We are always happy to reveal more about the way we work to any of our models, clients or other partners.

Our business has been in operation now for over 35 years and, of course, it has evolved greatly over the decades.

Today we pride ourselves in being a thriving, 21^st-century agency with an impressive and diverse array of models.

We operate locally, nationally and internationally.

We work with some of the biggest and best-known companies in the UK and beyond, helping them to find just the right individuals for their marketing campaigns and other projects.

So what do you find when you open the doors to Models Direct and step inside?

Well, at the helm we have our managing director Damian O’Connor and our operations director Suzy O’Connor.

Between them, they have grown Models Direct to become the powerhouse it is today.

Their passion, diligence and professional approach are as strong as they ever have been.

And this is exactly what ensures our agency retains its excellent reputation and remains a leader within its field.

Ever-dedicated and working tirelessly is our team of highly professional and equally passionate agents.

These industrious individuals know their business inside out.

• 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

They forge strong links with clients; are dynamic in seeking work for our models and are there on the end of the phone to help each and every individual they place on an assignment.

Our models know they can call or email their contacts at Models Direct if they have any queries or concerns as a job approaches and their agent will respond quickly.

These people are the public face of Models Direct – the smiling, caring, friendly individuals who help ensure we remain people-focused, with the individual right at the heart of our activities here.

Finally, we do, of course, have all the other vital staff that any company has – the busy bees and quietly solid employees who manage our IT systems, websites, social media and other company activities.

We are an organisation of real people who work closely together to ensure a smooth, friendly and highly efficient service.

And we work with clients, who are just as enthusiastic about what they do, and models who enjoy teaming up with us as much as we love working with them.

There is often a suggestion in our industry that not all agencies are what they say they are – and sadly we have to admit this is true.

Some individuals and companies purporting to be modelling agencies are not operating legally or responsibly.

Some are simply websites that showcase models’ photographs in the hope that a client might happen upon them.

Unlike us, they don’t actively seek work for their models.

Models Direct, however, is inspected, vetted and accredited by the government.

We are a legal, authentic employment agency.

And anyone who would like to come along to our offices to meet us and find out more about just how real we are is very welcome to.

But don’t take our word for it – what do our models think of our team here?

Here is some of their feedback…

Adam said:

“During the summer holidays, my son got a call to go for a shoot at Morrisons.

“The service and the advice given by Models Direct’s Gemma was absolutely fantastic.

“My son enjoyed himself.”

Imogen said:

“The team at Models Direct is always so helpful with providing the right level of information at the right time.

“It means that the jobs are always fun and completely hassle-free!

“Charlie is great and super friendly too!”

And Erin said:

“From start to finish, I have had an amazing experience with Models Direct.

“I had my first modelling session, which was great!

“A great group of models, friendly staff and an overall chilled experience!

“Anna has been so helpful setting my account and portfolio up, and Gemma has been a star, organising everything for the modelling day!

“I really felt part of a team and at ease with the whole process.”

If you would like to become part of our team as a model too, then please fill in our form.

Clients interested in booking models can also contact us.

Suitability for commercial modelling encompasses everyone from any background and experience. Consider the following models our clients regularly ask us to provide them:

• Babies and toddlers
• Children
• Teenagers
• Adults
• Mature models
• People living with disabilities
• Individuals described as “plus size” in some circles
• Males and females
• Oh…and pets of all species!

There may be some specific assignments which call for models of a particular ethnicity or look, such as showing off tattoos or opportunities for wheelchair users. But in general, we’re always on the lookout for anyone with the desire to become a commercial model, and the process starts with a simple  registration.

We touched on the fact that that some would-be models might not be ready to become a Models Direct model, no matter how much the desire might be. That’s because we recommend that they research a little about us and how we operate. Additionally, they mustn’t apply with us without knowing some basic tips. Researching some aspects of our industry is just as important as performing well once you’ve been picked for your first shoot.

• 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

Although we’ll provide all the essential information and be available to answer queries ahead of a shoot, models need to be well prepared to make their modelling life that little bit easier. Preparation is key, and shouldn’t be underestimated.

Remaining calm, professional and confident are also key qualities for all our commercial models. If you thrive by taking directions from someone in a professional environment, whilst having fun and keeping to professional levels, you’ll fit in nicely with our extensive list of models.

Nerves are normal. Being filmed or photographed is not everyone’s ideal job, but for our models it’s perfect. Our clients know that everyone involved in the assignment must work together to produce the desired result, and so our models constantly tell us how relaxed everyone is on set, and how much relaxed they are made to feel.

Simone’s feedback for her second assignment with us is a perfect example. She said, “I had a great experience at my shoot at Leeds University. It was an amazing opportunity to get to go to a new city and the other models were very friendly, which calmed my nerves and made the experience more enjoyable. The environment was very relaxed, and the shoot consisted of a variety of stills and video. Staff were also very nice and informative throughout the shoot. I very much look forward to my next booking!”

Suitability for a lot of our bookings is about staying relaxed, enjoying the experience, and being keen to bag more opportunities to shine with our clients.         

Prior modelling experience is absolutely not required.

Take the first step and register your details with us. After that, our lovely team at Models Direct HQ will do the rest!

Booking inquiries land in our Models Direct inbox from clients based locally, nationally and internationally every day. We have clients ranging from entrepreneurs to industry giants. Our extensive client list speaks for itself!

Our team understands that time is an asset most of us are chasing after as there’s always so much to do but so little time to do it within. Models Direct takes the hassle out of finding models, negotiating fees, and briefing models to help clients’ marketing vision seamlessly come to fruition. The following steps are what our booking team does daily:

Step 1

Clients make an online request and ideally provide a brief of what they need from us. Our booking team then gets to work by meticulously searching our modelling pool according to their requirements.

Step 2

Once we’ve shortlisted a selection of our talent, we send our clients a link to access their portfolios, showreels, body measurements and extra talents so they can see who we’ve selected for them.

Step 3

Clients get to choose who they would like to hire along with a second and third option in case of unavailability. This info then sources back to our booking coordinator.

Step 4

Our coordinator contacts selected models to brief them about the assignment and whether they’re happy to go ahead. If they are, the following steps are actioned.

Step 5

Documents officially finalise the agreement between our models and clients.

Step 6

Models turn up for their assigned jobs and can indulge in behind-the-scenes fun.

Step 7

We complete our happiness checks and initiate model payment within five working days of the work being completed.

The day in the life of our MD booking agents is very hectic. There’s perseverance, consistency and quality support alive and kicking in our booking team’s HQ. Thanks for reading!

At MD, our client list has expanded far and wide, across the length and breadth of the UK. We’ve had trendsetters and creative dreamers contact us, usually via our hire-a-model application, on a quest to search for models who can shape their campaigns. From advertising moguls to fashion wizards and everyone in between, our team has worked with top-notch clients who had the desire to bring their marketing ideas to life with the help of our talented pool of diverse models.

From emerging start-ups to humble industry giants, our dream team has helped launch successful projects where many have returned for our reliable and professional services. So, who have we specifically worked with over our thirty-year presence in the UK modelling industry? This reading will reveal all with some of our most recent clients. These are our top picks for this edition of Who Are Our Clients? Get ready, get set…enjoy!

Why it’s good to know who we’ve worked with

Firstly, why is it good to know who we’ve collaborated with? We’ll outline the reasons why here:

It provides a space to learn about our industry reputation, particularly through the feedback we receive from clients and models alike (which you’ll find out more about later on). Working with well-established clients also demonstrates that we deliver what they need, and how well we get the job done.

If you’re considering working with us, our client history can show you whether our ethos, mission, and goals align with yours. If they do, we’re good to go!

Our respectable record of clients illustrates the demand for our modelling services.

It builds industry connections and opportunities. Prospective collaborations with other clients and creative agencies are great for networking whilst learning who your competitors are gives you a potential market lead.

The Goodsyard

Based near Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter station, this was a recent shoot for the new neighbourhood regeneration project of apartment and must-have amenities with London’s creative marketing agency, Identity Design.

“Models Direct has provided a fulfilling modelling experience. Great for those seeking enjoyable assignments and a positive modelling environment. Highly recommended.”

Participating in “The Goodsyard Apartment & Amenities Shoot” with Identity Design was a fantastic experience. Collaborating with another talented model, we seamlessly showcased the accommodation and highlighted amenities. The production team provided excellent direction and support throughout the day. The wardrobe requirements were communicated in the detailed shoot brief, ensuring a smooth and well-prepared experience. They provided refreshments and kept energy levels up. Looking forward to future collaborations.”

– Male Model David Fadimu on his photoshoot (4th February)

Spacelabs Healthcare

Another company that recently approached us for a promotional shoot and filming on how to apply their ECG equipment was Spacelabs. They have over 60 years of experience in helping care teams across the globe, and how to deal with patients who are in critical, sub-acute and perioperative stages of their health journey. Our male model Gary was selected to step in for their marketing campaign in Hertford. We’ll fill you in once the finals have been completed. In the meantime, you can see Spacelabs Healthcare’s work here.

Say it With Diamonds

This gem of a company has come to us several times over the past few years to re-establish its strong connection with our team. Most recently, Zuri, her mum and grandmother were the modelling three-generation sensations booked for the jewellery company’s 2024 Mother’s Day campaign. Booked on 6th February, their work will be coming to a digital screen near you!

If you’re interested in reading more about our collaborations with other clients, please take a look at our booking blogs. For model reviews and client testimonials, they’re here – highlighted in blue! Or, if you want more – an extensive list of the people who we’ve worked with so far. Enjoy!

Get your tot’s dummies, bibs and muslin squares on standby, (okay, a grown-up will help you!), here’s to babies who could make it onto the modelling scene.

The beginning

With all that contagious babbling, cute little giggles and the need to explore the world, babies are super adorable from the get-go. Even when they’re sad or crying, babies pull our heartstrings, and the majority of us have a soft spot for them. With babies covering a multitude of different industries, they have a big role in this world and shaping its future. Industries such as the baby industry, of course, the educational industry, the food industry, the medical and pharmaceutical industry, the travel industry, the housing market, the toy industry and the entertainment industry, are just a snippet of where the focus is set with babies.

So when these industries need to call for babies to appear in any of their marketing, that’s when you think, how did they even get onto the outdoor advertising billboard, on a website or in a TV ad?

Welcome to the world of baby modelling!

When your cherub is born, it’s quite an overwhelming phase in your life. There are so many adjustments you have to make and things you have to adapt to on the spot that even taking a snap on your mobile can feel unachievable. Models Direct knows as we’ve been in that position and know how incredibly challenging even the smallest of tasks can be when you have a newborn, whether they’re your first, second, or third. But…. and here’s the thing, if you look beyond the hourly feeds and nappy changes, there is a world of modelling that your baby can join alongside their nourishing world of growth and self-development. All they have to do is just be their natural self and feel comfy in larger crowds of unknown faces.

The middle

The idea of this might be making you feel a bit nervous but ultimately, baby models are at the heart of the hustle and bustle of a production team bringing together work that involves any one of the industries mentioned above. The target audience for babies are families and friends that know a little one, so it would only make sense to feature a tot in campaigns so that they’re more relatable and that people can make a strong connection.

These babies that you see haven’t just been plucked out of thin air to feature in world-class campaigns. They’re usually part of the modelling industry where they’ve been booked by a client who has liked their look. Simples! Do you know how much extra effort you have to put into making this modelling dream turn into reality should you want the same for your newborn? Here it is:

1. Sign up with a reputable modelling agency that has a strong legacy with happy models and clients. Ensure that they are not just a ‘showcase agency.’ More about this here.

2. Keep your baby’s portfolio up to date with regular images every few weeks as they change so fast. Blink and they grow!

3. Check our ‘job board’ for the latest modelling positions which you can directly apply for work yourself.

4. Keep reading our content for all the latest modelling scoop and news that’s hot off the press.

The ending (is only just the beginning)

Waiting for a response can be the most challenging bit so practising patience can come in handy since modelling work doesn’t always have a regular rhythm. Sometimes your baby model may find work as soon as they have signed up with an agency like us, Models Direct, or sometimes it can take longer. The decision lies in the hands of clients which a reputable agency should declare when signing up their bambinos right from the very onset.

The difference with our agency is…

We’ve been in the biz for over thirty years with a strong alumni. We put all our models forward whenever a client calls for their look and then leave it in their hands to make the ultimate decision. Our expert team aims to never miss an opportunity where a model could land a gig as we have a specialised team working hard, around the clock and behind the scenes to give everyone the chance to work as a model, not just as a one-hit wonder but on as many projects as possible. We’ve seen how our newborn models might have started off featuring with their mama well before they were born in pregnancy-related campaigns, or moved onto child modelling and perhaps teen and adult modelling as they’ve progressed through life.

Modelling is one of those professions that you can work around your other commitments and doesn’t tie you down to the nine-to-five slog. Instead, you have the freedom to be your boss and choose which projects you’d like to take on that are offered to you.

Babies, we can’t say that you’ll have that choice now as you’re so young, but as you grow, one day you will should you stay on our modelling books!

Okay, it might not just be bold that’s grabbing our attention this season. Add in some pastels, prints and of course smiles; we love to see them all-round. Get that whirlwind of fashion fixtures and mixtures and have your junior oozing with confidence with ultimate look-at-me outfits that will get our clients envisioning your little model for their next campaign. We want winning assignments as much as you do, believe us, where we help our trendsetters, up to the age of 12, carve out a promising part-time career with our Models Direct agency

Stand out with strong colours 

There’s a lot to fill you in, so where shall we start? Oh yes, the bold and the beautiful! Models Direct have seen some bold in-your-face prints yelling at us to include in this trendy blog – lots of bright, vibrant colours to capture the essence of this time of the year. Summer isn’t summer without wearing something striking, playful and confident because that’s what this season is about. It’s about having fun, exploring and discovering new and old roads. Glam up your child with a striking colour such as red or yellow so that they’ll be popping out of their ePortfolios.

 Pastel beauty 

Next up, get ready for an elegant touch with soft pastel hues like Edgar Degas’ paintings. Getting the right balance isn’t difficult as pastels flow so well in real-time and then are captured for the camera in front of the blazing sun and clear blue skies for a perfect addition to your photo album. Snap your junior up in their next at-home or outdoor setting photoshoot with you. They’ll be relaxed soaking in the summer sun and having a jolly good time.

And there you have it – our summer trends for juniors in a nutshell. 

If you’re set to get your little one on board with a modelling agency, then you’ve no doubt come to the right place! We’re not being biased but it’s true. We call for diversity and inclusion like you wouldn’t believe. It isn’t just a movement we’ve decided to jump on the bandwagon with. We’ve been calling for and promoting models of all ages, shapes and sizes over our 30 (yes, 30!) years of presence in the industry, and there’s no stopping us. We value our models unlike most agencies and care about how their journey is. If you’ve liked what you’ve read, there’s more where this has come from! Our blog section is pretty extensive with plenty of insightful hot topics and fun afternoon reads, or whenever you grab a moment really. Our social media platforms, including TikTok which we recently joined, are bustling with extra info and inspo so reach out to us and we’ll reach back. 

If you’re a model looking to shred excess fat and gain a few pounds of muscle, now is the perfect time to begin your fitness regime.

When a modelling job requires models of a certain build, there are several basic principles which will have your muscles primed and in peak condition. The aim is not a rapid Arnold Schwarzenegger-like transformation – more a safe, gradual modification that’ll benefit you in the long term. There’s a danger of wanting too much too quickly which, whilst understandable, is not the healthiest of ways to add on muscle. Read our concise guide to bulking up and you could be booking yourself a hot new modelling contract this summer.

1. Eat plenty of protein. As obvious as it sounds, protein is vital for muscle gain, but the amount is crucial. As protein is essential for muscle production, it’s better consumed in relatively small but frequent amounts throughout the day. Generally speaking, aim to eat about 1-2 grams of protein per pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 200lbs, a daily protein intake of 150 grams is ideal. Protein is composed of building blocks known as amino acids – think of them as bricks building a house…the more building blocks you use, the larger the house. Foods to concentrate on include beef, chicken (without the skin), egg whites, semi-skimmed milk and whey. 

2. Count the calories. A typical male should consume about 2,000 calories daily. Aim to double that, but increase the number of your meals. If you want to consume 4,000 calories / day, try eating six meals – at an average of 650 calories / meal. 

3. Don’t skip on carbohydrates. Yes, protein is essential, but carbohydrates are required for fuelling exercise, so that these are used for energy instead of protein. 

4. Eat “good” fats. Fats are important in muscle growth, but only certain types will aid bulk. Steer away from saturated fats commonly found in sugary items like cakes and biscuits. Instead, try eating foods high in mono / polyunsaturated fats like nuts, vegetable oils and fatty fish.

5. Prepare a pre-work out meal. Eating a designed meal prior to exercise / lifting weights is also key in bulk gain. Try foods rich in slow-burning carbohydrates like brown rice and pasta. Slow-burning carbohydrates take longer to convert into glucose, thus maintaining consistent sugar levels, allowing you to train longer.  

6. The basics. There are two rules of thumb that everyone should know / adhere to: drink lots of water, and allow yourself plenty of rest. One pound of muscle can hold up to three pounds of water – it’s a no-brainer! As is rest – if you deprive your body a period of rest  / repair, it’ll have long-term detrimental effects that could undo the good work you’ve been putting in. Don’t push it, and stick to a regular regime of sleep, quick naps and water consumption.

7. Supplement your food intake. There are plenty of effective (and legal) food supplements on the market, from fat burners to protein shakes. Read the ingredients carefully, as well as the instructions. Creatine powders are also useful, as they help muscle’s grow to their fullest, and also delay fatigue. 

Increasing exercise and lifting weights in accordance with the above guidelines will increase muscle bulk. Models Direct advises all “first time” muscle gainers to seek advice from a nutritionist or GP before embarking on their bulking up regime. Don’t expect miracles overnight, and stick to it – you will be rewarded.

“It feels great to be back working for Models Direct and look forward to many more assignments with them.”

To be a successful commercial model it’s very helpful to have acting experience, you are often asked to portray a different character or play a role and will then be filmed or photographed while doing so.

Steve recently was selected to portray the character of a security guard for Axis Security for them to use for promotional purposes. Steve and the other models were photographed by a professional team while in character to create realistic and a true representation of the company they were working for!

Steve has a very friendly and enthusiastic personality. He is easy to work with, has a great look, always professional and very talented at being in character.

Model Fee: £173.00

“I modelled for Axis Security for the day. The location was in central London (Piccadilly Circus) the shoot involved six of us playing various roles with photos being taken in different parts of the clients buildings. Photos were taken of myself and two other models posing as security officers in a friendly manner, talking to customers and checking their I.D’s. We also had some photos taken of us patrolling the outside area of the buildings acting as though we were on our radio’s. I had a great time with the other models and crew members were also very friendly and easy to get along with, which helps towards being relaxed for the shoot. It feels great to be back working for Models Direct and look forward to many more assignments with them.”

FINAL IMAGES OF STEVE MODELLING FOR AXIS SECURITY

The demand for model families has grown at Models Direct this year, so when Steve was selected for an assignment recently it was great to be able to offer the opportunity to his son also! Steve’s son Shai pictured below did a fantastic job on his shoot with his dad and you can read their feedback from the day!

Model Fee: £280

“My son and I (Shai) had our first assignment with Model Direct together, the assignment was for an online advert for Hasbro, it was my son’s first time so he was a little shy but after sometime he settled in quite nicely. We had various scenes with Shai in the bathroom and of us in the kitchen with me rewarding him (after his successful potty training) with a tub of ice scream. The film crew were very friendly along with the lovely ladies who were looking after Shai who were very helpful, we both had a really good time!”

Hilary’s first assignment was for a holiday park photography shoot with two other models – she and the others were photographed taking part in the park’s various activities for the company brochure. Although she was initially nervous, Hilary found the experience at Models Direct to be fantastic – she and the other models, Marc and Herb got along well and the photographer put them at ease straight away. For the shoot itself, Hilary had to be photographed cycling, relaxing with a drink, and walking along the beach with her ‘husband’, the other male model. Hilary remarked that the whole day was surprisingly relaxed, and she soon found herself comfortable in front of the camera. She had joined Models Direct because she had wanted to take part in work which was entirely different from her former day job at an office, and has said that as a result how much she enjoyed her first shoot, she is eager to work on more assignments in the future. Hilary also added that the work had done wonders for her confidence, and that she was very glad of the opportunity to meet new people and take part in such an interesting job.

Rebecca had a similarly positive experience with her assignment for Models Direct. She found the photographer to be warm and very professional, which helped to ease her initial nerves. Rebecca had taken part in informal photo shoots before, but because this was her first job with Models Direct, she did feel slightly apprehensive before the shoot. However she soon found herself feeling relaxed and confident in front of the camera, and is now eager to take part in further assignments. The shoot itself was set in a room with a little stage on the centre, and cameras set up from several different angles – there were three clothing changes in total. Taking part in this type of work was a dream of Rebecca’s for a long time, and she was delighted to find that she genuinely enjoyed the experience