models direct blog – Models Direct https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk Models Direct modelling agency has been bringing models and clients together since 1990. Welcome to the Models Direct business blog. Fri, 31 Jan 2025 16:39:50 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.8 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/cropped-siteIcon512x512-32x32.png models direct blog – Models Direct https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk 32 32 Building a Brand? How Models Direct Can Help https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/building-a-brand-how-models-direct-can-help/ Sun, 16 Feb 2025 09:08:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4358 Models Direct sees many creative visionaries walk through our doors ready to build their brand with the help of our modelling services.


We understand the strength of having modelling talent to leverage new campaigns which is why we’re always about getting new models to sign up with us and request that our existing ones continually update their ePortfolios, reels and measurements/skills so that brands have a holistic overview of what they have to offer.

Our team has seen that brands have a knack for curating innovative products and services that aim to captivate and inspire their target audience, and they do it incredibly well. Shaping their brand’s visual identity is an exciting process and a long-term opportunity to collaborate with agencies like us as we value creativity, innovation and authenticity.

What brands may look into investing  when building their campaigns could include:

Product shoots – they will plan, style and request for high-quality product photography which may include models who will appeal to their target audience. This will mean recruiting models of all ages and even pets!

Lifestyle shots – brands will want to create beautiful lifestyle imagery that reflects the personality and vibe of their brand, weaving products and services seamlessly into real-world scenarios.

Content creation – they may intend to produce a steady flow of on-brand, engaging content for use across social media, websites, and marketing campaigns.

Video content – brands may create video content, long and short-form for reels, TikToks, and ads, blending campaign-forward style with eye-catching storytelling.


Building a brand will take time. Whether you’re a new or established brand seeking models for your next campaign, Models Direct can help. We’ve got diverse models – baby models, junior models, teenage models, adult male and female models, mature models and pet models.


We really did think this through and understood how brands will need models of all ages and from all backgrounds. So here we are, over thirty years on, still recruiting and providing models fit for different scenarios our brands suggest.

Here is a snippet of some of our client’s reviews. There’s more of this which you can take a look at here:

Focal Point Digital

“Everything went fine, and the models were great. Very happy with the service provided.”

Marc Cain

“Just to say that Terry was lovely! I’m very pleased with the service – quick, efficient,and everything was sorted very fast. If I need something similar again in the area, I wouldn’t hesitate to contact you guys again. Best Sarah”

The Avid Seamstress

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick? Yes, great responses and very thorough.

How did the assignment go on the day? Very well, model was on time and fantastic to work with, great energy and very flexible.

How did our talent(s) perform – did they do a great job? See above.

Are there any changes you would like to see? None.

Would you use us again, if so, why? Yes, cost effective.


Are you a brand looking to hire? Let our MD team know and we’ll be happy to help – always! We look forward to hearing from you.

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Different types of modelling https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/different-types-of-modelling/ Thu, 06 Feb 2025 08:42:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4373 There’s no such thing as a “typical” commercial model. Remember – commercial models are totally different from fashion models. You can read more about suitability of commercial models here, which explains the differences between commercial and fashion models.

Whilst there are certain restrictions to high-end fashion modelling, the diversity in commercial modelling is evident. We do not specialise in any type of model. Commercial models encompass everyone, from toddlers to mature models, males and females from all backgrounds. The one attribute for commercial models is that they must be dedicated to their assignments, from regularly updating their portfolio photos to representing themselves (and us) on set. The rest usually takes care of itself.

Some people fare better in modelling jobs than others. Not everyone is suitable for all our jobs. Age and gender are key factors, but thankfully modelling experience is not required. That’s equally critical, as it shows that anyone with the desire to become a Models Direct model can succeed.

What’s also important is knowing the range of different types of models we’re always interested to hear from. Some agencies specialise in plus size modelling, while others mainly have females on their lists. Some will have more of an emphasis on pets.

We’ve been the UK’s leading commercial modelling employment agency for a number of years, and we put all our effort into each booking, no matter what type of model we’re representing.

And which different types of models are we experts at putting forward to our numerous clients, giving them the best chance of being seen and ultimately being offered their dream commercial modelling job?

Here’s the list of the main types:

Commercial modelling – diversity is the key here, with commercial modelling appealing to everyone. We are always interested to hear from anyone with the desire to work with top brands all over the UK and abroad. Commercial modelling is totally accessible, well paid and fun. Read more about commercial modelling here.

Mature modelling – age is not a limitation. Instead, embrace your wealth of life experience by signing up with us and uncovering plenty of modelling jobs as a mature model.

Baby, child and teenager modelling – modelling is not just for adults. We’ve provided our clients with hundreds of youngsters in exciting shoots (accompanied by their parents and guardians, naturally). Babies are usually classed as infants up to two years of age, child models are up to the age of twelve, and the age of teen models should be self-explanatory. The range of assignments on offer for children is limitless; all we ask is that they are well behaved and have fun in a safe environment.

Pet modelling – perennially popular with several clients, household animals of all shapes, sizes and breeds are always welcome!

Plus size modelling – for those with a fuller figure, there are many chances to be seen by our clients. For the past few years, we’ve experienced a surge in plus size modelling, so we welcome anyone to join us and have the best chance to be selected by top brands looking to appeal to the public.

We cater for anyone and everyone – and it starts with having the desire to become a model. After that, registering with means we’ll show our clients what you have to offer!

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How to Make the Most Out of January 2025 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/how-to-make-the-most-out-of-january-2025/ Thu, 02 Jan 2025 08:20:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4263 Happy New Year, everyone! Gosh, 2024 went by quick, right? Another year down and another year going full steam ahead. We know that time waits for no one. And now more than ever, life is moving at turbo speed. But that doesn’t mean we can’t make time work for us, right? Let’s make 2025 stand out. How? Let’s take a look!

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!

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The Festive Season Success We’ve Had at Models Direct https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/the-festive-season-success-weve-had-at-models-direct/ Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:06:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4183 Models Direct is busy all year round but we do see a surge in model requests just before and during the holiday season. Sometimes our requests start earlier to prep for the season ahead so that brands and companies are ready for the most wonderful time of the year.


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.

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Could my family get into modelling? https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/could-my-family-get-into-modelling/ Mon, 23 Dec 2024 16:20:51 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4119 We can’t think of many jobs the whole family can get involved in. Maybe a chance meeting on holiday could result in paid work; rare, but it can happen. Farming springs to mind, and we wish all farming families well. Some restaurant and B&B businesses are successful because the whole family gets involved. But are there any others? Like we say, they aren’t that common.

Modelling is one of those jobs that welcomes families. More than that, some modelling jobs specifically requires families. And even better news – no one in the family needs modelling experience. And there’s more – family modelling usually demands a higher modelling day rate. What’s not to like for fun-loving, camera-friendly families?

Your family could get into modelling, no question. It’s a very real possibility, and the first step is to make a quick application with us here. After that, we’ll have a look at what your family can collectively offer our clients and then our wonderful booking team will be in touch. It’s counter-productive to make the application process too complicated. All we need is for a family to submit their interest and contact details and we’ll do the rest. If you’re reading this after registering with us, have a quick look at the FAQs to give you a little inside information.

There are many benefits to modelling as a family. Firstly, we’ve mentioned the potential group fee (usually taken charge of by mum or dad). For a family of four, and average fee for a days’ modelling might be £250-£1,000. We’ve seen much larger pay cheques than this, though. A read of our family reviews will tell you that the fabulous Friend family collected £6,000 over seven bookings. This demonstrates that if clients like a model, then they can easily work repeated bookings.

Secondly, modelling is fun. It’s often a new experience and nerves can affect anyone. But once families arrive on set – having been prepped by us – and then speak to the set managers and photographers or film makers, they quickly settle down and thoroughly enjoy being in their modelling environment. Families feed off each other, each member comfortable with their surroundings. Family modelling is hugely rewarding, and they cannot wait for their next job.

Thirdly, modelling families are as natural as they come. There isn’t a great deal of acting on assignment, as a family’s instinct is to be sociable and radiant whenever they come together. It’s what our top clients are looking for: down-to-earth, close-knit families to help them market products to other families.

Fourthly, some of our families have worked abroad. Yes – they have been paid to go “on holiday”! Well, it’s a working assignment, but just try telling the Golding family that. They were chosen for a four-day job in the South of France, starring in a commercial for Oliver’s Travels and their luxury villas. Talk about hitting the jackpot.

If you’re an ambitious family who love to spend time together, modelling is the perfect job for you. It can be done part-time, and the pay is usually great.

Now, to that registration page.

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Modelling work in Oxford can fit into your daily life https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/modelling-work-in-oxford-can-fit-into-your-daily-life/ Sat, 07 Dec 2024 08:55:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=4540 The great beauty of modelling with Models Direct is that it can slot easily into your busy everyday life.

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.

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How much can a model earn? https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/how-much-can-a-model-earn/ Fri, 25 Oct 2024 08:14:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=3965 Whilst we know that a lot of people choose to be a model with us for various reasons, getting paid for a job well done is high on a model’s list.

Many models love to model because of the sense of accomplishment. Some adore modelling because it breaks up their routine; many model with us as a part-time activity, which suits some people perfectly. Being the star of the shoot appeals to several models, who enjoy being in the limelight amongst the photographers or filmmakers under studio lights. All these are understandable, but we know not many people would model without a nice pay cheque at the end of the day.

So, we appreciate that earning money is important. After all, as the largest modelling agency in the country, we earn money from our duties. The burning question for models everywhere is: “How much money could I earn?”

It’s a question that we can easily answer, but with lots of answers. That’s because different modelling jobs come from different clients, all with different budgets. Remember – we collect our client’s payment before each and every job, so it means we have, in effect, collected our model’s fees before they’ve even started their assignments. That fee is largely dependant on the type of job (simple photoshoot, acting role, film etc) but – most crucially – the client.

It stands to reason that a model can expect to earn slightly more working for a larger client than a smaller one with a limited budget. Whatever the amount a model will earn, we always have it “in the bank”, so that means we can pay our models very promptly, unlike some agencies who might pay their employees after one or two weeks.

Getting down to the brass tacks – but how much? It could range from £70 – £100 for just an hour’s work, or up to £300 for a day’s work. For a family booking, it could be as much as £500 for a day’s work. That figure is possible for some our Starpets, too. For more pet fees, please click here. The key is the client.

To give precise examples, our wonderful model Neri collected a £700+ fee for her work with Ideal World TV way back in 2018; she’s since earned thousands of pounds in her starring role.

Ever since our wonderful Friend family had been our books they’ve earned over £6,000 over 7 assignments – quite an achievement and a pretty good fee per job.

We’re very open in revealing our model’s fees – providing we get their permission, of course. Readers can view some more modelling fees to give some idea of how fees can vary from model to model, client to client.

Just a note on why we take photos of models with cheques. Simply, we like to revel in their success, and showing people the reward of their success is more effective than saying we paid directly them into their bank accounts. Our models seem to like posing with cheques, too!

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Couples – we need you! https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/couples-we-need-you/ Wed, 25 Sep 2024 10:40:26 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=3906 A lot of things are better when they come in twos. Socks, fish and chips and Ant & Dec are just a small selection of pairs we’d never imagine being on their own – heaven forbid! 

Modelling may not seem like an obvious choice to add to the list above, but we often receive many jobs requiring couples of all ages. Pretty much all our clients have at some point needed two models for a variety of assignments, so we’re appealing to real-life couples to realise their dream of earning good money working with top brands throughput the UK.   

The merits of modelling as couples are obvious. Modelling is an incredibly fun way to earn extra money – the plethora of reviews highlight this. Often, couples have even more fun, as they can make memories by trying something new, or indeed continue to strengthen portfolios by adding more photos to attract the attention of more clients.

Whether you’re an experienced modelling couple or new to the industry, our clients are always eager to see what you have to offer. We have had plenty of requests for couple models, and we’re lucky enough to have a list of talent that can pose as couples. However, as smoothly as those assignments have gone, requests for real-life couples regularly land in our inbox – the demand is there, so the only question for couples is, “Why couldn’t we do that?”

The answer is that you both could, and it’s probably easier than you’d imagine.

We’ll highlight three different requests from clients requiring two models apiece to give you an idea what couples can expect:

  • Earlier in the year we were asked to source a real-life couple between the ages of 20 – 55 years. They were needed for a bridal photo shoot, so clearly the chemistry a real couple has was essential for the assignment.   
  • A recent promotional shoot required a mother and daughter to pose in front of the cameras. Family modelling is always an effective way to reach out to audiences, so whether two models pretend to be a real couple, or a genuine family couple is chosen, these types of assignments are always popular.
  • We were asked to put forward a parent-and-child combo for a health and fitness shoot. Couples can really bring a shoot to life, crammed with smiles, hugs and genuine affection that shines on assignment.

We’ve provided numerous couples for our clients, and their popularity is increasing – just as most other types of models are. We’ve seen no slump in the demand for models, and couples are as highly sought after as they’ve ever been.  

As much as two strangers can pose as a couple with great results, there’s no substitute for real-life couples. Same gender couples, mature married couples, newly-weds…we’d love to hear from any couple that wants to dip their collective toes in the world of commercial modelling. All it takes is a little confidence, a dose of research, and a quick application. Before long, we could be recommending you to hundreds of our clients, and who knows, you may get the nod and be rocking it in real life as a modelling couple.

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Everyday models – we need you https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/everyday-models-we-need-you-2/ Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:48:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=3658 Everyday models are everyday people – like you, and all the other readers.

That’s why the chances of securing work from us and our clients remains a very real goal if you have the confidence and dedication to make it work. At Models Direct, we’re not a fabricated dream factory – we actively place thousands of real people in modelling jobs every year. Why? Because we know who has the looks to make it happen, and we have the clients that are itching to accept models to fulfil their advertising needs. The question is: why couldn’t YOU be one on them? The answer is: you COULD be, and far easier and quicker then you think.   

Everyday models are essential to all modelling jobs. Forget the mainstream names, forget the fashion shows, and forget the catwalks. They have their place, and we all know it. The big fashion names are there for a reason, and most of them have achieved global recognition because of one or all of the following: knowledgeable agents; fantastic talents; a solid character; media following: multi-million brands backing models to increase profits…we could go on.

Not that’s a bad thing. It’s business, after all. But the fact remains that just about anyone can be a model – and if you’re reading this, it means you have at least a more than passing interest in commercial modelling. You probably have thought about it before, and if so, then great. If you haven’t, but are keen to know more, you only need to be aware of one piece of information:

You are who we need!

Though we’ve progressed to the no.1 commercial modelling employment agency in the UK, our popularity means we’re still very interested in receiving new applicants for models. Joining us will give every model the best opportunity to work with forward-thinking brands on the lookout for new modelling talent.

Modelling is easily one of the most accessible jobs around. Our models are not required to have had experience. All our openings come to us via our clients, who personally pick the models we put forward to them. It’s a simple tried-and-perfected process that sees thousands of Models Direct models shine on assignments in every part of the country. We’re proud to work a vast array of clients, so we’re not selective when it comes to geographical regions. We’ve placed just as many models in large UK cities as we have in rural (and less hectic) settings. This gives our models more of a chance to get selected for the work they want (and if they do get picked, they can decline the opportunity if anything crops up).

As well as the vast range of jobs available, all our jobs are organised by industry professionals. They are fun, exciting, creative and also well paid (we obtain fees from clients before each assignment, so we’re able to pay our models within 5 working days).

There are so many aspects to modelling that appeal to both experienced and new models. We have the jobs, and we have the clients. All you need is the desire to become one of our next successes!

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How do I know if I am suitable for modelling? https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/how-do-i-know-if-i-am-suitable-for-modelling/ Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:27:00 +0000 https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/?p=3901 If you are wondering whether you are suitable for modelling, then the answer is that you probably are!

At Models Direct we specialise in placing everyday models in a wide range of very different assignments for our very varied clients.

This means we have a constant requirement for models of all types, ages, sizes, backgrounds and looks.

We need male models, female models, babies, teens and children – we even place model pets!

If you are considering modelling, then you must have at least an inkling that you will enjoy it.

And this is the very place to start!

Modelling with Models Direct might involve taking part in photo and film shoots or helping out at a promotional event.

We offer paid, part-time work that may be close to where our models live or could involve travelling (with expenses paid) to another location.

Our models have differing levels of availability and are therefore always free to turn down any assignment when they are offered it.

Equally, because it is our clients who make the final choice as to who they would like to employ, we are very transparent about the fact we are never able to guarantee work.

But if you join us, then you will be put forward for consideration whenever a client requests someone with your look and abilities.

The vast majority of our models are normal people – just like you – who have other jobs, commitments, interests and pastimes but also enjoy doing something a little different.

Although they have to be confident enough to pose in front of a camera, most of them are quite nervous before their very first job.

But, if you read the feedback they give us, you will see they are quickly reassured by our agents, the other models and the professional production crew on the day.

So, put quite simply, almost anyone can be a model – and if modelling is something you would like to try then you will almost certainly be suitable.

But, why not let us help you to make that decision?

Fill in our form, upload a picture or two of yourself and one of our agents will call you.

You can then ask them for their professional advice and you can also find out more about what modelling with us entails.

Good luck! We hope to decide to give it a go!

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