]

I am sorry I missed this year I will next year for sure I am getting my new tail thursday yaaa

[MermaidShannon]

Update! Merfest will remain in Cary while the Cozumel trip is an excursion / meet up kind of thing

[AniaR]

conzumel= mermaid retreat

their changing the date of merfest in NC to try and accommodate people.

[MermaidShannon]

Semantics.

They're. *

Sorry you started it

[AniaR]

Started what? I never corrected your spelling. It's autocorrect. I was elaborating on your point since Luma confirmed publicly it's a retreat. But the actual event has NOT been confirmed, and won't be til they sign a contract with the venue.

Sean and I looked up prices and this is waaay cheaper for us. NC costs us 1,000-1,300 EACH round trip. This one would cost us 500 round trip each! I'm really hoping we could go if they stick with the Sept date. I was invited on the planning committee a while back along with Marla and Steve who travel down there a lot. I know they're doing what they can to get good deals to offset the price. And I think the idea is it'll be all inclusive. SO you pay the one fee in addition to flight, and you get to stay at the resort and participate in everything and have food etc. That's the goal, don't quote me on anything yet because literally NOTHING is nailed down ;)

[MermaidShannon]

[emoji7]

[Starfrit]

Has there been any sort of estimate for when the Conzumel retreat may be happening? Traveling there is fairly cheap from where I live, so I may actually be able to save up and go! :swoon: That would be an absolute dream! My boyfriend's dad went to mexico with his girlfriend last summer, and all of the stories and pictures they came back with seemed so incredible, I'd love to go!

[AniaR]

Sept

[MerMatt]

This september or September 2016?

[PearlieMae]

This year, I think. :D

Excuse me, I have to go digging through the couch cushions for spare change, now.

[AniaR]

this september. I'd love to see you both there if we make it!

[Mermaid Enora]

Cozumel is awesome! Just came back from there today and I've already got a trip planned to go next month for a professional mermaid photo shoot on paradise beach! Can't wait!!!!

[MermaidShannon]

Oooo post pics!!

[Raayvhen]

September is my birthday month.... I think I know what I'm asking for.

[MermaidShannon]

It is a good thing to spend a birthday wish on!

[Raayvhen]

And the flight would be under $500. That's literally two pay checks for me.

[Mer-gal]

I am sorry if this has already been answered, but is there any plans for another merfest in NC?

[Mermaid Wesley]

Yes there will be :)


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[PearlieMae]

Question for Merfest 2015 attendees...Has anyone received their photos from Susan Knight's underwater photo sessions?

I'm getting no response and the website won't allow me to order any of my photos.

[Mermaid Wesley]

She was supposed to send me an email or something a while ago, but hasnt. Idk, maybe shes just swamped. I know a few people have photos.

[AniaR]

No one has. I'm not impressed with the photos or wait. 3 months when we were told 2-3 weeks.

[Mermaid Wesley]

Oh... huh.

[PearlieMae]

I'm swamped, too, but I can at least answer an email to say 'not yet'. WTF?

[Mermaid Ruthie]

Excited. Not sure for what, but excited for NC Merfest. Sorry about your guy's pictures. It must be frustating.

[Mermaid Momo]

You paid $100 for the shoot right? Waiting 3 months is a really long time for something you paid for.

[MermaidShannon]

I kind of hated all my pictures. All of them.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[shimmygoddess]

That just sucks! And the fact you are all still waiting after all this time sucks too! Even when I did wedding photography I didn't take that long. :( I hope you all get your pics soon. Shannon, did you get to see proofs? or do you just get a couple previews that you didn't like? :( Wonder if the lighting was just bad. This is why I wish I could clone myself, and do my own photos. I am the only one, that I know for sure could take my photos exactly how I want. LOL


I kind of hated all my pictures. All of them.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Momo]

For the mexico event, what time during September? I will always wonder why they chose that month for merfest. I'm hoping I'll be able to go since my boyfriend is from Mexico and knows it very well and wanted to take me anyway (though he wanted to go to the town he grew up in) but in September it's looking kind of bleak since I do have school.

[PearlieMae]

No kidding...and out of that, I get ONE photo? Just as well, there are only two that are usable, and I'll have to pay $25 for the second one.

:fallover:

[Mermaid Momo]

No kidding...and out of that, I get ONE photo? Just as well, there are only two that are usable, and I'll have to pay $25 for the second one.

:fallover:
Wait, why do you have to pay an extra $25? Didn't you already pay $100? How many photos did that $100 include?

[MermaidShannon]

That just sucks! And the fact you are all still waiting after all this time sucks too! Even when I did wedding photography I didn't take that long. :( I hope you all get your pics soon. Shannon, did you get to see proofs? or do you just get a couple previews that you didn't like? :( Wonder if the lighting was just bad. This is why I wish I could clone myself, and do my own photos. I am the only one, that I know for sure could take my photos exactly how I want. LOL


I got them all back and every one is disappointing. They look like a mess you can't even tell what's going on


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[PearlieMae]

Wait, why do you have to pay an extra $25? Didn't you already pay $100? How many photos did that $100 include?

One. It included ONE.

[MermaidShannon]

What. The. Fudge http://tapatalk.imageshack.com/v2/15/03/24/b93ba416ca4b2e8a51ddee1f227569bc.jpg can't work with these man


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[shimmygoddess]

2825 isnt too bad. As for the rest, I don't have anything positive to say :( They look dark too. Wondering if most of the sessions came out bad/dark and she is putting off sending everywhere there stuff? Noone is perfect, I have had issues with photo sessions, but I usually respond right away saying I wasnt happy with the results and offer to just let them have the images free of charge.

[MermaidShannon]

They're stupid


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MermaidShannon]

She had an amazing portfolio and I loved her personality. This made me so so sad


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[shimmygoddess]

One. It included ONE.

Was there only one that you liked? or was usable? or only 1 image was included with the session?

UPDATED::: Never mind, I see the package info. $25 is pretty standard for additional images from a session. That is what I charge too. However my base pricing is different.

I have seen some of her work and it is really nice, so I can only think the lighting might have been the factor. Anyhow, it still sucks :(

[shimmygoddess]

I bet there are some good underwater photogs in Charlotte, just ask around.


She had an amazing portfolio and I loved her personality. This made me so so sad


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

Shannon... I found my photos to be similar. Most of them unsuable. And I think Susan was a lovely person and seemed really amazing. I took behind the scenes videos and I have watched the footage and I know I was giving strong poses and holding them for a while. Everyone I've talked to doesn't like their photos except for one person. I am so glad you said something. I have been wanting to say something publicly for a while but I didn't want to bash her or burn any bridges.

All my photos were super dark. I asked for full body photos to show my new tail and I wanted photos with Sean. I paid for two sessions. I was the very first photoshoot. She kept getting me to do this leaning the head back at the surface shot that I did NOT want to do. It kept making super strong chlorine go up my nose and I had no desire to have the show anyway. It's some of the most unflattering photos of me I have ever seen. I paid 300$ for mine because of conversion from american to canadian. For 2 photos. And I couldn't really pick two I liked.

I contacted several local photographers because I honestly was contemplating asking for a refund. I have been modelling for 10 years. I may not always get a good shot but photos we've done on our own with a point and shoot have turned out better.

Most of the photos she sent me were either portraits (which I didnt want and talked to her about it several times both on phone and in email and in person prior to the shoot) shots where you cant see my tail and cant tell I'm a mermaid, or shots you would delete off the camera.

28481

28482

28483

hello derp face.


These are the ones I decided to pick even though I have issues with them:

28484

^this one is one of the ONLY full body shots. Despite in the video you can see I kept giving her the poses she would zoom in and do portrait of it. I hate my stomach in this photo and I think one of the big problems was she'd only take 1 or 2 frames and then switch to profile. Meanwhile I keep going down there thinking she'd doing full body. We shoulda tried a few times to get different full body shots because that's what I had asked for and what I paid for. But I feel like I'm settling for this one because I only got sent 2 full body shots...

28485

^we did a bunch of Sean and I where the flash is waaaay too harsh and the angles are super unflattering. IN this one we tried putting it into light room to see how much of my tail could be recovered from the darkness and not enough, plus Half of sean's body is cut off and the fish eye lens makes his head all alien warped. Again I felt like I settled for this one, because there wasn't much else to choose from.

28486

^this is one of the ones she really liked and I think she was hoping Id buy it but I didn't. It's not bad, it's just not what I wanted. The hair piece looks pretty.



I want to show you comparison so you understand why I feel it's so off the mark...

Here's the behind the scenes video you can see most of it is her getting me to do the leaning back with my head which I didn't want to do and didnt feel comfortable in the slightest and wasnt in my list at all. You can see I go down and give full body poses expecting that's what she's doing but then she comes up close and does my face.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRkqjBx0H3w



In comparison, this is a free photo (which I later insisted on paying for) from Steve Anton, with NONE of the gear that she had (no lights, flash, solid backdrop, minimal camera) from the first Merfest
https://scontent-lga.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xfp1/t31.0-8/11018840_1579429955668715_1891805894461216544_o.jp g


And this is a photo by a local photographer taken again with less gear than her and NO underwater experience and only a big clunky BAG housing
https://fbcdn-sphotos-b-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-xfp1/t31.0-8/11041834_1571842126427498_6813721882884968966_o.jp g


To say I was dissapointed is an understatement. I want to stress that I tried to vet her as best I could. I looked at everything she had online, asked people for references. 300$ at Christmas time when I am the only person providing an income in my household is a lot. That's my meds for a month. Ontop of everything else we had to spend to go to merfest from Canada. I put a lot of thought into hiring her, and I looked forward to it all year. I talked with her on the phone, in email, and I even rented a pool to practice my posing in to prepare for the shoot. She was super nice and acted really professional and I had a LOT of fun getting to know her. I didn't expect the most amazing photos ever. But I did expect them to be better than that. I was really really let down. And I have seen many photos from a bunch of other people and many are worse than mine. Super blurry photos, derpy expressions (photos that should of been out takes) . I do understand underwater photography is tricky, I understand we didnt have the pool we expected to, I understand they were fast time slots. I get alllll of that. But Sean and I do better photos with less all the time. I guess I just expected more from someone as well celebrated and known as she is.

I think Susan is lovely. I felt very conflicted over saying something, and we have many mutual friends. I was honestly worried if I said something about it I'd get black listed or something or lose some of those mutual friends :(

It just sucks to spend that much money, get pictures you really don't like, and then be waiting 3 months later and still don't have them. The local big wigs here all agreed asking for a refund was the right thing to do but I guess I just don't feel comfortable doing that. I really wanted to show off my new tail. And I NEVER get to work with underwater photographers. prior to meeting this new guy (Babineau) there were none in the area we were it!

[shimmygoddess]

Raina that last image is great!!!! All I have is negative stuff to say and you can probably just guess, so I will just leave it at that. LOL

[PearlieMae]

Well, I got a reply telling me she'll set me up with downloads and will be sending me a PayPal invoice since I couldn't get her site to cooperate.

If anyone else gets their shots and wants me to retouch them, let me know.

:)

[LauraLWatson]

I got my proofs and my 1 image in mid-March, after begging once every 2 weeks since NC MerFest. About half of mine came out really well- and it was my first underwater shoot. (I lucked into have my shoot right after the underwater modeling class.) But, she did have me doing some crazy poses that were the OPPOSITE of what I wanted- face AND tail in the same shot to use for publicity. So, at the end of my shoot, I insisted on taking a few more shots of the pose I had originally described, and those are the ones I'm getting. I got my 1 included image retouched and sent. I am waiting on the other 3 to be retouched- or for her to ANSWER THE EMAILS asking if they can, in fact, be corrected as my tail is too dark to be seen. Since NC MerFest, I have sent no less than 15 emails and received 3 replies. She is a wonderful woman with a great portfolio. I enjoyed working with her and I really like my photos, but I find the lack of communication inexcusable. I told her, when I signed up and paid for the shoot, that I REALLY needed these shots by the end of February for a marketing campaign my company and I are launching in March. Nope. My photos are not part of that new marketing campaign. Now, instead, each mer in the troupe is getting a solo big reveal, 1 per month. I hope to have mine by the end of the year- when I scheduled myself. Hope she'll get them to me in the next 8 months...

[MermaidShannon]

I didn't even bother asking for an image because I just dislike them so much. I haven't been a mermaid model for long but I have been in television pageants and modeling in some form my entire life. I have never had a shoot where I didn't get one good pic. But I also know everyone else is upset and I like her so maybe she just had a bad day. Her shoots in open water are amazing. She surely knows by now merfest was a big fail. I feel bad because I hope she didn't get hurt by the feedback and just does something different next time. I can get better images with a go pro and a screen grab. Sigh.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

Yeah pretty much how I feel too

[PearlieMae]

I'm not bashing her and I want to make it clear that I really like her and the portfolio work I saw.

I was nervous, I swam too fast, and I am terribly self-conscious when it comes to being photographed. I didn't like how shallow we were working, I nearly choked on the first 'head back' direction (one of the first shots) and never really recovered.

I think we both had a bad shooting day. I know the feeling all too well, and, like shooting a wedding, you keep shooting no matter what.

I do wish she were a little more 'spray and pray'. Shooting volume can sometimes make up for less than optimal conditions.

[Echidna]

Everyone keeps repeating how amazing the portfolio was.

That doesn't change the fact all of the shots posted here look absolutely awful.
If those were taken by a non-pro beginner with zero props, a cheap handy camera, and an intense dislike for water, I could understand (and I'd still delete those shots).

Asking money for any of these is unbelievable, really.
One can't blame the models either, you can see great poses in Raina's video, none of which she managed to capture.

I'm really sorry you guys had to pay so much for...that.
Note to self: don't give too much on someone's portfolio.

[LauraLWatson]

Here are my un-retouched proofs that I requested final copies of- and offered to pay for. The one she did do, her website is across my face in the full resolution, and she still hasn't fixed even that.

284922849328494
28495

[AniaR]

But it was two days and photos weren't great on either day. Its just too bad really.

[merstorm]

Hey guys I am sorry to see and hear how things went for your photo shoots. I was planning on going but could not get everything done on time to go. I am a photographer with over twenty years of experience cant believe what happened. If anyone is from the illnoise near Chicago id be happy to help just buy me lunch after the picts and you will get them same day I have laptop with me and a great small camera 18 mp.

[Mermaid Wesley]

I actually did get access to my photos, there's 2 or so usable ones out of 15. I do like the 2 alot, though.

[Arella]

I thought I was the only one having issues. Most of mine are pretty much unusable too. There's one that's alright but I still haven't gotten my image. :(

[Vicky Mermaid]

So sorry for you guys. We all know underwater posing can be very tricky, but this is just a shame.

[AniaR]

Wes by access do you mean you saw the proofs or were given the edited images you paid for

[PearlieMae]

I got one image, then the invoice for the second image - for which I paid immediately - and so far, three promises for the second pic, and now she's ignoring me.

I didn't even ask for her to retouch them. I have to combine the two images to make ONE that I can use.

http://replygif.net/i/513.gif

[AniaR]

Yeah I haven't gotten the two I paid for or an invoice for a third or heard anything

[Mermaid Reiko]

Sounds like photographer new name should be fish food

[Mermaid Momo]

I'm not a photographer, but I think I can grasp that if she had brought along some lighting then a lot of the images would have been a lot better. Maybe she doesn't have any experience working indoors, aka, without the natural sun filtering through the water to get nice lighting.

[AniaR]

...She actually had an entire underwater studio and lights on her rig + flash

[Mermaid Momo]

Seriously?! how in the world did they turn out so dark?

[Mer-Crazy]

I have a real quick, exceptionally unrelated question for everyone: When you meet other mermaids at a convention... do you call them by their real name or Mersona name?

[PearlieMae]

Those were the untouched files. They run dark because she used a tight aperture to get a long depth of field so everything would be in focus. Small aperture and faster shutter speeds make for less blurry and grainy shots, that would eventually be corrected in Lightroom or Photoshop. You can lighten a dark image easier than you can sharpen a blurred image.

As for people's names at cons, I called Raina by her mer name...everyone else, I called by both names, for the most part. I think everyone called me Pearlie.

[Mermaid Wesley]

It was a toss up mostly. *nod*

[Mermaid Lilium]

mix of names, I think most people called me Kat for example. I called Pearlie and Raina by their mer names, Dottie got a mix of real name and mer name from me I think lol

I got my proofs from Susan on the 10th Feb, I replied on the 11th with my choice of image and a question about how long she retains the photos in case I wanted to purchase an extra image at a later date. Never had a reply back.

28549

28550
I chose 28 as it was as close as I was going to get to a good full length shot of my tail. It was my very very first tail swim during her shoot and the debut of this tail even in its WIP form. The tail was the focus. Especially the fluke. In the shot I chose half the fluke isn't even in the water, and it's still not exactly a flattering shot. I know she went out of her way to fit me in even after I was completely late for my slot (was trying to heat set the paint in time for the shoot and then get a lift to the TAC) and I was suuuuper floaty and inexperienced. I know underwater photography is hard. But still... most of the proofs I would never have even selected to show to a client as proofs (I'm a photographer by trade) they're awkward, unflattering (aaaalll the double chins) and just look a mess. And she seemed lovely and seemed to handle the shoot really well at the time and corresponded well during the event in the run-up to my shoot. Now i'm just shocked and dissapointed and feel ripped off. I went through this crap with getting ripped off by Kanti, really wasn't expecting to feel it all again with this. Seriously considering telling her to keep the images and give me a refund instead.

also fyi I know she wanted me to pick this image:
28551
as it's a lovely photo (although i'd crop the bottom part due to the bracers chopping my arm off lol) but it doesn't show the tail at all which was the whole point =(

I think in general I may have gotten off better with the photos from susan than others but yeah.... not happy. If I pay for a shoot I expect to have at least one photo that makes me go 'wow!'.

[AniaR]

yeah I dont think she intentionally ripped anyone off but maybe her portfolio isnt as strong as we all thought. When I go back and look I see a lot of awkward poses even in the clear shots... She was really nice and everything. Just maybe not the right person for that sort of thing. https://www.facebook.com/pages/Susan-Knight-Studios/117457661639068?sk=photos_stream a lot of her shots are really dark anyway.

[MermaidShannon]

What is with all the half face in the water choke pose that did t work on anyone


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Mermaid Wesley]

She was trying to work with the reflection stuff, and i saw it work for a few people but not most...

[AniaR]

it's just too bad because most of us expressed not wanting to do that and also being uncomfortable because she'd make us arch backwards which made the insanely chlorinated water go up the nose...

[Echidna]

I HATE it when Togs tell me to do a certain pose when I already know the pose they want looks stupid on me.
If I'm paid for that shoot, sure. I'll do all the ugly-looking poses they want.
But to demand from your paying customers a pose they don't want? Urgh.

I think it's a bit of a hubris complex.
"I'm the pro photographer, I know best!" Similar to physicians getting all cranky if you already have a pretty good idea what ails you and you mention it.

I remember the many occasions when I paid good money to some Tog who insisted I "tilt back head...more tilt...moar tilt!!" and I ended up looking stupid on all photos.
These days, I only work with friends who may not be pro, but they take dozens of shots and some of them are bound to look good.
(/rant)

[AniaR]

So we are into month 4 now of this year. Did anyone else get their images??? I've had no replies and heard nothing....

[PearlieMae]

I got my two photos, but not without some regular asking.

And I think getting mine were - excuse the pun - a fluke.

[MermaidShannon]

My
Images were ugly
And I don't want to even look. Skeet skeet


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[LauraLWatson]

I got an email last week- after I'd send 1/week for 3 weeks, saying she would send a link so I could pay for my additional images. I've yet to receive the link, my images, or a follow up email. One of the emails I have for her is now rejecting new messages because it is full. It's not usually this hard to give people money.

[Arella]

I still have no images.

[AniaR]

she emailed me this week on Thursday and said I'd have my two images this weekend. But nothing yet

[LauraLWatson]

I received one image, of the 3, but not the link so to pay her. Perhaps she will send an invoice. She did reply to a similar thread going on Facebook that she was working on images and would be sending links/proofs this week/weekend.

[LauraLWatson]

AND the edits on my pic were what I asked for and it looks pretty good.

[Poseidon]

29122

Got my first image back and she's sending me my next two, I'm pretty happy with it. I have heard that alot of others don't like there proofs and it really baffles me because when it came time for me to work with her she let me run with it and loved all my ideas and poses and used them, but I'm seeing others proofs that they are unhappy with and it's a shame that she did that and didn't send the better ones, because from my experience I really enjoyed working with Susan

[Arella]

Finally got my image :)

[MermaidShannon]

I'm glad some good ones came back. She's on my whale shark swim in July and I feel awkward because I loved her personally and I hated my pics. I hope she doesn't remember me and we can start over she is so lovely.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[MermaidShannon]

I did not know Christian was Poseidon!! I learn something new all the time.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[AniaR]

another week gone by...

[Arella]

I got my image, from what she said in her email it sounded like she thought the images were going through or something but they aren't? Maybe try emailing her again.

[AniaR]

I think people have been telling her from the get go they werent working on the link she tried to send. She hasnt edited my photos. She told me a week ago she would. Still just waiting.

[mermaids-and-anchors]

She emailed me today. I think she's been really busy, I think she's out doing a project right now if I remember. I emailed her what pic I wanted and if she touch up the heels because I'm really rough with my tail and the paint has come off just wanted the heels to blend in. I tried to send an additional email and it said her inbox was completely filled and could not go through.

[Mermaid Lilium]

I have my photo from her now. Posting it in the photoshoot thread shortly x

[AniaR]

So am I the only one still waiting?? Cuz we are halfway to June ... Almost 5 months

[Arella]

Shoot her another email reminding her how long you've been waiting for images. That's what I did and then she sent them.

[LauraLWatson]

Got mine a week ago. Editing is crap but I'm done emailing. The requested edits are easy (fix the backdrop and make it so my tail pops instead of blends into the shadows behind me.) Photos will be posted to my facebook for Mer-Monday.

[AniaR]

Finally got my images and she's giving me another for free because of the wait :)

30303

30304

30305

[Mermaid Cecelia]

Sooooo sorry if this has already been answered, plus it's a little off topic, but when is NC Merfest 2016? I've been off the network for a few months so I've missed a lot. I went through this thread to see if it said anything, but I just keep getting more confused. Raina, you said it was changing dates because of the Mexico retreat? I'm just curious when it would be. Thanks

p.s. sorry about everyone's photos being underwhelming, that really stinks

[AniaR]

I don't think anything is happening anymore. No one will say that officially.

[Mermaid Corabelle]

How disappointing.

[Mermaid Kimberlee]

A few months ago, on the facebook page, one person officially announced (after I had asked) that NC Merfest was cancelled permanently and got quite snippy with anyone who acted dismayed or surprised. A few days afterwards, however, a different person officially announced that NC Merfest was NOT cancelled, the other person was wrong. She said that NC Merfest would be rescheduled to a warmer time of the year because last time so many people got stranded in NC because their hometowns were buried in ice. There was a poll to decide what time of year most preferred, and then nothing for some time now. I guess we just wait and see.

[Mermaid Cecelia]

Thanks yall

[Mermaid Wesley]

I heard that Chris's dad is very sick, it's on hiatus at best.

[Merman Dan]

For those who prefer January, some of us are working on a smaller gathering at the Greensboro Aquatic Center (http://www.greensboroaquaticcenter.com/about).Feel free to peruse the New Mer Convention in the Works (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?10371-New-Mer-convention-in-the-works-for-east-coast&highlight=merfolk+gathering) thread. This is NOT MerFest. This will be a different gathering altogether. At this point there will be no guests or workshops, just swimming and fun, but that may change. Stay tuned!

[Mermaid Lilium]

I really hope merfest happens next year, looking forward to it so so much <3 I miss my mer-family!

Was hoping and planning on flying to at least LA to spend time with mer-family there before flying back over the atlantic.

I was discussing with a few others about having a trip to Vis in Croatia for a bit of a mermaid retreat / portfolio building type holiday and I'm personally organising a UK meet in september here in Blackpool... So things are still happening... but still, I'd be heartbroken if there were no merfest!

[AniaR]

Kimberlea you gotta shrink your signature!

[MermaidVictory]

A few months ago, on the facebook page, one person officially announced (after I had asked) that NC Merfest was cancelled permanently and got quite snippy with anyone who acted dismayed or surprised. A few days afterwards, however, a different person officially announced that NC Merfest was NOT cancelled, the other person was wrong. She said that NC Merfest would be rescheduled to a warmer time of the year because last time so many people got stranded in NC because their hometowns were buried in ice. There was a poll to decide what time of year most preferred, and then nothing for some time now. I guess we just wait and see.

Is there any way that we can find out any more information about NC Merfest? I've been searching all over the internet but I'm having very little luck (being new at this means lots of learning). I would love to go to it, so I really want to know what's happening in order to get that time off and such. Thanks everyone!

[AniaR]

it comes down to this: everyone who was involved last year says no more NCmerfest. Except for one person. And that one person had previously told me no, but then said yes on the page. Christomer is going through a divorce and his father being in the hospital and business stuff so it's the furthest thing from his mind.

As it stands right now nothing is planned, nothing is confirmed, nothing is booked. No mexico. no Nc. none of it has been started.

I think in theory some of the organizers really want it to happen- but Christomer always fronted the money in the past and it doesn't look like that's something he'll be able to do again.

So there's no info... it's just a wait and see kind of deal.

[MermaidVictory]

Thanks AniaR! Hopefully everything gets figured out and I hope Christomer has things looking up soon.

[PearlieMae]

I echo Raina, here. Simply put, the everyday life of the people who finance the convention are facing challenges, so until they get things sorted, we all have to just wait and see.

[Mermaid Kimberlee]

I heard that Chris's dad is very sick, it's on hiatus at best.



Merfest aside, I am praying for Chris! I cannot imagine everything he must endure at once.

[Mermaid Kimberlee]

I can volunteer to help create a FL meet-up, though I am sure it won't be as big a bash as Merfest. Regional get-togethers are not uncommon.

[PearlieMae]

Sorry to drag up an old thread, but someone asked me about Merfest this past January and wanted to see pix of me (frankly, so did I!), but it seems like I managed to avoid every camera.

Does anyone have any photos, other than the group shot at the ball, that I am in?

Thanks in advance! :mermaid kiss:

[AniaR]

christomer uploaded every photo Sean took. Every. single. one. lol So they may be on christomer's account

[PearlieMae]

On Facebook?

[AniaR]

yes on his christopher chandler pages. he has two I'm not sure which one has it. I think there's also some in the albums on the NCMerfest page

[AniaR]

Folks; for anyone who doesnt know Caroline aka Aquanette the mermaid, Aka one of the founders/organizers of merfest, is going through a very difficult time. Her mother went in for a routine test to the hospital, and now after complications, her mother will not be coming out. Caroline's been informed there's nothing else they can do now, she's going to pass away. I can't even imagine as this has been going on for her a few weeks, and the shock of everything.

This is the time when the mer community really needs to come together to show love and support. Caroline is such a wonderful loving person, she did so much for NCMerfest, so much she went unthanked for, so much personal sacrifice. I am so angry for her, I feel sick to my stomach when I saw the news this morning and it makes me cry.

If you have her on Facebook please reach out to her. I can't figure out if she has a fanpage I can't seem to find it (if someone does please post it here) She's been documenting everything on facebook and it's freaking horrid :(

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Oh this is a terrible thing 😞

I'm really sad to read this I don't know her in person and I don't have her on Facebook but please say that I'm near she and I send to she and her family my love, thoughts and prays ❤

[AniaR]

Her mom passed:(

[Celaeno]

I am so very very sorry to hear that. Condolences to her and her family.

[Theobromine]

So so sorry to hear this, that is absolutely awful :(

[shimmygoddess]

this is awful, I have been following it, but was surprised this morning to hear the news of how badly things have gotten. :(

[Meronica]

When I read that on Facebook this morning my heart sank. One never expects something to go so wrong with a preventative exam...


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Merman Dan]

it comes down to this: everyone who was involved last year says no more NCmerfest. Except for one person. And that one person had previously told me no, but then said yes on the page. Christomer is going through a divorce and his father being in the hospital and business stuff so it's the furthest thing from his mind.

As it stands right now nothing is planned, nothing is confirmed, nothing is booked. No mexico. no Nc. none of it has been started.

I think in theory some of the organizers really want it to happen- but Christomer always fronted the money in the past and it doesn't look like that's something he'll be able to do again.

So there's no info... it's just a wait and see kind of deal.

In the meantime, if folks like the idea of an NC merfolk gathering in January, feel free to drop by for a swim! :) More Info (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?11721-The-January-2016-Merfolk-Meetup-is-On!%E2%80%A8%E2%80%A8&p=211492#post211492)

[The Harlem Mermaid]

what amazing photos of you and mertender sean!

[The Harlem Mermaid]

thank you MerDan for updating and informing us,