Studio Blog
Welcome to the Demand Studios Blog – a resource for writers, contributors and freelancers alike! Come here for answers to your questions, Studio news, writing tips and more.
Studio Blog
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
I'm Lisa Love, from the beautiful mountains of Northeast Georgia. I was published while working in the finance industry in the ‘80s and ‘90s and spent the last 12 years as an educator. The kids are grown and gone now, and we are patiently awaiting grandkids. Although my husband and I both lost our jobs, Demand Media Studios saved the day. I love the flexibility, timely and competitive pay and especially the article topics I don't have to invent. Demand Media Studios could be a filler, hobby or a career. It has been a godsend for me, and I'm thankful to be a part of the team.
I'm Lisa Love, from the beautiful mountains of Northeast Georgia. I was published while working in the finance industry in the ‘80s and ‘90s and spent the last 12 years as an educator. The kids are grown and gone now, and we are patiently awaiting grandkids. Although my husband and I both lost our jobs, Demand Media Studios saved the day. I love the flexibility, timely and competitive pay and especially the article topics I don't have to invent. Demand Media Studios could be a filler, hobby or a career. It has been a godsend for me, and I'm thankful to be a part of the team.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
I'm Rachelle Bowman, and I graduated from college in 2003 with a major in accounting and a minor in English. My love for English beat accounting, and I found myself teaching the subject to junior high school kids at a small private school. When my daughter was born, I committed myself to stay home and raise her, but a part of me ached for a creative outlet and a way to use my skills. Demand Media Studios is a dream come true for me. I have the perfect balance of work and family and also the personal fulfillment of actually being able to say that I am a writer.
I'm Rachelle Bowman, and I graduated from college in 2003 with a major in accounting and a minor in English. My love for English beat accounting, and I found myself teaching the subject to junior high school kids at a small private school. When my daughter was born, I committed myself to stay home and raise her, but a part of me ached for a creative outlet and a way to use my skills. Demand Media Studios is a dream come true for me. I have the perfect balance of work and family and also the personal fulfillment of actually being able to say that I am a writer.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
My name is Jean Brewer, and I've been writing since I was in fourth grade. I was one of those kids who always had a pen and paper. Someone told me about Demand Media Studios a while back. I was unsure, but after working up the nerve, I submitted my first article. I fell in love. The guidelines give me structure, the subjects give me room to explore my passions, and the paychecks give me money to pay bills. I can support my kid and pursue my passions — pure heaven for a single mom. Thank you Demand Media Studios.
My name is Jean Brewer, and I've been writing since I was in fourth grade. I was one of those kids who always had a pen and paper. Someone told me about Demand Media Studios a while back. I was unsure, but after working up the nerve, I submitted my first article. I fell in love. The guidelines give me structure, the subjects give me room to explore my passions, and the paychecks give me money to pay bills. I can support my kid and pursue my passions — pure heaven for a single mom. Thank you Demand Media Studios.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
My name is Amanda Mack. I am an English graduate from Arkansas. I recently got married and relocated to be closer to my new husband's job, which ultimately forced me to give up my steady legal job in a large local corporation. Thankfully, I have Demand Media Studios to offer me unlimited earning potential while being able to do what I've always dreamed of. Writing is a passion of mine that, thanks to Demand Media Studios, I'll be able to continue doing regardless of whether I choose to do it full time or as a supplement to another career.
My name is Amanda Mack. I am an English graduate from Arkansas. I recently got married and relocated to be closer to my new husband's job, which ultimately forced me to give up my steady legal job in a large local corporation. Thankfully, I have Demand Media Studios to offer me unlimited earning potential while being able to do what I've always dreamed of. Writing is a passion of mine that, thanks to Demand Media Studios, I'll be able to continue doing regardless of whether I choose to do it full time or as a supplement to another career.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
My name is Robin Jessie-Green, and I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for several years. As our family size grew rapidly to seven, it was clear I needed to help supplement the household income. Childcare is an expense we simply couldn’t afford for five children. I needed something that would allow me to utilize the skills I’ve developed in undergrad and grad school and permit me to follow my writing passion. The catch was, I needed to do this from home. Demand Media Studios allows me to help care for my large family, follow my dream and love my work.
My name is Robin Jessie-Green, and I’ve been a stay-at-home mom for several years. As our family size grew rapidly to seven, it was clear I needed to help supplement the household income. Childcare is an expense we simply couldn’t afford for five children. I needed something that would allow me to utilize the skills I’ve developed in undergrad and grad school and permit me to follow my writing passion. The catch was, I needed to do this from home. Demand Media Studios allows me to help care for my large family, follow my dream and love my work.
Each year the editorial team at Demand Media takes time to recognize our favorite article, writer and/or filmmaker of the year. An editor will reveal their pick each day in the blog and explain why that particular body of work stood out to them.
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“Bring on the fierce” couldn’t be a more fitting introductory sentence in an article written for the new Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion website. “Fierce” was coined by model and entrepreneur Tyra Banks and is exactly what Dawn Levesque exudes in her article “How do I Choose a Nike Swimsuit?”
Showcasing exceptional content for Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion site has not been easy since the site has not launched publicly yet. When we started this new venture in Demand Media Studios, we didn’t just introduce a new property; we also threw in a distinct voice and style to boot--complete with a specific fun, casual tone and targeted sections that address the everyday women. Oh, and they must be useful, too.
Sounds difficult, right?
Well, Dawn catwalked her way to the top of my 2010 list with her inclusive tone and seamless injection of sass and wit representative of Tyra’s entertaining voice.
Dawn nails it with quips, such as “Don’t wait to uncover yourself until you jump into the pool because your suit bottom droops or it shows more cleavage than you desire …,” and “Hit poolside with confidence by highlighting your shapely assets in the right swimsuit.” It is statements like those that exemplify the friendly, fun feel we are looking for in Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion articles.
She also exemplifies inclusiveness and the goal to engage women of all shapes and sizes by addressing various body types throughout the piece. Dawn created sections: “Pears to Apples,” “Busting Out” and “Full Coverage.” Then, she addresses how to find a Nike swimsuit for each body type and concern by providing insight for each. A suit with high-cut legs that slims down thighs and hips works well for pear shapes; Nike’s racer-style suits are better for ladies with larger bust lines; and Nike’s Swim Signature halter tankini with high-waist brief is more suitable for women with a “bootylicious backside.”
At the end of the day, Dawn took a topic that women find daunting and created a great article that was friendly, fun and attainable. Dawn is conversational and speaks on a subject that doesn’t alienate the reader; it’s as if she is giving advice to a girlfriend. She applied the standards and requirement set forth by the Studio Team and executed a piece of content that is in line with the voice of Tyra Banks’ Beauty & Fashion site.
Great work, Dawn. I am looking forward to more “fierceness” from you in 2011.
How do I Choose a Nike Swimsuit?
By Dawn Levesque
Overview
Bring on the fierce. Don’t wait to uncover yourself until you jump into the pool because your suit bottom droops or it shows more cleavage than you desire. Find a Nike swimsuit that flatters your figure. You’ll want freedom of movement, comfort and a suit that stays in place no matter what. Ditch the fleece shorts and the tunic cover ups. Hit poolside with confidence by highlighting your shapely assets in the right swimsuit.
Pears to Apples
Step 1
Accentuate the positive features of your pear-shaped figure. It’s all about balance. Wear a suit that features high-cut legs to visually slim down your thighs and hips. A figure-flattering suit such as the Nike Swim Aquacurve Lingerie draws the eye upward.
Step 2
Avoid bottoms in bold colors or with extra fabric. Downplay your lower-torso region with a dark suit bottom or a lightweight skirt that doesn’t add bulk, but offers a smooth line and fuller cut. Be subtle and play up your bust without making it obvious. Try on the Nike two-piece skirted halter tankini with contrasting empire-inspired top and skirted bottom.
Step 3
Minimize your midsection if you have an apple-shape and forgo bikinis. The Nike Swim Core Colorblock tank complements your shape while providing definition to your waist. Color blocking at the neckline darts lead toward the waist for the illusion of a slimmer midsection and a curve-friendly appearance.
Busting Out
Step 1
Keep those girls in line with inner support. A swimsuit with bra construction and cups creates smooth contours while supportive or wide adjustable straps such as the Nike racer-style X provide a more secure fit.
Step 2
Sport a swimsuit with a higher neckline such as the Nike High Neck One-Piece. Designed for ease of movement while providing support, this suit features secure bra cups and a princess color-blocking for an oh-so-slim you.
Step 3
Get into a suit with a darker color block on top and a design at the bottom. The motif will draw attention to your lower areas, downplaying an ample bust. The Nike Power Back has sewn-in bra cups, extra support from a power-net bra and wide racer-back straps.
Full Coverage
Step 1
Cover your derriere. Put on a swimsuit with full coverage when you’re feeling modest or need a little extra for your bootylicious backside. Look at the Nike Swim Signature halter tankini that features a high-waist brief to provide maximum coverage in and out of the water.
Step 2
Hide your tummy with a two-piece suit or a tankini with a high-waisted bottom. The Nike Core solid two-piece suit promises a mid-cut design and elastic waist for added coverage.
Its top boasts an elastic band and bra construction with cups so it stays put.
Step 3
Say good-bye to tummy bulges with a suit that provides full coverage plus tummy control. The Nike Swim Sweetheart Fitness Tank has a molded padded cups and back cross-straps for extra support. Front ruching or shirring distracts the eye from the waist. A higher sweetheart neckline and an empire waist convey a figure-flattering fit and full coverage.
Skill
* Moderately Easy
Tips
* Ask a swimsuit fit consultant to find a Nike swimsuit that's right for your figure.
* When you try on the suit, your eyes should be drawn to your best assets.
* Touch your toes and raise your arms in the dressing room. The swimsuit should not ride up, your girls should stay put and you should not have the urge to pull or tug.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
I'm Amanda Adwell. I graduated with a B.S. in journalism and communications. After working in the family business for three years, I realized what a great opportunity I had with Demand Media Studios and decided I could use it to kick-start my career in freelance writing. I never thought that having the freedom and flexibility of a freelancer would be attainable for me, but thanks to Demand Media Studios, my ultimate career goal is coming true.
I'm Amanda Adwell. I graduated with a B.S. in journalism and communications. After working in the family business for three years, I realized what a great opportunity I had with Demand Media Studios and decided I could use it to kick-start my career in freelance writing. I never thought that having the freedom and flexibility of a freelancer would be attainable for me, but thanks to Demand Media Studios, my ultimate career goal is coming true.
It's Writer Wednesday! Each week we ask our writers a question via Facebook and Twitter. The answers, stories, and overall response have been so great that we want to feature them on our blog! We'll highlight the most creative, intriguing and engaging responses and let those who are featured bask in the limelight just a little bit. Check back each week to see what question we ask, answer it yourself, and see who gets featured!
This week we asked the community to send us their best Holiday Haikus. We loved the creativity! Here are some of our favorites:
Thanks to everyone who participated this week!
Happy Holidays from DMS!
Happy Holidays from DMS!
Each year the editorial team at Demand Media takes time to recognize our favorite article, writer and/or filmmaker of the year. An editor will reveal their pick each day in the blog and explain why that particular body of work stood out to them.
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Picking your favorite article of the year is usually a daunting task when you read as much as we do here at Demand Media Studios. However, this year I was lucky to discover an article by a writer who found the perfect title to match his expertise. As a result, he wrote an article that I will not forget anytime soon.
Jan Stowell, a retired firefighter from the Syracuse Fire Department, claimed a title on a topic he knows very well in Structural Firefighter Annual Training Requirements. In fact, he could probably have written this with little effort, but he chose to go above and beyond. He got up from the computer, left his house and took a trip down to his old stomping grounds and interviewed the chief of the Syracuse Fire Department to add more color to his story. And that’s what this is, a story. It’s not an article full of only information about different requirements. The quotes from Chief McLees bring it to life and I’m now interested in a subject I normally wouldn’t care about.
"When a firefighter knows how a building is put together he arms himself with the ability to reasonably predict fire travel," McLees says. "And when you know where the fire is going, you know where to be and where not to be. That's the sort of knowledge that keeps firefighters alive."
Can I get a pull quote?
This is what an interview can bring to your article and make it stand out, and that’s why I still remember it today.
Thanks for your effort on this article, Jan. I hope I get to read more of your work in 2011.
Ever wonder what it's like to work for Demand Media Studios? We checked in with our community of freelance creators — writers, copy editors, filmmakers and titlers — and asked them to share their experiences. Hundreds of people chimed in about why Demand Media works for them. Tune in daily to read their firsthand accounts.
My name is Laura Shapiro, and I've been a writer pretty much since I could write. Due to the illness of a loved one, I returned to the U.S. after having lived in Italy for 15 years and had to start all over again — this time with a newborn son. I did several freelance jobs for Italian companies, but they involved a great deal of traveling. I'm so glad I found Demand Media Studios because I can now be at home with my son every day and work while he's sleeping. Thanks Demand Media Studios.
My name is Laura Shapiro, and I've been a writer pretty much since I could write. Due to the illness of a loved one, I returned to the U.S. after having lived in Italy for 15 years and had to start all over again — this time with a newborn son. I did several freelance jobs for Italian companies, but they involved a great deal of traveling. I'm so glad I found Demand Media Studios because I can now be at home with my son every day and work while he's sleeping. Thanks Demand Media Studios.
