We know that happy models make successful models. That means keeping them informed with any last-minute changes to their bookings (which is rare), and making sure they’re prepared with everything they need before and during their assignments. We also read and respond to all their reviews, and take pride in learning about their enjoyable experiences after their modelling work. Without happy models, we wouldn’t be at the forefront of the commercial modelling industry.

Whilst some models don’t accept work purely for money, it’s equally important to pay all our models fairly and promptly. It’s irrelevant whether the work is a part-time hobby for some, or whether they want to be put forward for as much work as possible to gain more experience on the rungs on the modelling ladder. Either way, every model gets paid within 5 working days from completion of their assignment.

Why don’t we issue payment at the end of the month? It’s quite simple, and the process has worked for over 30 years. We ask for payment by our clients before the assignment takes place. We take this “advance” so we can guarantee quick payment to our models. By obtaining our client’s payment, in effect we have already secured a model’s fee before a model has started their assignment. Then, all it takes is for us to pay a model swiftly for the great work they’ve done. There are no obstacles, and no chasing clients. It’s a fool-proof system that suits us, our models and our clients.

Our portfolio of models – from toddlers to mature individuals and pets – is vast, and our client list represents multinational corporations and smaller enterprises. We treat all models and all clients similarly. It would be unfair to deny a model our promised payment just because paperwork got lost in a company’s office, or if a smaller client couldn’t afford payment until they got paid by a customer. An up-front payment eliminates any inconveniences or embarrassment.  

We’ve all heard horror stories of photographers and agencies promising payment, only to dupe models by refusing to pay – probably because they never had a model’s fee in the first instance. We’ve been fighting this for years.

It’s our responsibility to pay models on time, and to obtain the best fees going. Clients know we can provide the models they need from all over the UK. They trust us to help their campaigns by recommending real people with the talent to make their marketing campaigns appeal to the right audience. It’s one of the reasons why they appreciate prior payment is necessary.

Our models look forward to working with us, as we do giving them their fees. As an industry leader, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

But what does a usual day look like for a model? Models Direct gives you an insight if you’re looking to become a model or are new to the industry. Keep scrolling to find out more…

The beginnings

You’ve signed yourself up with a reputable modelling agency like Models Direct and new and exciting modelling opportunities are offered. The key is to remember to be patient. Jobs will come and go, that’s the nature of the profession but you’ll know you’ve smashed it once a client confirms that they want you for a job! As soon as you’ve decided whether you’re up for the new experience, we’ll fill you in on the finer details – date, time and location. Once booked, you’ll be set to go.

Getting a good night’s sleep

Being a model means being on the go and getting a good night’s sleep. Typically, our models aim to get rest so that they are recharged and refreshed for the day ahead to meet the demands of their assignments. Being an early riser helps to ready the body for the lights, camera and action. (And if you’re not an early riser, be prepared to mask those tired eyes and pesky yawns.)

Waking up to a good skincare routine

Our models embrace a skincare routine to help them always be camera ready. Out of bed and diving into nourishing skincare products to start their day off is one step closer to living the life of a model. A clear and fresh-looking complexion will captivate the cameras. (If you aren’t skin-ready, grab some good skincare products as soon as.)

Eating a healthy breakfast

Next up, our models move onto fuelling their bodies with healthy, nutritious food at the beginning of the day. Start as you mean to go on, they say! Some models mix up fruits with yogurts whilst others enjoy their favourite cereals added with alternative milk. Bottom line: as tempting as it may be, don’t skip this morning meal. Powering the day with a healthy start will help a busy model gain stamina and retain energy.

Getting ready for the day

From clothes to makeup, through to footwear and that all-important modelling bag you will want by your side will bring the modelling lifestyle to life.

If you’re interested in what a model’s essential bag should include, the items are as follows:

• Your face covering and hand sanitiser.
• Must-have simple makeup and skincare such as concealer, lipstick, eyelash curler, mascara, wipes and a compact mirror.
• A hairbrush to control any flyaways.
• Antiperspirant to block sweaty on the go armpits.
• Some snacks and a bottle of water.
• Your portfolio to showcase your talent.

Studying the schedule

Models are briefed on their assignment so all areas of travel through to location are provided. Models are given a heads up about the client, the nature of the job, their expectations and what exactly their schedule will involve. However, and this is one point to bear in mind – schedules don’t always run to plan and assignments often run overtime. Our models are prepared for this eventuality and go with the flow. A model follows the schedule and can benefit by building professional relationships with their clients.

The takeaway

Modelling isn’t a nine-to-five profession. It’s fast-paced, flexible and each day brings something new to the entire experience.

In this Models Direct blog, we hope we have helped unravel what a typical day in the life of a model looks like.

Models Direct’s social media team catch up with them to hear how they got on…

“Hi!! I just want to thank Models Direct and my agent for all these opportunities and good experiences! I have already worked with them on 4 occasions and in all had been a great experience, with a professional team and a lot of responsibility. In this last job we were taken some pictures for a large TV production company and it was super fun and the lunch food was very good. My colleagues were very friendly and made me feel comfortable at all times! Thank you once again!” – Jessica

“My partner and I had our first job with Models Direct today and had a great time. The team was so professional and our colleagues from Models Direct were super friendly and made us feel so comfortable. Charlie, our booking agent has been great with communication throughout and we really hope to get another job soon! Excellent experience!” – Christina & Elliott Babbs

“I had a great experience working with Models Direct recently on a photo shoot. The shoot was fun, everyone on set was friendly and easy to work with and we also had some good food! The day went very smoothly and we wrapped on time. 5 star experience!” – Elvin

If you have thought about modelling or would like to be considered for modelling assignments we would love to hear from you.

Melissa and her family spent the day in London working with a professional production team  starring in a commercial campaign celebrating Chinese New Year.

It was particularly exciting as this was Melissa’s first assignment with Models Direct, huge well done to Melissa!

Marie at Models Direct was coordinating the booking and so worked closely with the client and Melissa’s mum to ensure everyone was up to date, had all the relevant details and was happy.

Melissa’s Mum’s Feedback:

“Melissa had a fantastic day in London, shooting for 2018 Chinese New Year and China town! Everything was very organised and well planned! Thanks Marie from @modelsdirect”

The commercial will be shown on Chinese New Year on the screens in Trafalgar Square and also used on Chinatown’s social channels.

Melissa spent the day in London with her family for this assignment and along with her payment all her travel expense were also covered – what a great day!!

The Models Direct team have recently sourced and provided   models for a couple of  lifestyle/promotional shoots for large shopping outlets in both Swindon and Cheshire. A promotional shoot is super exciting and can be a mixture of video and stills, so the models have to have a particular look and also the confidence to be filmed in action! (Shopping on this occasion!).

This is a shot of our models Kelly and Hallam posing as shoppers in the Swindon Shopping Outlet.

The images and video taken at this shoot will be used to promote the shopping outlet and what it offers its customers.

Deborah who is one of Models Direct’s more experienced models was  selected for the promotional shoot for the Cheshire Outlet – this is what she had to say about the assignment:

“”Completed my fourth Modelling assignment with Models Direct yesterday! Had a fabulous time at Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet with five other models, where we were photographed as shoppers in the outlet, coming out of designer shops etc. I enjoyed meeting the team, they were all very friendly and the assignment has definitely contributed to my experience. Each assignment helps me build confidence and develops my skills. I definitely recommended Models Direct, they’ve been fabulous with me and I’ve had some brilliant assignments so far!! 
Below is a video from the day… @modelsdirect”

https://www.facebook.com/deborahsimbo/videos/10214489592772008/

Models Direct’s male model, Jack was also selected  for the shoot and sent this feedback: