Whether the request is for our baby models, adult models or even our pet models, the demand is quite high. The year can end on an incredibly busy note but remains a magical time for us, our amazing models and our top-tier clients.

We see so many festive campaigns come to life and it makes our MD team feel very proud that we’re a part of so many people’s memorable journeys.

And then the Christmas magic rolls onto the next year where we’ve accumulated over thirty years of festive spirit now as a long-standing modelling agency in the UK. 

We’ve had great highlights this year and the collaborations have been absolutely incredible.
 
Looking back, we always smile and remember the great times we’ve had year after year. We’re looking forward to seeing what 2025 brings and hopefully, you’ll be a part of the magic, whether you’re a new model, already an MD model or a client looking to hire with us. Models Direct is here to make a big impact with incredible results.

So, what are the best ways to elevate your junior’s photos during the festive period? Would you like it to get noticed by our team and clients? We’ll take a look at some ways you can do this.

Enjoying Christmas activities

There are lots of fun things your child can do at this time – from decorating the Christmas tree to filling up the stockings or writing Santa’s letter and leaving him some milk and cookies. During all these activities, you can capture their emotions and expressions, helping you build a super current portfolio with an Xmas theme.

Take images at their eye level

Your child is likely to be shorter than you in height so if you’re looking to take more engaging images of them, get to their eye level and explore not just Christmas time but other moments too through their perspective.

Festive outfits

There are so many cute outfits your child can enjoy to add to the magical festivities. We’re talking cosy sweaters, red and green colour schemes or Christmas-inspired pj’s. (Maybe you can get your adult version to match with them?)

Bonus ideas: Christmas-inspired earrings, hair accessories and socks.

Make their images dynamic

Instead of your bog standard poses, you can get your junior model to wrap up presents (that’ll help you out too!) and peek out from behind the paper or create a makeshift sledge which they can pretend to navigate. Wherever your imagination takes you, know that unusual and unique images will get your child noticed particularly at the end of the year.

Incorporate iconic Xmas lights

Whether these lights are illuminating in your he or outside on an evening stroll, take snaps of your child with them to enjoy the splendour of this holiday season.

Seeing that we’re in the Christmas spirit, we’ve had our child models get booked with big brands to promote this season such as Sophia and Freya. They were chosen to video call Santa for Sky’s holiday campaign. Here’s some feedback about their experience:

“For their very first job with Models Direct, Sophia & Freya had the amazing opportunity to do a video call with Santa at home. Prior to the project, they were not told and they were delighted to get to speak to Father Christmas.

I on the other hand was briefed by mail from the company and calls with production both the night before and on the morning to go over all the specifics and details for the day. Due to this, the call went really well and Santa was on the phone with both girls for 15 minutes and was very patient with them both as they were very excited. He took time to ask and answer questions and helped unwittingly get the girls to deliver some great content – they even discovered Santa can roll his tongue after asking him.

Afterwards, production made it easy to send over my content and we are looking forward to seeing the finished result. The girls can’t stop talking about it and can’t wait until they get to do another job. Thanks Models Direct!”

This is just one example but there’s plenty where this has come from if you head over to our feedback section!

Models Direct hopes that we’ve given you five useful tips on how to capture your child model’s Christmas images. If you’d like more tips, feel free to reach out to our MD team who’ll be more than happy to help and advice.

Renowned in the world of British modelling for our professional service and our ability to provide a wide range of models, we are also known for being able to respond quickly.

Having operated for over 30 years now, we understand there are all sorts of reasons why clients might come to us requiring a model (or models) – sometimes within hours.

This may be due to another model having to withdraw at the last-minute because of illness or a family emergency or it might be that there has been a late change to the photo shoot and an additional person (or people) are required.

Now, like all businesses, we are only too happy to admit that the more time we have to fill a booking the better!

So we would always urge existing and new clients to contact us as soon as possible about their requirements.

We run a busy agency here and, of course, it makes our lives easier if we have a little more time!

However, we do understand that things don’t always work out like that so if you are looking to hire a model and need someone at short notice, please do get in touch.

We are here – ready and waiting to help!

Models, when you join Models Direct we don’t expect you to always be able to take on a last-minute booking.

We know that the vast majority of our male and female models have other jobs and commitments, including their families or perhaps their studies.

And, of course, our child models have to go to school!

But we also know there may be times when you can respond quickly, either by changing your plans or because you happen to have some free time.

So, on occasion, we will approach you about last-minute bookings to see if you may be interested.

All we ask is that you are open and honest with us and only commit to accepting an assignment if you know you can be there promptly, ready and able to work.

Neri, for example, is one of our plus-size models and she was booked for a television job at very short notice.

She told us: “This was a last-minute assignment, that ended up being one of the most empowering experiences since becoming professional.

“I got to work with four of the most beautiful confident ladies, a fantastic film crew and the man with the naked plan, Gok Wan.

“From the costume designers to the make-up artist and the runners, everyone was so welcoming and worked so hard to make sure we felt relaxed and comfortable in the environment.

“Gok was lovely and gave direction really clearly – he was so fun and we all had such a giggle.

“The assignment went really quickly and Molly from Models Direct was so supportive.

“Such an exciting experience, I’m so glad I was accepted and thank Molly for putting her trust in me and putting me forward.”

And this is what one of our clients, the Andrew Simpson Foundation, said about our speedy response:

“We were really happy with the service. It was a tight turnaround but went brilliantly.

“We got all that we needed in a short time span.

“We will definitely be using Models Direct again for future projects which are coming up.”

So, it is important to do everything you can to reassure and prepare them.

First of all, it’s essential to know that your point of contact here at Models Direct will do all they can to help you prepare your child.

They will give you lots of information about the photo or film shoot and tell you whether you need to dress your child in a particular way or bring any special props from home.

They will also suggest you bring plenty of toys, games and refreshments to keep them busy when they are not required on set.

If they have the information, they will let you know who will be there to meet you on the day, the people the crew is likely to include and whether any other child models are taking part.

Once you have all this information, you can spend a little time practising striking poses with your child.

The best way of doing this is to take them to a mirror – then get them to try out a few expressions: happy, sad, quizzical and thoughtful, perhaps.

Ask them to make funny, silly faces and then to be completely normal again.

Try to make them laugh to show them how much fun performing for the camera can be and try different poses with them sitting on a chair, lying on a cushion and standing up.

Then, get out some of their toys or books and ask them to play or read while you take a few more photos.

Turn a light or two on and gently direct it towards them, then ask them to look up at you and smile as you take another round of snaps.

Click away as they play, calling for their attention from time to time to get them to look up.

The team on the day will know how to get the very best from your little one and from the other models on set – but practising striking a few poses ahead of time will certainly help put your child at ease.

We’re hoping that this year is set to end on a good note. We want it to stay this way so we can truly get into the spirit of Christmas, spending quality time with the ones we love. However, amongst the frantic gift-hunting, Christmas dinner planning and entertainment for the festive holidays, what we’ll wear will also be a burning question. 

If you’re looking at what the key looks are forecasted for this festive season, Models Direct have it under one roof (well, packed into this blog if you’re unsure where to start). This time, we’ve kept it simple. Why? Because we know you’ll already have a million other things to be doing. So, without further ado, let’s go!

1. Red, green and white

The trademark Christmas colours can be easily incorporated into your wardrobe or makeup to exude the essence of the winter holidays. Picking an item shouldn’t be difficult and if you’re looking to avoid resembling your Christmas tree (or if you don’t, on the other hand), check online for anything that tickles your fancy from this trio of colours or all three if you fancy. 

2. Opt for something loose

As much as we promise ourselves we won’t tuck into too many mince pies or puddings this year, it always happens! And why not? Winter, celebrations and food are a great combination to enjoy some delicious food with family and friends. The obvious style choice this year is to go for something loose. You can hide any sudden bloating under a loose-fitting statement piece such as an oversized top or jumper so no need to feel self-conscious about eating anything that would normally be off limits. 

3. Shimmer and shine

For a touch of pizzazz and magic, a Christmas look is always great with some added glitter and sparkle. Apparel such as sparkly dresses or glittery tops (or even through your makeup) is now available in clothing lines. This year the theme is cute, straightforward winter wear that’s on-trend. 

Festive thoughts

Have you got your Christmas tree set up and ready? Crackers on standby, an unforgettable menu (including a little something for Santa too, don’t forget!) and party ideas planned for the festive holidays? If your answer is yes (or you’re promising yourself you’ll get it sorted as soon as!), we’d love to see some snaps of you, your family and friends if you’re interested in modelling. 

We don’t mind seeing different settings and backdrops but if you’re looking to officially sign up with our modelling agency, a plain, white background will be perfect. Thereafter, compiling a portfolio of all your looks and poses would be a great marketing idea to kick start, and if this includes those Christmas snaps, then get clicking on that camera!

If you like what you’ve read, stay in touch with us by subscribing to our social media platforms and our blogs for more of where this came from. 

From all of our team here at Models Direct, we wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a happy new year!

There aren’t even many comparisons with the festive period 50 years ago.

Though Christmas is a different beast nowadays, there are aspects of the most famous of public holidays that we still cherish: family time, opening of gifts, glorious over-indulgence, and the potential for capturing the perfect winter images. There is plenty to look forward to, and for millions Christmas is the quintessential festive family holiday. Think: roaring fires, gathering around the TV for an afternoon film, and (dare we say it) garish Christmas jumpers. So far, so idyllic.

But stop right there for a moment. We don’t want to put the dampers on the perfect picture above, but for many people, Christmas isn’t a time of the year that yields such categorical enjoyment. Some people shudder in horror at the mere mention of Christmas, and are happiest when the whole rigmarole is over for another eleven months.

And that could be precisely the reason why Christmas isn’t for everyone: it isn’t a single day, let alone a few well-deserved days’ time off. The spirit of Christmas, arguably, begins when the first festive adverts appear in the media, which is usually just after the Halloween/ Bonfire Night shenanigans. That’s seven weeks before the 25th December…with another two weeks to follow for the Christmas “down time”. That’s a lot days…

Christmas can – and often is – a hectic time. No wonder businesses advertise Christmas party venues as early as August, or reserving turkeys in autumn. Travelling to loved ones nearer the day can be stressful and expensive. Disruptions and late-minute shopping are challenging. Buying gifts is usually a pleasant enough experience, but during December, eager shoppers compete with each other on busy high streets and jam-packed shopping centres. As an example, the Trafford Centre in Manchester has an annual footfall of 30 million – well over the population of Australia. Think how many of those millions shop there – at just one shopping centre – in the weeks leading up to Christmas. Hardly peaceful, is it? Prefer to buy online? Fair enough, but products can arrive late or simply get lost in the continuous stream of deliveries. And that’s before the wrapping paper is brought out. For those who want help in staying calm over the period, read our guide to a stress-free Christmas.

So, Christmas can be traumatic and not good on the wallet. Christmas is all about family, though, right? Correct, but how many people in the UK have separated from their loved ones for different reasons? How many individuals suffer from loneliness and dread Christmas?

Those people who don’t look forward to Christmas do so with different reasons. They shouldn’t be judged, but maybe you could do something to make their time memorable. Don’t ignore friends who chose to shun Christmas. It’s not all about shiny-wrapped presents, Christmas trees and rich food. A simple text, phone call or visit could make someone’s day, or why not arrange to pop over with a homemade treat?

As huge as Christmas has become, it’s usually the smaller things in life that make it all worthwhile.

Let’s dig out some stunning colours then take some incredible new modelling photos that will really stand out.

Winter can be a great time to really make the most of bold shades and to take some gorgeous, clear images that will have you glowing out at us and our clients when we look at them.

The bleak backdrop of outdoor spaces and the cool light of winter will make strong colours really pop out and if you them choose carefully to match your own skin and hair tone, then they can look absolutely fabulous!

You don’t have to go too heavy with the colour – just an accent here or there can really make an incredible difference.

Try icy blue, scarlet red and tangerine orange, for example….

Or tones like sunshine yellow and viva magenta – all of these colours are bang on trend this season and just perfect for winter.

Hold them up next to your face and your hair to make sure they don’t bleach you out or clash with your own colouring, and, if they look great, think about teasing them out further with a touch of lipstick or dab of eye shadow.

Strong colours look especially amazing in winter outerwear, which means you don’t have to spend a fortune if you don’t have something already.

Think woolly hat, soft scarf or even just gloves or leg warmers – all teamed up with other of your existing garments in gentle, neutral tones or even black.

Some of these shades will also work well with the more traditional, earthy tones of autumn.

And to keep well within budget if you want something new, why not rummage about in charity and second-hand shops or click through vintage websites and apps?

You are sure to pick up a bargain or two.

Then follow our suggestions for taking and uploading your new photos and either update your e-portfolio if you are an existing model or – if you are considering joining us – send us one of the pictures along with your form.

We love to see our models having fun with their photography and using deep colours in the winter months is a great way to do so!

We’re heading right into the festive season and with so many exciting days ahead, to mark the end of the year. Models Direct thought we’d write about a special day that’s set to be fun and dedicated towards a charitable cause for children worldwide. Kids, parents, guardians, neighbours, everyone in the community, climb onboard!

Back in 2012, Save the Children UK – one of the UK’s top children’s rights charity – responded to help children keep safe, eat well and get educated, initiated an annual event to raise money for the children who need it most around the world during this festive period.

It’s shocking to think that about 19.5 million people are projected to be in crisis in Nigeria alone.

Therefore, with an event like this, where anyone and everyone is welcome to take part, just wearing a funky jumper (be it old, pre-loved or borrowed) for this one day and helping to fundraise and donate as little as £2 (or less if you wish) towards the charity, will help a child in a different situation. And if this day doesn’t suit you, it could be another day of your choice in December. If you wanted, you could share an image of you in your wooly knitwear on your ePortfolio to remember your day!

Last year, an amazing total of £5 million was raised for children and an extra £2 million was topped up by the UK government. Our modelling specialist team wanted to write about this festive knit event because there’s always time to give back positivity and hope to the world.

Models Direct has worked with charities such as Centrepoint Charity, which provides accommodation, and health support programs to help homeless young people get back into education, training and employment. Our modelling projects have been meaningful, with powerful messages so it’s been an absolute honour to connect our wonderful models to sensational clients.

This is what we do as the UK’s top modelling agency that shuns showcasing models and doing nothing about it! We promise to put our models forward whenever a client calls for their look. However, we also reiterate when our models register with us that we cannot guarantee work and that the final word always rests with our prestigious clients. We do remind our models to keep their online portfolio up to date and their body measurements too so that if a client wants to have a look at them, they have the most recent image to help them determine whether to take the model selection process to the next stage. We also recommend to keep all personal social media accounts professional in case our clients decide to embark on a exploration journey which happens more often than not with the ease of accessibility of literally everything now! This doesn’t mean that you can’t have fun though! It does mean that it has to be within reason and demonstrate the story you want to convey to your audient. In this case, a lovely warm jumper with flashing Christmas trees will do!

As a roundup, this December, wear a funky Christmassy jumper and get into the swing of having festive fun whilst raising money for children around the world. This time wearing a Xmas knit you wanted to avoid will have more purpose and give you a sense of reward. Don’t forget to fill us in if you’re a model in our books, and if you’re a newbie, it’ll certainly be one to add to the new portfolio collection!

But the winter days can be an extremely useful for a satisfying photo shoot. A model should always look to the future, keeping an eye on important dates where they can take advantage of their looks and talent.

Winter is a significant season for all types of models, including our lovable pets. The weather might be just as dire as it’s been this July, but don’t let that deter you from seeking out the best landscapes and start snapping away to update your eportfolios this winter.

Looks and fashions change with the seasons. Some people even keep their hair longer in the winter to act as extra insulation. Models should make sure their portfolio photos accurately reflect their current looks, so if you modify any of your characteristics during the winter, be sure to reflect them. Your portfolio is your personal marketing tool – a one-way ticket to standing out from the rest of the crowd to gain the attention of our clients.   

To gain maximum effect, use the wintery backdrops to produce dramatic images that will impress our clients. Seek out snowy woodlands and isolated moorlands, keeping the camera’s focus on your facial features. We want to see how functional models look in different locations, so vary your surroundings and choose the best photos to add to your portfolio.

Remember that clients often have strict deadlines for marketing assignments. That means that they may send their briefs to us for winter-themed assignments well in advance – especially larger brands. For instance, don’t be surprised if we recommend you for a Christmas shoot in November. Brands plan well ahead, and so should you. Once Halloween has come and gone, it’s seven weeks until Christmas, and this is often the busiest time of the year for all kinds of photo shots. A great example is our six junior models being selected three years ago for a shoot at Kent’s Bluewater Shopping Centre. This took planning and a perfectly timed schedule, resulting in a well organised child modelling winter assignment.

As winter approaches, think about what brands want to see in a model’s portfolio. Consider which products you can target, and adapt accordingly. Experiment with different styles of scarves and woolly hats. Snap away with cosy coats and wellies. How about some homely group photos of families around a fire, knitted out in snug jumpers? Families at Christmas are a huge selling point; millions of gifts are sold in the weeks running up to the big day in the UK alone, and that means more modelling opportunities for our talent.   

Luckily for us, we have plenty of beaming and talented youngsters on our books to help our clients with an unsurprisingly large amount of Christmas bookings.

Children are synonymous with Christmas for several reasons. There are some adults who simply wish for Christmas to run swimmingly with no hiccups, with the thought of presents a distant second thought. But for children, what would Christmas be without ripping up the themed wrapping paper to reveal a gift to bring a smile to their cherubic faces? For many parents, it’s that first look of unadulterated joy that makes the Big Day so special.

We’re ultra busy in the lead-up to Christmas because our clients look for the best child models to appeal to families all across the country. Christmas is arguably the busiest time of the year, and we work hard to recommend the best-suited models to our impressive list of clients.

Take a couple of examples of child modelling in prestigious Christmas campaigns. Our “Christmas star” Noah was chosen by Sainsburys for their Christmas advert, proving Noah was indeed “the smallest person who was perfect for the biggest jobs”. This advert made his family proud of their wonder son, especially as brave Noah was born with Spina Bifida. It was an epic and memorable for success all round, and it proves that anyone with the determination to achieve great things can indeed do just that. See Noah’s triumphant modelling advert

Noah’s parent’s were jubilant upon completion of the assignment, saying, “Being on set was the most exciting part of the shoot. Watching Noah’s face light up when the cameras started rolling and when he placed the star on top of the Christmas tree really was priceless.” We’re glad it’ll be a day Noah and his family will remember for the rest of their lives.

Another special Christmas mention goes to our trio of young models Sophia, Freya and Carleon, who exchanged cheeky pleasantries with Santa Claus as part of Sky Mobile’s festive video campaign. See their playful banter with Father Christmas



Christmas is heavily family-oriented, and we were so pleased to receive a Christmas message from one of our star families, who have appeared in a pensions advert for us. The fabulous Burton family put on their glorious Christmas jumpers and sent this lovely video to us:


Proof – if there was any needed – that our models are just as grateful to us as we are to them. Modelling is a two-way process, and we couldn’t be happier when receiving fantastic feedback and gestures of goodwill. There’ll be plenty more to come, that’s for sure!

Children are so important for all types of modelling assignments, so get in touch with us if you think your child has the star quality to be seen by a wider audience as a model. After all, modelling isn’t just for Christmas.