Well, the short answer is that there is no set figure.

This is because each assignment is different and varies in scale, and every model takes on differing levels of work.

Fees for commercial models tend to start at around £150 a day but can certainly reach thousands of pounds for those who are experienced, in demand and working for clients with big budgets.

What is vital, however, is to work for a genuine agent, one that is registered and accredited as an authentic employment agency.

If you don’t, you leave yourself open to potential problems.

These might include not being paid anything at all, only being paid after a very long time and a lot of chasing or being paid significantly less than you were led to believe.

Models Direct has been operating for more than 30 years now and over the decades has worked with an array of big names brands and major clients.

We have an in-depth understanding of how the modelling industry works and have built up strong relationships with our clients – we trust them and they trust us.

This is not only when it comes to ensuring the safety and comfort of our models but also when it comes to payments.

As an experienced agent, not only do we find work for our models, but we negotiate the very best fees for them.

We then ensure they are paid what they were promised – and on time!

Here is how it works:

1. We are in daily contact with clients who seek particular types and descriptions of models for their photoshoots and other jobs.

2. We select and present models from our books based on the client’s requirements.

3. The client tells us who they are interested in.

4. We negotiate the very best fee possible for the job.

5. We offer the assignment to the chosen model or models and tell them exactly how much they will be paid.

6. They decide whether to accept the assignment on that basis.

7. The client pays us the fee in advance. This way we can ensure there is no change in fee or delay.

8. The model attends the assignment and then receives payment from us within the following few days.

This is the process we have always followed and we know it works for everyone – the client, the agent and, above all, the models themselves.

For more information about the industry, our accreditation and how Models Direct works visit www.modelsdirect.com.

Fireworks Night is a commercial opportunity for fireworks suppliers, as well as food and beverage manufacturers. However, this year, the restraints surrounding supply chains caused by Brexit are likely to see an expected 70% decrease in firework stocks – with an unwelcome hike in prices. This double whammy will undoubtedly have an adverse effect on retail outlets, but it shouldn’t discourage the general public from grabbing their ear muffs and heading out to the many bonfires and firework displays that’ll paint the night sky in glorious multicolour this autumn.  

Why do we celebrate Fireworks Night? Without getting too bogged down in the history, it is important to know the bare essentials of any annual celebratory event. Essentially, Brits celebrate the 5th November after a failed attempt by Roman Catholics to blow up King James I and the English Parliament in 1605. This act of conspiracy was known as the Gunpowder Plot, and came about because James I refused more religious tolerance to Catholics. The main conspirator was Robert Catesby, whilst the more famous Guy Fawkes was in charge of the explosives. After being rumbled, Fawkes was found guarding some 30-plus barrels of gunpowder and promptly arrested. He eventually died whilst jumping from the hanging gallows, breaking his neck. Ouch!

Fireworks Night is chiefly enjoyed by children because of the magnificent pyrotechnics, giving out a range of vibrant explosions. Handheld devices like sparklers are popular with the kids, too, although it’s sound advice to have a parent nearby (and to light the thing!). Autumnal goodies are also devoured on this most ear-splitting evening, with toffee, hot soups, mulled wine and parkin (that’s Northern gingerbread cake for all you Southerners!) enjoyed by many. Fireworks Night evokes the senses, with crisp night air mingling pleasantly with spices and traces of scented smoke. It can be a night to remember, and it’s perfect for families or groups of friends.

Why not dress up for the occasion? Sure, it’s likely to be a bit chilly, so many people plump for their favourite coat that’s been concealed in a stuffy cupboard for months. But you’re trendy fashionistas so you can afford to be a little more stylish. Try tasteful furry boots, or woolly hats with the largest bobble you can find! Bobbles are definitely in vogue this season, and can compliment a pair of colourful mittens.

Have fun playing around with the hat / mitten combo to come up with your ideal look. Don’t want to splash out for one specific night? Head to your local charity shops, where you’ll find an array of cool beanies, bobble hats, ear muffs, scarves, mittens and boots.

Once you have your Fireworks Night look nailed down, pause for a minute to think about your pets. Dogs, cats and other four-legged family friends usually recoil at the sound of fireworks, so please do your best to shield them from the pyrotechnical onslaught. We’re not suggesting you enclose them in bubble wrap, but spare a thought and see if there are rooms in the house that offer more protection from the sound of explosions.

On Fireworks Night, it’s always safety first. Only qualified or professional people should light large fireworks. Keep well clear of the safety barriers that should be installed around bonfires and where the fireworks are let off.  Keep your phones fully charged in case you need to make an emergency phone call. A lot of safety surrounding Fireworks Night is common sense, but you can never be too careful when you’re around live explosives.

Let’s hope the evening is not a damp squib, and that you all have fun on the 5th November – it should go off with a bang! And, just think, after that, it’ll soon be Christmas!

https://www.modelsdirect.com

We have been through one tough year and are starting another one on the same note. With restrictions in place, you might have lost some confidence and motivation – in everything that is happening around you or within you. This is normal given the unusual circumstances and the anxiety and pressure everyone may be experiencing now that we have entered 2021.

Models Direct understand that with some deep reflection, it might be that you are looking for new found inspiration and drive to push yourself and take on a new pathway or challenge in your life. Improving your skill set might be what you are looking for so adding a new venture like modelling to your CV could be the perfect addition.

If you have thought about taking up modelling but have been stalling it due to the unpredictability we all faced during 2020, our modelling agency – Models Direct – is here to encourage all potential newcomers to cast their worries aside with our modelling advice.

We continue to have a positive outlook and aim to look onwards and upwards despite the peaks and troughs of 2020. Our modelling expert team works together with confidence, motivation and care for each other and our talented models. For some modelling confidence and success, we’ve compiled a short list of what you can do to improve your self confidence. 

1. Persevere and don’t give up

If you want to try out modelling, don’t hold yourself back. Don’t be hard on yourself either if you find yourself feeling anxious or wobbly.

Say positive things to yourself. You are a person with abundant skills and abilities. Don’t doubt who you are and what you stand for.

2. Positive affirmations – keep ‘em coming!”

An excellent and easy way of reinforcing self belief is through positive affirmations. Check online for some great examples to repeat to yourself everyday. 

In the meantime here are some of our favourites:

“Self confidence is a super power. Once you start to believe in yourself magic starts happening.”

“Do not give your past the power to define the future.”

3. Don’t be afraid to research and ask questions

No one will ever push through the barriers of understanding new ventures without asking questions. So go ahead and ask us!

This will help you gain confidence as you’ll be better prepared in the industry and will know what’s to be expected from you as a model.

4. Focus on your successes

Remember the times you experienced success – in exams, projects, presentations, interviews and so on. Keep remembering those times! Don’t allow yourself to forget successful moments. Use your memories to boost your confidence in your ability to continue succeeding. Forget “failures” or things you deem as negative, just be you and be positive. 

Models Direct have our fingers crossed that by the end of this month there will be some light at the end of the tunnel. Once things begin to slowly open up, we’ll have a colossal amount of requests flooding in for models across all categories – newborns, babies, toddlers, children, teens, adults, seniors, plus-size, petite, big & tall, body parts, bridal, sportswear and so much more. 

Even though we predict that the future will be bright, we have been scouting for models wherever we have been able to do so following government guidelines. 

Like modelling, any career in the entertainment industry is steered by confidence, self belief, persistence and determination. So, if you have these attributes (or some of them) get in touch with our fantastic team for sound modelling advice. 

To be fair, the word “highlights” won’t often appear alongside any reference to “2020”, but at Models Direct we’ve had our fair share of success during this difficult year.

The company has thrived amidst the growing threat of COVID, and we’re delighted how our models have adapted to continue their promising careers, whether opting for a one-off job or throwing themselves headlong into numerous assignments. Whatever one’s situation since March, keeping busy and positive was key to maintaining some sort of normality – and sanity. We’re just glad we could keep doing what we do best: placing talented models in exciting jobs with our eminent clients. And long may it continue! 

To mark the end of a tough year, we’ve decided to broadcast some notable modelling achievements. We love all our models, but as limited space dictates we can’t honour every single triumph, this piece serves as a celebratory blog to congratulate a select few.

In Strictly Come Dancing style, the votes are in! Grab yourself a glass of champers and join us in toasting some of our distinguished models – individuals, families and even pets!

For “starters”, we were thrilled to help out online food delivery company Deliveroo. Our star model, Julian, praised the whole experience. He said;

“My shoot went really well despite the winds and cold weather. The shoot was conducted professionally and the photographer and onsite director were kind and friendly. Great shots were taken and I’m really happy and excited to be working with Models Direct. I’m looking forward to future jobs with them. Thank you to Models Direct for working with me to make this possible.”

Next up on our celebratory list is adorable pooch Honey-Belle, who scored a sensational assignment modelling for retail giants John Lewis. Honey-Belle was photographed for the company’s At Home magazine, instantly transforming her into a canine superstar for Christmas! She was even given a plate of roast chicken as a treat and a thank you for her efforts. Now, that’s the Model’s Direct treatment!

Eleven of our models got stuck into something more satisfying than the average pastry product when they modelled for legendary bakers Holland’s Pies. Our go-getting bunch consisted of two families and four individuals, proving that group bookings for larger clients are very much sought-after. Additionally, it was a great way to illustrate how modelling work can be achievable even during COVID restrictions.

“Recently, I completed an assignment through Models Direct creating a campaign for Holland Pies. I can honestly say, I thoroughly enjoyed every second of it! From the minute I stepped through the door, everyone was so welcoming and upbeat. The day went so fast and was so well planned by everyone involved. Amazing company and can’t wait to work with them in the future. Thankyou MD” – Jack

Our two models Jonathan and Montana brought some festive cheer to help promote the good work done by Centre Point – a charity providing accommodation to 16-24 year olds. Since 2005, Prince William has been their Patron. Montana commented:

“I had a fun time whilst shooting with Models Direct. This is due to the easy-going approach that they took. As a team, we went with the flow and every shot felt natural and the assistant also supported me and suggested different poses to try. They even provided both food and drink and made sure that I was comfortable with everything that we were doing. After shooting inside the youth hostel, the photographer suggested that we go outside and experiment with different poses around Covent Garden, which was very exciting. On the other hand, they contacted me rather late; being on the day of the shoot, leaving me having to rush to make it on time. Overall, I would say that it was a very fun experience and I did not feel judged or over pressured. I would recommend Models Direct!”

Continuing our 2020 roll call, we placed some four-legged stars with notable client Petlab Co. Their owners, suitably pleased with the outcome, beamed, “It was a great experience with Models Direct! This was the first time our little puppies stood in front of a professional camera and they really enjoyed the “work”. The surprise party was fun as well, so thank you for providing us with this opportunity.”

Finally, we couldn’t leave out a cute bunny we provided for Coco & Eve’s Easter giveaway promotion! Animals (and humans) don’t have to have that “ahhh!” factor, but it sometimes helps!

Other 2020 highlights included a social campaign for Sky Sports to encourage customers safely returning to pubs during the pandemic, a group of models appearing in a social media advert for Barclays Bank, and a COVID safety video for Transport for London.

“Models Direct is a great agency. They constantly find me new jobs. Friendly staff always ready to guide you and willing to help.” – Santiago

Please have a look at our models reviews to give you more of an idea at how well they have got on during the year.

We’d like to offer a huge “well done” to our team, our models and our clients – without a team effort assignments wouldn’t run as smoothly. Here’s to a happier – and just as successful – 2021. Cheers!

Models Direct have been representing female models for 30 years now…we’ve seen that this modelling category continues to be in high demand where our extensive client database frequently call for women to model for their marketing campaigns. 

Models Direct have been finding work for our amazing models in photographic, promotional, fashion, advertising, film and TV jobs. When you see females representing a brand or organisation on print or digital, the chances are that their look has been called for by a client and they have been selected by a modelling agency.

This is exactly what we do at Models Direct!

Female models work on a daily basis promoting brands and products, big and small, for local and worldwide audiences. Our modelling talent feature and represent plenty of industries including hair and beauty, fashion, travel and tourism, fitness and wellbeing, lifestyle, business, education and lots more. 

When opening the pages of a magazine, catalogue, booklet, pamphlet, leaflet or any other type of print, you are bound to see a female model who has been pictured (or filmed, just to add). The goal is to promote a product or service aiming to engage and build a connection with the target audience. Think of all the adverts you have seen which have been memorable to you; the ones that stick in your mind with a female model representing the brand. Olay? Pandora? TUI? There are lots out there therefore lots of opportunities and lots of potential for newcomers to the modelling industry. 

Modelling has an interesting way of opening possibilities of self-expression, boosting confidence, having fun whilst earning money. That’s why our female models enjoy being part of the Models Direct team and thrive on new assignments which open doors to networking and exploring other paths and routes such as TV and film work whilst being an out-of-the-box career that sets them apart from the crowd. 

We welcome models from all walks of life; different cultures and backgrounds regardless of age and size. We pride ourselves on diversity and inclusion within our organisation. We have a very fun, hard-working and honest culture that is supportive of open communication and collaboration between our team, models and clients. 

If you’re ready for something unique, sign up with our top UK modelling agency and see what modelling is like for yourself.

Our no-nonsense approach backed with in depth knowledge and a pizzazz of positivity and encouragement is what our models love about working with us. You can read their reviews here to see what they say about us and life as a female model. 

In this blog, we’ll look at some examples of “real” people and how they have become lifestyle models, the types of assignments they have been offered and their success.

Included is a brief checklist so you can gauge your suitability against certain modelling jobs. As the first sentence confidently states, YOU could find yourself nodding in agreement to the list, thus swaying your decision to try out lifestyle modelling. It might be the definitive reason why you apply to be one of our new lifestyle models…

Example 1

Sally is 38 years old. She has bottle green eyes and a flawless, welcoming smile. She enjoys travelling and meeting new people, and likes to keep herself busy. In fact, she hates being bored, and would take up a new hobby just to keep her mind and body active. Sally, as you’ve suspected, loves life, and is game for anything. 

A modelling job caught her eye. “Model required for print advertisements. No experience necessary. Must be willing to travel”. Sally hadn’t considered modelling before, but she was curious. And excited. This could be perfect for her. After an initial query, the job turned out to be posing for a national catalogue specialising in household products. Sally could do that…and she did. The photo set was an hour away from her house, and she’d be reimbursed for her travelling expenses. 

A week later, Sally’s busy lifestyle meant she had to turn down a second modelling job, but she accepted the third. Now, she’s actively involved with lifestyle modelling, and wondered why she hadn’t thought of it sooner.    

Example 2

Paul has dabbled with modelling before, but hasn’t taken it further than a couple of half-day jobs. Still, being a lifestyle model ignited his passion for appearing in front of professional cameras: it’s been said more than once that he’s handsome (which he won’t deny!), and he liked the thrill of being paid to advertise mid-range clothes in a glossy fashion catalogue. 

So, six months after his last job, he updated his mugshots and applied again for an assignment involving posing for an advert for his local council. The council were looking for a down-to-earth person with symmetrical facial features, good looking and representing the public. Paul fit the bill, and continues to earn money as a lifestyle model. Yes, he’s handsome, but he’d admit he’s more of the “classic” look than out-and-out “gorgeous”. And the “classic” look was just what the campaign called for. Anyway, he wouldn’t feel comfortable on a catwalk!

Example 3

When Jessica was researching the industry, “lifestyle modelling” caught her attention. And she’s glad it did. These days, when she’s not working as a full-time receptionist, you’ll find her earning extra money as an “extra” on a well-known TV show, as well as appearing in occasional TV adverts. The beauty of this is the TV producers were looking for actors who blend in well with the set’s background – in short, “normal” people. As for the TV adverts? The same applied, although Jessica’s perfect skin, pearly whites and luscious hair were an obvious plus!    

See – you can be like Sally, Paul and Jessica. They all have different backgrounds, but have one thing in common: they’re just like you!

Lifestyle modelling checklist

Are you:

• Enthusiastic?
• Flexible?
• Ambitious?
• Keen to make more money?

Do you:

• Represent the public?
• Want to work with industry professionals?
• Like meeting new people and making friends?

Lifestyle modelling is the ideal avenue to explore if you want to start out as a model. It covers an especially broad spectrum, so there should something out there to suit most people. People like the trio of Sally, Paul and Jessica. Why not join them?

Modelling has always been a flexible career choice, if you love being infront of the camera, using your acting skills and working amongst creative people, then it could be the perfect career path for you. As a commercial model you are in control of your diary, what assignments you decide to take on and along with your agent, negotiate the rates you’d like – sounds good to me!

Yes…it’s competitive and doesn’t come with guarantee’s, but it’s like everything in life, the more you put in the more you will get out! It’s now easier than ever with all the great technology and social media we have at our fingertips to get noticed and Models Direct have 30 years experience of connecting models with clients, so we know what we’re talking about..

For any successful model, whether it’s in the commercial or fashion industry your portfolio is key…getting this right along with having a great agent will create many opportunities for you and kick start your dream modelling career.

Follow these simple steps to having the perfect modelling portfolio:

• Wear something simple. Clients want to see your potential, so try to wear something plain but also flattering. A white t-shirt and jeans are always a good choice and keep your look clean and simple – don’t over complicate things!
• Wear minimal make-up. A full face of make-up has a time and a place. Stick to flattering neutral shades and work on accentuating your favourite facial features – clients want to see your features and how diverse your look is, so don’t cover up in layers of make up.
• Use natural light. Natural lighting is the most flattering, so try to position yourself near a window or outside if possible. The time of day will affect the type of lighting, this can make such a difference to your images, the best time of day is early morning or late afternoon/eve when the light is much softer. This will avoid squinting, harsh light and shadows.
• Use a good camera. A lot of phone cameras have excellent cameras nowadays but, if possible, it’s always best to use a high-quality DSLR camera they will really pick up all your features and details and ensure the images are of a hhigh quality and size so they don’t become pixelated or out of focus when sent out to clients.
• Don’t forget your background. It’s important you give some thought to the background of your images, keep it plain and ideally light in colour, this will make you stand out more which is essential when you are being put forward to a client amongst other models. Plain walls are best!
• Take close-ups and wide shots. Your portfolio should have an effective selection of images on it, both headshot and full length. To be a successful commercial model you need to be able to portray different characters and looks, this needs to come across from your portfolio.
• Practise your posing. Overly-pouty lips may look great on Instagram, but they’re not going to cut it in the modelling world. Remember your images are being sent out to large International brands who have high expectations, your images need to reflect that. Practise posing in the mirror; clients will want to see your relaxed face, as well as shots of you smiling and your personality coming through.

If you are thinking about pursuing a modelling career, perhaps you would like to take a minute and read our models feedback of their assignment experiences..gives you a real insight into what it’s like as a part-time model.

If you are on the Models Direct books and have perhaps neglected your portfolio a bit, now’s the time follow these simple steps to boost your chances and make sure your full potential is being seen…our bookings department is getting busy again, shoots are happening and now is your chance.

With two small children and busy working lives, Stephen & Liz jumped at the chance of a little get away, even though that meant doing a bit of modelling work too! Over the two day shoot the couple along with the production team battled floods, remote shoot locations and bad weather, but with both models and client being over the moon with the end results the Models Direct team couldn’t be happier.

The accommodation provided for our model couple was beautiful, the perfect little rural retreat; https://www.holidaycottages.co.uk/cottage/51731-sett-cottage

Here is Stephen’s feedback from the shoot:

“We had an amazing experience with Models Direct, from the first phone call about putting us forward for the shoot, to the follow up calls to see how things went…. it was faultless.
Charlie was massively helpful and friendly, communication all the time and would recommend them to anyone. Can’t wait to do my next job with them.”
Steve and Liz Campbell

‘Real Couples’ are a regular request from clients in the commercial modelling industry. When shooting scenes which involve a couple the chemistry and dynamics need to be right and look natural on camera, often this is much easier to achieve with a real couple rather than two models who don’t know one another.

If you and your partner are interested in being put forward to clients for work like this and other commercial modelling opportunities please click here and speak to one of the Models Direct team today.

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.