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?

There’s been a stark emphasis on diversity in the media over the last few years. Of late, we tend to think of diversity as the inclusion of everyone in a range of activities. This could be giving everyone equal opportunities in the job market, or carrying zero prejudice in day-to-day activities.  

Diversity is about giving everyone the chance to express themselves, and the commercial modelling world is one of the most accessible of businesses in which to do this. There’s absolutely no reason at all why people living with disabilities should be overlooked for modelling assignments throughout the UK and beyond. We know this based on facts, because we’ve placed several individuals in high profile modelling jobs where only disabled models were required. So it’s not really an opinion whether disabled models are useful or effective in certain assignments – they’re essential! 

It’s important to know that disabled modelling makes up a large segment of the commercial modelling industry. In fact, it’s a rapidly growing part of our business, with clients choosing to feature more and more disabled models to get their message across. Our booking team at Models Direct HQ processes each application from disabled models in just the same way as the rest; obviously, the type of assignment has to be taken into account, but we give the “green light” to anyone with the drive, enthusiasm and passion to succeed in one or more of our available modelling jobs.

And on this subject, why should disabled models be pigeonholed as simply models who endorse products for other disabled individuals? Part of the inclusivity that the modern world proudly promotes means any model should be just as eligible as the next. Sure, there might be limitations depending on the precise assignment, or practicalities that should be adhered to but, in general, disabled models should be suitable for a wide range of modelling jobs.

If you haven’t done so already, there is no better time to make sure your portfolio is tip-top. Though we’re experts at finding the right models for the right assignments, presenting as much information as possible on your application means we have more to work on in finding you your ideal modelling job.

Disabled models are immensely sought-after, and it’s sometimes a surprise to hear that some would-be models don’t think they’ll ever find themselves on a shoot with professional photographers. Well, think again! Disabled models are like gold dust, and are deservedly treated as such.

Our established team at Models Direct loves to hear success stories, and there are plenty of terrific disabled models that have excelled for our clients. For example, read about Darin and his modelling experience in Valencia.

We can’t promise all our models assignments in the sun, but we can promise you that we’ll use our 30 years’ experience to promote you in the best possible way. Now, that’s a reason alone for all disabled models out there to either spruce up their portfolio, or take the first step and apply with us. We’ll do the rest!       

We understand the world is made up of all sorts of beautiful, unique individuals and that is what makes it such a wonderful place to live.

The world of modelling is all about reflecting the world around us and, as such, you are now far more likely to see people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds and ethnicities within it.

Flick through your social media at breakfast, look out of the bus window on your way to work and switch on your TV in the evening and you should see a glorious array of individuals.

But those who want to become successful models need to highlight their differences and show us what makes them stand out from the crowd.

They need to contact us and tell us what makes them special, so we in turn can promote them to all our many major clients who are looking for diverse models for their range of assignments.

Here are our top tips for those hoping to break into the business or who are already involved but hope to see greater success:

1. Send us your application and support it with some great photographs

2. Tell us what makes you different, highlight any unique features, tell us about your abilities and really sell yourself to us

3. Once you have uploaded images to your e-portfolio remember to update them regularly

4. The portfolios of children and babies must be updated every two to four months (the younger the child, the more important it is to do this)

5. Always follow our top tips on how to take great photographs

6. Keep abreast of fashion and ensure that whatever you are wearing in your shots is up-to-date or timeless (ie that it doesn’t age you)

7. Be friendly, patient and undemanding – we are highly experienced at our business and we will do our very best for you

For more information spend time browsing on our website and reading what our other models say about working with us.

We stand out from others in the industry – and we love working with models who do too!

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 earning some big money!

Become a Model Family

Check out this recent Blog – http://www.modelsdirect.co.uk/thought-family-modelling-models-direct/

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.

The Models Direct are looking to recruit more model families in 2019, 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!

2018 has also seen a growing demand for Curve models, with the industry becoming more aware of the need for diversity in the fashion industry agencies are recruiting curvier models.

Models Direct has always represented all sizes, ‘size is not an issue’ for us or ability, so we have successfully been able to place plus size models and models with disabilities in assignments this year, however we would like to expand more in this area and Internationally also.

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 develop throughout 2019.

If you would like to get involved in modelling and think you have what it takes then please visit the website or subscribe to the blog.