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!

Cook up a nutritious treat

When we say, “treat” we don’t mean something sugary, we mean a real meal featuring important components from differing food groups. Models Direct has protein, healthy fats and complex carbs coupled with plenty of fluids in mind (but don’t leave the latter lingering on till late otherwise you’ll be up for frequent night time trips to the loo!)

If you’re pressed for time, plan your week’s meals, freeze batch them and then take a portion out (depending on your family size) first thing in the morning so it defrosts, ready to be heated through when you’re back. This will help if you have a family modelling squad where you’re always on the go! A healthy balanced evening meal (not too late, mind!) is a good way to relax as you enter the evening.

A walk in the evening

You can now consider a walk after your meal. Whether you’re venturing out solo or as a duo, or a group of evening-time walkers, a walk during this time can help you relax after your long day’s work. The weather is usually cooler (hopefully not freezing or pouring it down), and the atmosphere feels calmer with less traffic and noise. This is one way to end your day on a calmer note plus getting in exercise.

Next up, your fav downtime activity

What’s half an hour in the grander scheme of things? It’s enough to trigger happy hormones, like your dopamine levels, and make you feel, well, happy! After monstrous traffic or a long day of shooting stills, are you lost for ideas? How about these:

Listening to your fav music

Listening to your fav podcast or audiobook

Reading

Meditating

Chatting to friends or family

Watching your fav movie or sitcom

Having a bath

Playing with your pet (if you have one!)

Journaling

There are lots of activities you can decide match best with who you are and which suit you. Choose anything that tickles your fancy for the end of your evening. Own it and relax.

Reduce your device usage

This is such a hard point to follow but it needs to be done to help you sleep better. Stay away from any devices close to bedtime (particularly 30 minutes beforehand) as blue light suppresses the body’s ability to produce melatonin which is needed to help you sleep. Packing it in together might be the best idea moving forward to a more relaxing and sleep-filled evening.

Models Direct hope that this blog has helped you to unearth some tips on how to unwind for the perfect evening routine.

Ooooo choices, choices!

Holiday snaps are the best, even the blurry ones with your forearm half taking up the frame or the top of your head covering a glorious to-die-for background. Memorable tropical beaches, tranquil oases, volcanic landscapes – wherever your destination is, even if it’s a staycation with a laid-back seaside charm or breath-taking national parks, your holiday pics are your personalised journey.

No wonder it’s difficult to choose some of your best pics for your modelling portfolio. There are exceptions to the image submission rules for portfolios because – well – you’re on holiday (woo hoo!) Models Direct will help take the conundrum out of picking your snaps so do read on!

Clear, well-lit, uncluttered images

Capturing a clear holiday image is one thing but when we ask for an uncluttered background, this might prove slightly challenging. Who wants to go on holiday and take their best snaps against a plain backdrop? Well, it doesn’t have to be a hard and fast rule when you’re enjoying your time away.
Having a focused image with great natural light accompanied by a clear backdrop, (no extra hands and feet, unless you’re a parts model and they belong to you!), is the best way forward.
As for the nature of your background, if it doesn’t include anyone that shouldn’t be in it (family models are included, of course), any objects or attractions that are distracting and take the focus away, then it’ll pass as a good addition to your portfolio.

When problems arise and how to solve them

If, however, you have an amazing snap but an unwanted object is gnawing away at the focus, you can use a background remover tool to erase it. This handy editing feature will help you keep your image untouched but remove the undesired bits and bobs.

Likewise, if you want to revive a photo because its colour and lighting are not doing it the justice it deserves then you can apply an AI image editing tool to achieve a sharper look; balancing lighting and defining colours. This will help to pop up your pic and get it more noticed.

Keep the filters at bay

We love snapping and adding our personal touch with filters that can make our image stand out. Why not be creative when we have all the tools that can help us achieve that? Nothing is stopping you but keep images neat and minus add-ons for your portfolio. Why? They’ll stand out perfectly as they are, so no need for flamboyant or edited images to get spotted. Agencies and clients just want to see you as you are – no touch-ups, collage templates, or AI image editing on your face or body, please!

Crop and resize images

You’re more than welcome to edit and adjust the size of your image and zoom in or out, as long as the main image hasn’t been tampered with. It might be tempting but if the urge is too strong, then the best solution is to choose another pic you’re completely happy with.
Models Direct hope that this blog has helped get you ready to take your holiday snaps. Summer’s only around the corner so we hope this mini guide has been useful for you ahead of your holiday!

Ps don’t forget to smile!

Family models make up a big chunk of the modelling industry. Our talent and modelling agency knows this because we’ve connected many families to clients who are looking to hire for their campaigns. Whether it’s been as a large family unit, or sub-divisions such as mum and child duo (trio or quartet), granddad with grandchildren or aunties, uncles, cousins and blended families, it’s definitely a large niche to launch into.

What’s great is clients tend to hire real families because they know the natural connection, rapport and history of love and communication between family members can translate seamlessly into digital forms.

So with the temperature rising again, the summer is a perfect time to get snapping and building a lovely collection of your family models.

Before you begin snapping away, give a heads up to everyone involved that you’ll be taking in-the-moment snaps so it doesn’t feel forced or orchestrated. This way everyone will get a chance to be in the zone, prepare to strike a pose and connect with their inner model.

Here are some of our tips for winning family modelling photos:

Plan ahead

It’s perfectly fine to be spontaneous and take snaps when everyone least expects it. Those spur-of-the-moment moments can be the most memorable and showcase the best feelings and emotions at the time. However, if you’re getting ready for a night in or a day out, you can plan ahead and think of when and where you’d want to take a pic with all your squad.

If, for example, you’re going out for a picnic, let everyone know that you’ll start taking snaps as soon as everyone chooses a spot to sit, and you’ll continue up until the mat and food have all been placed down. The snaps you’ll whip up during this time will be simple yet amazing – everyone in action (hopefully) helping to get the Tupperware out, plastic plates seated and drinks on standby.

Make use of the natural light

When the sun pops out and stays, early morning till late afternoon is a great time to take photos as the light is softer and more complimenting. So bye-bye squinting eyes, eye discomfort, awkward expressions and harsh shadows because you’re snapping in the wrong light!

Composition – where will everyone be?

Make sure everyone is clear and visible in images. Blurry, fuzzy, out-of-focus images are a no-no even if the snap looks quite exciting. If it’s smudged, keep it for you but not your family portfolio.

Use a selfie stick

If you’ve got shaky hands, don’t want to rely on someone else to take your pics or looking to capture you and your family from a different angle or wider range, then grab a selfie stick to help you. If you don’t have one, they can range from £5 and above.

The more the merrier

Don’t hesitate to keep hitting that take-a-pic button so you have multiple shots to choose from. One image isn’t enough, family models. Take lots and shortlist them according to what you and your family agree on.

Enjoy yourself

Despite the tips provided by our expert Models Direct team, it’s important to have fun and enjoy yourself whilst building your family models. Quick recap: plan ahead, make the most of the natural light, consider composition, use a selfie stick and take loads of snaps!

We’re looking forward to seeing your family snaps on your ePortfolio!

Turning 40 might sound a little scary but with the double decades under your belt, your outlook on life will be different in comparison to your younger version. Think back to your teens and early 20s, then it’ll ring a bell! You’ll be more confident within yourself and have learnt a lot through your life experiences. Being in your 40s does that – it’s a gradual (yet fast) process reaching this pinnacle age, but you know yourself so much better than ever before!

Four decades on might mean that you take the opportunity to explore things and live life the way you might not have done so before – with greater confidence, surety, and perhaps more curiosity. The phrase, life begins in your forties might be inspired with stronger family ties, strengthened friendships, newfound hobbies and reprised interests taking the centre stage. There have also been studies that reveal adults aged 40 and over are trying new things such as activities and sports, mirror and action that feeling of curiosity we first mentioned.

So, how about modelling? If you’re thinking and revaluating life, want to do something different in this new era you’ve entered, then have a look at agencies that offer opportunities for this age group. Models Direct is of course one of these agencies based in Norfolk, assigning local, regional and international assignments for models, whether you’re a new kid on the block or an experienced model. Our job is to get our models connected to real, reputable and reliable clients that are in need of marketing for their campaign. You can step in by adding a splash of your individuality, confidence and eagerness to learn. They say learning never stops, so keep learning and developing your skill set.

Modelling is a wonderful career that can be added to your resume, blossoming your skill set and chipping in as a fantastic hobby that’ll have you making real hard-earned cash. Models Direct eat, sleep, breathe modelling assignments because that’s what our agency is all about. Our fundamental goal is to bring assignments to real people and being in your 40s doesn’t make it any less real from coming to fruition. We adore this industry and love that we give all our talented models the chance to be a star in their own right, whether that’s in print, digital or person. The opportunities are all around, we just ask you to be a little bit patient as our clients request for specific looks and characteristics for their marketing campaigns so not everyone can be selected each and every time.

As you age, it’s no secret that your mind, body, skin, relationships and external circumstance all change. You’ll have a more wholesome, healthier outlook with greater understanding of your own personal needs and wishes (or you’re certainly working towards this). Modelling in your 30s could be the start of something quite amazing, so why not try it out with our agency. If you need to know more, head on over to our socials and blogs that are available on our sites for more information and details.

Luckily for us, we have plenty of beaming and talented youngsters on our books to help our clients with an unsurprisingly large amount of Christmas bookings.

Children are synonymous with Christmas for several reasons. There are some adults who simply wish for Christmas to run swimmingly with no hiccups, with the thought of presents a distant second thought. But for children, what would Christmas be without ripping up the themed wrapping paper to reveal a gift to bring a smile to their cherubic faces? For many parents, it’s that first look of unadulterated joy that makes the Big Day so special.

We’re ultra busy in the lead-up to Christmas because our clients look for the best child models to appeal to families all across the country. Christmas is arguably the busiest time of the year, and we work hard to recommend the best-suited models to our impressive list of clients.

Take a couple of examples of child modelling in prestigious Christmas campaigns. Our “Christmas star” Noah was chosen by Sainsburys for their Christmas advert, proving Noah was indeed “the smallest person who was perfect for the biggest jobs”. This advert made his family proud of their wonder son, especially as brave Noah was born with Spina Bifida. It was an epic and memorable for success all round, and it proves that anyone with the determination to achieve great things can indeed do just that. See Noah’s triumphant modelling advert

Noah’s parent’s were jubilant upon completion of the assignment, saying, “Being on set was the most exciting part of the shoot. Watching Noah’s face light up when the cameras started rolling and when he placed the star on top of the Christmas tree really was priceless.” We’re glad it’ll be a day Noah and his family will remember for the rest of their lives.

Another special Christmas mention goes to our trio of young models Sophia, Freya and Carleon, who exchanged cheeky pleasantries with Santa Claus as part of Sky Mobile’s festive video campaign. See their playful banter with Father Christmas



Christmas is heavily family-oriented, and we were so pleased to receive a Christmas message from one of our star families, who have appeared in a pensions advert for us. The fabulous Burton family put on their glorious Christmas jumpers and sent this lovely video to us:


Proof – if there was any needed – that our models are just as grateful to us as we are to them. Modelling is a two-way process, and we couldn’t be happier when receiving fantastic feedback and gestures of goodwill. There’ll be plenty more to come, that’s for sure!

Children are so important for all types of modelling assignments, so get in touch with us if you think your child has the star quality to be seen by a wider audience as a model. After all, modelling isn’t just for Christmas.

But, to many, perhaps the most important aspect of commercial modelling is freedom.

Freedom to decide for yourselves whether the client is right for you, freedom to choose which assignments are the best fit, and the freedom to speak to us if you have any concerns. This last point is emphasised in one of our latest projects – taking the tour of our agency

Models on our books do have liberties not allocated by some other businesses (most, anyway!).

One of these liberties is the right to refuse a modelling job. That’s right – models can (and do) turn down modelling work, because we know that a job absolutely perfect for one model might not be as ideal for another model. Everyone’s different, so we appreciate that in some instances models might have to snub a job offer.

The freedom to literally pick and choose a modelling job is a huge incentive. We’re great advocates of mature models, family modelling and child modelling, but when some jobs are offered, logistics and timings can hinder a model’s decision. For example, a parent may be offered a lucrative assignment, but may have to turn down the offer because of parental duties or school holidays. It’s a shame, certainly, but we are very sympathetic and we understand that some hurdles are simply too high to overcome. Maybe next time, right?

A modelling job simply might not be right for you. If this is the case, you have the freedom to reject an opportunity without reason or explanation. Models need to be comfortable before work as well as on set, and they need to be safe. Though we “clock in” with models before, during and after their assignments, it’s understandable that some models might prefer not to work in certain locations. An example might be our bustling capital, London, in which we have placed hundreds of models in exciting assignments. However, we know that vast cities won’t suit everyone, so models could refuse a job purely on the basis of location.

When a model does turn down work with us, we don’t hold it against them. There are no penalty points or black marks. We simply respect a model’s decision and try to place them in a better suited job farther down the line. Simple!

To reiterate previous blogs, our booking team puts forward models to our clients. Our clients then choose which models they’d like, we contact the chosen models with the good news. It’s at this stage that models can consider the client, location, duration and pay rate, and decide whether to proceed “full steam ahead” or decline the job invitation. The ultimate decision is always the model’s – as it should be.

It doesn’t matter if the job is a photo shoot, acting on screen or filming for a commercial. We want our models to be relaxed on all assignments, and with this comes the freedom to refuse work.

If you had any concerns before, we hope that reading this blog has dampened any fears you may have had when refusing work with us. We don’t hold grudges, and it’ll just make our booking team more determined to score you your perfect assignment!

We all know how much demand there is for bouncing bundles of joy when it comes to advertising, commercial and lifestyle work.

There are so many baby products out there now – and so many other products and services where both major and lesser known brands want nothing more than to have a little cutie smiling out at us and enticing us to buy.

But many new parents are understandably anxious about putting their precious bundles forward for modelling, as they have no idea what to expect or how well they will be treated.

However, when working with a genuine, reputable agency such as Models Direct, with a history stretching back three decades in the business, they can rest easy!

First and foremost, we always ensure your pride and joy is well looked after from start to finish.

You or your partner will also always be there as a chaperone and you will have eyes on your baby at all times.

But, if you have given thought to newborn modelling, then why not go one step further and put yourself forward to model alongside your little one?

Mother and baby duos are highly sought after in the world of modelling – this is because no-one is more natural in front of the camera than a real mother with her own precious babe.

The baby will, of course, also be far more content when in the arms of its real mother, instead of another model.

And arranging the whole shot will be much easier for the client or their crew when dealing with two people from the same family.

In these times of Covid, when rising infection levels sometimes call for more stringent working situations, a new mother and her baby will obviously also be within the same social bubble. This, of course, is reassuring to everyone, as it makes the working conditions both safer and easier to manage.

Having a baby is such an exciting time anyway – why not consider making some new memories together in front of the camera?

And have something very different to be able to show your beautiful boy or gorgeous girl when he or she is older and wonders just what they were like when they were new to this world!

One of these is the film and television industry and for those in modelling, acting and all areas of production, this means there are exciting times ahead!

The explosion in the industry, which is seeing massive investment in studio space and other production facilities in the UK, has led to Britain being dubbed the new Hollywood.

Indeed, recent analysis by The Times revealed that within the coming two years there will be more studio facilities and square footage of studio space in the UK than the whole of Los Angeles.

So why is so much investment taking place here?

Well, there are a number of reasons.

Apparently, some big names in the film and television business are heading over the pond because of the tax breaks we can offer but perhaps more importantly it is because we have an untapped resource of skilled workers.

And that could be you!

Britain has a long history in the creative arts and a proud heritage in theatre and live production, as well, of course as some excellent TV.

Our film industry has also been known for the quality of its productions – well now is the time to aim for quantity as well as quality.

Britain is making itself ready to build on its successes – it is primed to shout about its talent from the roof-tops and make even bigger waves right across the world.

It is no surprise there is now a rush to find studio and production space in Britain.

Recent years have seen us develop a seemingly insatiable demand for moving content.

With our phones gripped in our hands, we devour short videos and clips via social media and websites throughout the day.

We return home from work to watch our favourite television series and programmes and we have all become used to binge watching.

When we find something we like, we just want more and more of it.

For some time now, the big names in streaming – Netflix, Amazon and Disney – have realised the importance of ensuring they have a transatlantic, even pan-European cast.

We all like to see faces we are familiar with and hear voices we can relate to in much of what we unwind in front of at the end of a busy day or when relaxing at weekends.

Just think about hit series Games of Thrones – HBO played a blinder in ensuring it put together a multinational cast, with big names from right across the globe.

What was the result? All over the world, viewers were gripped by the fantasy adventure, waiting to see what would become of the inhabitants of Westeros and Essos.

The pandemic kept all of us in front of our screens more than we ever have been before and now we are finding it hard to tear ourselves away.

We can watch moving content on almost any platform – we consume it while we wait for the bus and sit on trains; we feast on it at festivals and cinemas on big screens.

And, of course, we wolf it down in front of the TVs we have at home – often in more than one room of the house.

We make footage ourselves to post; our favourite musicians produce more than they ever have done, and we lap up reality shows and true life films and programmes as much as we enjoy fiction.

We are on the cusp of something very big here in the UK – and it is exciting for all of us!

Not only will there be more high quality content for us as viewers, but the investment will bring with it employment and opportunity.

And for those who work in the worlds of modelling, acting and, of course, production, this is nothing but the very best of news.

If you are thinking of a career in modelling or acting then why not find out more about working with Models Direct.

There are so many benefits to this social media platform for those who work within our industry, from using it to showcase their work through to keeping in touch and making new connections.

It can be a great way of finding out about potential jobs, picking up tips from others and giving those you want to promote yourself to, the chance to see you as you want to be seen.

At Models Direct we encourage all our models to follow us on Instagram!

That way you can view our stories, enjoy our highlights, keep on top of our news and find regular links to our many helpful blogs….

You can also find out more about what goes on behind the scenes at our assignments and follow our models of all ages when they step out in front of the camera.

Through Instagram you can view final footage and stills from our models’ commercial and lifestyle work, giving you real insight into the clients we work with and the jobs we book for.

You can see our own professional staff in action too – as we often post snippets of our team members as they go about their daily business.

All in all, it’s a great way to find out how we work – and how you will work – if you join us.

In recent times, Instagram has also become an invaluable tool for our models and, indeed, for those working in the modelling industry right across the world.

From well-known names to those just starting out, most models use it as a platform through which to showcase their work.

Many even set up a dedicated account for their modelling, where they post their own behind the scenes photos and footage, as well as the final, edited piece of work.

This might be a film, commercial, promotional video, brochure, website or even product packaging.

All of this can be displayed colourfully and professionally on Instagram, so the platform almost becomes like a secondary e-portfolio for you.

The explosion in social media over recent years has brought many benefits to both experienced models and those hoping to break into the industry.

The trick is to use it carefully and sensibly, making it work for you and helping you get to where you want to be! If you have any questions regarding this please don’t hesitate to ask one of the team.