We think diversely

MD embraces how varied life is. Whether it’s the clients and industries we work with or our models. We break the mould. Before diversity and inclusion were even a thing, modelling agencies might have considered these concepts but they aren’t new to us.

We projected that traditional beauty standards weren’t what we were after from the word go and intended to spark positive change around diversity, challenging other modelling agencies to follow suit.

We have aimed to fill the significant gap in the industry among diverse everyday people. Has this been a successful intention we envisaged 3 decades ago? While the proof is certainly in the pudding, to this present day, MD is still registering models of all shapes, sizes, ages, genders, cultures, abilities and backgrounds, and our clients continue to book diverse models for their standout campaigns that are anything but ordinary.

Take a look at some of the creative campaigns our modelling talent has worked on:

Just Eat collaborated with Morrisons and onboarded our male model Simon who is no stranger to working with big brands.

Finally, not-for-profit performing arts organisation ZoieLogic Dance Theatre invested in six of our diverse male models including a wheelchair user, Alex, to promote male mental health. He shared this:

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“Positive uplifting experience. Thanks again to Models Direct for my second modelling experience! This time it was for a new men’s mental health campaign called The Big Movement. The team at Zoielogic Dance Theatre was very welcoming explaining what was going to happen throughout the day. Being a wheelchair user I was very nervous but the atmosphere was very positive and uplifting which gave me the confidence to be part of the shoot”

You can also check out our jobs board where modelling vacancies are added online daily so that our registered models can directly apply for themselves.

We’re ready to think outside of the box, are you?

It’s time to embrace these beautiful, unique and quirky characteristics that make us stand out and give a whole new perspective on what beauty should look like. Welcome to our blog about modelling with perfect imperfections. 

The modelling world has been slowly evolving over the decades where we’ve been seeing more models of different shapes, sizes, races and ages come to the forefront. It’s really empowering and uplifting, and as a top UK modelling agency, we’re truly proud to be a part of this shift in change. We want to open a pathway for those who are eager to climb the modelling ladder and assist this modelling division to thrive. We’re unlocking some secrets about this category and what to look out for if you’re interested in applying, so keep reading!  

Unique features: what are they?

Having something that makes us different is in all of us. Whether it’s obvious or behind the scenes, we can all draw attention to special features that set us apart from everyone. Think Cindy Crawford’s iconic mole, Naomi Campbell’s beautiful exotic looks and Winnie Harlow who doesn’t allow her vitiligo to define who she is. 

What makes you “you”? Here are some show-stopping examples of unique and quirky features to look out for:

Eye colour – maybe you have a striking tone or heterochromia (two different eye colours).

Hair colour and texture – it could be your luscious locks are heavenly highlighted with gorgeous tones or that they’re super soft looking. 

Birthmarks and moles – do you have any that can be picked up by the click of a photographer’s camera. 

Tattoos and piercings – have you got yourself inked or pierced that’ll get heads turning? 

Can you relate to any of the aforementioned points? Is there any part you’ll be able to connect with? 

We reckon that you’ll have something to showcase if you’re interested in taking up a part-time career in modelling, that’s for sure. If you need to chat, speak to someone you trust or our professional team for confidential advice and some friendly chit chat. 

Bottom line:

Don’t waste time and energy concealing your beauty

Our modelling mission

Models Direct strive to create a diverse, dynamic, and inclusive environment for our talented models, where everyone feels safe and valued. We’re committed to giving everyone a fair and equal opportunity regardless of gender, age, race, colour, religion, culture, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or gender identity. It couldn’t get any better than that!

The takeaway

Who said that unique looks which are perfectly imperfect aren’t beautiful, memorable and marketable? Don’t go under the radar and conceal whatever makes you the wonderful human being you are. Join our sought-after modelling division today by completing our free online application – build your career and earn an extra income. It really is easy peasy!

Whilst Ms Aden isn’t classed as a commercial model, her appearance in a magazine with a 1.5 million+ circulation demonstrates an obvious shift in perception – and not just in the modelling industry.

The world is constantly changing, even if it’s by small, subtle modifications. Diversity is no longer concerned with age or gender. It’s all-encompassing, and looks to raise consciousness through media promotion. The whole point of diversity is to recognize the talents of everyone#, and to represent those who have something to give back to the industry. Diversity enhances the world, as it represents everyone. In short, no one should be excluded if what they can bring to the collective modelling table is effective and relevant.

The word “normal” is a spurious one, so many people prefer the term “traditional”. When “traditional” models in the 1980s and ‘90s were largely pigeon-holed and, to some extent, glorified, the 21st century realised that the demand for a greater diversity was not only beneficial – it was necessary.

Diversity can be seen in people living with disabilities, those from varied ethnic backgrounds, and people in same sex marriages. Also added to the list are people with any features that “break the norm”, be it tattoos, disfigurements, or piercings.

It’s beyond doubt that diverse models have been propelled into the limelight of late, and with good reason. The concept of tailoring campaigns and products to a wider ranging audience has been seized upon by companies worldwide, and with it the demand for diverse models has intensified. Nowadays, eyelids won’t bat when a wheelchair user is published in photo shoots. It’s natural and pertinent. A female model with head tattoos may well have been shunned a couple of decades ago, but guess what? Not anymore!

So, with the industry changing to increase inclusivity in this fast-paced progressive world, can top modelling agencies fulfil the requirements of their clients? We can’t speak for other agencies, although we know that we’ve represented hundreds of diversity models in a range of appealing assignments all around the world.

This fact alludes to an important point: diversity models are essential for our clients. They are needed, because in most cases advertising campaigns won’t have the same impact without them. Whether it’s a straightforward consumer ad (selling a product) or a campaign to get a point across, diverse models have the qualities our clients are looking for.

And more good news: diverse modelling is not a short-term trend to tick a few boxes. On the contrary – it’s here to stay, and we look forward to hearing from even more diverse models.

You don’t have to be the next Halima Aden to succeed as a diverse model in the commercial modelling industry. Apply with us, and we’ll have a look at what you can offer us and our clients. 

Fortunately, diversity in commercial modelling has been on the increase. Companies now respect that models shouldn’t be packed into convenient categories, pigeon-holed in cute stereotypes. Take a model who is six feet in height without heels, has tanned skin and golden hair. Great! There is a need for this type of model in the industry – no question – and they should be encouraged to keep doing what they do best (we should know – we’ve placed many in top jobs for years). But the industry has shifted somewhat, and the need for diversity is perhaps two-fold:

1. To banish bias and prejudice, thus promoting tolerance and open-mindedness. Basically – for humane and moral reasons.

2. Marketing departments of companies (whether global, national or local) understand the importance of diversity, if only for profits. Without criticising companies for merely thinking about money (they all don’t, even though profits make or break them!), they’d be losing out if their products aren’t targeted to everyone. If there’s a need for merchandise for every type of consumer, companies don’t want to miss out on selling the products – that’s business, folks! Are CEOs forced to promote diversity? Probably not. It’s just unwise for a large business to ignore diversity. And that’s where commercial models come into a league of their own. Who better than diversity models to promote anything related to diversity?

Which brings us to posing the question: what are diversity models? It’s really quite simple! Models of diversity represent the breakdown of universally-perceived “normal” social barriers, thus including everyone from whole communities and demographics – regardless of sexual orientation, gender, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, looks, size or disabilities. Everyone is different, so everyone should be included. Indeed, everyone has a unique set of talents, and these should be broadcasted to help achieve unreserved equality.

Commercial modelling is perhaps the genre where diversity has the most influence, because it is arguably seen by the most people. Every single person is a potential customer, so companies would be foolish not to tap into the diversity ethos.

Feedback from Holly’s assignment (pictured above):

“Holly really enjoyed her day having her photograph taken. She was made to feel the centre of attention which she loved, so would definitely like to do this sort of thing again.

Holly had to pose as a customer with her ‘mum’ and visit a car showroom to choose a new car. She enjoyed sitting in the car and pretending to drive. The day has boosted Holly’s confidence, as she just loves making people smile.

We’d definitely recommend doing this to anyone who asked, but you must be confident.  This is the first role Holly has had with Models Direct, and we hope it is the first of many more. This is something which holly could potentially consider as a career when she is older, if she decides to continue.” – Holly’s Parent

Click the link to hear how model Clare got on on her first modelling assignment: https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/models-direct-supports-diversity/

Regarding advertising, diversity models can be utilised in various campaigns, and not just confined to fashion shoots. An example is our disabled model, Gary, who appeared in Kwik Fit’s short film promoting their “worry-free packages”, replacing wear-and-tear car parts, including tyres. As the UK’s leading fast-fit supplier of tyres, Kwik Fit saw the benefit of featuring Gary (who has a prosthetic leg) to illustrate how partial mobility shouldn’t be an obstacle. After filming, Gary stated, “As ever the day went very well and was quite seamless despite the very early start! The crew were very well organised and very welcoming, and it was once again a great insight into just how much effort and planning goes into such a short presentation“.

The final short film can be viewed by clicking on the link: https://www.weareiris.co.uk/kwikfit

Whether you’re a wheelchair user or living with a neurological / genetic disorder and you fancy modelling, we’d love to hear from you. Models from all backgrounds should get in touch with us, and together we can continue our mission to promote diversity to the masses! Join us by clicking here.

Model Frances was chosen to appear in the online campaign for Motobility/RAC – promoting their vehicles with particular adaptations for people with disabilities.

This was a filming assignment that required a model with determination, ability and lots of confidence infront of the camera!

“I had the most brilliant day, led by a super-talented crew, and enjoyed watching from behind the scenes as much as being involved as the driver who had broken down!

Leading up to the actual day, I found myself picturing the shoot, well, guessing really. Imagining. My vivid imagination hadn’t accounted for any possibility of the most beautiful blue skies; we happened to be filming on the warmest, clearest day of the month. Perfect!

This was my first assignment and, from being met at the station by Jacqui upon arrival, I can honestly say I enjoyed every minute! It was a joy to shoot scenes with Mark from RAC, reassuring to be clearly and patiently directed by talented Tom and his crew, all of whom answered our questions with a smile… and empowering to be sat in the driver’s seat of such a stylish car! I was particularly interested in shooting the same scene again from different viewpoints, some very close up, some at long range.

Thank you Molly at Models Direct for your endlessly cheerful emails; you really enabled me to be fully prepared for yesterday. Thank you, too, for introducing me to close camera work with such great people, for a company that is so relevant to me. I can’t wait for the next one! ” – Frances

To view the final version of the commercial click the link below:

https://vimeo.com/weareiris/review/326282117/3d540b4d93

If you are interested in being considered for work like this click here

“I hope to promote diversity and inclusion as a wheelchair user in more campaigns such as this in the future!” – Alex

Models Direct have been involved with many campaigns and shoots featuring disable models and we hope we can be involved in many more – here’s what our #malemodel Alex had to say after recently working with Heathrow Airport:

“Hi, I have just had a fabulous experience on my first assignment with Models Direct, courtesy of Molly at Models Direct and working with Ingenious on behalf of Heathrow Airport.
Natalie met me on arrival, such a lovely lady, offering refreshments and kept me posted on the time frame and set up status of equipment etc. We started promptly at noon, Steve and Magnus, the team responsible for the shots, were great, made me feel relaxed and confident. We had an initial chat then onto some shots before an informal interview whilst being pictured.
The whole experience was simple from start to finish, everywhere was of course accessible, parking was easy, directions and contact info all provided, just very very easy. I thoroughly enjoyed my experience, and hope to promote diversity and inclusion as a wheelchair user in more campaigns such as this in the future. Many thanks to everyone involved in the selection process, it’s been a privilege  – Thank you!”