If you want to become a model, you do not need to pay for professional modelling photographs.

This is the trap that many would-be male and female models often fall into.

It is also very common for parents eager for their beautiful babies and cute kids to become young models to assume they need to pay for professional photography.

But any individual or organisation that insists you buy professional photographs from them is unlikely to be a genuine agency.

The more likely scenario is that they are simply a “showcasing” operation.

They are likely to be an individual or organisation that charges an exorbitant fee for “professional” photos then simply showcases these on a website.

Genuine employment agencies, such as Models Direct, must by law seek work for their models.

They must be registered and accredited by the government and actively look for assignments for their models rather than simply upload images and hope a potential client spots them.

Models Direct has a long and impressive list of clients that it has worked with many times over the decades.

Our professional team members not only field requests for models from both these clients and new clients on a daily basis, but they also reach out to potential new clients in search of work.

Of course, our models and would-be models are very welcome to upload professional photography to their e-portfolios if they have it.

And, yes, once they have completed assignments with us, it is essential that these professionally shot stills and videos are up there too.

But in the first instance before you have carried out any work with us, your own photos, taken on a good phone or digital camera are absolutely fine.

Follow our tips and guidance on how these images should be taken, stored and uploaded.

And, as long as they are sharp and we can see you clearly in them, then they will be all we need to help us and our clients decide whether you are right for a particular booking.

Please don’t do what so many others have done before you and spend money you don’t need to.

Please do also carry out thorough research on any agency you are considering joining.

Read reviews from models or their parents who have actually worked with an agency and find out how their process really works.

At Models Direct we are always here to answer your questions if you are considering joining us or have already signed up.

We are always happy to explain more about how we work and about the kinds of photographs we need to see.

We have little ones on our books who are really still just newly born or babes-in-arms and youngsters from toddlers right up to teens.

We are often asked by parents about which activities might help their children with their modelling and so here we try to answer some of their questions:

Q: Which activities might help my child with modelling?

A: Almost anything! Any activity a child does will help them with their developmental skills and this is sure to have an impact on their ability to model. Child models need to be confident, friendly and comfortable around adults. Older ones also have to be able to listen carefully, follow instructions and be able to step out in front of a camera. Our team at Models Direct – and the clients and production teams we work with – are all highly experienced at working with junior models. They understand how to talk to children, behave around them and when they might need food, drink or a rest. Any activity your child does is certain to only enhance the strong relationships our teams build up with young models.

Q: Should my child model join an acting class or drama group?

A: Yes, this can be a great idea. But only if your little one is keen! It is important never to force your child to take on an extra curricular activity if they don’t enjoy it – but acting classes and drama groups can be fantastic. They really help to build the confidence of the child when they are on stage or in front of a camera. They help them learn how to take on different roles, respond to instructions and interact with other actors or models.

Q: Are music or dancing classes good for a child model?

A: Yes, they are fantastic! Not only do they help develop self-esteem but they also cultivate creativity. A child who learns an instrument, plays in a music group orchestra, sings or dances will develop all kinds of skills that are transferable to modelling. They will learn how to be confident when performing individually and will also be able to work within a group. They will learn how to commit to something and just how important reliability and punctuality can be. And they will have tremendous fun at the same time!

Q: Can sporting and physical activities be beneficial to a child model?

A: Yes! They can be a great help to any child who is already a model or considering becoming one. Like other activities, sports and gym clubs will help a child to blossom both as an individual and within a team. They should become more confident and learn how to listen carefully and follow instructions. They will also be staying fit and healthy while having great fun! But, again, remember, only gently encourage your little one. If they are really not keen then don’t force them. Not all activities, especially certain sports and activities, are for everyone!

If you would like to find out more about what child modelling involves then fill in our form, send us a photo of your little one and we will give you a call.

You can also read more about what other parents of child models think about working with us here.

This what little Zuri’s mum told us after a booking:

“The entire experience couldn’t have been more professional. We felt fully briefed by Models Direct and knew exactly where to be and when and what to expect.

“Even at short notice for the job, Charlie from the agency was a consummate professional.

“Both the client and her team and the photographer couldn’t have been nicer to Zuri who absolutely loved getting dressed up and laughed throughout the whole shoot.

“Zuri even got a little keepsake off the client to take home which she absolutely loves and will be a lovely reminder of her shoot with Say It With Diamonds.

“We can’t wait for our next job with Models Direct.”

Whether we are models, would-be models or simply those eager to look our best, it doesn’t take much to help it become healthier this season.

Here are the top 10 tips from Models Direct towards a gorgeous summer skin:

1. Remove your make-up properly

Make sure you remove your make-up well at the end of each day. Use a light product that is suitable for your skin type. In the summer you will sweat more, your skin is likely to be oilier and your pores could easily become clogged.

2. Use the right face wash

In a similar vein, make sure you choose the right face wash for your skin and be particularly vigilant about using it when you wake up as well as last thing at night. After hot summer nights, you could wake up with a much sweatier, oilier face and you need to ensure it is clean before you apply your make-up.

3. Don’t overdo the make-up

Resist the temptation to use too much make-up during the warmer months as you don’t want to overload your skin for the reasons outlined above. Remember less is more and a light touch with make-up can really work well with floaty summer dresses, t-shirts, shorts and miniskirts.

4. Keep moisturising

It is essential to keep moisturising in the summer to ensure your skin stays well hydrated. Again, take advice on the right product for your skin type, gels can be lighter than creams and can work particularly well at this time of year.

5. Try to exfoliate

Exfoliating too much can damage your skin, but in the summer it can help keep it clearer if you do it carefully. Perhaps build in an extra exfoliation every few days during warmer weather.

6. Protect your skin

Always use a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 during the summer. Some make-up products have an SPF in them, but these are rarely strong enough to offer a high enough level of protection from the sun’s rays. Remember too much exposure to the sun will damage your skin irrevocably. Wear a hat and try to stay in the shade as much as possible. Don’t forget to use a protective lip balm and to apply sunscreen liberally to other areas of your skin as well as your face that are exposed.

7. Act quickly if you burn

If you do experience sunburn, then act quickly. As soon as you realise you have been overexposed, get out of the sun and into the shade as fast as possible. Cool your skin down with cold water and dry it carefully. Apply and keep reapplying aftersun cream or spray. Keep out of the sun. Try not to scratch your skin and do not pull off any dead flakes when it starts to peel. If you feel very ill or your skin becomes swollen, then seek medical help.

8. Drink lots of water

Staying well hydrated is an essential step towards looking after your skin. Drink lots of water when it is warm, try to take small sips throughout the day. You could also try some hydrating skin products, such as masks.

9. Be wary of air-conditioning

We all love nothing more than stepping into a cool, air-conned space when it is sweltering outside, especially when we are on holiday! But just remember that air-conditioning can really dry out your skin. Try not to spend too much time in an air-conditioned space if there is an alternative; if you have to, then moisturise more frequently.

10.  Don’t soak in hot water

Too many hot showers and baths can dehydrate your skin. In the summer months this will only exacerbate any problems. Try to reduce the number of baths and showers you have and the amount of time you spend in hot water.

No, we’re not talking about meeting people outside for the first time in months instead of logging onto Zoom and pretending to listen to what is being said (come on, you’ve drifted off into Zoom dreamland at least once, right?). No, the change is that – at last – the mornings are becoming brighter earlier and the evenings lighter for longer. This means one thing – spring is here, with summer just around the corner!

This time of the year is perfect for dusting off your camera, ready to snap away at your heart’s content. Alternatively, asking a friend to assume the photographer’s role is just as ideal. Either way, April and its subsequent months usually provide just the right conditions to capture glorious, high-definition images. But can you utilise the improved weather in your quest to achieve brilliant snapshots? Follow our quick guide and you could soon be on the right path to having the finest portfolios for all your modelling pictures.

1. What time is it? Choose the time of day wisely. Avoid taking photos under the midday sun – the sun is often too strong and the subjects tend to squint. Instead, opt for late afternoon or early evening or, even better, the last hour before sunset.  

2. Choose a short telephoto lens (one that is a minimum of 60mm) – and this doesn’t have to be a zoom lens!

3. Use a tripod to steady both your camera and concentration.

4. Using a reflector helps light reflect back into your subject’s face – the most important part of the photo (unless you’re not taking a portrait, of course…)

5. Select a focal point and stick to it!

6. Use shade to your advantage. Trees, buildings, roofs and even clouds can work wonders to eliminate silhouettes – including the dreaded “shadow under the chin” episode!

7. Experiment with flashes. They are not limited to indoor use, and are often overlooked in the great outdoors.

8. If available, take photos in RAW file – a digital negative that is taken directly from your camera’s sensor.

9. Pay particular attention to your eyes, and check which backgrounds suit your facial and body profiles. 

It’s sensible to ask some basic questions at your local camera outlet, and to experiment. Taking photographs should be fun, and outdoor photography is one of life’s pleasures!

It’s always a challenge for models to keep their photographic updates in pristine order. We appreciate that everyone doesn’t have a digital camera, so we by all means accept shots using smartphones.

A quick checklist is:

• Avoid lots of make-up – you don’t need it, and it won’t show a true representation of your (undoubtedly beautiful) face.
• The perfect height-width ratio is 5:4.
• Don’t use Photoshop!
• Keep it simple, please.
• Got tattoos, scars, or piercings? Fab – show them all!

Happy snapping!

Who doesn’t love social media? We know it might not be everyone’s cup of tea but for those who are social media fans – influencers and followers – will know what great tools we now have at our very fingertips. The social media giants, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (and the many more adding to the mix), have changed our world, the way we interact with our devices and with each other. We’re able to do incredible things that we probably thought would only be possible in sci-fi movies and novels.

Social media marketing

Models Direct are using social media marketing so privide awesome content (just like our current blogs and posts) so that our readers and online modelling community are always engaged, up to date and in-the-know! Instgram paticuarly allows building brilliant brand awareness to reach clients and creative people across the UK and worldwide….pretty excioting, but it’s not just about pumping out regular content though.

At Models Direct, we want to know where our leads are being generated from, meaning we pay attention to what YOU’RE saying about us and where your interest lies in our modelling agency. This helps us to push self-promotion further, so we can connect to our audience even better. Our aim is to keep you hooked and create a reliable source of fresh, informative industry content.

Influencers igniting a spark

Influencers are hot off the press when it comes to brand promotion via social media. They’re selected to collaborate with as they already have a large social media following in place. This exposure helps spread the word of mouth and adds credibility when they promote the brand.

Models Direct understands the importance of having influencers on board and a part of the MD modelling family. We have influencers who have worked with us and our clients who have helped drive traffic and generate interest in our agency from a wider, initially untapped, audience.

Models Direct social media following

Our Instagram and Twitter following is buzzing as we’re loving uploading content daily. Models Direct’s social media presence is helping our prospective and existing models stay tuned to what we’re getting up to.

With recent figures indicating that we have 4,619 following us on Twitter, and 30K followers on Instagram, our modelling agency is leveraging high with our platforms pushing forward in this new digital age. We are current and aim to evolve with the digital changes and needs of our audience so that we stay ahead, keeping content real, quirky and fun whilst broadening our readers so that we reach out to more people.

Keeping it fresh with our blogs

Alongside the social media platforms we use, our lively blogs freshen up Models Direct’s pages with the latest assignments that our models have been selected for. We keep our blogs short and sweet, but include all the details and images our readers need to know about new photoshoots, bookings and assignments.

Despite our frequent use of social media and blogs, we do not use these platforms to showcase our models and promote them. Models on our books are put forward whenever a client’s brief matches their look – on the contrary, self-promotion isn’t required. Unlike some showcase agencies we have an experienced team of in-house booking agents who use their expertise to connect with casting agents, producers and companies around the world, building relationships, this is how they actively source assignments for our talent. Our platforms do include images, yes but only to illustrate the assignments and show our readers what our models get up to.

With the use of social media, we can get our information to reach a wider target audience. This is essential to the industry as everything is very visual with photographic, commercial and promotional work, and social media certainly helps to easily carry this message through. 

If you are yet to become a member of our online modelling community click here….be part of the Models Direct modelling hub!

Models Direct has clients of all types who require a steady stream of junior models – youngsters of all ages, backgrounds and looks to take part in a wide range of jobs.

Your smiling Sam might be ideal for a clothing catalogue shoot, for example, or your happy Harriet might be the perfect person for a holiday advertisement.

Becoming a child model can not only generate an income but it can also represent the first gentle steps towards an exciting career.

Here are some of the other reasons why your little one might like to become a child model:

1. To increase confidence

There is no doubt that those children who become models benefit from increased levels of confidence. Taking part in a shoot, learning to be natural in front of a camera and understanding how and when to respond to instructions will stand them in good stead in other areas of life. Whether they decide to stay in modelling or go on to develop another sensational career, having been a child model will give them poise and self-assurance.

2. To showcase talent

If your youngster enjoys singing, dancing, drama or sport then he or she is likely to do especially well as a junior model. Not only do our clients like it when children are involved in these pastimes, but the modelling will also bring benefits to their performance in these various fields. Many of the skills they learn as a model will be transferrable and the broadening their experience will help them to develop as individuals.

3. To join another family member

Perhaps, mum, dad or a brother or sister is already in the modelling business? If so, why not see if the youngest member of the family wants to have a go too? During these unusual times of pandemic, clients are often looking for models who are part of the same social bubble. It makes organising the assignment easier while also providing very natural family groups.

4. It’s simple to apply

In many ways, there is no reason not to sign up and see where it takes you and your little one. Our application process is very easy; you could then wait to see if you are offered any assignments, whether they suit you and your child; then how you get on while you are there. If you find out it is not for you, then at the very least you have earned some money and tried something different. If everyone enjoys it, however, it could be the start of something new….

5. It’s fun

It really is! Our child models and their parents really enjoy the whole experience. But, don’t take our word for it! Read what some of them have to say and then decide for yourself:

David:

“David was asked to do a photo shoot and video for Wilton Bradley at Bovey Castle. What can I say, it was an awesome day: the place was stunning and the atmosphere was relaxed, with lots of hot chocolate! David had so much fun even though it was raining and cold. The crew were fabulous, patient and very, very professional. Models Direct were also fab and we can’t wait for our next booking!”

“What a brilliant day. The weather gods were on our side for yesterday’s video and photo shoot at Mansell Raceway. Wilton Bradley’s team were superb, taking their time ensuring they got what they needed, and David was only too happy to oblige. The equipment David had to show was varied, and he was raving about the motorbike he got to ride! Models Direct have done a great job again on keeping us informed and being very supportive. Again, a great day was had by all!”

Alyssa:

“Models Direct have always been supportive and considerate of our requirements and availability; always prompt with information and informing us of any updated details. I would definitely recommend them. I took Alyssa to her second shoot (the first time for me) and it was quite daunting for her at first but the staff for Wilton Bradley were patient and considerate with Alyssa and made her feel at ease. Thank you everyone.”

Models Direct’s junior models have worked on so many exciting asdsignments with well known brands over the years, click here to read how they got on and what it’s like as a child model!

Congratulate yourself on treating the industry as both respectable and professional, because the chances are you’ve put in the hard graft and research to be in the position of accepting the job. Maybe you’ve treated yourself to a well-deserved drink; a steak dinner, perhaps? Fair enough, but you still need to know what to except, what is expected of you, and the inside information to continue as a successful promotional model.

When we speak of promotional modelling, we think of models at trade shows, product launches and sports events. They all add to the glamour, but looks are just a small part of being a good promotional model. They have to be prompt, attentive and knowledgeable.

Here is a checklist that promotional models need to read. You’ll thank us for it!

Time is of the essence. Always confirm your availability at the earliest convenience. This benefits all three – you, the agency, and the client. You don’t want to be the one who let an opportunity slip through your hands just because you hesitated without good reason. Check the details, and reply in the affirmative as soon as possible!

Do your homework. Promotional companies often (sometimes always) expect models to know a little bit about their history, or at the very least the details about the event the models are attending. There’s a good chance you’ll be asked questions about the event or the company by customers or even journalists, so a little information “stored upstairs” will pay dividends. Don’t worry – your assignment on the day isn’t an interview and no one will assume you know everything, but some light reading before embarking on your job is highly useful. An example is a model hired to drive consumer demand at a large trade show. People attend these events to see what’s on offer, and whether buying products at the show will enhance their business. Knowing a little bit about the products shows you’re not just there “on display” – you actually have something to say if asked.   

Regarding homework, obtain as much information about getting to your destination as possible. No one likes lateness, and you’ll be more anxious if you’re fighting against the clock. Study maps, roads, and the layout of the venue a couple of days before setting off.

Keep your clothes smart, but practical. You might be asked to wear a uniform on the day, but take a spare pair with you. Avoid brash designs and bright colours. Shoes should be functional and not overly stylish.

Arrive early. Promotional modelling is all about interacting with potential customers and raising awareness of the product, so “meeting and greeting” is a huge part of the job. Be welcoming, chatty, but not overbearing.

Promotional modelling is perfect for those who like to get “out in the field”. A happy disposition is a must, as is a knowledge of the event / the promotion itself. The work is highly enjoyable and would suit a model who likes to travel, is confident around large groups of people, and is happy on their feet for long periods of time. If this sounds like you, what are you waiting for? You could be one of the new faces for a national company who needs models just like you to promote their wares. Go for it! 

Regrets are natural. They could be in your personal life or in your career. You may regret not trying out for a sports team or playing an instrument. Sometimes the reason is logical; at other times a little bit of self-doubt creeps in to ruin a perfectly good opportunity. Occasionally this self-doubt is irreversible: that is to say, once you have a feeling of scepticism or uncertainty, you never get over it and won’t look to conquer these negative sentiments. When this happens, self-doubt has won. They’ll be other chances to beat it, but for now, the only thing that has stopped you in your tracks is a lack of confidence…

Confidence – a “faith” in oneself or one’s abilities – is an important factor in modelling. Let’s go back to the original question, “What if…?” If you’ve ever given real consideration to becoming a model, you might already be half-way there. It’s probably a bit of self-awareness and lack of confidence that has proved the defining obstacle to your modelling dreams. 

A lot of people aren’t aware of the genuine prospects modelling can provide: the industry is now openly looking for models of all sizes, shapes, backgrounds, talents and ages (yes, that includes toddlers to the more mature models). And it’s not just clothes or fashion modelling that clients look for either. Unique features are like gold dust, so if you have a distinctive physical characteristic or a particular attribute that stands out, use it to your advantage! Note: we use the word “unique” to mean “special” or “exceptional”, not “different”. As a prospective model, you need to identify your valued assets and have the confidence to take the next step into modelling – and that’s knowing your plus points and getting in touch with Models Direct!

Allow us to be philosophical for a minute. The above definition of confidence is true enough (“A faith in oneself or one’s abilities”), but let’s delve deeper. “Faith” is regarded as a belief without evidence. Here are two examples of confidence and faith, both with different connotations:

1. If you tell a friend that you have “faith” in them in running a full marathon in two hours, you’re not being sincere (after all, no one has ever accomplished a sub-two hour marathon!). All you’re really doing is being over-optimistic to show your support and to psych up your friend. It’s harmless, but ultimately doesn’t mean a lot – you’re not confident at all they’ll be able to run 26 miles in under 120 minutes…who would be?

2. You earnestly tell a would-be model friend they should consider modelling. “But why?” you hear them cry, “I couldn’t do it, could I?” You tell them you have “faith” in their qualities – whether facial features, unique selling points or simply because you know a bit about the industry and what some clients are looking for. You are being genuine in your “faith” because the evidence is there in front of you – the evidence is your friend, staring at you! Your sincere comments then get your friend to thinking about becoming a model. And what did it take? Just a few honest words to increase their confidence. Perhaps, simply, no one ever told your friend they’ve got modelling potential in the first place. What a shame.

Confidence can be either self-appointed or gained. A lot of famous models questioned their potential before their successful careers. In many interviews, Cara Delevingne stated frankly she was bullied at school and felt no sense of self-worth. Look at her now! Leading up to inventing the light bulb, Thomas Edison failed so many times he nearly gave up. But, as we know, he didn’t, and went on to quip, “I have not failed ten thousand times—I’ve successfully found ten thousand ways that will not work.”

There are many things that hold certain people back: children, work, lack of motivation. These are all viable, and people shouldn’t be judged on these alone. A fear of failure is also justifiable, but is easier to overcome. It comes down to needing that spark of confidence to take them to the next level. Don’t give up at the first sign of failure: use it as a learning curve to gain more knowledge and to come back stronger. 

Confidence – everyone has the ability to have it and to use it. But treat it with respect. Too much of it can sour a relationship (personal or business) and can even prevent you from accepting help or ideas from others. Use it wisely. “Confidence won’t always produce results, but it will give you the best possible chance.”

Our advice is straightforward. Do a little research, and if you’re seriously thinking about modelling in any capacity, please get in touch. We’ll consider your look and are happy to discuss anything with you. We know what to look for. Don’t look back at a missed opportunity by mulling over the “What if…?” question. Have the confidence to take the first move. After all, you have nothing to lose.

We’ll leave you on a humorous note. There’s one activity where self-doubt is absolutely necessary to avoid repeat disasters: “If at first you don’t succeed, maybe skydiving isn’t for you.” And if you try it again after an unsuccessful first time, you must be really confident. Or bonkers.

The social media team at Models Direct are offering you the exciting opportunity to have your blog post featured on the Models Direct blog and be seen by thousands of followers across our social media platforms – Interested?

For the first time Models Direct are looking for new contributors to our blogs. One article will be selected per month from the entries received and featured as a guest blogger on the MD blog for that month. The blog article will also be posted on our Instagram, Twitter and Facebook to be seen by thousands of models and clients worldwide!

If you would like to be considered for this amazing opportunity then please email your blog entry to editor@modelsdirect.com. Your entry needs to be related to the modelling, beauty or fashion industry and be no more than 1000 words. Each entry will be considered with one entry being chosen to appear each month by the MD social team.

All guest bloggers featured will be credited – What are you waiting for??…….you could become one of our regular contributors!

Good Luck!

Fireworks night is super exciting and the Models Direct team have had lots of fun over the weekend at firework displays, warming up by the bonfire and of course maybe toasting the odd marshmallow – however as an office of animal lovers we haven’t forgotten to keep our beloved pets safe!

Models Direct represent a large variety of pets on our books from dogs through to more unusual creatures like snakes and lizards, so the team here are very used to talking to pet owners about their special pets, their characters and what they like doing.

Client: The Walt Disney Company

“This was Oscar’s first assignment and we were not sure how he would react but he is a very friendly and confident kitten as was immediately at home on set with The Walt Disney Company! The film crew were patient with him and he seemed to really enjoy all of the fuss. He gave a great performance and everyone was happy. The information from Models Direct was clear and we knew exactly where to go etc.”

Oscar, Model fee: £270

Pets are a very important part of the family and so it is essential to keep them safe this time of year and avoid any unnecessary stress they might get from all the loud noises, lights and general excitement of firework night!

The team at Models Direct thought it would be useful to put together some helpful hints and tips for you to help keep your pets safe! The below advice is from RSPCA.org.uk.