Our clients like to know that models are proactive. Not updating photos on your portfolio could be a major disadvantage, so we urge every registered model to keep their looks and talents current.

Most industries change; it might not be from year-to-year, but all companies progress at some point. This could be a re-branding campaign, a change in personnel, a move to a new headquarters…whatever the reason for change, you can be sure that it’s for the company’s benefit. And so, models, too, should explore new avenues and seek ways to elevate them from the others that are competing for the same successes. The best way to do that is to keep portfolios fresh and tell us if you’ve changed your looks or gained new experiences that will help you get noticed by our clients.

• 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

A lot of models ask how often they should update their details and photos on portfolios. Every model is different, but a simple answer is as often as is necessary. The worst thing any model can do is to leave photos in their portfolios, forgetting to add fresh images and assume that clients will be attracted to models who haven’t bothered to tell them how their looks have changed or what new skills they have acquired since the last time they visited their portfolio.

Broadly speaking, models should update their photos every few months. This gives us and our clients the confidence to models are taking their careers seriously, as negligence is a tell-tale sign that models expect to be offered jobs purely because of initially completing portfolios.

This is a common mistake. We have responded to some models who mention that they haven’t been offered as many jobs as they’d like. Whilst we understand their frustration, looking at their portfolio history usually suggests they haven’t kept their portfolios fresh, current and, most importantly, relevant.

Every few months is a reasonable timescale to update photos, even if you have the same look as you did when you registered with us. We want to see varied photos in different fashions. It should be apparent that if models change hairstyles or have added some new tattoos, then this must be reflected in portfolios.

In short, think of your portfolios as the first thing our clients see – much like a CV or cover letter. Clients are not mind readers, after all.

Check your contact details are still valid – if we can’t get in touch with you with the good news, it could jeopardise a fabulous Models Direct booking.

We like to make our processes as easy as possible, which is why applying to join us takes a couple of minutes, complete with two clear photos models may take with a Smartphone. Any registered model has access to their ePortfolio, which our vetted clients have access to, helping them choose the right models for the right job.

We cannot emphasise how important portfolios are. As we do not (and have never) pick models for jobs, models must regularly log into their portfolio accounts to upload current photos. Our clients want to see that a model is being proactive, the evidence being a full range of accurate, up-to-date images from which they can choose their preferred model. Simply uploading a few photos when you start with us isn’t going to be beneficial in the long term. We need to see that models have understood what is required from them; we’ll do all we can to recommend the right models to big brands, but models must also help themselves.    

And even a small tweak in a model’s appearance can make a big difference. Haircuts, hair colour, tattoos, piercings, new background scenery, adapting with the seasons, current fashions…they can all change, and our clients must know about them. It’s futile for clients to see what a model looked like months ago – assignments are built and created on true representations, so models need to visit their portfolios every month or so to keep them stocked up with the latest images.  

• 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

When we recommend models to our clients, they rely on a model’s portfolio. A name, age and location alone aren’t that much use to them; most modelling jobs require posing / acting on film or in photoshoots, so portfolios are the primary source for clients to see what a model looks like. And this is where keeping your looks up to date is crucial in whether a models will be picked. Please don’t let your portfolio photos become stagnant and outdated! You won’t be helping yourself.

Additionally, please keep your contact details current in portfolios. Often we’ll need to contact our models, especially if it’s a last minute booking, or if there has been a delay with clients. Communication is key to bookings; if your details are not accurate, it could affect present and future jobs. Likewise, if you have to cancel a job at short notice, please get in touch with us immediately. Common sense and courtesy go a long way!

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.

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!

As you know, at Models Direct we love nothing more than seeing superb new photos uploaded on to your e-portfolio.

And we always suggest taking great new pictures that tie in with the season so they look fresh and up to date.

Summer, of course, is a fabulous time to do this because (on the whole!) the weather is better, the colours are more vivid and there are lots of great outdoor locations to choose from.

Female and male models should ask a friend or relative to help them out by stepping in to act as their photographer for a couple of hours. Then follow our top tips…

Mums and dads of baby and child models can, of course, take snaps of their little ones themselves.

So where could you go to get some stunning outdoor modelling shots this summer?

Well, you don’t have to venture too far unless you want to!

If you have a garden or outside space with some lovely greens and seasonal colour, then start there.

Otherwise, head off to your nearest park or public garden, where you could take some great photos in front of leafy trees and vibrant flowerbeds.

Think about whether you have a pretty woodland, lovely lake or picturesque river close by.

You could get some fantastic new pictures and perhaps have a picnic or a fun afternoon out at the same time.

Days out to the beach, countryside or other beauty spots can, of course, also make fabulous locations for summer photography.

Just try to ensure that no-one else is in the background and that you and whatever you are wearing stands out clearly against your scenic background.

Be wary of taking your pictures in bright, glaring sunlight – stand in the shade if the sunlight is too bright and always ensure the sun is behind the photographer.

Existing models can then head home afterwards, select the best pictures and upload them to their e-portfolio.

Those who have not yet joined us can upload a few of their new summer modelling shots with their application form.

So plan a date, check the weather on the day and then get out and about!

We can’t wait to see your sizzling new summer shots  – and some of the beautiful places you have visited!

Gone are the short days of winter. Lengthy periods of light are restored. Most of us generally feel less lethargic. We wake up more regularly as the morning light dictates our natural sleeping patterns.

The season should be the “springboard” for models to change, develop and adapt. It’s a time when people think about altering their look to coincide with the shift in climates and the feel-good factor. It could be a new streamlined hairstyle to accommodate warmer weather, experimenting with different shades of mascara, trying out a fresh wardrobe in preparation for the summer, or trying out trendy fashion accessories. Whatever you choose to change your look, we’d like to see it by updating recent photos in your portfolio account log-in.

It’s a model’s responsibility to upload new photos. Regularly updating your portfolio has two main benefits, namely:

1. It allows our clients to see any model’s current look. It’s largely futile for a brand looking for a certain type of model to be interested in a model’s portfolio, only to find out that the model has completely changed their image or, perhaps even worse, hasn’t revamped their portfolio for months. Our clients must have a fair idea of what a model will look like before they choose them.

2. Clients like our models to be organised and take the industry seriously, and regularly uploading photos tells us that a model has followed recommendations. It’s pretty much imperative, in fact. Ignore your portfolio at your peril!

Most of our models don’t get offered work purely by chance. Every model that registers with us has expectations, and so they should. But a lot of models with repeat bookings continually refresh their portfolios – not exactly out of necessity, but out of professionalism. 

So spring is a fantastic time to re-gather and adapt your look so our clients (and we) can see what you have to offer. This time of the year gives models the perfect atmospheres and backgrounds to really let your photos do the talking.

For outdoor photos, gauge the amount of light before snapping away. Too much light can reduce the intensity of what really matters: you. Try to avoid too many background distractions, although clear photos detailing a fine spring day will help capture the mood.

Alter your look with spring clothes. However, make sure your eyes and hair are not covered – our clients need to see your most important features before they make their decision.

Spring can be just as influential as the New Year to realise ambitions. Don’t leave it to chance by ignoring your portfolios this spring. With so many brands looking for engaging models this 2024, it’d be shame to be overlooked by letting your portfolio pictures slide into obscurity.

And we are always pleased to be asked because there are many differences in what is required in updating a child’s e-portfolio compared to an adult’s.

This is, of course, because little ones grow and change so much that we need to be sure that we are seeing and showing our clients the most up-to-date photographs and measurements.

We need to be 100 per cent certain that the child we are sending along to the assignment still looks as they did in the pictures our client looked at when they chose them.

So how often should a parent update their child’s photos and what can we do to help remind them?

Well here are five of our top suggestions….

1 Create diary reminders

We suggest updating pictures every three months or so (possibly even more often with babies!) so why not get your diary or e-calendar open and add in a few reminders?

2 Go with the seasons

The changing of the seasons can not only be a great reminder to take a new set of photos but is also a perfect opportunity to put your junior model in a whole new array of clothes. They will look simply gorgeous when you snap them in their winter woollies, summer florals, spring greens and yellows and deep autumn shades!

3 When they have a haircut

A new haircut or hairstyle (perhaps your little one has decided to let their locks grow long) is also a fabulous opportunity for getting the camera out and taking new pictures. If you book them in for a haircut, remember to write a reminder in your diary to snap some shots afterwards too! Your little one will love to pose with his or her new look!

4 Birthdays, Christmases and special occasions

If you are taking pictures anyway because it is a special occasion you wish to remember, then why not try to take one or two that are framed, posed, shot and saved as we like to see them? After all, you have your camera or phone out anyway!

5. Days out and holidays

Again, these are always super opportunities for taking family photos, so why not think about grabbing some new modelling shots too? You will get some beautiful, new backgrounds and your youngster is sure to be having an amazing time, so it might be just the moment to capture his or her smiling face!

Joyce Bofenda is one of our mums who registered her son with us. This is what she had to say about Models Direct:

“I registered my son Jeremiah with Models Direct in April 2023, his profile went live in May 2023 and his first photoshoot yesterday was an amazing experience.

“The booking process was seamless which is brilliant. We had every information we required for the shoot delivered to us in a timely manner.

“The client, the photographer and the whole team were fabulous and kind,” she wrote.

“I highly recommend Models Direct to anyone seeking excellent services in the modelling and acting industry.”

Read other reviews here.

And our clients also love to see seasonal images of the models we put forward that match their requirements.

Not only does it make the images seem relevant and appealing, but it also shows just how dedicated those particular models are when it comes to updating their e-portfolios.

So what kind of modelling shots should you take in summer?

Well, firstly we do love blue skies and sunshine here at Models Direct – they really do lift any image, don’t they?

But if you are taking pictures on hot days, remember to ask your photographer not to shoot straight into the sun as all we will see of you will be shadow!

Keep the sun behind the camera and try to avoid having the sun shining right in your eyes, as we also don’t want to see you squinting in any of your pictures!

With summer shots, think summer clothes. We’d love to see you wearing something light in both colour and fabric.

Hold you sunglasses in your hand or push them up on to your head – sunglasses on means we can’t see your eyes!

Likewise, try to avoid wearing any kind of sun hat or scarf that obscures any part of your face.

We don’t mind one photo where an item of clothing covers the top of your head but we will need to see other photos of you where we can clearly see your hair colour and style.

Finally, when updating your e-portfolio this summer, remember to let us know if there have been any changes.

If your phone number or email address is different to when you last gave us your details then take the opportunity to update them now.

If we can’t get in touch with you then we won’t know if you are interested in a particular job or not!

And, of course, do also tell us about any recent experience you might have had that could be relevant to your modelling work.

The changing seasons are a great time to remember to refresh your e-portfolio in every way and summer is no exception.

After all, believe it or not, the sun may be out but we are already busy selecting models right now for our clients’ autumn and Christmas campaigns!

With summer fast approaching, you might therefore be keen to start thinking about some great outdoor locations for your next set of shots.

And for those who haven’t joined us yet – but are considering giving modelling a go – some of these suggestions might also be ideal for your very first set of images.

1 The Beach

We aren’t all lucky enough to live near a beach or to be going to one on holiday, but if taking pictures on the coast is an option, then make the most of it. Do watch out for that sunny glare (keep the sun behind the camera at all times) and ensure no-one else is in the background. Early morning or towards the end of the afternoon when the light isn’t so bright can be a great time to take modelling shots by the sea. And promenades and esplanades can be ideal for taking photos with the water or the sand in the background.

2 By a River

If you can’t get to the sea, perhaps you have a river close by. Again, this could give you the opportunity to take some gorgeous photos against a very beautiful and natural backdrop. If the river has leafy green banks then this can also add some summer colour. If there is a bridge you can stand on while your pictures are being taken then this could help whoever is taking your photos to frame the shots nicely.

3 In the Park

Your local river might run through a park – and this could also provide plenty of opportunity for some nice summer shots. Many parks have leafy, wooded areas that might work well or they could have a spot where you could sit on a bench with the green of the grass and the blue of the summer sky behind you. Have fun with some of your photos in the park too – perhaps there’s a boating lake you could go out on or a pavilion you could pose beside.

4 Among the Flowers

These days many parks have areas that are being rewilded or left to nature. You may find some of these are beautiful places with plenty of summer colour. Wildflower meadows and areas with long grass can look wonderful in summer pictures – but just make sure you are allowed to be there before you start shooting!

5 City Steps

Summer photo shoot locations don’t have to be all about nature. You can also get some sizzling city shots during the hotter months. Colourful summer clothing can really stand out against the contrasting greys and clean lines of the city centre. Try taking shots on the steps of city buildings, for example.

6 Landmark Buildings

Interesting buildings can also make great backdrops, especially if they aren’t too busy. Consider landmark buildings close to you that are simple but interesting, such as unusual office blocks and structures with lots of glass. Equally, you might live close to a beautiful, historic property – something Georgian or Elizabethan perhaps; a building that could work really well with you posing against it in the glorious summer sunshine.

Many of us have cats, dogs, rabbits – even hamsters, guinea pigs and perhaps ponies (!) that we think could be star pets, but getting the right photographs is essential.

Here are our top tips to ensure that the images you send us are the ones that are likely to help bring in the work for your pet model.

1 Wait for your pet to be in a good mood before conducting the shoot. Make sure he or she is well rested, well fed and ready to have some fun. If your pet is tired, hungry and grumpy, then the star pet qualities might not shine through!

2 Check your pet is looking his or her best. If they have fur, given them a good brush to remove any loose hair and tidy them up a bit. Clean their eyes, check their paws, claws or feet and make sure their teeth are looking good if they are likely to show.

3 Find a nice, quiet place to conduct your shoot in. Your pet may well be agitated if there are too many people around or if there is too much noise. You want them to be calm, well behaved and ready to respond in the way you need them to for your shoot.

4 Keep backgrounds uncluttered so we can clearly see your pet within the setting. Studio-style shots against a plan background are always great, but we would also like to see your beautiful bunny on leafy green grass and your pup playing happily in the woods, for example.

5 Let’s have some nice still model poses and some action shots as well! We’d love to see your cute kitten chasing a piece of wool or your puppy playing with a ball. Again, just make sure we can see his or her face clearly.

6 You can take your pictures on your phone but make sure they are high resolution and that you do not compress them or make them smaller when you save, upload or send them. If you do, they could end up blurred or pixelated. We need your pet pictures to be sharp and clear.

7 Please send us colour photographs but please don’t put them through any filters or edit them in any way. We need to see you star pet as he or she really looks.

8 Finally, have fun with your photo shoot. Putting your pet forward for modelling needs to be fun for both you and your lovely bundle of fur. While we need you to ensure your photographs show all the creature features we need to see, we also want you and your perfect pup or cute kitten to have a good time.

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