Of course, you can respond to adverts for models yourself, but having a reputable agency to represent you and act in your best interests at all times has many benefits.

Firstly, you know they will investigate every client and every assignment carefully, ensuring the safety of their female, male and child models.

Furthermore, they will negotiate a fair fee for you – and ensure you are paid promptly after completion of the booking.

Sadly, we at Models Direct hear all too many sad stories of people who have responded to advertisements for models but never end up getting paid.

An authentic, modelling agency such as Models Direct will not only do all of this on your behalf but will also actively seek work for you.

Any individual or company that is not a legitimate employment agency is not legally allowed to seek work on behalf of those working with it.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Any experienced models or new models who are wondering how to find work should always do their research thoroughly – and should read the small print on any website carefully.

By digging deeper, they may well find that a so-called “agency” is actually nothing of the kind.

Other ways of finding modelling work include networking with other models and putting the feelers out to marketing companies and photographers.

You can also follow the relevant people and organisations on social media and keep an eye on jobs boards.

And please, please remember that even if the job you find has not been offered to you through Models Direct, we are always happy to represent any of our models.

Once you have joined us, you are part of our team and if you see a modelling job that interests you, let us know and we can check it out for you.

We can also negotiate on your behalf and ensure you are paid.

Here at Models Direct, our agents are also always busy receiving requests from our incredible range of clients and finding just the right models to put forward for their assignments.

We build on the strong relationships we have developed over the past 35 years with the many, many companies, brands and organisations that use models.

And we reach out to new clients on a daily basis, pushing out in every direction to find all kinds of different and exciting assignments to offer our models.

Read through some of our other blogs and reviews to find out more about these and what our models enjoyed about them.

Modelling is a competitive industry and – like any genuine agency – we can never fully guarantee to match every model with a job.

But joining a longstanding, reputable agency like Models Direct will give you the very best chance of finding work, while also ensuring you are looked after at all times.

This is what Natalie said after an assignment through us:

“My whole family did a shoot for a global tech company and everything was so perfectly organised.

“The staff members at Models Direct were so helpful, especially Marie, and everyone on set was lovely.

“We had our children with us and we were all looked after so well.

“It was a great experience which we thoroughly enjoyed.

“I would definitely recommend Models Direct!

“Thanks again for the opportunity!”

For more information on finding work with Models Direct please contact us.

Maximise your relationship with us

We’re here to always help and support you which is why we encourage you to approach our Models Direct specialist coordinators any time. It’s our job as a modelling agency to provide our models and clients with comprehensively led, tried and tested services. Our goal is to satisfy your representation needs but it doesn’t stop there. We encourage you to communicate with us actively. We’ll never get bored or tired of listening to you. That’s our promise.

It’s important to us to know your expectations as a model and client. It’s not just about us. You play a big role in building our agency, so talk to us. Goals, new skills, your interests in modelling divisions and clients and models you’d like to work with – let us know. For models, we ask for your feedback after working on your assignment, but you can request our clients’ feedback about you too. It can be a bit nerve-wracking to learn how our clients feel towards your modelling skills but it’ll help shape your progression into your modelling career. Constructive feedback is a good learning curve across all professions and as a Models Direct model, it’ll benefit you moving towards more assignments.

Expand your skills

As you already know, modelling doesn’t just rest at being in front of a camera, it stretches beyond that with promotional modelling. Other interesting skills our agency is on the lookout for are acting, dancing and singing to name but a few. Our “Feature Me” section includes a spotlight on our models’ online profiles for clients to see. If you’re looking for January to look differently from your previous years, then set a goal for learning a new skill to help your self-development. From anything like football skills to learning a new language, start setting something up so you can stand out from the crowd.

Are you interested in taking a worthy cause to the next level?

We’re all passionate about something [or several things in life]. Whether it’s promoting charitable causes for the planet or people or both, there’s something we can all do to help. If you haven’t been able to explore ways you can participate, perhaps this January is your chance to do just that. Not only will this help you grow as a person, giving you the opportunity to be hands-on and proactive, but network with others and learn more about what you can do and where you can help. It’s a rewarding investment.

There’s a lot you can do this January and we say that once you’ve established your goals and what you’re hoping to achieve, start setting it up in the first month so you can start as you mean to go on. You can make it a productive 2025 so dive into different areas to elevate not only your personal growth but as a model too!

And summer is a distant memory.

But don’t let the winter blues stand in your way. The winter months are a phenomenal time to update your portfolio. Stunning backdrops and clear, unblemished skies are just two reasons to get outdoors and start snapping away. Plus – and this always needs reinforcing – clients always look for models who have taken the time to regularly enhance their portfolios with contemporary and updated reels and photos. It means that models care about being selected and don’t rest on their laurels. As our clients always choose which of our models they want for their assignments, winter is another perfect opportunity to let them see what you have to offer them.

We always look at a model’s portfolio if they tell us they haven’t been picked since applying with us after a few weeks. The modelling industry is competitive, so always looking for new ways to stand out is imperative. It’s not surprising that some models don’t get selected because they haven’t been keeping their portfolio fresh – just uploading a handful of shots won’t cut it. Models must keep their portfolios ticking over with a variety of snaps and poses. Persistence often pays off.

And wintery shots can spark a revival in a model’s stagnant portfolio. Just as we pray for sunshine in summer, many of us cross fingers for a blast of pure, powdery snow.

Snow needn’t been the definitive theme for spectacular and effective portfolio images. Winter is an atmospheric season. There are wonderful photos to be taken and reels to made by using dramatic winter scenery not often seen throughout the year. Use the wintery setting to your advantage.

Frozen lakes and snow-capped hills will give your shoots a feeling of magnitude. Sure, you should always be the focus of the photo or reel, but an impressive backdrop can improve the wow factor.

We have plenty of Christmas assignments – well, it is the busiest time of the year for most of our clients. Retailers will be looking for new modelling talent to help them sell more products to customers. Some will be on the hunt for models who look perfect in woolly jumpers and hats; others will favour more cheeky models posing in Santa hats and boots. Some want household pets to be featured in their Christmas campaigns. Whatever angle you want to go with, there’s no point staying indoors. Get out there and see how the winter months can assist your portfolio pictures.

Remember, too, that many of our clients come to us well in advance of Christmas. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to update portfolio photos a few weeks before the festive period. That’s not to say that January and February is a quite period for us; the two months aren’t as busy as December, but we’re a 365 day-a-year agency, so we have a lot more jobs than you might think in the New Year.

Winter, we salute you!

All of our models – children, teens, adults and even pet owners are informed beforehand when they’re briefed about the assignment, that they’ll meet other models.

And if they’re happy to go ahead and be part of an interesting adventure meeting new people, fellow models and clients, then here are some top tips on how to help them navigate through the project successfully making it a positive and memorable experience, and hopefully making friends along the way!

Introduce yourself

Nerves can be heightened particularly when meeting new people so a great way to break the ice is to introduce yourself. This doesn’t need to be formal like how you would when interviewed because you’ve already been selected for the modelling job but clear and respectful communication is a great start.

[Respect] Personal space

When you’re working as a model, you might have to pose closely so be mindful of personal space. If physical interaction is involved, all parties will be informed during the briefing so if your fellow models do not consent then let our team know as we may need to select another model. Don’t worry though, this will not reduce your chances of being selected for future assignments.

Exude professionalism

It’s important that you arrive on time and maintain a cooperative and positive outlook to working on set, be this by yourself or with other models.

Offer help

Remember that as a group, you’re in the assignment together so be supportive and encouraging. This will help build trust and rapport between you and the new people you’re working with.

Express gratitude

It’s always nice to say good words of thanks. So don’t forget to express your appreciation to your client, production team and the models you’ve worked with.

Working with others allows you to learn new skills, create a positive lasting impression, network and who knows, even make friends along the journey!

Fast fashion was coined in the early 1000s thanks to fashion retailer Zara who was known for producing apparel at super speed. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of the cheap and speedy production of the latest and newest trends AKA fast fashion.

Pros

Cheap & accessible

Fast fashion’s exposure to affordable clothing is at a high speed. The impressive turnaround is a big plus for consumers. With many high-street retailers adopting Zara’s business model, it’s exciting to know that you can have the latest collection on the runway at a fraction of the price. It’s literally on demand!

Diverse options

You’ll have quick access to the latest statement pieces everyone’s after. Fast fashion is all about pumping out styles and trends fast but with a variety of options to suit consumers’ needs and preferences.

Convenient

If you spot something on the runway you like, chances are you’ll see something quite similar hitting your fav fashion retailer’s shelf. It’s fun and convenient, making fashion fast and convenient for all those fashion lovers out there.

Cons

Not an eco-friendly option

Climate change is a hot topic being widely discussed on a global scale and fast fashion is playing a negative role and contributing to greater carbon emissions, and resources such as water and pesticides are being overly used.

Sustainable textile waste

As quickly as garments are generated is as quick as they’ll probably be discarded. As a result, fast fashion can lead to overflowing landfills and certain materials being overused due to excessive consumption.

Labour exploitation

Workers in developing countries often observe mistreatment with low wages and unsafe working conditions whilst being exposed to harmful chemicals.

Slow fashion is a much-needed response to fast fashion

More sustainable alternatives and ethical choices need to be addressed particularly for those of us who adore this industry practice. So, models, we hope you found this blog enlightening about fast fashion. Is it really worth it? Let us know your thoughts!

Modelling with Models Direct is a bit like opening a box of chocolates – taking a bite and discovering an enjoyable experience every time!

Those who are considering joining us should read the feedback we receive from our existing models and peruse our blog pages.

Find out where our models have been, what they have done and what each particular modelling job involved.

Our models themselves are the best people to tell you what modelling is really like!

Each of our clients – from the big name corporates like Amazon, Microsoft and Sony to the high street stores and well-known chains like Morrison’s, Next and Holland & Barrett – is very different.

And each of the photo or film shoots they employ our models to take part in is very different too.

Our models could be posing for still photography for advertising and campaigns or they might have to act a little for a film shoot.

They might be asked to just be themselves, to take on a particular role or to wear a specific costume and have their hair and make-up done.

Our assignments take place in a variety of locations too, from film studios, businesses and retail outlets to spectacular, outdoor locations.

Being a model with us involves regularly uploading photographs to your e-portfolio so we and our clients can be sure of how you look right now and can see how versatile you are.

It is vital to ensure that any modelling, acting or other relevant work is featured on your e-portfolio and that all your information is up to date.

Then, it is simply a waiting game.

If a client approaches us requiring a model in the areas you are prepared to travel to and with your look and availability then we will put you forward with a selection of others for the job.

It is then up to the client to select who they wish.

If you are chosen, we will give you all the details of the booking, keep you informed as the day approaches and be there to answer any questions.

And then, on the day itself, a professional production team will be there to support and guide you.

Part-time modelling with Models Direct is not only a great way to earn extra money but it is also a means to enjoying new experiences, meeting new people and networking.

For those looking for a full-time career in modelling, acting, film, photography, theatre or the media, it can be a great way to start.

And, regardless of where you hope to end up in life, it is a superb way to boost your confidence, extend your CV and, most of all, have fun.

To find out more about what modelling involves, fill in our form, send us a photo and a friendly member of our team will be in touch.

You can ask them anything you like about being a model and they will answer all your questions clearly and honestly.

Modelling isn’t for everyone, but as you can see from our review and blog pages, there are many people out there who really do love it.

And, you never know, you could be one of them!

Good news for everyone, and even better news for models. Summer is a lovely month for getting out there and achieving great things; we often find our energy hits peak levels in warmer conditions, and certainly the days are longer and filed with promise. A lot of us generally find summer more productive, so there’s no excuse in ignoring your portfolio pictures to tempt our eclectic range of brands with your looks and talent.

Before you don your summer wear, think about how best to utilise the summer months to your advantage. It’s not just a case of slapping on the sun cream and snapping away to your heart’s content. It takes a little research, and a smidgen of organisation.   

First up, don’t assume that bright sunshine makes for clear photos or excellent filming conditions. In fact, this is rarely the case. Avoid the midday and early afternoon, when the sun is at its highest point. Instead, seek out shade. No one likes squinting when posing, and bright sunlight often causes unwanted shadows; not so bad when filming modelling reels, but very annoying when capturing the perfect photo. Late afternoon / early evenings, as well as early mornings, generally provide the best times in the day for films and photos.

Secondly, spend time understanding your camera’s setting; apertures and shutter speeds are the two most important aspects to experiment with. For example, you’ll need a faster shutter speed if you’re taking pictures of people or pets in motion.  Digital cameras are still popular, and different models have different settings for the time of the year. Most models know that photography is important to their success, but we appreciate that you don’t need to be an avid photographer to get results – step up the Smartphone! Try different grades on your phone to obtain the best colour gradients once you’re happy with the photos.

Thirdly, when filming reels (keeping them short), think about the most suitable backdrops. Don’t film with too many distractions in the background. Practice filming under trees, to the side of gates and fences, and to the side of buildings to achieve the perfect sun : shadow ratio. You may not get it right on the first few attempts, but practice makes perfect. If you’re lucky enough to be relaxing on a beach this summer, don’t over-do the sun hat / sun glasses combo; take a few snaps wearing them, but take more without them as our clients want to see your eyes and hair as well.

A couple more summer tips: don’t wear too much make-up, as it may “run” more in warmer weather. Trust your natural look, and avoid vivid filters when using Smartphones.

The potential for being selected for modelling jobs because you’ve updated your ePortfolio photos has never been higher. This summer could be the turning point in stepping farther up the Models Direct job ladder. Use your time wisely, and don’t rest on your laurels.

We have the brands that are actively looking for models just like you. We hope the summer sun shines favourably on you in 2024.

We don’t expect part-time, debut or even full-time models to know everything about commercial modelling. That’s why our monthly blogs and social media pages are so important to keep everyone in loop with success stories, as well as the latest fashions and general news. Knowledge is power, that much is true!

The kind of modelling work we offer depends on each individual brief we receive from our clients. These brands are an eclectic mix of multinationals, charities, start-ups and government agencies. Companies need to evolve to move with the times, transcending previous marketing campaigns to keep an audience’s attention. The audience is most often customers if they are profit-orientated; if they’re not, then the general public is the target audience.

With the recent surge in interest in AI, you might be forgiven for thinking that most marketing has minimal human input. We can’t predict what will happen in years to come, but we can tell you that humans are a crucial factor in all the assignments we receive. It’s been that way for decades, and it’ll remain that way in our lifetime for sure. Whether it’s a basic photo shoot or a job requiring acting, human models remain the most effective way to reach target audiences.

We offer varied assignments on behalf of our clients. Every client is different, so they send us various briefs. The most common types of modelling jobs we present to models are:

1. Fashion photo shoots

2. Marketing / promo photo shoots – e.g. being photographed displaying products for a brand’s website

3. Video shoots

Whether you’ve been chosen for work by multi-million pound companies like Barclays Bank and Next or been selected by a small local brand, there are some common traits to our modelling jobs. These should help you imagine what to expect on your modelling day:

1. Organisation – we give models all the necessary details before each assignment      

2. Working with clients that have been approved by us. Only clients that have been assessed by us have access to a model’s portfolio

3. The best modelling fees around – all paid within 5 working days

4. Fun! Modelling is work, obviously, but there can’t be as many jobs that people genuinely enjoy so much

At the time of writing (Jan 2024), a new review came in from Emma – a debut model who had registered with us only three months previously. Emma had a shoot with a large hospitality company, and was delighted to submit her evaluation:

“It was nerve-racking at first, considering it was my first ever modelling job! I didn’t know what to expect, but we had a lovely team and I worked alongside other models that were lovely; they made me feel settled so quickly. I’d work with Greene King again in the future.”

Not knowing what to expect as a model may seem daunting. However, our models always report that they work with friendly, understanding teams and can’t wait for more work. We take reviews seriously – and personally!

This year should be another fascinating and successful one for all involved in the Models Direct family – our models, our clients and our colleagues. Whatever the types of assignment we offer you, you’re in good hands.

It’s one of the reasons why our models love to work with us.

We know we have many positive attributes to our business – including the largest range of brands to work with, quick release of payment to models and a wonderful booking team – and one characteristic particularly stands out when models apply with us: convenience.

We’re sympathetic to a model’s needs and schedules. We know that some of our models have other commitments, and we wouldn’t expect anything else. That’s why working only as a part time model suits hundreds of models, which frees up time to concentrate on other work or pastimes.

That last word is important: pastimes. Plenty of models out there look at modelling work as a paid hobby. They won’t – or can’t – commit to multiple assignments per month or even throughout a whole year, so they’re perfectly happy working a handful of jobs. They’re grateful for the best fees around whenever they’re available. This works for us.

We never pressure models to accept jobs when they’ve been selected by our illustrious clients after we’ve put them forward. Our clients know just as well as we do that not every model is able to agree to every job. There could be a number of reasons why a model refuses an assignment, and we never ask why. When this happens, we’re just as dedicated in finding the right job for the right model. The selection procedure is a two-way process: if models aren’t comfortable with the job on offer, they shouldn’t accept it.   

It’s fair to say that a minority of Models Direct models work full time. Every individual model is different. Some models put all their energy into their work, adding as much experience as possible to their modelling eportfolios. That’s great if it works for that person. If it doesn’t, that’s equally acceptable.

Working part time with us allows more freedom. Models can indeed select which assignments to accept. We receive some briefs from clients with minimal notice, so it’s normal for models to decline the opportunity due to time restraints. It’s also normal for jobs to be declined for geographical reasons; we do have plenty of modelling work available in every corner of the UK, but we also appreciate that transport routes can be problematic.

Part time work therefore usually means that models have a better scope to decide which assignments to take on. Whilst some models might be chosen after just a few days from registration, lots of models know that instant selection is unrealistic and are content to be chosen sporadically. If it was our choice, we’d happily place all our models equally in all our available jobs. Sadly we can’t do this – we use our expertise and experience to recommend suitable models to send to clients for their final say.

Working part time as a Models Direct could be the opening you’ve been craving. If earning great fees working with professional photographers and filmmakers sounds like something you’d excel at, register with us and we’ll see what you can offer!

We’d be arrogant if we didn’t think models would ponder the question before applying to us. No one should apply with any agency without putting together the pros and cons, and everyone should conduct a little background research on the agency prior to applying.

Some models will ask “what have I got to lose?”. It’s important to realise that being with a top agency like us gives you a helping hand in the modelling industry. We’re the crucial link between talented models and clients wishing to use models in their photo shoots and advertising films. So, what have you really got to lose?

We must emphasise once again that being on our books gives everyone the best chance of working with top companies throughout the country – and sometimes abroad. Being with us increases your odds of being seen by the decision makers – that we know as fact. Models could approach brands by themselves, and we wish them the best of the luck. We know many models have done just that, and some have been offered work. A very small minority, though, so it’s delusional to think that just because you may have a portfolio and a dose of optimism that you’ll quickly find the key to success.

Joining an agency is the best way to be seen by brands. But why choose us, and not another modelling agency?

It’d be easy to say that models choose us because of the number of reviews on our website.

True, the reviews are valuable, and we appreciate any kind of feedback, but models need to know some key points that separate us from the other agencies. With that in mind, here are the most important aspects of Models Direct that any person with the desire to give themselves the best chance of becoming a model should know about us:

1. We started when Damian and Suzy decided to create a modelling employment agency way back in 1990. We’ve been operating and successfully growing year on year, so we’re not a “flash in the pan” company like some.

2. We’ll ask for a small, lawful registration fee to cover cost. Models can choose to pay this for one, two or three years, offering them convenience on different budgets.

3. We do not ask for professional photos when models join us – nor have we ever done that. As long as the initial photos are clear and accurate, they can be taken on a Smartphone. Some agencies will charge for photos – we do not.

4. The main objective for models is to be seen by brands who need “real life” models. As we have the largest modelling client list in the country, it stands to reason that the odds of being chosen is higher than most. Also, we make sure that all new clients are checked for authenticity. Clients come back to us time and time again, satisfied that we can provide them with quality, talented models for their campaigns.

5. We are inspected regularly by HM Government’s Employment Agency Inspectorate. Inspectors may ask at any time to ask for evidence of working conditions, the agency’s terms and conditions and details of payments / fees to work-seekers.

6. Speaking of which, we negotiate the very best fees with our clients. We also collect payment before any assignment, meaning we can pay our models withing 5 working days.

It’s not really a “hard sell” when the facts speak for themselves. Please come and meet us at our Norwich HQ for a chat if you have any questions. You’ll be able to meet the team in person!