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?

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.”

And what teenager doesn’t like having fun – isn’t that what this period of our lives is all about?

Here at Models Direct, our teen models are aged between 12 and 17 and can be of any background, size, body shape and appearance.

Our clients approach us for teen models in all their wonderful variety – after all, they want real-looking models who reflect our young people as they truly are.

Our teen models might be asked to model teen clothing or other products aimed at their age group or they may be required to form part of a modelling family for a shoot.

Here at Models Direct, we have vast experience of working with babies, toddlers, children and teenagers.

We are fully vetted and accredited by the UK government and are a genuine, registered employment agency.

We understand all the safeguarding issues around working with youngsters and we investigate each and every new client and assignment thoroughly.

We also require our teen models to be accompanied on each modelling job by a parent or guardian.

So, what should you do if you are a teenager or the parent of a teenager who is interested in modelling?

Firstly, we would ask both parents and potential models to read the reviews left for us by our existing teen models and their parents.

This will give you all a good insight into the kind of work we offer and what our models and their families think of it.

Then, if you are interested, fill in our form and wait for us to get in touch.

Please note down any questions you might have to be sure you feel our friendly agent has answered all of your queries during the discussion.

If we decide your teenager is suitable – and you decide we are the agency you are looking for – then we will give you an e-portfolio.

This completely secure portal is where you or your teen can regularly upload images so we can see exactly what they look like at any given time.

This is vital – especially with teenagers who change so often – as we can only put young people forward for work if we can see their photographs are recent.

If this is the case, then when clients approach us for a teen model meeting your younger’s description we will include them in a selection for the client to choose from.

Our teen models love having new experiences with us.

After his very first assignment, Rashan told us:

“As this was my first modelling assignment I didn’t know what to expect but Models Direct put me at ease from start to finish.

“I was given all the information I needed to understand what was expected of me and what I could expect on the day.

“Everyone was very friendly and it was a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

“I really enjoyed the whole experience and can’t wait for my next shoot!”

And Rianna said:

“I was a bit nervous to be working with other people who were older than me, however, once I got there and met everyone, it was so fun.

“It was so exciting and I had lots of fun meeting new people.

“It is something that I would be very happy to do again and again.

“The most enjoyable part of the assignment was getting to meet other models like me who were doing their first job as well.”

To find out more about teen modelling, fill in our form.

Same sex models are not new, but they are growing at a rate that means we can offer more opportunities for many more loving couples of the same sex.

If there was any kind of stigma attached to same sex couples, we like to think that it vanished sometime a long time ago – possible in the 1980s. It’s not particularly vital to know when mass bigotry largely evaporated; what is important is that same sex couples in any walk of life are accepted as exactly what they are: two people who love each other, wanting to lead enriching lives. Indeed, a 2023 YouGov poll revealed that 78% of Brits supported same sex marriage. This, it could be argued, should be higher, although it’s an encouraging percentage because just 12 years previously that figure was just 42%. It’s quite an improvement, and there’s no reason why that figure shouldn’t increase in the coming years. 

Most worldwide brands like to engage with everyone. They want to do this so that they appeal to everyone – not just a select few thousands, but multi-millions. With the increased inclusivity over the last couple of decades or so comes an increase in goods, services and campaigns – most requiring marketing and models.

We’ve been experts at placing the right models with the right companies since our conception. We’re looking to place far more same sex couples in exciting modelling jobs right across the UK – and even abroad, should the need arise.

Just as family modelling continues to soar, we expect same sex modelling to rise accordingly.

Same sex models do not need to be married. If they are – great. But it’s not essential. They just need to be of the same sex and have a devoting connection that shines through in front of a camera. They’ll need all the attributes of successful models, of course – enthusiasm, flexibility and confidence to name just three – but we’re sure you’ll know this already.

Male or female same sex couples have more chance than ever of becoming models. Now is the time to act if you really want to become one. Modelling shouldn’t be done on a whim, and we don’t recommend anyone thinking about becoming a model just because they’ve read glossy magazines or seen TV adverts of famous perfumes or the latest fashions. These models have their place, and we appreciate their value, but we’re a modelling employment agency specialising in the best and most well-paid commercial modelling jobs in the country. That’s why everyone can achieve big things with us.

If you have the realistic desire to become a model, have a read through our website, scan our reviews, or contact our team. It’ll be the first step towards realising your dream with your partner.

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!

Yes, the whole point of being represented by an agency like ourselves is that we will take the weight on our shoulders when it comes to promoting you, seeking the kind of work you are looking for and negotiating the best fee for each assignment.

So where do you begin?

First, be very sure that modelling is for you.

Read the reviews on our website from other models and find out more about the kinds of assignments we send those who work with us on by reading our blogs.

Spend a little time thinking about whether you would enjoy this kind of part-time work.

If you think it could suit you, then read on…

Firstly, ask a friend or relative to take some good, sharp shots of you, then fill in our form and send us one.

If you already have professional photos, please feel free to upload one of those – but if not, then we are very happy with home snaps, as long as we can see you clearly.

One of our professional team members will then give you a call to explain all the ins and outs of working with us.

You can ask them any questions you like and they will do their best to help you.

They will explain that we never guarantee to be able to place any of our models in work because it is our clients, not us, who make the final choice for each booking.

Once you have joined us you will be asked to keep your e-portfolio up to date in order to give yourself the best chance of being selected for the kinds of jobs you would like to accept.

If you are chosen, we will call you to explain more about the assignment – and you can decide whether or not you would like to go along.

As a fully vetted, registered government employment agency, we adhere to all the necessary rules and regulations for placing models in work.

We also go that extra mile in investigating each and every assignment and new client and in supporting our models as the booking approaches.

And you only have read a handful of reviews from those who have worked with us to see just how far we go!

For example, Monique said:

“It was my first ever job and I was so excited – practiced in front of the mirror until I got to the venue. I was nervous, but as time progressed I got more confident.

“When I sat in front of the camera, I was so shy but the model who was there with me was talking to me which helped to overcome the anxiety.

“The Models Direct team was great – they assisted and directed me in preparation in front of the camera.

“Overall, the shoot went well and I can’t wait to do more jobs with Models Direct.”

Gary said:

“Initially I was nervous as this was going to be my first proper model assignment.

“I had received full information about the shoot and Gemma from Models Direct had called me a few days before to go through the itinerary which put me at ease. 

“The client was great they were very welcoming and made me comfortable.”

And Keith told us:

“This was my very first experience working with Models Direct and the whole experience was fabulous.

“From the initial booking enquiry to the shoot itself, I personally found the whole process flawless.

“Gemma kept me personally updated prior to the shoot of how the day would run, which I found very reassuring.

“The shoot day itself was fabulous – a great atmosphere and a great team carrying out the shoot.

“A bonus was also the wonderful people I met who were also on the shoot.

“As far as I’m concerned it’s a five from me, well done Models Direct!”

The sheer variety of shoots, projects, campaigns, locations, crew members and other models keeps it exciting, vibrant and always different.

But our process here at Models Direct tends to stay the same and there are some things that can be expected from most bookings.

So for models who have not yet been out on their first assignment and those who are considering joining us, this is what you should expect:

1 Our clients request a certain type of model (or models) from us and we supply them with a selection who are the right age, gender and size – and who have exactly the right look. 

2 Our client makes the final selection and we confirm that the model is happy to accept the job, taking into account timings, location and fee etc.

3 The model’s main point of contact within our team at Models Direct will stay in touch and update you with details of the job as necessary. This will include where to go, when, what to wear and whether you need to bring anything along with you. If there are any problems on the day itself they will also be on the end of the phone to answer your questions or iron out any problems.

4 On the day of the shoot, you need to arrive in good time and make contact with the person you have been told to ask for. They will explain the running order of the day, when you are likely to be required and whether you need to go to make-up or wardrobe at any particular time.

5 Crew or production team members on the day will include a photographer or camera person. Depending on the size of the project, there may also be a director, location manager, sound or lighting engineer, make-up person and wardrobe or costume team member. You could well find there are other models taking part in the shoot too and there may be a catering crew serving refreshments.

6 You are likely to find the day is extremely busy. It is important to listen to and follow instructions and to ensure you know exactly where you need to be and when. It should also be great fun, however, and you will enjoy getting to know the crew and other models.

7 If possible, we would like you to take some behind the scenes photos and footage of the day to show us how it went. These can be a few quick snaps of the set, location and other models as they are being filmed.

8 After the assignment, we will check in with you to see how it went. We will ask you to give us your feedback as this is very helpful to us and other models and we will ensure you are paid promptly.

Overall, your assignment should be a very positive and memorable experience.

Find out more about how other models found their first booking with us.

And if you join us and then go on to accept a booking with us please don’t hesitate to ask us any questions! We are here to help.

Some don’t realise that these good-time memories can be shared whilst earning a decent fee in the process. How? By modelling, of course. It’s true that a lot of families have already delved into the world of commercial modelling, while others have considered it, without following up on their collective modelling aspirations. We’re here to tell families in every corner of the UK that group modelling is very real, and your aspirations can be turned into reality sooner than you’d think!

Families have been indispensable to us and our clients for years. We’ve been breaking down barriers and stereotypes since 1990, and we’ve grown our client list into the largest around. Most people immediately think of individual models when asked who we have on our books. Well, we’re always keen to hear from families who can shine on assignments – whether it’s a proud mother & child, a dad & sons / daughters combo, or a larger scale family effort! All our families excel on their jobs, with glowing post-assignment reviews a testament to how the process works.

Blended families are those where one or both parents have a child / children from a previous relationship to form a new, loving family. Think of the definition as a “step family”. Blended families often have to be more patient as the relationships develop, but they play as crucial a role in a child’s growth as any other devoted “traditional” family.

Blended families constitute roughly 10 – 15% of families in the UK. Because at least one child in the family is from another relationship, a blended family may have more obstacles to overcome: a child or parent may have different views from their upbringing in a different background (or even from a different country); the relationship between step-parent and step-child could take longer to build as there is no shared history between the two; contact with birth parents can be tricky. There are plenty of scenarios to consider, but the common goal is the same – to provide a safe, loving environment for children to enjoy being a child, and to provide them with the very best opportunities when the time comes for them to “fly the nest”.

We’d like to summon a united rallying cry to all blended families with a mutual interest in commercial modelling. Same sex families, parents with a noticeable age gap, children of different ethnicities…opportunities for any family – blended or otherwise – are widespread in the modelling industry, and we’d like to see families come together on set, working for us and our clients.

Take advantage of the summer by taking snaps of your gorgeous blended family, and then show them off to us! If you’re new to commercial modelling, have a look at the link below to give you an idea of how the summer can benefit self-promotion. Plus, none of our models need prior modelling experience to be successful!


Use your combined looks and skill sets to wow us, and you could be our next blended family who works with our impressive range of top-notch clients. That’d be a memory to truly cherish, wouldn’t it?

Our diversity is the very essence of who we are, and it is important that is reflected in the films, television and advertising that is all around us.

As such, there is huge demand out there for diverse models, which is why Models Direct is always interested in hearing from you if you think you have something different to shout about.

The models on our books are of different ages, body sizes, backgrounds and heritages.

We have models with disabilities, models who are plus sizes and models who have particularly striking looks.

And we also have a whole host of clients who approach us on the lookout for people who are prepared to step forward and reflect the rest of us out there in the world who are unique.

So, if you think you might be suitable for diverse modelling, why not ask yourself the following questions:

1. Do you feel there is something about you that might make you appealing to those seeking a diverse range of models for their assignment?

2. Do you think your looks are interesting and unusual?

3. Do you feel you might be able to represent a group of people who are currently under-represented in modelling?

4. Do you think it is important that we see more people like you in advertising campaigns, on television and in film?

5. Do you have the confidence to appear in front of a camera?

6. Could you take on different roles, follow direction and work within a team of friendly and approachable people?

7. Do you think you would enjoy the new experiences and opportunities that diverse modelling might bring?

8. Would you like to earn some extra money?

If the answer to some of the questions above is “yes” then why not contact Models Direct to tell us a little about yourself and let us know what makes you who you are?