LOOKING FOR: ADULT FICTION Marilia Savvides founded The Plot Agency in 2024. She began her career in publishing at Peters Fraser and Dunlop, where she spent eight years, first as International Rights Agent, and later as Literary Agent, building her own list of authors. In 2019, she joined 42MP, where she worked as Literary Agent for four years, helping to launch and set up the Book Division. She is particularly interested in fiction that is beautifully written and cleverly constructed, but still accessible to a wide readership. She is often drawn to darker tales that weave together excellent characters and an impossible-to-put-down story, from immersive book club novels with a splash of suspense, crime and thrillers, accessible horror, and speculative, genre-bending or dystopian stories. She also adores smart, witty contemporary rom-com in the style of Emily Henry. In the thriller, crime and mystery space she is interested in most areas, except military thrillers and organised crime/ mafia / mob stories. Big hooks and clever set ups are a big bonus! She adores Karin Slaughter (especially her standalone novels) and Gillian Flynn. In the book club / reading group space, she’s particularly drawn to fiction in the vein of Jodi Picoult, Liane Moriarty and Celeste Ng, and absolutely fell in love with Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll, both for the incredible voice, and the exquisite use of structure and time. Complicated family dynamics, empathetic and smart approaches to controversial issues, stand out protagonists (like Elizabeth Zott in Lessons in Chemistry or Bernadette in Where D’You Go Bernadette), long buried secrets, complicity, the road to justice, and impossible decisions, are all themes she finds herself drawn to. In the horror space, she’s a sucker for amazing female-centric stories in the vein of Yellowjackets, and the kind of contemporary, accessible horror that Stephen King always nails. She wants to get lost in a world that feels within reach of ours. In the speculative and dystopian spaces, she’s interested in genius ideas that set up big questions or reflect the most broken (and sometimes hidden) parts of society. She loves Octavia Butler, Margaret Atwood, George Orwell, and also adored The Leftovers, Station Eleven, Wanderers, and The Power. The what-ifs of life and fiction fascinate her. In the grounded sci-fi space, she’d love to find a smart, immersive, and accessible story like The Martian. She doesn’t represent fantasy or romantasy. In regards to sci-fi, unless it’s very grounded and has crossover potential to a mainstream audience, it’s not for her. In the romance space, she’s particularly drawn to smart, complex and witty characters, where the chemistry is jumping off the page. She loves contemporary settings and all the tropes, though the voice and characters must come first to make the reading experience fully immersive. She wants to be cackling, and rooting for the characters with all her heart. She is very hands-on editorially, and loves working with her authors to shape their manuscripts, and brainstorm ideas. The best part of the job is discovering debut authors, and helping them find a home for their books. Marilia would like you to submit a covering letter, 1 - 2 page synopsis and the first 5,000 words of your manuscript in a single Word document. (In addition to the paid sessions, Marilia is kindly offering one free session for low income/underrepresented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print). By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Monday 17th February 2025
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LOOKING FOR: PICTURE BOOKS / CHAPTER BOOKS / MG / YA / NEW ADULT inc GRAPHIC NOVELS Gyamfia Osei joined ANA in 2023 as a Literary Agent in the UK department. She was previously an agent at The Good Literary Agency, where she began building her list of authors. Recent successes include a ‘significant’ 6-figure pre-empt for Busayo Matuluko’s YA debut ‘Til Death, a 5-way auction for Quiet Storm by Kimberly Whittam and the shortlisting of Ebinehita Iyere’s Girlhood, Unfiltered at the 2023 British Book Awards. At ANA, Gyamfia is focusing on on developing the agency’s list of children’s authors, while also representing a bespoke list of commercial adult fiction and narrative non-fiction. In the Children’s space, Gyamfia would love to find contemporary stories that are full of heart and joy-driven books across all genres (think Clare Weze, Kimberly Whittam and Elle McNicoll). Funny middle-grade and YA horror are currently at the top of her list and she is also keen to read more teen projects (think Angus, Thongs and Perfect Snogging and Glow Up Lara Bloom) this year. She is very interested in finding a graphic novel or illustrated project for either MG or YA readers. In the older fiction space, Gyamfia enjoys well-plotted, fast-paced narratives with authentic characters who lodge themselves in her mind long after she’s finished reading (think Sadie, Verity and Girl A). She’s open to a broad range of genres, but would be particularly keen to see romantasy, cosy crime, contemporary romance and tightly plotted domestic noir. Please note that Gyamfia doesn’t consider literary fiction and, in the commercial space, she is not hugely interested in very high fantasy, trauma-focused stories or particularly gruesome horror.In the non-fiction space, she would be happy to consider commercial narrative non-fiction and cultural history projects (think Brit(ish), It’s Not That Radical and Everything I Know About Love). She is very open when it comes to Children’s non-fiction but would be particularly interested to consider unique cookbooks aimed at young chefs, books exploring mental health/wellness and projects that bring the experiences of marginalised children to the forefront. Gyamfia would like you to submit a covering letter, 1 page synopsis and the opening three chapters (max 5,000 words). For picture books please send two texts and a covering letter. For non-fiction please supply a cover letter and proposal with up to 5,000 words of your sample text. Please send EITHER picture books OR another genre, not both in one submission. (In addition to the paid sessions, Gyamfia is kindly offering one free session for low income/under-represented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print). By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Monday 27th January 2025
LOOKING FOR: ADULT FICTION, NON-FICTION Diana joined the prestigious DHH Literary Agency in June 2024. She started agenting with Rupert Heath Literary Agency in 2011 before moving to UTA and Marjacq in 2017. Before that she was senior commissioning editor at Transworld. Diana was chosen as one of The Bookseller’s Rising Stars of 2012, was a nominee for RNA Agent of the Year 2019, and was shortlisted for Literary Agent of the Year 2022 at the British Book Awards. Her list includes a wide range of bestselling and prize-winning authors in the UK and internationally. Diana represents adult fiction and non-fiction. For fiction, she is looking for upmarket women's commercial, with depth and heart, including reading group, historical, saga, uplit and contemporary stories that are irreverent and make her laugh; accessible literary fiction, high-concept crime fiction and thrillers. She has a thing for spy novels and would love to find a great vampire story. On the non-fiction side: memoir, smart, funny feminists, lifestyle, cookery and social justice, and open to anything with a strong, original voice. She also encourages submissions from writers who have been traditionally under-represented. Diana would like you to submit a covering letter, 1 - 2 page synopsis and the first three chapters (a maximum of 5,000 words) of your manuscript in a single word document. (In addition to the paid sessions, Diana is kindly offering one free session for low income/underrepresented writers. Please email agent121@iaminprint.co.uk to apply, outlining your case for this option which is offered at the discretion of I Am In Print). By booking you understand you need to conduct an internet connection test with I Am In Print prior to the event. You also agree to email your material in one document to reach I Am In Print by the stated submission deadline and note that I Am In Print take no responsibility for the advice received during your agent meeting. The submission deadline is: Monday 17th February 2025
Why Learn Revit and 3dsMax V-Ray Visualization Basic to Advance Training Course? Course info Master architectural visualization and photorealistic renderings. In-person or live online options available. Learn Revit and 3dsMax, V-Ray rendering, and advanced techniques. Hands-on projects for real-world experience. Duration: 40 hrs Method: 1-on-1 - Individual support. Schedule: Tailor your own schedule by pre-booking a convenient hour of your choice, available from Mon to Sat between 9 am and 7 pm. Comprehensive Training: Master Revit, 3dsMax, and advanced visualization techniques for exceptional results. V-Ray Rendering: Explore realistic rendering with V-Ray, including advanced techniques and materials. Real-World Projects: Work on industry-relevant projects for a professional portfolio. Flexible Learning: Choose in-person or live online sessions for an engaging experience. Lesson Recordings: Access recorded classes to reinforce your understanding. Lifetime Email Support: Get guidance and assistance from experienced instructors beyond the course duration. Autodesk Certified Instructors. Comprehensive Training: Master Revit, 3dsMax, and advanced visualization techniques for exceptional results. V-Ray Rendering: Explore realistic rendering with V-Ray, including advanced techniques and materials. Real-World Projects: Work on industry-relevant projects for a professional portfolio. Flexible Learning: Choose in-person or live online sessions for an engaging experience. Lesson Recordings: Access recorded classes to reinforce your understanding. Lifetime Email Support: Get guidance and assistance from experienced instructors beyond the course duration. Autodesk Certified Instructors. Part 1: Revit (16 hours) Module 1: Introduction to Revit Familiarizing with the Revit interface and workspace Embracing the Building Information Modeling (BIM) workflow Creating a fundamental building model as a starting point Module 2: Basic Modeling in Revit Working with essential elements such as walls, doors, and windows Constructing floors and roofs to complete the building structure Crafting functional and visually appealing stairs and railings Module 3: Advanced Modeling in Revit Delving into the creation and manipulation of families Utilizing parameters and constraints to enhance modeling efficiency Exploring intricate geometries for complex designs Module 4: Annotation and Documentation in Revit Enhancing project documentation by adding text and dimensions Generating informative schedules for better project management Mastering the printing and exporting processes for professional output Part 2: 3ds Max (16 hours) Module 1: Introduction to 3ds Max Navigating the 3ds Max interface and workspace Understanding the 3D modeling workflow for design visualization Initiating the creation of basic 3D models Module 2: Basic Modeling in 3ds Max Working with primitive shapes to build foundational models Creating and refining splines to form versatile shapes Advancing to complex 3D model development for intricate designs Module 3: Materials and Textures in 3ds Max Exploring the material editor and its functionalities Skillfully applying and adjusting materials for realistic renders Incorporating textures to add depth and detail to the models Module 4: Lighting and Cameras in 3ds Max Mastering the art of lighting creation and manipulation Utilizing the daylight system for enhanced realism Understanding cameras and perspectives for compelling visual storytelling Part 3: V-Ray (8 hours) Module 1: Introduction to V-Ray Getting acquainted with the V-Ray interface and workflow Exploring V-Ray materials and textures for high-quality renders Module 2: Lighting and Rendering in V-Ray Creating and refining lighting setups for stunning renders Utilizing global illumination to enhance the realism of scenes Implementing advanced rendering techniques for professional output Module 3: Materials and Textures in V-Ray Crafting and modifying V-Ray materials for realistic surfaces Applying V-Ray textures to add depth and realism to objects Utilizing V-Ray displacement maps for intricate details For 3ds Max free trial, visit: https://www.autodesk.co.uk/products/free-trial. To access the V-Ray free trial, visit: https://www.chaosgroup.com/. Start your journey to becoming a proficient designer and renderer in the world of 3D modeling and visualization. Download Revit Revit and 3dsMax V-Ray Visualization Basic to Advance Training Course: Proficient Software Skills: Acquire a strong command of Revit and 3dsMax, along with advanced techniques in V-Ray rendering. High-Quality Visualizations: Create realistic and visually stunning architectural visualizations using V-Ray. Architectural Modeling: Master the process of modeling architectural elements with precision and efficiency. Materials and Textures: Understand how to apply realistic materials and textures to enhance visualizations. Lighting Setup: Set up lighting environments to achieve optimal illumination and ambiance in renderings. Rendering Techniques: Explore advanced rendering techniques, including global illumination, caustics, and ambient occlusion. Real-World Projects: Complete industry-relevant projects to build a professional-grade portfolio. Problem-Solving Skills: Develop the ability to troubleshoot and resolve rendering challenges effectively. Efficient Workflows: Learn time-saving workflows and best practices for efficient visualization production. Portfolio Showcase: Showcase your newly acquired skills through a diverse range of visualizations.
Master Power BI’s most powerful functions on this 2 day Advanced Power BI training course. This is a hands-on course. You get lots of time to practise creating and editing reports and data visualisations. This ensures that you really get to grips with what you are being taught. By the time you finish, you’ll be an expert Power BI user. ✔ A course covering all of Power BI’s most advanced functions. ✔ Plenty of one-to-one attention and time to ask questions. ✔ Friendly expert trainers, small groups and a comfortable place to learn. ✔ All the materials and extras that you’ll ever need. ✔ Ongoing support and help with issues you have after the course. Our courses are delivered in Guildford, London, Online, or even on-site at your offices!
Why Learn 3ds Max Basic to Advanced Training Course? Learn 3ds max design and animation with our comprehensive 3ds Max Basic to Advanced Training Course. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, this course is thoughtfully designed to elevate your skills. Course Link Duration: 40 hrs Method: 1-on-1, Personalized attention & Tailored content. Schedule: 1-on-1 training with flexible scheduling. Book a convenient hour, Mon to Sat, from 9 am to 7 pm. Course Details: Course Duration: 40 hours Course Syllabus: Part 1: Introduction to 3ds Max and Vray Familiarization with the 3ds Max Interface Configuring an efficient workspace in 3ds Max Seamless navigation within 3ds Max and Vray Understanding the power of Vray and its interface Part 2: 3D Modeling Precision crafting of fundamental shapes Mastering modifiers for advanced modeling Creating intricate 3D models using diverse techniques Learning the art of polygonal modeling Shaping both organic and inorganic models flawlessly Part 3: Texturing Applying and refining textures with expertise Grasping the essentials of UVW mapping Harnessing material editor to perfection Customizing materials with Vray materials Part 4: Lighting Discovering the magic of illumination Differentiating various light types Comprehending the subtleties of light properties Setting up captivating scenes with Vray lights Part 5: Animation Embarking on an animation adventure Expertly setting up keyframes and animation curves Infusing life into objects in a mesmerizing 3D space Elevating animations with Vray's prowess Part 6: Advanced Rendering with Vray Entering the realm of rendering excellence Mastering Vray Global Illumination for realism Optimizing visuals with Vray Physical Cameras Illuminating scenes with Vray HDRI Lighting Employing Vray Proxies and Render Elements for finesse Streamlining rendering workflow with Vray's techniques Part 7: Projects Showcasing skills through hands-on projects Crafting a captivating yet simple interior scene Designing an alluring exterior scene Taking on the challenge of a complex scene with multiple elements Course Requirements: A computer with 3ds Max and Vray installed (trial versions are available on Autodesk and Chaos Group websites) Basic knowledge of computer operations Enthusiasm for 3D modeling and animation Course Objectives: Upon completing the course, you will have mastered 3ds Max and Vray, enabling you to create photorealistic 3D scenes. The skills acquired will open doors to opportunities in the 3D modeling and animation industry, while also serving as a foundation for further honing your expertise. Course Overview: Photoshop Post-Production Delve into the world of Photoshop post-production through our comprehensive course. Learn essential photo editing techniques, including color correction, retouching, and compositing. Unleash your artistic potential by creating mesmerizing visual effects and stylizing your photos. Course Syllabus: Part 1: Introduction to Photoshop Post-Production Navigating the Photoshop Interface with ease Mastering the art of Layers and Layer Masks Embracing the power of Selections Understanding the basics of Color Correction Part 2: Retouching Techniques Unraveling common Retouching Tools and Techniques Removing blemishes, wrinkles, and unwanted elements Achieving remarkable results with Dodging and Burning Part 3: Compositing Embracing the art of Compositing Working seamlessly with Multiple Images Blending images flawlessly using Layer Masks Part 4: Visual Effects and Stylizing Techniques Crafting Special Effects with Layer Styles and Blending Modes Enhancing images with Filters Achieving mesmerizing effects with Color Grading and Adjustment Layers Part 5: Projects Applying your knowledge to hands-on projects Perfectly Retouching a portrait Creating an alluring composite image Fashioning a stylized masterpiece Course Requirements: A computer with Photoshop installed (trial version available on Adobe website) Basic knowledge of computer operations Passion for photo editing and manipulation
Effective Presentation Skills: In-House Training In today's results-oriented, global working environment, the ability to create and deliver presentations effectively is a necessary skill set for people at all levels of an organization. Regardless of your role, it's important to know how to synthesize your ideas into a coherent and focused narrative, add visuals that support and reinforce your message, and deliver it in a way that resonates with your audience. In this highly interactive course, we will unpack and practice some of the tools and techniques used by top speakers and influencers all over the world. In this engaging two-day course, you will plan, write, refine, practice, and deliver a presentation to the class. Your presentation will be filmed on both days, and you will leave the course with a flash-drive copy of your videos; participants of the virtual classroom workshop should be prepared to present via webcam. In addition to discovering and enhancing your own personal delivery style, you will learn how to create an overarching goal for your presentation and then organize and structure it for maximum impact. You'll gain insight into how to anticipate your audience's needs and tailor the content and delivery in a way that connects with them and sustains their attention and engagement. You will also learn skills that will help you control nervous energy, remain focused on and attuned to your audience, improvise under pressure, deal effectively with questions, and build a compelling call to action. What you will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Construct an effective presentation goal statement, opening, body, and closing that connect with an audience Analyze an audience's needs and style preferences, including relevant DiSC®-related elements Deliver a complete criteria-based presentation that will persuade others Align usage of visuals as well as verbal and non-verbal techniques to maximize the impact of your presentation Getting Started Introductions and social agreements Course structure Course goals and objectives Opening activities Planning and Organizing Video: 'The Art of Misdirection' Setting your presentation goal Writing a goal statement Analyzing your audience Applying the 'reality' test Creating and strengthening supports Structuring your presentation 5 components of an effective opening Presentation body Presentation closing Write your presentation opening Audience Analysis Video: 'How to Tie Your Shoes' Everything DiSC® introduction Audience DiSC® Styles Analyzing your audience Further audience analysis Effective Delivery Delivery challenges: virtual and in-person Keeping your audience engaged Your body as your instrument Verbal / paraverbal elements Body stance and nonverbal communication What are your 'tells?' Controlling nervousness Staying attuned to your audience Responding to questions Review and edit your opening Deliver your opening Visuals and Enriching Elements Using images in your presentation Guidelines for visual composition Using questions to engage your audience The power of the pause Practicing and Applying What You've Learned Preparation Delivery Feedback Opportunity to put into practice the program content and receive a video copy Summary and Next Steps What did we learn and how can we implement this in our work environment? Your personal action plan
Effective Presentation Skills (In-Person) In today's results-oriented, global working environment, the ability to create and deliver presentations effectively is a necessary skill set for people at all levels of an organization. Regardless of your role, it's important to know how to synthesize your ideas into a coherent and focused narrative, add visuals that support and reinforce your message, and deliver it in a way that resonates with your audience. In this highly interactive course, we will unpack and practice some of the tools and techniques used by top speakers and influencers all over the world. In this engaging two-day course, you will plan, write, refine, practice, and deliver a presentation to the class. Your presentation will be filmed on both days, and you will leave the course with a flash-drive copy of your videos; participants of the virtual classroom workshop should be prepared to present via webcam. In addition to discovering and enhancing your own personal delivery style, you will learn how to create an overarching goal for your presentation and then organize and structure it for maximum impact. You'll gain insight into how to anticipate your audience's needs and tailor the content and delivery in a way that connects with them and sustains their attention and engagement. You will also learn skills that will help you control nervous energy, remain focused on and attuned to your audience, improvise under pressure, deal effectively with questions, and build a compelling call to action. What you will Learn At the end of this program, you will be able to: Construct an effective presentation goal statement, opening, body, and closing that connect with an audience Analyze an audience's needs and style preferences, including relevant DiSC®-related elements Deliver a complete criteria-based presentation that will persuade others Align usage of visuals as well as verbal and non-verbal techniques to maximize the impact of your presentation Getting Started Introductions and social agreements Course structure Course goals and objectives Opening activities Planning and Organizing Video: 'The Art of Misdirection' Setting your presentation goal Writing a goal statement Analyzing your audience Applying the 'reality' test Creating and strengthening supports Structuring your presentation 5 components of an effective opening Presentation body Presentation closing Write your presentation opening Audience Analysis Video: 'How to Tie Your Shoes' Everything DiSC® introduction Audience DiSC® Styles Analyzing your audience Further audience analysis Effective Delivery Delivery challenges and in-person Keeping your audience engaged Your body as your instrument Verbal / paraverbal elements Body stance and nonverbal communication What are your 'tells?' Controlling nervousness Staying attuned to your audience Responding to questions Review and edit your opening Deliver your opening Visuals and Enriching Elements Using images in your presentation Guidelines for visual composition Using questions to engage your audience The power of the pause Practicing and Applying What You've Learned Preparation Delivery Feedback Opportunity to put into practice the program content and receive a video copy Summary and Next Steps What did we learn and how can we implement this in our work environment? Your personal action plan