A short and sweet answer because we know that our Models Direct readers like info to be straight to the point. We appreciate that no one has time to trawl through words so here it is:

If you’re looking to be signed up with us, you don’t need any official qualifications to be an MD model. We know that’s pretty unusual as most modelling agencies will ask for previous experience.

But guess what? We don’t! It’s not compulsory for us to have newbies with an illustrious modelling history, and we don’t penalise anyone if they don’t. In fact, we encourage new models to climb on board our modelling hub even if they come without any experience. It’s totally fine for us!

As for requirements, when it comes to applying there are a couple of things to bear in mind. If you have a baby model, child model or pet model, the parent/guardian/pet owner will need to be over 18 to make the application process happen.

• 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

Kasthur and her husband both worked on an Aviva campaign and here’s what Kasthur said:
“Thanks, we had a great day on our couples photo shoot, I have done a few jobs before for you, but for my husband, this was his first time modelling, and he really enjoyed it the production team were just great and made you feel relaxed, hubby is now looking forward to doing more couples jobs ”

Dawn & Mark were booked for a couples campaign with Potters Resort, and here’s what they had to say:
“Just finished my first couples shoot – really good fun.
Started the day outside in the glorious sunshine, and ended up playing mini golf, rowing a boat, having fun in a swimming pool, and rounding off the two-day shoot with bar and restaurant photographs.

Photographer and Client made us feel very at ease with nothing forced. Overall a very enjoyable couple of days enhanced by the lovely other couple we were paired with”

So, if qualifications are not required and there are no requirements apart from the age restriction for submitting an application, what do we actually need from our models?

We need:

Your correct personal details and an up-to-date profile pic.
You to be ready for your first call from one of our specialist modelling coordinators.
You to ask us anything you’d like; we’re happy to help answer your questions!

And that’s it! Just be yourself, be open to trying new things and of course, if you’re feeling nervous, speak to us! You won’t be the first but we can assure you that as the assignment goes underway, your nerves will disperse.

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.

Our UK-based modelling agency welcomes all types of pets to be put through our easy-peasy application process.

Popular pets like cats, dogs and rabbits aren’t the only animal species to be booked with us and shine in the spotlight. Cute hamsters, fishes, snakes and hedgehogs are examples of interesting animals who’ve become pet modelling stars with Models Direct.

So, how can you begin your pet’s modelling journey?

Question: does your pet have what it takes?
Does your animal friend feel comfortable in new environments surrounded by new faces, alongside different sounds, smells and textures? Yep? Awesome!
Has your pet been toilet trained? Are they able to follow basic commands and if not, can they be distracted?
We know! Lots of questions, and lots to think about too!
If you’re unsure and want a trusted agency to represent your cuddly animal, you’ll need a trusted agency like MD that will be by your side, working with you and your pet.
No one wants to be represented by an agency that hasn’t got their best interests at heart, and where Models Direct has been in the business for over 30 years, our dedication to our craft shows in the campaigns our animals have been booked for.

With the right modelling agency, like Models Direct, opportunities will arise as an agency is meant to put your potential pet model forward for work.

This is what happened with award-winning ethically sourced beauty care company, Coco & Eve approached us.  They requested our wonderfully fluffy and cute rabbits, Sparky and Delilah, to be the stars of their Easter campaign. This tied in nicely with the season’s bunny theme and the company’s cruelty-free ethos.

If you choose Models Direct to represent your pet, we will:

Ensure our clients are fully vetted and legitimate.
Set up casting calls if the client needs to see your animal before deciding whether they want to book them.
Let you know immediately if you’re pet has been booked.
Give you some time to think about whether you want to go ahead. If you don’t want to or can’t, there are no hard feelings – we understand, not every assignment is possible to pursue.
Negotiate an appropriate payment with our client so you know what your pet will earn beforehand.
Ensure that your animal’s payment is made on time after the assignment has been completed.
Request for your feedback (positive or negative) after the assignment.
What we ask from our pet model owners:
Updated, varied images regularly uploaded to their designated online portfolio
Informing us about any physical changes, growth spurts, or medical conditions.
Keeping an eye on our jobs board where owners can directly apply for suitable modelling positions, anytime they come live on our site.
Staying in the loop with our socials, blogs and website.

And then you have it! This is our guide to pet modelling. If you have any burning questions or anything you’d like to discuss, feel free to get in touch with our modelling coordinators at MD. We’re always happy to help, and we’re always eager to see your amazing animals!
 

One of the genres of modelling that models need to know about is editorial modelling.

But editorial modelling is a little different to commercial modelling. However, we do sometimes have openings for editorial models, so it’s important for our models to know the differences between the two, and how they can present themselves in the best light to be chosen by our clients.  

What is editorial modelling?

An editorial model is usually a model who is featured in glossy magazines – both in print and online. They typically advertise / market the latest fashions and luxury products such as jewellery and watches. Editorial modelling is seen as being “high class”.

What are the differences between editorial modelling and commercial modelling?

Perhaps the biggest difference is the target audience. Editorial modelling is generally more glamorous. It’s pitched to a more exclusive audience; potential customers can be from a wider geographical range, with perhaps more disposable income and extravagant tastes. Whilst the “average” person wouldn’t be interested in a suit worth £5,000 or a dress on the market costing an average monthly salary, editorial models will often model exactly these types of products.

Requirements for editorial models tend to be more specific. Many briefs call for exact heights and hairstyles (and, unfortunately, ages), so it can limit some models.

Commercial modelling aims to sell to the general population. We’re talking about high street retailers, campaigns for banks and supermarkets, and local / national charities. It’s more relatable than editorial modelling. The audience can be anyone of any age, and sometimes the aim of commercial modelling is not to sell – its purpose can be to raise awareness and educate, such as government campaigns. So, commercial modelling is more viable to many more people.

What can I do to give myself the best chance of becoming an editorial model?

Dreaming of being an editorial model is common amongst models. It shouldn’t be a “no-go area”, but models should realise that it’s more difficult than becoming a commercial model. It’s true that commercial models can be editorial models – and vice versa – although editorial modelling requirements can restrict models from doing both at the same time.

The key to being selected for editorial modelling is in the specifics. You may have the determination to succeed, and you may have the ambition to be photographed in glossy magazines, but you’ll probably need to work on your look to attract a client’s attention.

Here are some tips to stand out:

1. Study poses in magazines that have been perfected by editorial models. Even professionals don’t get the desired poses right on the first attempt. Focus on their head angles, and how natural their limbs look.

2. Experiment with fashions, hairstyles and make-up (minimally, please!)

3. It’s best to ask a friend to take photos of you. Selfies are fine for a lot of photos, but for editorial modelling it’s better to focus on your poses and let someone else take charge of the camera.

4. Get the lighting right – make sure it’s not too bright. You can use shade and glamourous backgrounds such as tasteful curtains and furniture.

Renowned in the world of British modelling for our professional service and our ability to provide a wide range of models, we are also known for being able to respond quickly.

Having operated for over 30 years now, we understand there are all sorts of reasons why clients might come to us requiring a model (or models) – sometimes within hours.

This may be due to another model having to withdraw at the last-minute because of illness or a family emergency or it might be that there has been a late change to the photo shoot and an additional person (or people) are required.

Now, like all businesses, we are only too happy to admit that the more time we have to fill a booking the better!

So we would always urge existing and new clients to contact us as soon as possible about their requirements.

We run a busy agency here and, of course, it makes our lives easier if we have a little more time!

However, we do understand that things don’t always work out like that so if you are looking to hire a model and need someone at short notice, please do get in touch.

We are here – ready and waiting to help!

Models, when you join Models Direct we don’t expect you to always be able to take on a last-minute booking.

We know that the vast majority of our male and female models have other jobs and commitments, including their families or perhaps their studies.

And, of course, our child models have to go to school!

But we also know there may be times when you can respond quickly, either by changing your plans or because you happen to have some free time.

So, on occasion, we will approach you about last-minute bookings to see if you may be interested.

All we ask is that you are open and honest with us and only commit to accepting an assignment if you know you can be there promptly, ready and able to work.

Neri, for example, is one of our plus-size models and she was booked for a television job at very short notice.

She told us: “This was a last-minute assignment, that ended up being one of the most empowering experiences since becoming professional.

“I got to work with four of the most beautiful confident ladies, a fantastic film crew and the man with the naked plan, Gok Wan.

“From the costume designers to the make-up artist and the runners, everyone was so welcoming and worked so hard to make sure we felt relaxed and comfortable in the environment.

“Gok was lovely and gave direction really clearly – he was so fun and we all had such a giggle.

“The assignment went really quickly and Molly from Models Direct was so supportive.

“Such an exciting experience, I’m so glad I was accepted and thank Molly for putting her trust in me and putting me forward.”

And this is what one of our clients, the Andrew Simpson Foundation, said about our speedy response:

“We were really happy with the service. It was a tight turnaround but went brilliantly.

“We got all that we needed in a short time span.

“We will definitely be using Models Direct again for future projects which are coming up.”

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!

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.

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!

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!