Booking briefs are usually short descriptions of types of models required for a job, requested to an agency by a client. A common (but nonetheless important) booking brief might be similar to the following:

“Female models aged 40-49 years required for a photo shoot.”

Clients know we have some of the best selection of models in the UK, so a generic booking brief as per the above works just as well as a more specific one. This is because our booking team is experienced in selecting the right models for the job, as per the brief.

Our team takes into account all the necessary details – that goes without saying. If a client looks for models of a certain age and gender, then we’ll start our “shortlist process” with those two criteria. If it’s a client we’ve worked with before, we might put forward a model who’s previously been on an assignment with them.

We have modelling jobs throughout the entire UK, so we may look for models close to the job location for convenience. That said, we welcome models who like to travel – and actively encourage it! – so a booking brief often doesn’t need to ask for models within a certain catchment area. Indeed, one of the aspects of our business that clients like is that we have a thorough national coverage of models – we’re not tied to a certain city or county.

So, a booking brief gives the modelling booking agents – that’s us – instructions for which models should be used for their assignments. Some briefs are generic, others are more specific. Consider the following booking brief that came in recently:

“Female model required for clothing brand promotional video.”

We took a look at the client, gauged what their target audience should be, and went one step further to specify an age range, which was 25-35 years old. This was to fit in with the brand’s target audience, meaning the video will be more effective than if a much younger or older model was put forward.

Generic booking briefs are not always restricted to humans – after all, we book hundreds of pet models each year. An example of a general pet booking brief is:

“Cat required for TV advert.”  

The breed, age, size and colour are not specified, so it’d be our job to assess the qualities of each cat we might shortlist to determine whether the individual felines would be suitable.

Clients will often want specific qualities for their modelling campaigns. How about this booking brief:

“Female model shoe size 4 required for a shoot.”

This reflects a particular requirement, as set out by the client’s needs. Though the age range was 18-35 years, a model without a shoe size of 4 would not be considered.

Often assignments connected to clothing brands will be much more specific with model measurements, this means we can only put forward models who have those specific measurements on their portfolio.

Two more examples of a precise booking include:

“Russian models required for a TV show.”

“Grandma and granddaughter required for a TV promo.” (18-80 years of age)

One of the advantages for our models is that we have an eclectic range of clients, and we have a broad range of models to cater for them. It’s win-win all round!

https://www.modelsdirect.com/search/request/

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

With the warmer weather here it’s important we don’t forget our furry friends and make sure they’re as comfortable as possible and get the pampering they deserve, here are a few useful ways to ensure your pets stay cool this Summer!

It is vital, of course, to ensure any animals are never enclosed in hot spaces, such as cars, caravans or small rooms, without ventilation.

And, whatever the weather, our perfect pets always require good access to plenty of fresh water.

Those with cat, dog or other pet models will be used to transporting their furry or feathered companions and should be well practiced in ensuring they are comfortable.

For other animal lovers, it might be more about looking after their little friends at home or keeping an eye on them while out and about in the park on sizzling hot days.

When it is especially warm, you need to ensure they aren’t overcome by the heat: cool them down and rehydrate them if they seem overly lethargic or wobbly on their legs, for example, or if they start to pant excessively. 

If they become sick, unable to stand or even unconscious, however, you should call your vet immediately as heatstroke can be fatal.

Here are some top tips to help keep your pets cool, healthy and happy:

• If you cannot find a suitable patch of shade for them outside, then bring them inside on very hot days
• Keep a particular eye on any long-haired pets, as they fair less well in the heat
• Take plenty of water and a bowl with you when you go on dog walks
• Cool very hot pets down by pouring cool (not icy) water over their feet or standing them in a bucket of cool water 
• Spraying cool water over them too might help – your cat won’t like it, but it could help to lower her temperature
• Choose the coolest times of day to take your dogs out for walks or to travel with your pets
• If you have a very pale cat or dog, they may need sunblock on their ears and noses if they are out in the glaring sunshine on a blistering day
• Make sure rabbit and guinea pig hutches and pet carriers are positioned in the shade
• Try elevating hutches and pet carriers to ensure a good stream of cool air
• Give your pets plenty of wet food, as well as water, because this will also help them to stay hydrated

Models Direct love representing your pets to clients for photographic and filming assignments, get intouch if you think your pampered pet has what it takes in the modelling world!

To help you out the Models Direct team, of which a large percentage are parents, have compiled their top tips to make travelling with kids that little bit easier!

Our junior models also often have to travel for assignments , generally within in the UK, but sometimes it means going on a plane and travelling further afield, so what ever your reason for travel it helps to be a little bit organised and take the stress away.

If your travels this season are taking you over seas here are Models Direct’s  helpful tips to flying with children:

1 –  Comfort:   It’s a good idea to  dress your children in comfortable clothing when travelling, make sure they wont be too hot or too cold and are not restricted by what they are wearing. There’s no need to look super stylish when travelling, it’s much more important that your children have comfortable clothing on so they can relax and  can sleep if tired and   can sit in it for long periods of time.

2 –  Food & Snacks: Food can  be expensive and sometimes difficult to find when travelling, so have a bag of tasty snacks with you . It’s a good idea to have a variety of different things, some healthy snacks, some treats and also some thing the children haven’t tried before  to keep it interesting. As we all know children get super grumpy when hungry, so a little pick me up during a long flight or car journey can make all the difference. Also carry plenty of water with you, it’s very important to stay hydrated, particularly if it’s warm or you are flying, dehydration can make you feel very tired, so often regular sips of water can keep moral up!

3 –  Activities:  With tablets available to many of us it’s very easy to sit a child down with a tablet and headphones, this isn’t necessarily a bad thing,  parents are now able to download educational and fun games for children of all ages , so make sure you have updated your /their tablet with some new apps and games that will keep them interested.  If you are on a long journey then it’s useful to pack a variety of activities and space them out over the travelling time, so they are new to the child, could be a new coloring book, spelling game, maps and maze puzzles, reading book,  etc – there are lots to choose from on the market. Trick is to not give  them all to your child at the same time, keep their curiosity!

4 –  Stay Calm:  As a parent it’s really important to try and stay calm with your children while travelling, try and avoid arguments and upset as this will make the journey and travelling experience much more stressful than it needs  to be.  Aswell as looking after the needs of your children make sure your own needs are met also so you feel the best you can.

5 – Sleep:   If you are travelling for a long time make sure your children have a chance to rest and ideally sleep! Try and stick to their routines as much as you can, feeds and naps are essential especially with babies and toddlers. So if you are flying make sure your baby is fed when they usually are and  made comfortable so can drift off to sleep rather than getting over tired and grumpy. It can be useful to have a small blanket and pillow with you if in the car or a plane so that your child is comfortable and  warm.

6 – Other Passengers:  Whatever mode of transport we may be on we are often in close proximity to other passengers, so try and be cheerful and polite to the people near you, especially if you have a baby or young child with you who may be noisy or cry, it’s useful to have the people around you on your side  and possibly may help you out if you need it!

7 – Organisation:  There is so much for parents to think about before going away, it can often seem overwhelming, but organisation is key and will make your travelling experience much calmer and enjoyable. Plan ahead with your packing, don’t leave it until the last minute! Make sure your hand luggage is organised and prepared in a suitable bag and has everything you need for the plane or is within easy reach in a car or train, you will be calmer if you know you have everything you may need for your baby or child.

Whatever the distance you are travelling, the most important thing is to stay calm and try and make each part as fun as possible, it’s all part of the holiday experience and  can be a great time for your children to learn and see new things!

What a model can earn from Assignments varies dramatically depending on many factors, if you are selected for an assignment you will always be made aware of the fee beforehand so you can decide whether you want to take on the assignment.

When and how do I get paid for assignments?

Payments are sent by us in the form of a cheque made payable to you (unless otherwise requested) within five days of assignment completion.

Are my travel costs paid?

If the assignment is more than around 20 miles (32km) from your home, we may agree an additional fee for travel with you. Travel fees are paid at the same time as your assignment fee.

You must discuss and agree any travel fees before the assignment is confirmed. You cannot negotiate them retrospectively, after the assignment.

What is a chaperone fee?

A chaperone fee is agreed before an assignment and paid, in addition to the booking fee, for one parent or guardian to accompany a child/teenager on an assignment.

A chaperone fee helps with your costs for being on hand during the assignment. The amount paid depends on the value of the assignment, location, time and travel costs.

You must discuss and agree any chaperone fees before the assignment is confirmed. You cannot negotiate them retrospectively, after the assignment.

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“Molly was very friendly and passionate about the project. She found some good options for us very quickly! ”   –  Fuzzy Duck Creative

“Overall we have had a great experience both with yourself and the models, we always received quick responses and communication was thorough which was helpful in this task.” – Symphony Group

At Models Direct we understand   our clients could take their business anywhere, there are lots of model/talent agents out there!! So  what makes them choose us??

An essential skill of an Assignment Co-ordinator is the ability to build strong relationships with clients! The entertainment industry is very competitive and with thousands of agents competing for business, Models Direct have to ensure they stand out above the rest and retain their clients to secure future bookings for  their models.

The Assignments team at Models Direct spend most of their time on the phone, even now when we live in a world of  online messaging and emailing, for a lot of industries the phone is becoming  an unused tool, this isn’t the case for a model agent!! Booking agents spend most of their  day talking, to new clients, regular clients, brief and casting updates, new leads, production  managers , it’s all about being remembered and making an impression.

Feedback is an essential part of this business, without it a company is unable to know exactly how they can improve and what their customer/client requirements are, so the team ensure they ask for feedback from all clients after booking  models with us. It doesn’t matter how big the client is whether it’s a large internationally known brand or a small local independent – all feedback is crucial to the Models Direct team.

Here are a few examples of feedback the  Assignments team have recently received:

“Very easy to talk to and flexible. Everything was handled with minimum fuss and when more options were needed they were provided without delay.” – Ichi Worldwide

Would you use us again, if so, why?
“Yes, Good value for money, service was great and Gillian was perfect for our needs.” – Wentworth Puzzles

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick?
“Marie was excellent! Form the very beginning, she was very helpful and  speedily   efficient.” – St John’s Ambulance

Would you use us again, if so, why?
“Yes. Easy to book, simple process, and quick if needed”. – Ieso Digital Health

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick?
“Molly was very efficient, particularly given our tight deadlines and went above and beyond to help me in the production and budgets of the shoot. I particularly appreciated her speed to reply via email particularly when I am managing a few projects remotely although, admittedly, those were useful too and she was always on hand! ” – Nonsense PR

Models Direct has been established for nearly 30 years and has seen how the modelling & talent industry has evolved and why it’s now more important than EVER to be with a professional agency – here’s why:

1. Model Safety –    At Models Direct our talents safety and well being is paramount to us when going on an assignment. Our booking coordinators  have a screening process for all new clients that book models with us, to ensure they are reputable and genuine.  We also have on going relationships with many of our clients, so we know exactly who will be on the shoots, the locations of the shoot and the timings – this is incredibly important when you are working in this industry. An agent also doesn’t mind asking these questions to  ensure your safety, whereas independent talent may fear asking incase they risk loosing the job.
2. The Ability to Negotiate Rates –  Negotiating model rates is a big part of a Booking Coordinators job, of course clients want to pay as little as possible for talent and budgets can be low in this industry, so it is up to your agent to ensure you are being paid a fair rate for the work you are doing. Clients who book models from social media may well choose inexperienced models who wouldn’t know what rate they should be getting or have the confidence to ask for it.
3. Suitable Assignments  –  The modelling industry can be a minefield and if you are a new model it can be very difficult to know what type of jobs to go for, this is the same for all talent. Having an agent represent you, means they are working on your behalf to promote you for assignments that suit your personality, skill set or look, therefore when selected for work you will have the reassurance you can fulfill client expectations.
4. Agency Information –  Casting Directors, Production Companies and Advertising Agencies are generally super busy people, bookings are often fast, and information is passed quickly and not always straight forward!  As a freelance model this can be difficult to grasp, so at Models Direct we compile all the  relative information that our talent will need and then give it to you in written format, so you have all the correct details for the job, ie, location address, dates, times, any particular requests.
5. Agency Contacts –  Models Direct is  very well established agency that has been in the industry along time and has worked with  very well known brands and clients all over the world. Our booking agents are always on the phone and in constant communication with regular and new clients, therefore we have built up quite a useful list of contacts within the talent industry. This takes years to do and is not possible for an individual to  or freelance model to create.

Models Direct have always tried to represent the widest possible selection of people from across the widest area. This is a key difference between us and local agencies: local agencies get only local work enquiries, while we field enquiries from clients worldwide.

How do I book a Models Direct model?

If you are a business looking to book Singers, Models, Dancers, Entertainers, Musicians, Actors, Pets or Promotional staff, complete a Model Hire application form.

Please note: this function is for genuine clients looking to book models. Some of our models ‘try us out’ by pretending to be clients. This is detected by our system and takes up valuable time that we could spend promoting our models.

Smooth and Comfortable Transition
I was so nervous when I received my first photo shoot assignment for special teens programs! Since I hadn’t modelled before, I wasn’t sure what to do and my nervousness only increased on the day of the shoot. However, I was so amazed at how helpful everyone was at Models Direct and how much they worked to set me at ease. Within a very short time, I felt extremely comfortable and began to enjoy making the various poses and expressions which seemed to come more effortlessly as the shoot progressed. The photographer was super at giving me tips and not making me feel stupid. I highly recommend Models Direct as their professional talent management helps to prepare the way for aspiring models to enjoy a smooth transition into the field of modelling!

A Princess Is Born!
Our daughter Abby has always been the princess type who enjoys dressing up and sneaking into mother’s makeup bag when the chance arises. She is always gazing over the beautiful model photos in the magazines and expressing how lovely the ladies are on the telly. When I came across the advert for Models Direct, my husband and I decided to inquire about talent management for our daughter. In no time, we received Abby’s first assignment modelling for an upcoming summer clothing line. We were a bit apprehensive at first, but once we arrived at the site of the photo shoot all fears subsided. Everyone at Models Direct was gracious, answered any questions we had and worked wonderfully with Abby who beamed with excitement at her chance to show the world she was, indeed, a princess! We highly recommend Models Direct for child modelling opportunities that expose young people to the joys of an adventurous career.