Most of us will be well aware that the UK government have said that pubs and bars can re-open on 4th July while adhering to the new social distancing rules.

It’ll be a welcome relief, for sure, for both businesses and customers. The day is the first Saturday of the month, with the weather expected to be glorious (if May’s record is an indicator). So, after three-and-a-half months without a customary pub drink, the chances of a frenzied weekend for the hospitality industry are high. 

In terms of workforce wanting to let their hair down, the modelling industry is no different to any other (except the modelling industry will have more stunning hair to let down!). We’ll all want to celebrate the ease of lockdown and the revival of the economy, but you may wish to ponder a few points before putting on your drinking shoes.

Firstly, spare a thought for the bar staff. By our reckoning, bar staff are some of the most important employees, and should be treated as such. A lot of staff may also be new, so be patient; even the most experienced bar staff can only serve one person at a time. Yes, there’ll be queues – but, come on, it’s not as if you won’t expect them. Don’t jostle to gain advantage ahead of your fellow drinkers. Be polite, as it may come in handy when you approach the bar for your second round. Also, ask for trays to help ease customer traffic, and write down your orders on paper if it’s a long list – it’ll help the bar staff. And don’t litter! 

That takes care of etiquette. Let’s think about you – the customer. Follow these tips for a more successful and safer experience:

• If the pub is not within walking distance, pre-order taxis. Imagine the waiting time for impromptu taxis – you’ll save time when calling in advance. And it might be cheaper!
• Easy does it! Don’t go in “all guns blazing” and drink rapidly for the first couple of hours – as tempting as it is. Your day could go downhill very quickly…
• Dilute with mixers. For wine drinkers, try spritzers. If you’re partial to spirits, ask for soft drink mixers to keep rehydrated. And don’t be shy to order a shandy!
• Dehydration is a real concern, particularly in the heat. Opt for a seat underneath a parasol, and ask for a jug of water and plastic glasses.  
• Don’t forget sunglasses and sun cream.
• If your town is as chaotic as you’d feared, consider going out on the next weekend. July 4th is not the only day beer gardens will be open. 
• Remembering to “social distance” will be tricky after a few units of alcohol. Tell your friends to remind anyone to keep within safe distances; the more people that do it, the easier it’ll be. 
• Try to cool down before going to bed, and drink a pint of water. 

So, to re-cap:

Do:

• Put yourself in the bar staff’s shoes.
• Seek shelter in beer gardens.
• Use trays.
• Use contactless payments.
• Dilute drinks.
• Social distance.

Don’t:

• Forget your sun cream and sunglasses.
• Drink too quickly like you’ve forgotten how to.
• Be tempted to hug all your friends – this could test your willpower to the max.  

However you choose to recognise this significant progress in moving forward from lockdown, remember to stay safe, be kind and have consideration for others…

Models Direct continues to thrive, placing the best models in the most interesting jobs across the country. Please get in touch with us if you need any information about the modelling industry. in the meantime, we wish everyone a happy, hot, and successful summer! 

There are so many models with inspirational assignment stories that could feature in this blog. The social media team at Models Direct work hard to put all your assignment feedback out there to help inspire others and offer guidance to aspiring models, it’s very valuable to hear what it’s really like to be a working model – here are just a few from 2019! – be sure to check out the highlights video too!

Commercial modelling is diverse, brands are searching for people to represent and promote their products who are relate-able to the consumer, with this in mind client briefs often include model families, plus size models and diverse models all of which Models Direct represent across the UK and Internationally.

Click the video below to view all the assignment highlights from 2019!

Model Families

The Models Direct Assignments Department have seen a growing demand from clients looking for genuine ‘model families’, in the past agents here have created a model family for particular jobs, however more and more now clients are asking for the families to be real.

Models Direct represent some fantastic model families, a lot of which have been successfully selected for assignments this year, some international and earning big money!

“We just got back from the South of France where we filmed a commercial as a family for ‘Oliver’s Travels’. It was a truly amazing experience! We stayed in an unbelievable villa and saw some beautiful sights! Thank you so so much Models Direct for getting us this job!! We absolutely loved it! “

“Dan and Jack really enjoyed the photo shoot today. They got to wear lots of different outfits from Christmas jumpers to Easter attire to summer casual clothes. The team were really friendly and easy to work with. Lots of giggles along the way. Thanks Models Direct for another opportunity to earn money and have lots of fun at the same time. Kind regards Burton family”

“Ace and I really enjoyed shooting for TFL. Molly’s communication was flawless prior to the shoot & all the team on the day were very lovely & accommodating – we had great fun wearing the outfits and they even gifted Ace with a cute pair of dinosaur wellies! Excited to see how the pictures turn out and really looking forward to our next job :)” – The Bakshi Family

Become a Model Family

The advantage of the families being real are many; logistically it’s easier for an agent to coordinate and manage the booking, travel, timings, paperwork etc is very much more straight forward with just one set of parents.

Chemistry is something a photographer or casting director will be looking for when sourcing a model family and so this is much more natural and instant if the family are real and feel comfortable with each other, it speeds the process up and avoids any unnecessary personality conflicts. Being on set for children can be very daunting to, so it’s much easier for them if they are playing a role with their real mum and dad by their sides than someone pretending they are.

Models Direct are looking to recruit more model families in 2020, so if modelling is something you like the idea of and your partner and kids do too then we are on the look out for a diverse range of new model families to join the Models Direct books!

Models with Disabilities

That’s not really a phrase we tend to use as an agency as we don’t view them as having disabilities, more models with different abilities and Models Direct are delighted to be able to represent and find work for these models. 2019 has seen huge diversity in the media both in fashion modelling and commercial modelling – it will be exciting to see what 2020 brings!

Earlier this year one of our models was booked for a 3 day shoot in Valencia to promote a new state of the art wheelchair.

Male model Gary was selected for a shoot with Vicon Motion Systems – the client was looking specifically for an amputee model for this particular assignment and Gary did an incredible job.

“The assignment with Vicon was my best to date. The team from Vicon, the team from DRMC Stanford Hall and the photographic team were all incredibly pleasant and helpful. Great direction from the photographic team which made the day very easy and enjoyable. Some of the photos which I have seen to date look amazing so much so that I had to ask ‘Is that really me?!’. Fantastic day, great experience and once again a massive thank you to you and the team at Models Direct.” – Gary

Plus Size Modelling

2019 has also seen an increase in the demand for plus size models for TV commercials, online marketing campaigns and photographic assignments.

Model Neri has been with Models Direct for a number of years and her career soared in the modelling and TV world, even landing herself a regular position with Ideal World TV and more recently being involved in a TV show starring Gok Wan!

“This was a last minute assignment, that ended up being one of the most empowering experiences since becoming professional. I got to work with 4 of the most beautiful confident ladies, a fantastic film crew and the man with the naked plan, Gok Wan.
Not only did we help others feel confident, it also reinforced how confident I am with my own body. 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 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.” – Neri

In high fashion modelling, curve models are considered size 12 or above, this isn’t so much the case in commercial modelling, with the average UK female being a size 14, curve models are usually size 16 or above.

The growing theme across the industry is ‘Diversity’ and that is something that we are seeing in all aspects of modelling – it’s very refreshing, exciting and will continue to develop throughout 2020.

Could 2020 be your year to shine in the modelling world? If so we would love to hear from you!

Elle Harris Modelling Blog & Model with Models Direct.

How did I get into it?
Is probably the biggest question I’m always asked! And also the question I wanted to know before modelling myself!

Well…unfortunately you don’t often just ‘fall into it’, ‘get lucky’ or ‘get spotted’ very often nowadays. There was a time when models were spotted on beaches abroad but now if it’s something you want to work towards you’ve really got to put some graft in yourself – just like you would with anything else! Competition in the creative industry is bigger than ever before and with the use of social media, particularly huge followings on Instagram is where the most successful models are gaining their opportunities and clients. However, it’s still possible to build it and be successful without that and work you’re way to the top. 

First things first ….So how do I get started?

MY TOP 3

1. You’ll need images! Some might say, you’re hair needs to be done, you need to loose weight, you need to build confidence, you need to wait until your skin’s better. Nope. I wouldn’t listen to these people! None of those listed things will ever be ‘right’ and if you’re doubting confidence, try not to just go for it! The modelling world has this perception of judgement and perfection -yes, but from all the years modelling I have hardly come across any rude , judgmental or awkward situations, everyone has been lovely! Have faith in people – you need to have confidence to a specific level to model so try and believe in yourself or if not it may not be for you. 

Having images to start with will give you experience. This can be done by testing with photographers or maybe even friends! Allowing you to know how a camera works and build confidence even more. It is also a way of getting free images to build a portfolio, which is key to send to an agency to help you on your way. Get creative too with clothes, styling and do you’re own makeup! I will still test shoot to build my portfolio as it’s always good to be updated. Like any business with their website, your portfolio is your business website.

2. Understanding What you’re suited too!

It’s important to know exactly where you think you will fit in within the modelling industry. Google can help too! If you’re not sure you may need to ask yourself these few things too.  There’s something for everyone (see my modelling can be for anyone and everyone below).  So..

• Are you tall? 5ft 8 +: Catwalk high fashion
• Are you more curvy, everyday commercial?: ME. Covering beauty, real life, commercial advertising and curvy fashion
• Plus size /curvy?: plus size brands, everyday and real life
• In good shape, muscular, body building?: fitness modelling/sports 

These are just a few examples there are so many more modelling categories you may be suitable for. Whatever makes you unique, is a talent or defines you for YOU then put that forward. There is no point however being unrealistic, I am 5ft 6 so high fashion and catwalk is not for me!
You may be more than one of these things too!

3. An Agency? Why..? 

You’ll need an agency! Yes you can go at it self employed as well as being agency signed (non exclusive of course) you’re entitled to do so. So long as your very upfront and honest with you’re agents about the other work you do they will completely understand and respect that. 

But an agency will always find you those bigger jobs, high end clients and well established brands. If you think of it on a business perspective they want to know a model is suited for exactly what they need and will be able to ask the agent these questions, see a series of images and know that they are professional and well managed models to work with. 

Models direct 

Models Direct are an all round non exclusive agency with the most reputable manner, professionalism and clients for you. Ensuring you are safe, looked after and represented the best you can be! I have been with them for over 5 years now and will always recommend them as my No.1 agency for all round modelling work. Keep in the loop, keep interested, proactive and available for as many assignments as possible and you will be well on your way!

Click here to apply to Models Direct

Remember! Modelling can be for anyone and everyone

Anyone can model. Any look, shape and size. There are always people needed to advertise promote and represent every single brand there is out there in the world! It’s just whether it will suit and fit you or not.  It’s such a shame that social media has this pressured and false sense of perfection, perfect figure, beautiful makeup and perfect clothes for imagery. Yes its a HUGE part of the modelling world but it’s certainly not the only aspect. Talking from experience myself some of the best, well paid, fun and down to earth modelling jobs I have done have been for corporate businesses, the NHS and real looks for commercial brands. Not all skinny and glam at all!

Please check out my website- elleharris.co.uk to see the brands and clients I have worked with as well as a little more about myself. You can also find me on instagram @Elleharris8 for more updates, blogs and info pop me a DM I’m happy to help! 

Best of luck & just go for it!

Elle

X

Model Fee: £440

“Yesterday and today went equally well, I really enjoyed modelling for Luxury Student Homes in Liverpool. The photographers were great and made me feel at ease.The client, Jess, was lovely to work with and made sure we all had plenty of refreshments and food between sets. The other models were very friendly and easy-going, it was a pleasure to work with them too. Overall I loved my two days working with them and it was such a fun experience.
My agent, Molly, made sure I kept updated with information prior to the job via emails, and reassured me I could contact her if needed.” – Tegan

“It was a great experience, got to take some beautiful pictures with very nice and warm people. The staff there was also kind and friendly which made the experience even more fun and unforgettable. I really do hope to get another opportunity at this kind of work. Due to such a positive environment, it made taking those pictures and portraying such emotions even easier. Thank you for such an amazing opportunity.” – Dariah

“I successfully completed my photo shoot with Luxury Student Homes yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Jess from the housing company made us all feel very welcome and treated us all well throughout. The photographers were also friendly and made the photo shoot a comfortable and efficient process.

I would also like to thank Molly from Models Direct for organising this fantastic opportunity. She was very helpful and was always quick to respond to questions related to the photo shoot. This has been a great experience and am hoping it will lead to more opportunities in the future. ” – Jamie

Plus size modelling is a contentious subject in the media, with brands being slammed for using plus size models in their marketing campaigns and consequently then promoting an unhealthy lifestyle or brands using size 6-8 models and therefore not appealing to the majority – so how can these fashion houses get it right??

Models Direct is the UK’s number one commercial modelling and talent agency. We have a more varied demand from our clients for the types of models and talent we represent and have done since 1990 when the agency was created, this is why ‘size’ is literally just a number for us!

With big name high street brands like ASOS, BooHoo, River Island and Marks & Spencer using plus size models to promote their clothes the demand for plus size models is big.  Now you can use your size to your advantage which wasn’t the case historically in the modelling industry.

Brands pay big money with us for the right plus size model to promote their garments. Some of the top curve models are able to earn up to £20,000 per day!

Models Direct has always represented plus-size models. Average female in the UK is a size 16, so a plus size model can vary from a size 12 upwards. Recently Models Direct has seen a rise in demand for models size 16 and above.

Here’s Lisa she had this to say:

“I just wanted to say such a huge thank you to Models Direct!! “

“I went on my first photo shoot 2 years ago because I was struggling with body confidence, ( I had a breast reduction planned and a huge weight loss dream) the reduction I had but the weight loss didn’t happen as I became quite poorly. I never planned to sign up to a model agency, it was just to help me feel better and it really did. So in all honesty I half heartedly filled out my account and never looked at it again and my photos I kept hidden behind my sofa never to be seen by anyone ! It’s really funny because over Xmas we were moving furniture my mum and sisters found the folder and we all sat there laughing at them at how huge I looked ! I was mortified by them and embarrassed . When you called me I literally thought it was a joke! I thought maybe it’s an open audition and it’s what the agency do before your account runs out – I hadn’t even thought for one second my account was really live. I spent the morning of the casting writing a blog about self confidence and used the experience as a challenge about facing demons head on, it took me right back to my dancing days (which is another lifetime ago!) when I was always told great dancer but you won’t fit in the costume at all my auditions soul destroying as back then I was only a size 10 but just had these huge boobs that made me look a 16+ To have you call me yesterday with the great news was mind blowing, I’m literally blown away it was so unexpected and I’m so over the moon to just have had that phone call, it was so unexpected ! Fingers crossed for Monday it will either be something to scream about or write about either way I’m happy with both options Thank you again for taking the time to call me on your day off it was really appreciated – Lisa x ”      

Model Neri gives her feedback on working with Models Direct:

” I was a Care Worker. My degrees are in  Performance and Writing, but I never thought in a billion years, that I may actually use them. When I made the decision that perhaps I could become a plus size model, most people would dismiss the very notion. But it was like I woke up one morning and decided that I could show off my size 20 skills, just as well as those size 10 ladies. After about 10 minutes on Google, I didn’t stop to consider if I should apply, I just did it. I’ve always known I looked different, but Models Direct was the first one to see it as a potential selling point. Who knew my first assignment would end up being my regular income!

This journey has been amazing so far, with my agent Molly having my back the whole time and encouraging my curvy self to push forward. I never thought that being hairier than the average woman, would have landed me such an awesome role. Whatever happens, taking a chance on myself, was the best thing I did and Models Direct taking a chance on me, has been life changing.” 

To find out more about plus size modelling click here.

Plus size modelling is a contentious subject in the media, with brands being slammed for using plus size models in their marketing campaigns and consequently then promoting an unhealthy lifestyle or brands using size 6-8 models and therefore not appealing to the majority – so how can these fashion houses get it right??

Models Direct is the UK’s number one commercial modelling and talent agency. We have a more varied demand from our clients for the types of models and talent we represent and have done since 1990 when the agency was created, this is why ‘size’ is literally just a number for us!

With big name high street brands like ASOS, BooHoo, River Island and Marks & Spencer using plus size models to promote their clothes the demand for plus size models is big.  Now you can use your size to your advantage which wasn’t the case historically in the modelling industry.

Brands pay big money with us for the right plus size model to promote their garments. Some of the top curve models are able to earn up to £20,000 per day!

Models Direct has always represented plus-size models. Average female in the UK is a size 16, so a plus size model can vary from a size 12 upwards. Recently Models Direct has seen a rise in demand for models size 16 and above.

Models Direct currently has 5 plus size models selected for a Very Curve casting – let’s wish them good luck.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsqgnbDjWUY/

Here’s Lisa she had this to say:

“I just wanted to say such a huge thank you to Models Direct!!

I went on my first photo shoot 2 years ago because I was struggling with body confidence, ( I had a breast reduction planned and a huge weight loss dream) the reduction I had but the weight loss didn’t happen as I became quite poorly.

I never planned to sign up to a model agency, it was just to help me feel better and it really did.

So in all honesty I half heartedly filled out my account and never looked at it again and my photos I kept hidden behind my sofa never to be seen by anyone !

It’s really funny because over Xmas we were moving furniture my mum and sisters found the folder and we all sat there laughing at them at how huge I looked ! I was mortified by them and embarrassed .

When you called me I literally thought it was a joke! I thought maybe it’s an open audition and it’s what the agency do before your account runs out – I hadn’t even thought for one second my account was really live.

I spent the morning of the casting writing a blog about self confidence and used the experience as a challenge about facing demons head on, it took me right back to my dancing days (which is another lifetime ago!) when I was always told great dancer but you won’t fit in the costume at all my auditions soul destroying as back then I was only a size 10 but just had these huge boobs that made me look a 16+

To have you call me yesterday with the great news was mind blowing, I’m literally blown away it was so unexpected and I’m so over the moon to just have had that phone call, it was so unexpected !

Fingers crossed for Monday it will either be something to scream about or write about either way

I’m happy with both options

Thank you again for taking the time to call me on your day off it was really appreciated

Lisa x “

To find out more about plus size modelling click here.

Congratulations to model Steve on completing another successful assignment with Models Direct – your feedback is so interesting…..

MODEL FEEDBACK

“I arrived promptly for this photo shoot, having checked in advance the detailed arrangements and dress requirements with the client. As a result I was more than well prepared.

To work as a commercial model you will need an agency to represent you, a good, established agency will be able to promote you to suitable clients for your look and skill set, this is virtually impossible to do without an agency, especially in the early days of your career. Make sure you get to know your agent, spend time chatting with them and telling them lots about yourself, your talents and what you are hoping to achieve, it makes it easier for your agent to match you quicker with the ideal client for you. At Models Direct our team of coordinators and bookers are on the phones all day talking to models and clients, building a rapport and getting a better idea of the type of assignments and clients what would be ideal for them.

Unlike fashion models, commercial models are not solely judged on looks and measurements. These requirements are much more important for a fashion model agent, models are booked and selected simply on their striking looks and whether they have the right measurements for the brand, this is not the case in the commercial modelling industry. Models Directs agents are looking for good looking ‘everyday people’ who have additional talents too. They are looking for people who have confidence and are versatile, showing your personality in your photographs is very important, so don’t be afraid of being creative with your pictures. Professional images are not necessary as they date and are expensive, this might be something you consider getting once you have a more established modelling career, but at the beginning well lit, clear and creative images are much better. Don’t hold back, create pictures that show how versatile your look can be and that you can fulfil different roles – you will then appeal to a wider circle of clients.

As a commercial model it is very useful if you have some acting experience, it could be a very limited amount or something you do a lot, either way any kind of acting experience will be a big benefit to you when being selected for assignments. Commercial models are employed to advertise products, these could be household products, sports equipment, travel destinations, food and drink products, cars, etc, so essentially you will be asked to play a character or role, whether it be for stills or filming, having acting experience is a huge help to you.

One of the main questions at Models Direct is “How much can i expect to earn?”, obviously this is a very important factor. The answer is that model fee’s can vary a lot from one assignment to another, there are several different factors that an effect your fee. If you are selected for work through Models Direct, our agents will always let you know the fee before you decide whether or not you’d like to accept the assignment, it’s very important. Models can expect and average rate of approx £200 – £400 for a shoot, this is just a guide, it varies hugely. Client budget, content usage, model experience are all varying factors to what a model can expect to earn. Models Direct always pay their models very quickly after an assignment, so you are never waiting months for payment.

Model agents can’t stress enough how important it is that your pictures are the best they can be, don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through, it’s a competitive market and you need to make yourself stand out above the rest. An agent can get you infant of prospective clients, however they don’t have the power to make them choose you for the assignment, so make sure you’ve given yourself the best possible shot!!

If you have ANY questions about your portfolio, or any other aspect of your modelling career please do get in touch!

The Models Direct team are always on hand to assist you.

NEW YEAR, NEW START….. or are new year resolutions not your thing?!

It’s that time of year when we reflect on our own highs and lows of 2018, what we did well, where we could improve and what we still would like to achieve, big questions, but do we need to make such big changes??

It’s good to take this opportunity to make a plan for what you would like to achieve in the year ahead, whether that be in your personal life or career goals, possibly both, however stay true to you and remember everything takes work!

It’s an exciting time of year at Models Direct, our models are keen to update their online portfolios with new content to represent themselves with, it’s a great time to make sure your portfolio is the best it can be!

If you have a talent or have always liked the idea of working in the modelling and entertainment industry then 2019 might be the year for you to join an agency and be represented to clients across the UK and Internationally, who know’s what new and exciting opportunities it may bring you!

New faces are applying to join the Models Direct books, maybe it’s the year they’ve been waiting for to kick start their modelling career or maybe have decided that this is something they have always wanted to do, however you have found Models Direct we can’t wait for you to join us in 2019.

This is also the time of year where business’s plan their marketing campaigns and commercials, set budgets, time frames and start looking for the new faces they need to promote their products or services, the Assignments team are chatting away wishing all our regular clients a Happy New Year!

Models Direct has an exciting year ahead, having been established for 30 years we work hard to stay ahead in what is an incredibly competitive and ever changing industry. 2019 will see diversity in the modelling world and the team here couldn’t be more ready to embrace that….bring it on!

Whatever your resolutions are for 2019 be proud of what you have achieved so far, follow your dreams and dare to dream big…..

Happy New Year from the Models Direct team x

Modelling opens up the opportunity for positive and negative judgments about  your appearance and body, for experienced models this is part of the course and something they have grown used to, but for others it can take it’s toll!

Models Direct have put together a few helpful hints to help stay healthy and look your best while reaching your modelling goals:

• Eat a healthy and balanced diet – We have all heard of fad diets, food supplements and even starving yourself before an important audition, casting or modelling assignment, but this is a mistake. Modelling is tiring, to be in the spotlight takes up a lot of nervous energy as well as the physical pressures, from travelling, rushing around, posing and taking direction, don’t try to do this on an empty stomach or reach for the sugar and caffeine. Instead eat a sensible dinner the night before, with protein and good carbs, a healthy breakfast and take snacks with you to eat little and often throughout the shoot. Nuts, cereal bar, fruit, dark chocolate are all good snack options.
• Stay Hydrated – We hear this all the time about drinking litres of water a day, but staying hydrated is so important. Coffee and tea are not an alternative to water when hydrating yourself, it’s water all the way! Get into a habit of having a sports bottle with you everyday, fill it up before you leave home and aim to drink at least two of these per day, more if you can. Drinking plenty of water doesn’t just help with your skin and appearance, it also give you energy. One of the first symptoms of dehydration is tiredness.
• Look after you skin and hair – At the end of the day it’s easy to not bother removing your make up and the general grime of the day, just getting into bed is super appealing! However, you will notice how much better your skin is if you have a good skincare routine, most importantly in the evening. While you sleep your will breathe and renew itself, so by taking your make up off your skin can breath and good products will combat any skin issue you may have. Hair too needs a bit of TLC, especially if it has been over styled for a shoot, so treat it to a hair mask over night so its shiny and glossy the next day.
• Exercise – Exercise is very important physically and mentally, we are very aware of the physical benefits, but the mental benefits are very important to, especially if you are having confidence struggles or are anxious about an up and coming shoot you have then the endorphins released when you exercise can really help these emotions. If you are not into the gym then try an outdoor activity or start with long walks or a quick run round the block, make it work for you and you’ll see the benefits.

To be a success in the model and talent industry you need energy and buckets of it, so look after yourself and be the best version of you!

To find out more about modelling visit Model Direct