With summer fast approaching, you might therefore be keen to start thinking about some great outdoor locations for your next set of shots.

And for those who haven’t joined us yet – but are considering giving modelling a go – some of these suggestions might also be ideal for your very first set of images.

1 The Beach

We aren’t all lucky enough to live near a beach or to be going to one on holiday, but if taking pictures on the coast is an option, then make the most of it. Do watch out for that sunny glare (keep the sun behind the camera at all times) and ensure no-one else is in the background. Early morning or towards the end of the afternoon when the light isn’t so bright can be a great time to take modelling shots by the sea. And promenades and esplanades can be ideal for taking photos with the water or the sand in the background.

2 By a River

If you can’t get to the sea, perhaps you have a river close by. Again, this could give you the opportunity to take some gorgeous photos against a very beautiful and natural backdrop. If the river has leafy green banks then this can also add some summer colour. If there is a bridge you can stand on while your pictures are being taken then this could help whoever is taking your photos to frame the shots nicely.

3 In the Park

Your local river might run through a park – and this could also provide plenty of opportunity for some nice summer shots. Many parks have leafy, wooded areas that might work well or they could have a spot where you could sit on a bench with the green of the grass and the blue of the summer sky behind you. Have fun with some of your photos in the park too – perhaps there’s a boating lake you could go out on or a pavilion you could pose beside.

4 Among the Flowers

These days many parks have areas that are being rewilded or left to nature. You may find some of these are beautiful places with plenty of summer colour. Wildflower meadows and areas with long grass can look wonderful in summer pictures – but just make sure you are allowed to be there before you start shooting!

5 City Steps

Summer photo shoot locations don’t have to be all about nature. You can also get some sizzling city shots during the hotter months. Colourful summer clothing can really stand out against the contrasting greys and clean lines of the city centre. Try taking shots on the steps of city buildings, for example.

6 Landmark Buildings

Interesting buildings can also make great backdrops, especially if they aren’t too busy. Consider landmark buildings close to you that are simple but interesting, such as unusual office blocks and structures with lots of glass. Equally, you might live close to a beautiful, historic property – something Georgian or Elizabethan perhaps; a building that could work really well with you posing against it in the glorious summer sunshine.

Whilst Ms Aden isn’t classed as a commercial model, her appearance in a magazine with a 1.5 million+ circulation demonstrates an obvious shift in perception – and not just in the modelling industry.

The world is constantly changing, even if it’s by small, subtle modifications. Diversity is no longer concerned with age or gender. It’s all-encompassing, and looks to raise consciousness through media promotion. The whole point of diversity is to recognize the talents of everyone#, and to represent those who have something to give back to the industry. Diversity enhances the world, as it represents everyone. In short, no one should be excluded if what they can bring to the collective modelling table is effective and relevant.

The word “normal” is a spurious one, so many people prefer the term “traditional”. When “traditional” models in the 1980s and ‘90s were largely pigeon-holed and, to some extent, glorified, the 21st century realised that the demand for a greater diversity was not only beneficial – it was necessary.

Diversity can be seen in people living with disabilities, those from varied ethnic backgrounds, and people in same sex marriages. Also added to the list are people with any features that “break the norm”, be it tattoos, disfigurements, or piercings.

It’s beyond doubt that diverse models have been propelled into the limelight of late, and with good reason. The concept of tailoring campaigns and products to a wider ranging audience has been seized upon by companies worldwide, and with it the demand for diverse models has intensified. Nowadays, eyelids won’t bat when a wheelchair user is published in photo shoots. It’s natural and pertinent. A female model with head tattoos may well have been shunned a couple of decades ago, but guess what? Not anymore!

So, with the industry changing to increase inclusivity in this fast-paced progressive world, can top modelling agencies fulfil the requirements of their clients? We can’t speak for other agencies, although we know that we’ve represented hundreds of diversity models in a range of appealing assignments all around the world.

This fact alludes to an important point: diversity models are essential for our clients. They are needed, because in most cases advertising campaigns won’t have the same impact without them. Whether it’s a straightforward consumer ad (selling a product) or a campaign to get a point across, diverse models have the qualities our clients are looking for.

And more good news: diverse modelling is not a short-term trend to tick a few boxes. On the contrary – it’s here to stay, and we look forward to hearing from even more diverse models.

You don’t have to be the next Halima Aden to succeed as a diverse model in the commercial modelling industry. Apply with us, and we’ll have a look at what you can offer us and our clients. 

There are so many benefits to this social media platform for those who work within our industry, from using it to showcase their work through to keeping in touch and making new connections.

It can be a great way of finding out about potential jobs, picking up tips from others and giving those you want to promote yourself to, the chance to see you as you want to be seen.

At Models Direct we encourage all our models to follow us on Instagram!

That way you can view our stories, enjoy our highlights, keep on top of our news and find regular links to our many helpful blogs….

You can also find out more about what goes on behind the scenes at our assignments and follow our models of all ages when they step out in front of the camera.

Through Instagram you can view final footage and stills from our models’ commercial and lifestyle work, giving you real insight into the clients we work with and the jobs we book for.

You can see our own professional staff in action too – as we often post snippets of our team members as they go about their daily business.

All in all, it’s a great way to find out how we work – and how you will work – if you join us.

In recent times, Instagram has also become an invaluable tool for our models and, indeed, for those working in the modelling industry right across the world.

From well-known names to those just starting out, most models use it as a platform through which to showcase their work.

Many even set up a dedicated account for their modelling, where they post their own behind the scenes photos and footage, as well as the final, edited piece of work.

This might be a film, commercial, promotional video, brochure, website or even product packaging.

All of this can be displayed colourfully and professionally on Instagram, so the platform almost becomes like a secondary e-portfolio for you.

The explosion in social media over recent years has brought many benefits to both experienced models and those hoping to break into the industry.

The trick is to use it carefully and sensibly, making it work for you and helping you get to where you want to be! If you have any questions regarding this please don’t hesitate to ask one of the team.

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!

This unique period is certainly testing, but it can be made that more tolerable by following a few recommendations. So what is the best advice to follow to cope with self-isolation. Read on, and you never know – you might even grow to like them…

First and foremost, the most crucial aspect when dealing with self-isolation is to keep busy. There’s nothing worse than being restricted in your own home without things to occupy the mind and body. We read a short story recently, credited to a released prisoner. The changed character related how, in almost solitary confines, he committed to reading every day, followed by exercise – without fail. The ex-convict read 10 pages, then did 20 press-ups. He repeated this routine every day for about a fortnight, then ramped it up to reading 20 pages followed by 30 press-ups. We’re not saying this should be followed to the letter, but it shows how you can occupy yourself with two basic activities. And the benefits (exercise and increasing your brain power) won’t be lost on your friends when you’re allowed out. It’s a win-win situation.

Don’t look at screens all day. Sure, watch TV, go on your laptop or iPhone, but limit your screen time. It’s all too easy to plonk yourself in front of a screen and waste the days just sitting and watching. You’ll also find yourself getting more tired each day, too.  

Stay connected. Even though you might be self-isolating with somebody else, think of those who do it alone. Phone your friends and family a couple of times a day. This is not for idle gossip – conversations and social interactions are proven factors in the fight against boredom – and depression. 

Stay calm. This is an important piece of advice, but easily ignored. Different people have varying degrees of dealing with serious situations, but it’s not beneficial to always fear the worst. Try to avoid checking the news every other minute to see how the circumstances have worsened (depending on the crisis, it could’ve even got better). Above all – remember that you’re in self-isolation for the greater good. So, just by doing your bit (albeit in a restricted environment), you’re actually helping the cause. 

Try to eat well. No, not like a gluttonous king returning from exile, but it’s important to stick to a sensible diet, with plenty of fluids. 

Sleep well. Set a time to go to sleep, and a time to wake up…and stick to it. A regular body clock will reduce anxiety and improve your general well-being. 

Go for a walk. Depending on personal circumstances, self-isolation doesn’t mean a total lockdown. Spend a hour outdoors – keeping the safe 2-3 metre rule – to keep break up the day. 

Start a new hobby. Self-isolation is the ideal time to begin new projects and hobbies. This will keep your mind off other things and will provide an enjoyable pastime. In what will feel like no time at all, you’ll gain new interests to continue when the self-isolation period is over. 

We’ll go back to the first piece of advice – keep busy. Be safe, use your common sense, and try to have fun. Here’s to the end of self-isolation, and more modelling contracts!

Our furry canine friends are fantastic to be around and have in our lives. Once they are a part of our family, we couldn’t imagine life without them. Dogs know how to pull at our heart’s strings and make us feel good. Why wouldn’t they? Their infectious personalities and unconditional love make us feel even more attached to them! For full blog post click here

Models Direct often provide dogs for commercial modelling work, whether it’s for a filming or photographic assignment, brands are looking for the perfect model dog to promote their product/service, the demand for model dogs is greater than ever!

Check out the feedback from our a selection of model dogs who have recently been on assignment:

“From signing up our puppy online after chatting with Magdalena to booking her for her first gig with Charlie, the experience was professional yet personal. We recommend the agency for pets and humans alike.” – David, owner of sashimi

“Great experience with Models Direct! This is the first time our little puppies stand in front of a professional camera and they really enjoyed the ‘work’. The surprise birthday party was fun as well and thank you for providing us with this opportunity.” – Puppy Owner

“Naruto enjoyed is first modelling job. So proud of my boy. He even had some fun. But now he’s home and sleeping. Thank you so much Models Direct for giving him an opportunity to be a model. Can’t wait for his next one ” – Naruto’s Owner

“Great communication and information for the shoot. Photographer and company were very thoughtful ensuring Daisy (labrador) was well looked after with lots of breaks. Lovely experience”. – Daisy’s Owner

If you would like to speak to a member of the Models Direct team today about your dogs model potential click here.

For models and talent, agency jargon can be confusing and difficult to understand what it really means. You hear the words ‘searches’, ‘portfolio views’, ‘shortlisted’, used lots when speaking with your agent, but you are maybe left feeling a little confused and unsure on exactly what”s happening.

This blog explains what a few of these modelling agency terms mean, it may seem obvious, but if you are new to the industry this isn’t always the case!

‘Clients’

If you are a registered model with Models Direct you may well have viewed our extensive client list – our client’s are brands, companies and industry individuals who have contacted the bookings department and we have provided models and talent to for their latest photo shoot, commercial or advertising campaign.

‘What is a ‘Search’?‘

At Models Direct there is a team of booking agents who’s job it is to coordinate modelling assignments from beginning to end. When a client contacts us with a brief, our booking agents will create a search from our database of models and talent that fits the criteria the client has provided. The talent criteria can vary hugely depending on many factors including, location, budget, looks, experience, etc. Once the search is complete it is then sent to the client for them to view and consider.

‘ePortfolio’

This is your online portfolio, think of it like your modelling CV. This is what clients will view when you are put forward to them in a search so it needs to look the best it can be, it can be the difference of getting selected or not! As a model with Models Direct you will have your own log in and password to access your ePortfolio online, this is so you can make sure it includes all the relevant information, your contact details and measurements are updated when need be. It’s also incredibly important to make sure your photographs are current and of a high quality, often client’s will select models without a casting or audition, simply from ePortfolio’s so it’s essential yours stand out above the rest!

‘ePortfolio Views‘

This is the amount of times your ePortfolio has been looked at by a client. If you find that you have had a high number of views, but are yet to be shortlisted selected for an assignment then perhaps you might review your ePortfolio and make sure it is showing you off in the best way. A member of the Models Direct team is always very happy to look through it with you and will offer and help and advice where they can.

‘Shortlisted’

This is a very exciting time, if you have been shortlisted for an assignment then it means you are one of the client’s favoured options for the job! When a client receives a search they will then create a shortlist of the talent they think would be right for the role, at this point a member of our bookings team may well contact you to let you know you have been shortlisted and find out your availability and give you some information about the assignment to see if you are interested in it. At this point the job is still not guaranteed, so do not change any of your plans or make travel arrangements – there will be time for this if you make the final selection.

‘Castings’

Castings are just like an interview, they are an opportunity for the client to meet you in person to see what skills you have depending on the job. A casting will often be held if the the client is looking someone for a speaking role or a very particular look which you can not determine from just an image. Castings are unpaid and the work is not guaranteed, this would be explained to you if a member of our team contacts you regarding a casting opportunity.

‘Assignment’

Assignment is the term used for the modelling job, the nature of the job can vary from photoshoots, fashion shows, films, TV, commercials, the list is endless, but they are all referred to as modelling assignments.

For any other modelling questions please visit our FAQ page where you will find lots more helpful modelling info!

The sun is shining, there is not a cloud in the sky, the phones are ringing and next to me sits a steaming cup of coffee….not bad hey!

However, today is reported to be the most depressing day of the year for some of us – it’s Monday, it’s cold, the novelty of our New Years resolutions have faded and both purse strings and waistbands are feeling a little over stretched – Models Direct are here to turn this around!

We’ve come up with a few simple suggestions to help improve your mood, give you that little confidence boost and beat those winter blues:

If you are signed with Models Direct you may choose to give your ePortfolio a bit of an overhaul today:

• Are your photographs up to date and representative of your current look? Are they as good as they could be?
• Have your measurements changed and need updating?
• Check your contact details are correct, you may be missing out on that all important call!
• Make sure details of any prior experience is included, this may help in securing you work.
• Do you need a showreel on your portfolio to show off your talent?
• Are you following us on social media so you are update to date with all the agency news and hints and tips on improving your chances of securing modelling work?

MODELS DIRECT INSTAGRAM

Once you have given your ePortfolio the overhaul it deserves why not consider one of these options:

1. Break a sweat: It’s nothing new, but exercise is scientifically proven to improve our mental well-being and boost our mood. You don’t have to go and have a hard cardio sesh in the gym to achieve this, sometimes it’s better to be outside in the fresh air, as long as you are moving your body. Take it back to basics if need be, a simple walk to the shops, a gentle jog or take part in a class at your local gym, it feels like an effort now, but you never regret a work out and it does wonders for the mind too, so win win!
2. Set Goals: What do you want to achieve today, this week, this month, this year? Doesn’t matter the size of the goal, it’s the concept of achieving something that will help your overall mood. You may be feeling a little overwhelmed or lost, by setting goals you give yourself purpose and direction.
3. Eat Chocolate: For most of us this will not be a problem at all, but rather than buying yourself a sugary milk chocolate treat go for chocolate that has a high percentage of cocoa in it, it will naturally boost your serotonin levels – the happy hormone!
4. Get some ZZZ’s: Sleep is hugely important in keeping our stress levels to a minimum. After a good nights sleep (minimum 8 hrs) you will be able to cope better with situations and therefore not get so worked up about things, so check your evening regime is beneficial to you getting quality sleep. Reduce caffeine, avoid eating late, have a herbal drink in the evening (Chamomile or Lavender), read before bed…..all of which will help you relax into a heavy slumber.
5. Get Organised: We are all busier than ever, many of us trying to spin a lot of plates and this can become over-whelming therefore we feel down on ourselves for not achieving it all. To avoid this be as organised as you can in a way that works for you – keep a paper diary, write things down, make lists, ensure the important things are sorted, ie, banking, insurance, kids etc….this will give you piece of mind and allow you to have more time to concentrate on new things you may want to do.

Do something positive for yourself today and wave goodbye to the January Blues!

For more information about Models Direct Click here and speak to a member of the team today.

Elle Harris Modelling Blog & Model with Models Direct.

How did I get into it?
Is probably the biggest question I’m always asked! And also the question I wanted to know before modelling myself!

Well…unfortunately you don’t often just ‘fall into it’, ‘get lucky’ or ‘get spotted’ very often nowadays. There was a time when models were spotted on beaches abroad but now if it’s something you want to work towards you’ve really got to put some graft in yourself – just like you would with anything else! Competition in the creative industry is bigger than ever before and with the use of social media, particularly huge followings on Instagram is where the most successful models are gaining their opportunities and clients. However, it’s still possible to build it and be successful without that and work you’re way to the top. 

First things first ….So how do I get started?

MY TOP 3

1. You’ll need images! Some might say, you’re hair needs to be done, you need to loose weight, you need to build confidence, you need to wait until your skin’s better. Nope. I wouldn’t listen to these people! None of those listed things will ever be ‘right’ and if you’re doubting confidence, try not to just go for it! The modelling world has this perception of judgement and perfection -yes, but from all the years modelling I have hardly come across any rude , judgmental or awkward situations, everyone has been lovely! Have faith in people – you need to have confidence to a specific level to model so try and believe in yourself or if not it may not be for you. 

Having images to start with will give you experience. This can be done by testing with photographers or maybe even friends! Allowing you to know how a camera works and build confidence even more. It is also a way of getting free images to build a portfolio, which is key to send to an agency to help you on your way. Get creative too with clothes, styling and do you’re own makeup! I will still test shoot to build my portfolio as it’s always good to be updated. Like any business with their website, your portfolio is your business website.

2. Understanding What you’re suited too!

It’s important to know exactly where you think you will fit in within the modelling industry. Google can help too! If you’re not sure you may need to ask yourself these few things too.  There’s something for everyone (see my modelling can be for anyone and everyone below).  So..

• Are you tall? 5ft 8 +: Catwalk high fashion
• Are you more curvy, everyday commercial?: ME. Covering beauty, real life, commercial advertising and curvy fashion
• Plus size /curvy?: plus size brands, everyday and real life
• In good shape, muscular, body building?: fitness modelling/sports 

These are just a few examples there are so many more modelling categories you may be suitable for. Whatever makes you unique, is a talent or defines you for YOU then put that forward. There is no point however being unrealistic, I am 5ft 6 so high fashion and catwalk is not for me!
You may be more than one of these things too!

3. An Agency? Why..? 

You’ll need an agency! Yes you can go at it self employed as well as being agency signed (non exclusive of course) you’re entitled to do so. So long as your very upfront and honest with you’re agents about the other work you do they will completely understand and respect that. 

But an agency will always find you those bigger jobs, high end clients and well established brands. If you think of it on a business perspective they want to know a model is suited for exactly what they need and will be able to ask the agent these questions, see a series of images and know that they are professional and well managed models to work with. 

Models direct 

Models Direct are an all round non exclusive agency with the most reputable manner, professionalism and clients for you. Ensuring you are safe, looked after and represented the best you can be! I have been with them for over 5 years now and will always recommend them as my No.1 agency for all round modelling work. Keep in the loop, keep interested, proactive and available for as many assignments as possible and you will be well on your way!

Click here to apply to Models Direct

Remember! Modelling can be for anyone and everyone

Anyone can model. Any look, shape and size. There are always people needed to advertise promote and represent every single brand there is out there in the world! It’s just whether it will suit and fit you or not.  It’s such a shame that social media has this pressured and false sense of perfection, perfect figure, beautiful makeup and perfect clothes for imagery. Yes its a HUGE part of the modelling world but it’s certainly not the only aspect. Talking from experience myself some of the best, well paid, fun and down to earth modelling jobs I have done have been for corporate businesses, the NHS and real looks for commercial brands. Not all skinny and glam at all!

Please check out my website- elleharris.co.uk to see the brands and clients I have worked with as well as a little more about myself. You can also find me on instagram @Elleharris8 for more updates, blogs and info pop me a DM I’m happy to help! 

Best of luck & just go for it!

Elle

X

Production company, The Gate Films contacted Models Direct looking for a model family to star in the latest commercial they were filming for luxury travel company Oliver Travels, our team put a selection of model families forward for consideration and were delighted when the Golding’s were chosen.

Coral and her family were contacted and told the good news by one of one of the Models Direct booking team, as you can imagine they were beyond excited at the prospect of such an exciting opportunity! Briefed with as much detail as they could be given, final destination to be kept a total surprise, they packed their bags and headed to the airport to start their magical filming adventure.

Check out all details and behind the scenes footage on this blog post: http://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/model-family-secure-dream-assignment/

Coral’s feedback:

“We just got back from the South of France where we filmed a commercial as a family for ‘Oliver’s Travels’. It was a truly amazing experience! We stayed in an unbelievable villa and saw some beautiful sights! Thank you so so much Models Direct for getting us this job!! We absolutely loved it!” – Coral Golding

After much anticipation the final edit of this amazing assignment is now live and it’s truly magical! When the perfect combination of people come together amazing things can happy and this was just the case with a professional production agency, The Gate Films, Oliver Travels the end client, Models Direct as the agent and of course the real stars….the beautiful Golding family!

Take a look at the final video:

If you would like your family to be represented by Models Direct and considered for commercial work click here and speak to one of the team today.