In short, we remain at the top of our game in the commercial modelling world, supplying the best models to the best clients. Like a Formula 1 car stocked up on the highest quality fuel, we’ve been purring along nicely since 1990, and there are no signs of a shift in momentum any time soon – even taking into account the uncertainty the pandemic brought us. The industry is currently in a terrific position, thank you very much.

We work with some of the most prestigious firms in the country, from film companies to high-profile brands, from established PR agencies to experienced photographers. If a professional needs a commercial model, we’re the first port-of-call for our clients. Aside from the largest selection of models anywhere in the UK, it’s our booking team that often reap the plethora of accolades from our clients, and is thus the main reason why clients get in touch with us before any other agency.

So, whilst it’s evident that we’re a godsend to clients when they need  models for their marketing campaigns, it’ll be beneficial for all involved to know exactly how our booking team works to ensure our client’s campaigns are as successful as they’ve been since we first started operating.    

First of all, finding the right models for the right promotions doesn’t happen by sheer good fortune. Our booking team consists of a tightly-knit squad of professionals who have been surpassing other agencies for years. Industry-led knowledge is a fundamental quality that is learnt and used to deliver results; our clients know this, so they depend on us to put forward the most suitable models.

Simplicity coupled with expertise equates to a simple process. The following steps can be used as a general template to illustrate how our booking team operates:

1. Our client (let’s call them Quality Brands Ltd (QBL)) devises a wickedly-effective promotion. They have most of the components to make it work: a budget, a game-plan, a photographer, a film crew on-hand if required, a PR company to help reach as many people as possible…but, wait…where are they going to find the “stars of the show” – the people to appear in the promotion? Sure, they have their own staff, but their campaign needs to sparkle with professional creativity. Not just anyone will do. So…

2. …QBL knows that a commercial modelling agency is their best chance of success. So who better than to contact us – Europe’s no.1?!

3. Our booking team receives the brief from QBL. They are looking for two female models – one in their twenties, and one in their fifties – to portray a daughter and mother.

4. Our team sets straight to work, keeping in mind where QBL’s assignment will take place. We place models all around the UK and beyond, but sometimes a local model is the wisest choice – especially at times when time is of the essence (meeting deadlines happens to be one of our many strengths!).

5. We consult with our database of talented models, taking into account QBL’s brief.

6. We make sure the models we shortlist are available (say, in this instance, five or six). We then put forward the models to QBL.

7. Once QBL comes back to us with their top two choices, we arrange the assignment with our models.

8. Information we’ll give our models include: time, destination, initial meeting contact, client’s name, travel information / arrangements / schedule if the client provides one, fee, and any special features (e.g. safety procedures, nearby emergency contacts etc).

9. Our team likes to keep in touch with the client during the assignment, but if they’re too busy, we always follow up after the assignment to receive their feedback – and, of course, the model’s.

10. Job done!

11. We can then take a deserved coffee break and read the glowing feedback.

It’s also important for our clients to know that we:

·   Keep prices at a competitive rate.

·   Go above and beyond our duty.

·   Are keen to develop new relationships with clients…which begins by clicking on the link below:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/help-advice/book-a-model

Don’t be shy! If you need the models to make your campaign a winning one, your success starts with Models Direct. 

That’s better, right? 

Because now is the perfect time for reflection. The festive period – both the days leading up to Christmas Day and the time around New Year – allows us to ponder on another year gone by. And what a year it’s been. For a lot of reasons…

For better or worse, it’s unlikely that 2021 won’t be forgotten for a long time. When Covid was revealed in all its horror way back in late 2019, there was obvious panic throughout the country – and worldwide. But through adversity came a shining light of hope, and that hope was realised even more in 2021.

Are we “out of the woods” yet? No. Are we back “in the weeds”? No. But we are coping better, and let’s hope that trend continues. If we are to believe what the scientists inform us (and there should be no reason to doubt them), we are increasing our collective resistance with immunisations and booster jabs. Things are now going in the right direction. We still need to be careful, diligent and considerate, and we’re sure that shouldn’t be too difficult for most of you. But, on the whole, when you’re relaxing in your favourite chair over Christmas, you’ll agree that 2021 was a better year than the latest annus horribilis that was 2020.  

What will be your lasting memory at the end of 2021? We hope that it’ll be a cherished one, amidst the uncertainty and confusion. With any luck, we can scrap the “F word” (“Furlough”) and concentrate on aspects of life that make it all worthwhile: friendships, work, family, relationships, social events, good food and holidays (feel free to add any other things that you’re looking forward to in 2022…)

If you’re a model reading this, you should be aware that modelling work was one of the few paid activities that was allowed during the lockdowns. That alone is one of the things models should be thankful for, as there were literally millions of employees in the UK scratching their heads and yawning with the boredom of being housebound whilst off work. Even better, when you’re reminiscing about 2021, just think of all the more modelling assignments that’ll be on offer – jobs that any confident model should be itching to be put forward for.

Next year may still be one of uncertainty, but it should be filled with even more optimism than 2021. We salute everyone who has shown grit and determination over the past months, and we can expect that 2022 will be another year to remember – but for more of the right reasons.

And if you think that 2021 has been similar to 2020, pause to contemplate what you’ve achieved. Go on – write down all your accomplishments. You might just be surprised about how much good work you’ve done – either at work or in your personal life. No matter how insignificant you may think they are, all accomplishments are important.

Well done on getting through 2021, and here’s to a better 2022!

https://www.modelsdirect.com/become-a-model/

The energy and expectancy during these glorious years should be cherished. Teens are more mature for their age than ever, and parents should be encouraged with their children’s aspirations. The world is their oyster, for sure.

For obvious reasons, parents and guardians are the best judges of what their children can accomplish (other than the teenagers themselves, of course). First and foremost, parents want their children to be happy and safe. Successes and achievements will fit in nicely as long as a teens’ wellbeing is realised.

Commercial modelling is a very realistic opportunity for teens for a variety of reasons. It could lead to something else; it may not. After being in the industry for over 30 years, we’ve risen to become the UK’s no.1 modelling agency, so we’re fully aware that the hundreds of “live” modelling assignments for teens might have a number of long-term outcomes. What we can confidently say is that signing up with us is the best way to get talented teens seen by some of the biggest names out there – again, we should know, because these household names are our clients! And – if you didn’t already know – teenagers are always desirable in commercial modelling jobs. In fact, they are one of the most requested models by our clients. Click on the link below for more information:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/teen-modelling/

If parents think their teenage children have what it takes to become one of our commercial models, here is a brief “tick off” list of criteria. If you can put a nice, big green tick against all of these, then the next step is really quite simple: contact us via our application form, and our experienced booking team will take it from there. So, onto the list:

Is your teen child:

·       Enthusiastic?

·       Pretty flexible around school days / holidays?

·       Keen to earn decent money?

·       Presentable and punctual?

·       Wishing to get involved in working with professionals in a safe environment?

·       Willing to travel with you?

If there are six ticks next to these points, we’d love to hear from them!

When teens sign up with Models Direct, both parents and themselves can expect certain prerequisites from us – and our clients. Through our experience and knowledge, we have a few “tick lists” ourselves. These include:

We’ll do our very best to put forward the right teen models to our clients (and we have lots of them!)

We understand that not every assignment is right for everyone. When you decline a modelling job, we simply work harder to find one that is right! You – and your child – have the right to accept or decline any assignment – no ifs, no buts.

We always pay our wonderful models within five working days. The reasons are three-fold:

  1. We collect fees from our client before the assignment.

  2. We adhere to statutory modelling regulations.

  3. We respect all our models.

There is no pressure on our models – especially our child models. We want them to be safe and happy – like all parents. But we ask teens and parents to ask themselves what they want to achieve. It could be that just one modelling job during the summer is enough to break up the routine – great! It could be that teen models wish to break into the industry with real aspirations of a career. This is achievable when signing up with a reputable agency, but all parties should be pragmatic. Long-term success is in your hands, but it almost certainly won’t happen overnight. Alternatively, teens could just want some spare cash doing something enjoyable – and be the envy of all their friends. Brilliant! If that’s the case, go for it!

If you’re a teen, we’re jealous! You have the world at your feet, so do what makes you happy. Modelling is ideal for all kinds of teens looking for something a little bit different, and the feedback from all our teens so far demonstrates that modelling makes them happy – and a little richer!

To end this blog, a few of these pointers will give teens some encouragement to enter the wonderful world of commercial modelling:

·       Listen to your parents (sorry!)

·       Choose which modelling jobs you think you’d enjoy the most.

·       Be happy in everything you do, as being happy brings about confidence, relaxation and success.

·       Don’t give up if you don’t get offered a modelling assignment straight away.

·       Please read our brief and straightforward guidelines before applying – it’ll be valuable in the long run.

For a little more insight into teen modelling – and how to apply with us – have a peek at the below link:

If under 18 years of age, we ask that a parent or guardian fills out the application form on behalf of the teenager. Thank you, and good luck!

Models Direct has numerous clients who are headquartered in London – and the production companies, crews and locations they use are also often in the capital or its surrounding area.

We do, of course, send our models across the UK, and beyond, but for those who take up our assignments in London, spending time in the city can also offer the chance of a little fun once the work is done.

And aspiring models, who have not yet landed their first booking, might also like to visit the city, just to see some of the sights and to experience London’s unique buzz.

Here are our top tips to having fun in the city:

1. Why not snap some shots for your e-portfolio in some of London’s most iconic locations. In one day, you can easily travel around the centre to take photos with places like the Houses of Parliament, Buckingham Palace and Tower Bridge against clear skies in the background. And you get to experience all these exciting places at the same time. Ask a friend or family member to take the pictures, however, as clients don’t like to see selfies – and ask them to make sure you are carefully positioned without too much of busy London behind you.

2. Treat yourself to some delicious food while you are out and about – and London has it all. Visit vibrant Borough Market to taste sizzling hot street food from around the world; try Brick Lane for an authentic curry; Gerrard Street for all the colour and taste of Chinatown and the Portobello Road area for a true cockney pie and mash.

3. Fashionistas among you will also be spoiled for choice and wannabe models will probably want to take a stroll down the King’s Road in Chelsea. Famous for its role in fashion history, this is still the place to see an array of boutiques and top fashion brands: window shop, try a few outfits on and you never know you might find a bargain. You should also take the opportunity to wander off down some side streets to seek out charity shops that may yield some very special finds!

4. If you are looking for somewhere cool and trendy to meet up with your friends for a drink, while you are in London, you will have no trouble finding anywhere. Try the Soho area for some truly quirky and colourful bars or Shoreditch for places that ooze style and sophistication.

5. Then, later on, you may well want to continue your night out: how about heading to Leicester Square to catch a film in a cinema where the premieres are screened or up to a theatre in the West End to see one of the big shows? You might also want to go clubbing – and again, you can take your pick. Depending on your music tastes, you might like to head to Fabric, Heaven, the Ministry of Sound or Cargo.

Current and versatile images

Models are encouraged to compile images that are kept real-time and up to date with their current look as this will be their visual representation for us as well as those all-important clients that will be seeking models for bookings. Clients will want to see how you look as you are right now, not a dated appearance from a few years back as this can sometimes be a real letdown when it comes to the selection crunch. Your portfolio is a true reflection of how you look. 

You can add a splash of individuality by putting forward images that demonstrate your creative side and tailor it to your likes and interests. This could entail striking classic model poses, revealing any hidden talents or original settings donning the latest on-trend fashion and makeup looks. It’s really up to you how you want to best present yourself but ensure your images are only about you and exhibit your best and professional self.   

List experience 

If you can fill us in on any relevant experience you may have had in the past or present then keep us in the loop. Agencies want to know your experience just like any employer would when you are applying for a job. Share your successes so that if you are put forward for an assignment and the client asks for previous experience, we can fill them in.

Communicate with your agency

It’s a good idea to touch base with your agency, so keep in touch. Inform your agent about any important announcements that could impact your chances of work or even increase it. Whatever the message is, your agent is your point of contact so having good communication is key. Also, the lovely thing about being a Models Direct model is that our team is really friendly and down to earth. We appreciate the value of all of our wonderful talent so it’s great when we hear from our models directly about what is going on in their lives and ways we can help increase their exposure to the modelling world. 

Models Direct is NOT a showcase agency

We touch upon this factor quite often (it’s important for our readers to know this!) but our modelling agency is not like some of the others that are situated high up on search engines. Models Direct is not a showcase agency where we place our models’ images online and create a proactive image of consistent workflow in the pipeline for all of them. This is practically an impossible task to achieve, let alone misleading. No agency can guarantee work; it’s up to clients to make the ultimate selection from the models an agency puts forward to them. Our agency has always explained this concept and will continue to push out gentle reminders for our readers. We DO help our models increase their chances of being booked and put you forward whenever we can to big name brands around the world. For more useful advice head over to our FAQs page to find out more.

Success is also defined differently by different people. Ultimately, success is a good thing, and can sometimes take a great deal longer to achieve than first thought.

The word is best described as the completion or accomplishment of an aim or purpose. By this definition, everyone performs “mini successes” every day, no matter how trivial they might appear.

Let’s highlight a minor success – something that will ring true to many. If you have to wake up early in the morning for a particular reason, and you’re well known for sleeping in (damn that alarm clock!), it’d be a success if you do, in fact, awake from your slumber at that time. Job done! That’s a success.

Even crossing a road is a success if you achieve this without injury! If you think about it, the objective of crossing a road is to get from point A to point B without incident. There you go – another minor success!

How can you achieve success as a model? We’re not talking about methods by which an individual may taste success on international catwalks or have their name in lights in Leicester Square. One day, that might be the case. One day…

But for now, let’s concentrate on commercial models that can obtain well-paid jobs for numerous companies courtesy of established modelling agencies – Models Direct being a prime example, of course.

To succeed in the commercial modelling industry requires certain qualities. Some can be leant, some are instinctive – or at least need particular attributes.

The two important factors for commercial modelling success is determination and commitment.

Success in many walks of life is the result of not giving up and believing in one’s self. Everyone has at least one “knock back”, and it’s the tenacity of that person that usually determines ultimate success. The ability to “come back stronger” has seen many people achieve local, national and – it’s true! – global recognition as being at the top of their game. Would they’d have gotten there if they’d given up at the first hurdle? Of course not. Sure, luck plays a part in success, although sheer willpower always trumps fate. It’s the same with models! Be determined, always with the final goal in mind.

Knowledge and research plays a large part as well, because they can only add to an individual’s acumen – no matter what industry is being discussed. As a model, researching clients and locations is a large cog in the wheel of success. In this modern world, there’s no excuse not to be clued-up for assignments. Often, knowledge can be a game-changer!

An experienced model doesn’t stop learning. If you have numerous assignments under your belt, that’s fantastic. But never take anything for granted, and continue the desire to keep learning. Respect all contacts, because they are professionals and contacts are always useful.

If you are inexperienced and yearn to be a part of our wonderful industry, apply with us and we’ll see what you can offer. We don’t require our models to have had any prior experience; we love placing suitable people in great assignments, so if they’ve had zero experience, don’t let that put you off!

Oh, and who can forget confidence? No one likes arrogance. But there’s a difference between that and self-belief. Why would someone apply for a modelling position if they didn’t think they’d excel? Read more on confidence by clicking on the link: https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/growing-into-confidence/

To be successful as a model, you need to achieve your aims. If your aim is to work on one or two assignments, that’s great. However, you still need the determination to fulfil your goal, and the confidence to and knowledge to achieve it.

Thinking of more regular modelling assignments? Brilliant – but you still need the resolve and grit to succeed. We’re the leading modelling agency in the UK and we’re always on the lookout for new talent – but that doesn’t mean modelling work comes easily to every model.

Experience is great, but not essential. Determination is paramount. Confidence (not arrogance) goes a long way. Stick to these principles, and modelling could be a massive success for you!

https://www.modelsdirect.com/

https://www.modelsdirect.com/become-a-model

Everyone needs a helping hand. And not many people like talking about money. If you’re one of the few that likes to “go it alone” or revels in discussing financial matters, then you’ll certainly be in the minority!

Fortunately, an agent loves talking about money! Not because they are pin-striped, cigar-munching fat cats with a ruthless streak not usually observed outside the Square Mile. Quite the opposite, in fact. A respectable model agency genuinely cares for its models and clients, and they go overboard to make sure all parties are comfortable with booking rates and working conditions. A booking agent covers all bases, from looking at the client’s brief and setting up the initial booking, to looking for the right models and sending out the crucial booking and travel details. In short, a booking agent is a model’s and client’s friend...

An important part of a booking agent’s responsibility is discussing money. As much as the commercial modelling industry is exciting, fun, it requires hard work and dedication – and ultimately benefits all three parties (clients, agency and models) – all industries are businesses. And all businesses depend on the financial cycle of spending to accumulate, with the goal of achieving gross profits. 

So, some clients don’t like to spend lots of money on campaigns, whether it be advertising or hiring models. That’s ok – not all businesses are the same, and not all businesses have the same budgets.

When models are signed with Models Direct, it’s worth looking at our extensive client list – that’s the range of businesses we’ve worked with during the past 30 or so years. You’ll find global enterprises sitting alongside local start-ups. This means that our models are not restricted to the same booking fee; our professional booking agents negotiate the best rates for our models.

We do this by looking at each assignment – by client, location and specific requirements. Fees are largely dependent on the client – e.g. if the client is a global banking corporation, their campaign is likely to be on a larger scale than a small, local brand, and their budgets will be bigger…hence larger fees for the model. Because we’ve been in the industry for decades, we know the “expected” going rates, and we’re not shy when it comes to negotiations.

Having an agent is critical for models wishing to be paid the best rates in the industry. Individual models won’t know the best rates, and often these rates will fluctuate depending on the time of year, and the economy. Agents keep a close eye on industry trends, and they know their clients, too.

Whilst models should excel in their work, they can simply be too shy or naïve to achieve the best outcomes by themselves. Models also won’t know the strategies and procedures of securing work at the best rates, and that’s why having a top agency like us is critical – it’s our job to offer our models the best paid work around!

What’s to stop a company stalling when it comes to paying models after a job well done? Well, nothing, really. No doubt there have been plenty of models, actors, musicians and entertainers who have experienced annoying gaps between completing a job and getting paid. Not with us! When we’ve settled on the best modelling fees, we ask for the fee from the client before the job, and put it safely in a separate account. This is why we pay our models within the statutory five working days from the end of a model’s assignment – another good reason why it pays to have a booking agent!

Leave the business side of negotiation to us, and concentrate on what you do best – using your talents in photo shoots and in front of the camera. It’s a winning formula!

www.modelsdirect.com/reviews/clients

www.modelsdirect.com

Deciding who the perfect talent is…

Brands finalise what they are looking for when managing a marketing brief. They concisely plan who they require with a team of expert decision makers and collaborators, those who are knowledgeable in the field of marketing. Once this has been established they can then go onto communicating with talent agencies who can help them find the face of their campaign by carrying out rigorous searches. 

This process is so important as the world of advertising is very competitive. After all, brands aim to capture our time, attention and money so it’s vital they get it right, and if they don’t then they’ll lose out on reaching the target audience and making a long term positive and impressionable impact. 

What does a brand look for when sourcing models?

When it comes to selecting the right person to front a campaign, there are characteristics that brands look for when sourcing their models. They are as follows:

Confidence

Oozing confidence which can be translated on and off screen, in front of the cameras or when walking in for a casting is something clients are keen to see in their potential talent. Maintaining good eye contact, being comfortable within one’s self, being able to strike model poses, and speaking clearly are ways to convey that confidence to clients. Doing some background research on the company before a casting is also a bonus. 

Unique characteristics 

Striking features, freckles, tattoos or piercings? There are many unique characteristics which can help a model stand out from the crowd and give them the wow factor. That extra spark which makes them different from their competition can help get them noticed and signed up. Clients love to keep their eyes peeled for refreshing talent. 

Skills & hidden talent

Acting, singing, dancing, playing a musical instrument, speaking a different language or knowing how to crack the Rubik’s cube are some examples of skills and hidden talents clients will love to know about. If a model can do any of these or more, clients will want to know.

About us

Our modelling agency, Models Direct, comes in to help brands find the perfect match for their campaigns. We have worked with amazing names over the past 30 years. Some of those include:

Deliveroo, Sky, BBC, Ford, Santander, Amazon, River Island, Pampers, Aviva, Disney, EastEnders, Harrods, Ideal World TV, Legoland, Microsoft, Phillips, and a lot more. You can check out our extensive list of clients who our booking team have liaised with where our models have been commercial models, promotional models, lifestyle models or even photographic models for their assignments. 

If this sounds like something you’d like to try out or discuss with our team, drop us a call or email and we’ll get back to you. We’ll walk you through how to become a model or you can read our blogs to find out more. 

Whether you’ve been ultra busy or wiling away the days until normality returns, this is a question most of us have recently asked. Lockdown was once a new concept, but regrettably it’s been “par for the course” for more months than we’d all care for. And the question will have been asked by marketing departments across the globe.

Marketing is still crucial during lockdowns, of course, with online shopping hitting a new high – not to mention the scores of social media campaigns. Still, the lack of smiling customers perusing the high street shops has hit businesses harder than they’d ever imagine. When lockdown ends (no.3, no.4…who’s keeping track?), brands must pull out all the stops once again to increase footfalls and profits. Maybe there’ll be an overwhelming rise in sales simply because people will be itching to shop till they drop. Maybe some shoppers will tread cautiously because of recent furloughs imposed upon them. Whatever happens, one thing is certain: brands will use coming out of lockdown as a marketing tool in its own right. And this should mean more opportunities for models. Models just like you!

We’ve previously mentioned that modelling is permitted during lockdowns – one of the many perks about the industry. Perhaps lockdowns have given models more time to prepare and improve their skills. Lockdowns may have been beneficial for some models to sharpen their organisational skills, or to improve their overall physique (although, as you all should know by now, immaculate bodies don’t have to be the most desirable qualities for models). Coming out of lockdown should give models fresh hope of a more certain future. Yes, we know models are generally an optimistic bunch, but COVID has taken a toll on most of us, so the end of lockdown will give models that extra surge of hope.

Brands have always known the importance of models, but there possibly won’t be a more crucial time for their marketing campaigns than immediately post lockdown. Never have they been in this position – they’re pretty much in the same boat as everyone else! Competition will be fierce, and at the forefront of their campaigns will be models to distinguish them from rivals. Expect modelling shoots to be at their premium over the next few weeks! Models in advertising campaigns have worked wonders for brands for decades, so it’ll be no surprise that companies will rely on them post lockdown to make their products appeal to their customers. Brands want normality to return just as much as consumers. And with this normality comes promotions, endorsements and commercials – meat and drink to gifted models!

Speaking of which, now is a great time to get yourself “model ready”. Modernise headshots, spruce up your wardrobe…simply be more hungry for modelling work. It’s great if you’ve used lockdowns to model; if you’ve been biding your time, the end of lockdown will be the perfect moment to announce yourself to the modelling world. Just ask the brands – they’ll be screaming out for you!  

TV and social media channels are used all the time to deliver important messages and advice to the general public on a whole range of subjects. To do this in the most effective way commercial models are selected to reenact a role or demonstrate how a product or service works to create a relatable message to the viewer.

Recently Models Direct worked with the Scottish Government to film a Corona virus Health & Safety video, filming took place in Edinburgh following all safety guidelines and the assignment was a great success. Models Bruno, Andrew and Catherine tell us about the experience and what it was like working on such an important campaign…

Model Feedback:

“I find Models Direct a great company to work with, they are professional, kind and really helpful, even in short notice shoots they are excellent and always there to make sure that we have the support and anything else we need to make it easy for us, I am really happy working with Models Direct.” – Bruno

“My first modelling job was very last minute, to feature in a Corona virus advert by the Scottish Government. Even though it was short notice, the member of staff at Models Direct (Charlie) was really friendly and helped me through everything” – Andrew

“Although the assignment was with short notice, I’m glad I did it, I had a great experience . It was my first assignment and I was a bit nervous, but the people I worked with were lovely and made me feel comfortable” – Catherine

If you would like to be considered for modelling campaigns, the Models Direct team would love to hear from you….click here to speak to us today.