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!

This is why we always speak to potential new models – or their parents if they are children –  on the phone once they have uploaded their application form and some photographs.

The reasons for our friendly phone chat are numerous – but, in a nutshell, we need to know that you are right for us, we are right for you and you understand exactly how we work.

We have been in the business for over three decades now and have built a solid reputation for the way we operate, our transparency, our professional service and the care we take of our models.

So, why do we need to talk to you?

We like to get to know you!

Firstly, we will, of course, verify that you are who you say you are and that you are genuinely interested in taking on paid, part-time modelling work through us.

But we also want to find out about the real you!

What you enjoy doing, whether you have previous modelling experience or if you have other skills or qualities that make you suitable for this kind of work…

• 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

We like to find out what kind of modelling you are interested in, what your availability is like and whether you are prepared to travel.

We need to find out if you are confident enough to step out in front of a camera and can listen and respond to instructions.

And we will also explain to you how important it is that you are organised, prepared and punctual because we need models who are reliable.

And, why should you want to talk to us?

So you can get to know us too!

We can tell you more about the clients we work with, the wide variety of assignments we send our models on and how our processes work.

We will explain to you just how competitive modelling is – and that we can never guarantee to find work for any single one of our male, female, child or pet models.

This is because we don’t make the final choice.

When our clients approach us for a model (or models), we give them a selection of suitable individuals and they choose who they would like to employ.

During our phone chat, we will explain more about how you can maximise your chances of being chosen, primarily by ensuring you keep your e-portfolio and modelling photos up to date.

During our call, we will also explain that we charge a small initial admin fee, which goes towards the costs of seeking work for you and promoting you to clients.

This fee can be reimbursed to you after your very first booking through us.

And we will tell you more about how much you might earn for an assignment.

After our discussion, we will submit your application – along with feedback from the phone call –  to our panel and they will decide whether you are right for us.

Equally, you will be expected to take some time to absorb everything we have told you and to decide whether you think modelling through us is right for you.

But, please don’t be nervous about receiving your phone call from us – all our agents are friendly, warm and approachable.

You only have to read some of the feedback from those who have modelled with us to see just how much they invest in their relationships with our models – and just how much our models think of them!

As another year passes, we strive to remain at the forefront of commercial modelling as an agency with everything to offer – both to our models and our clients who rely on us to supply them with the best talent.

We expect modelling with us in 2025 to be even better than that in previous years.

But what do we mean by “better”? It’s a word that has many meanings, and opinions can differ as to what “better” actually implies. No one can predict the future, so it’d be arrogant to say that everything in the world is going to be better in the new year. But in terms of modelling, we’re excited at the prospects 2025 can offer our models.

Modelling in 2025 may very well present some real benefits to our models that can be seen as “better” than the previous years.

Like we say, the previous years (decades, even) have seen substantial growth for us. We work with far more clients year-on-year, and we are able to offer more wonderful modelling assignments to our registered models. We don’t really need to advertise to big name brands, because they come to us whenever they require models to help them in their marketing campaigns and in their advertising needs. We’ve built up an incomparable reputation and our clients trust us to meet their needs. It’s a great two-way relationship.

As a model in 2025, what can you expect?

If you’re thinking about modelling for the first time with us, you should know that you’re in the best possible position to be put forward to our clients. The brands we work range from multinationals and high street retailers to smaller start-ups. They all have one common thing when they approach us: they know that we have the perfect models for their needs. If you’re curious about modelling, you won’t be in a better place to be seen by the brands crying out for models. That’s what makes our team tick.

Maybe 2025 will be the year you take modelling seriously and join our team of models. Maybe it’s on your bucket list – even if you’re happy with a solitary job. Maybe it’s not about you at all; you may be thinking that your beloved pet is on the right track to become one of our next Starpets. Whatever your reasons, you’ll joining the right agency.

For our models who have enjoyed jobs with us, what will modelling in 2025 bring?

Well, we’re confident that all our models can expect the following:

1. To be put forward to our clients for even more modelling opportunities when your look and skills are called for.

2. An increase to our already extensive client list.

3. Even more diverse jobs.

4. More travel opportunities.

We’re always looking for ways to make things “better”. Whether that’s placing even more models with top-notch brands, or receiving more 5 star reviews than ever, we’re looking forward to what 2025 will bring us, our models and our clients.

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.

We offer paid, part-time work to a range of different models who may be seeking all sorts of different modelling work.

From lifestyle and commercial modelling to promotional modelling work, our assignments also vary between jobs of just a few hours up to work for several days.

Our clients come to us with bookings that are right here in Oxford, as well as jobs that may be in area parts of the UK or even abroad.

Once models are signed up with us, they may be put forward to any client offering the kind of work they have requested and requiring a model of their age, look and body type.

Our clients then make the final decision as to who they would like and then we discuss the job, the fee and all other details, including duration and location, with the chosen model.

It is entirely up to our model whether or not they would like to accept the booking.

We have child and teen models on our books who are still at school, as well as students at college or university.

We have female and male models who have full or part-time jobs, families to look after and busy social lives.

They all accept work from us as and when it fits in with them – after all, it has to be right for them, as well as for us and the client.

One of our young male models accepted an assignment modelling football kit for Oxford United.

This is what he told us afterwards about how modelling for Models Direct works for him.

“Models Direct is absolutely easy to deal with and leaves any model (beginning, starting out in the industry or professional) at ease.

“They plan and book everything, which makes being a freelance model a lot easier.

“It also makes keeping a part-time job or working full-time much more realistic.

“I really embrace the process of Models Direct.”
Apply here to find out more about working with us.

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!

And what teenager doesn’t like having fun – isn’t that what this period of our lives is all about?

Here at Models Direct, our teen models are aged between 12 and 17 and can be of any background, size, body shape and appearance.

Our clients approach us for teen models in all their wonderful variety – after all, they want real-looking models who reflect our young people as they truly are.

Our teen models might be asked to model teen clothing or other products aimed at their age group or they may be required to form part of a modelling family for a shoot.

Here at Models Direct, we have vast experience of working with babies, toddlers, children and teenagers.

We are fully vetted and accredited by the UK government and are a genuine, registered employment agency.

We understand all the safeguarding issues around working with youngsters and we investigate each and every new client and assignment thoroughly.

We also require our teen models to be accompanied on each modelling job by a parent or guardian.

So, what should you do if you are a teenager or the parent of a teenager who is interested in modelling?

Firstly, we would ask both parents and potential models to read the reviews left for us by our existing teen models and their parents.

This will give you all a good insight into the kind of work we offer and what our models and their families think of it.

Then, if you are interested, fill in our form and wait for us to get in touch.

Please note down any questions you might have to be sure you feel our friendly agent has answered all of your queries during the discussion.

If we decide your teenager is suitable – and you decide we are the agency you are looking for – then we will give you an e-portfolio.

This completely secure portal is where you or your teen can regularly upload images so we can see exactly what they look like at any given time.

This is vital – especially with teenagers who change so often – as we can only put young people forward for work if we can see their photographs are recent.

If this is the case, then when clients approach us for a teen model meeting your younger’s description we will include them in a selection for the client to choose from.

Our teen models love having new experiences with us.

After his very first assignment, Rashan told us:

“As this was my first modelling assignment I didn’t know what to expect but Models Direct put me at ease from start to finish.

“I was given all the information I needed to understand what was expected of me and what I could expect on the day.

“Everyone was very friendly and it was a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

“I really enjoyed the whole experience and can’t wait for my next shoot!”

And Rianna said:

“I was a bit nervous to be working with other people who were older than me, however, once I got there and met everyone, it was so fun.

“It was so exciting and I had lots of fun meeting new people.

“It is something that I would be very happy to do again and again.

“The most enjoyable part of the assignment was getting to meet other models like me who were doing their first job as well.”

To find out more about teen modelling, fill in our form.

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!

Instead of placing images up to cut corners, humans are keeping it real

You may or may not already know but showcase agencies can only literally do what their name suggests – showcase models’ images online or in print. Their capacity as an agency quite literally and legally stops there and moves no further. For them, it’s all about waiting and seeing who will notice and book their models. There’s no grit or hard graft behind this process. It’s a very laid-back approach and is almost as though if it’ll happen, it’ll happen and if it doesn’t, then it doesn’t!

Models Direct on the other hand is a long-standing UK modelling employment agency that has a team of professionals all working together to get our phenomenal and diverse models noticed and booked by tried and trusted clients. Our team has core principles we follow when working towards securing jobs for all of our models. They are:

Building rapport with brands and businesses

Having a specific agent who really knows their models, not just someone familiar with their model’s portfolio images.

Having an agent who they can trust and contact whenever they need help, advice and support.

From our client’s perspective, we know that they’re busy people who are often pressed for time. This often happens to be the reason they turn to a modelling employment agency just like ourselves who can fulfil the following:

Search for suitable and reliable models

Set up casting calls, auditions or self-tapes

Negotiate fees

Organise modelling logistics

Our passion for modelling truly shows with the challenges, grit and perseverance our booking team demonstrates every day when it comes to finding our model’s work.

Clients are fully screened

The difference when it comes to clients looking to hire a showcase agency vs an employment agency is that the latter conducts specific checks on not just a few of our clients but ALL of them regardless of whether they’re renowned or not – which MD does too. Showcase agencies do not guarantee these checks as it’s not part of their typical business duties.

Models receive timely payments, every time

No hiccups here! Our agency ensures that our models are paid on time with the negotiated payment within five working days after completion of the modelling gig – without fail.  

Showcase agencies cannot guarantee this which makes releasing payments that much more volatile when working with this type of agency.

Regulated by the Department of Business, Innovations and Skills BIS

This important factor demonstrates that our agency adheres to operating ethically, fostering innovation and investing in skills such as training programs to ensure that best business practices are followed. Showcase agencies look over this and do not follow this making them an unstable modelling to rely on.

Annnnnd, there you have it, loyal readers. Thanks for sticking around to the end to read this all-important blog for those who were just wondering what the difference between us and showcase agencies was. We hope that we’ve cleared up some misconceptions but as always, if you have any burning questions, please let our team know and we’ll be happy to help – always!