2021 has been another successful year at Models Direct, and we’d like to praise our wonderful models and clients for all their hard work.

As a bit of a eulogy, we’re showcasing some of the assignments which made this year one to remember. We won’t forget 2021 in a hurry, but through the Covid uncertainty, we’ve continued to push the boundaries of commercial modelling and carried on as usual – through hard work, determination and encouraging our models to do what they do best in some of the most prestigious commercial modelling jobs around the UK. Other agencies may have been halted by the pandemic, but not us! We’ve posted regular information on Covid, explaining why guidelines dictated that modelling could still be a viable working option for models, and we’re grateful that our business didn’t succumb to the virus. 

So, we’d like to highlight a group of notable assignments that took place this year, and to congratulate our talent for their gritty resolve! Here goes…

First up was a quintet of models who helped London-based charity Centrepoint with their vital marketing message. They assist young homelessness people, giving them a better opportunity with accommodation and life advice, with the ultimate goal of helping them back into full time education.

One of our models, Bradley, said, “This was my second shoot and it was amazing – the people were amazing and made it so much fun. We had to pretend to cook, study, try clothes on and act like we were talking about our health etc, which was something I’d never done before. The shoot itself was great, with a lot of laughs and chats, so there was never a dull moment. Thanks again to Charlie for getting me the photo shoot.”

If there’s a better assignment than giving a hard-working charity a helping hand, we’d like to hear it. Thanks again to our models Annie, Michaela, Shayo and Brooklyn, who modelled with Bradley and helped this be a truly memorable modelling experience!

MORE INFO: https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/commercial-modelling-is-fun-lucrative-and-sometimes-for-a-very-worthwhile-cause

Spare a thought for the hospitality industry, which was greatly affected by a decrease of custom. However, things got better, so the UK’s largest pub operator, Greene King, requested some models to help promote their new menus. For Jasmine, the Greene Kind assignment was her first commercial assignment with us. She said, “I had my first shoot this week with Models Direct. It was at a pub to take images of the new menu, and everything was well arranged. I was given the right details and the job went well. I hope for more shoots soon!”

MORE INFO:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/greene-king

Flexible working was all the rage during the pandemic, so new company Smartdeskers asked for seven models to star in their promotional video as extras.

Experienced model Nigel commented, “I’ve been a model and actor for twenty years, now working in London and Europe. I moved to Norwich (Models Direct HQ!) three years ago from London, but I missed working in the industry, so I contacted Models Direct and they wanted to represent me. I was booked for an acting job last week; it was very professional, and a lot of fun, and it was great to be on set again. I met some lovely people. Role on the next acting or modelling job!” Welcome back into the modelling fold, Nigel!

MORE INFO: https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/smart-working-solutions-modelling-for-smartdeskers

We all know the big players in the supermarket business, and Morrisons is one of the “Big Four”. The Yorkshire-based company requested a glorious family to help promote their newly-refurbished cafes. Step up the Semedo family from Hull, who did themselves – and us – proud.  

If you’re a family intent on breaking into the modelling industry (and earning a fee along the way), have a look at the link below to get you in the mood. Family modelling is a very realistic dream job, so get in touch with us now and you could soon realise that dream!

MORE INFO: https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/morrisons

The fantastic jobs during 2021 kept coming in! Next up was Transport for London – one of our regular clients and an important organisation in developing and improving transport around our national capital. It was a particular success for our debutant model Anoop, who beamed, “It was a great day. Although it was my first paid photo shoot, I felt completely at ease. The photographer was great and the other models were fun to work with. Looking forward to other jobs from Models Direct.”

CHECK OUT MORE HERE:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/transport-for-london-debuts-new-campaign-starring-models-direct

Coco & Eve are an amazing beauty company which has its origins in the Indonesian island of Bali. Totally tropical! They asked for two “starpet” bunnies to join them in a promotion for gift hair towel wraps, so we were delighted to put forward Delilah and Sparky, who promptly “hopped to it”.

Animals are just as important for modelling campaigns as humans, so if you have a pet that’s not camera-shy, get in touch!   

SEE HOW DELILAH AND SPARKY GOT ON HERE:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/starpets-feature-in-campaign-for-cocoeve

Cash and Albie took a tiny step in the “rite” direction when they modelled children’s shoes for Start-Rite in Norfolk. Albie’s parents told us, “Albie had a fab first time with Start-Rite Shoes. The bookings team at Models Direct are so lovely. Great experience with Models Direct!”

Child modelling is a great way for little ones to gain confidence and interact with adults.

HAVE A LOOK IN MORE DETAIL HERE:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/start-rite-shoes

Our final assignment we’d like to highlight was for Dewhirst clothes. Five male models took to the stage in Camden to star in this prestigious shoot – check out the link below for the spectacular results:

https://www.modelsdirect.com/blog/dewhirst-our-male-models-show-how-its-done

If there’s one thing 2021 has taught us about the industry, it’s that whatever setbacks may hit us with, we’ll always do our best to keep our models and clients happy, and to keep being professional and successful. Our models know this, and it’s one of the reasons why we’re still the no.1 commercial modelling agency in the UK.

Now, what will 2022 have in store for us  – and you?

https://www.modelsdirect.com/reviews/

https://www.modelsdirect.com/

Kristina Karlsen is a perfect example – not only has she taken on lots of solo assignments for Models Direct, she has also worked alongside her family on several occasions.

So, what is the secret to her success? What makes a great model and puts someone in high demand?

• A great commercial look

Female model Kristina is attractive and well-presented, but she also has that friendly, easy-going look that advertisers are looking for. She has that open, relaxed, smiley face that clients want from a commercial model because everyday consumers warm to her and can relate to her.

• Clear portfolio images

The photos that Kristina has on her portfolio are not only regularly updated but they truly reflect who she is. They are clear images that highlight her personality and show the breadth of work she is suitable for. The more work she does for us, the more she is able to add, and the more we are able to reflect the extent of her experience.

• Reliability

We know we can trust Kristina. Not only is she well-prepared for every assignment, but she arrives in plenty of time, follows instructions well and does a great job each and every time. Those models who prove to us they can be relied upon are the ones we trust to take on more work for us – as we cannot let our clients down.

• Professionalism

A successful model is someone who behaves professionally at each and every booking. He or she treats it as a serious job; relates and responds well to photographers, camera people, crew members and other models and understands the importance of the assignment. Kristina has been nothing but professional for us. She enjoys being able to earn extra income and understands it is essential to take each job seriously.

• Communication

We need models who answer their phones when we call them and who contact us immediately if something is not clear or they need more information. Kristina is very easy to communicate with – and she answers her phone when we ring her and responds to messages immediately.

• Flexibility

Sometimes we require models to be flexible with dates, either because the client has other team members or location restrictions to coordinate or sometimes because of issues such as the weather. Kristina’s ability to be very flexible has always stood her in good stead.

• Enjoyment of the work

Successful models enjoy their work! Kristina takes great pleasure in working for us and loves being able to work with her family from time to time as well. Read what she has to say about her various jobs – and have a look at feedback from other successful female models too – then consider whether you might like to follow in Kristina’s footsteps and contact us.

What Kristina has to say about some of her assignments:

Client: Heathrow Airport

“Such a great time when you can work with your whole family. Thank you so much to Models Direct and to the client who was brilliant.”

Client: Hive

“Thanks for putting me forward for the casting leading to this job today. Had a great few hours of work.”

Client: Electrolux

“Yesterday’s family job for a Swedish vacuum company was great fun. It was a long day, but the crew were funny, and it was totally relaxing. We love doing jobs together as a family and the kids are getting so used to it now. Thank you Models Direct for this booking.”

Client: Sanctuary Housing

“Yesterday’s job for Sanctuary Housing was a breeze. The photographer was super-efficient, and my co-workers were a delight. Hope our paths will cross again. Thanks Models Direct!”

Client: Just You

“Thank you, Charlie at Models Direct for assigning me for one of my best jobs so far for Just You on location in Mallorca. Great team to work with from the amazing stylist @nickidonohoe and the photo/videographer and all the other models who were such a joy to be with every hour of the long working days.”

Client: KwikFit

“Thank you Models Direct for my last assignment. My first KwikFit commercial with the friendliest team! I love my jobs .”

At Models Direct we are approached to find female and male models for all kinds of promotional assignments, ranging from major exhibitions and events to in-store and shopping mall promotions and demonstrations.

To be a great promotional model, you don’t have to have done it before, you simply have to be friendly, smiley, confident and approachable.

You have to be proud to represent the brand, product or campaign you will be promoting, and you have to be happy to interact with the general public and chat to passers-by.

So, what else should I know about promotional modelling?

1. It can involve teamwork

Promotional models must have the self-assurance to work on their own; approach members of the public and undertake whatever is required of them. At the same time, however, there is often a team approach to the assignment. They need to be able to work together and support each other. This, of course, can make it great fun….

Some of our promotional models had the opportunity to work with Poundland on a fragrance campaign and had a great time as a modelling team.. (this assignment was pre covid).

2. It can suit people with other talents

You don’t have to be a skilled actor or accomplished musician but do tell us about any special talents you have as this can help. Clients like to employ models who are used to stepping out on stage or performing in public. Perhaps you are a singer or dancer? Or perhaps you are someone with sporting or public speaking experience? Just let us know…

3. It can be ideal for those with good memories

Promotional modelling is perfect for anyone who is quick to learn and great at retaining information. Part of your job may well be to explain about a product or present a campaign. Clients look for models who are bright, eager and intrigued about a subject – then ready to make it interesting to someone else!

This is exactly what happened when some of our promotional models took part in a campaign to help the Fertility Partnership find egg donors.

For the event, artist Stuart Semple created an installation using giant balloons.

Our models were then asked to give some of these valuable items to the public, in turn asking them to pass them on.

Here is what some of our models had to say:

Aina Sutka:

“When I first received information about my assignment, I was a little bit worried as I didn’t know anything about fertility treatment, fertility clinics based here in the UK or elsewhere, let alone anything that is connected with egg donation. There was no reason for my worries, because everything was explained, people that I ended up working with were very interesting and their knowledge was on top, the day flew by, because I was intrigued and in that way it helped a lot with passing the information on to the public. Being a mum myself I loved the idea of helping families that struggle in creating a miracle of their life’s. The cause of this assignment was incredibly sincere! It is never too late to try something new. It is never too late to achieve your dreams.”

Chloe Smith:

“We were directed to stop passers-by and give them a balloon; this balloon was only one out of 1000 with a Stuart Semple artwork on it and each was worth £350. We would give these to a passer-by and then get them to pass it on, the idea being just like when you donate your eggs, you are giving away something precious and amazing. It was a great experience and will be a good thing for my portfolio.”

The opportunities for promotional models are endless with brands looking of new ways to promote their products and get noticed in such a competitive environment. Yes, the retail world is quite different at the minute, but not long from now brands will be looking for the perfect models to push their products like never before….

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.

The MD team love to hear our models feedback, it’s such an important part of the process and useful for other aspiring models too! Below are a small selection of the models we have been working with this month and their take on their modelling experience with us:

“I’ve just completed my first modelling job for Models Direct. Who’d have believed I’d be a model at 57 years old! I was quite nervous when I arrived in the car park but with such a friendly relaxed atmosphere, I had lost my nerves before we started shooting. The lovely team helped me every step of the way and I thoroughly enjoyed myself. I look forward hopefully to many more jobs.” – Anne

“What a brilliant day. The weather gods were on our side for yesterday’s video and photo shoot at Mansell Raceway. Wilton Bradleys team were superb, taking their time ensuring they got what they needed, and David was only too happy to oblige. The equipment David had to show was varied, and he was raving about the motorbike he got to ride. Models Direct again have done a great job on keeping us informed and being very supportive. Again great day had by all” – David’s Parent

“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

“Bea recently had her first photo-shoot in Hemel Hampstead and oh my what a fun experience! Bea totally immersed herself in every shot, she embraced the camera with her smile. Photographer most impressed with her energy, enthusiasm & listening skills. Bea thoroughly enjoyed every moment and wanted to know when she can come again. Looking forward to an exciting future with Models Direct.” – Bea’s Parent

“My first assignment with Models Direct was really good, I did have a great time, very glad it was a success and I am pleased that the client was happy aswell. The clients were very friendly and welcoming. Everything was in order from the start to finish. I am happy to have worked with the brand.” – Benjamin

“I had a great experience working with Acco Brands, showcasing their unique and colourful products to a live audience.The staff on the day were very welcoming, and made it clear what they wanted from us.
I would also like to thank my agent Molly for organising the opportunity, and I look forward to my next assignment with Models Direct.” – Jamie

“Hope you’re doing great Molly, I just wanted to say thank you SO much for this amazing opportunity you’ve been a great help and gave detailed information about the assignment, I had a great time the staff and everyone were so nice a friendly I look forward to future works!! :)” – Oreka

“I had a very good first experience as it was everything that I had imagined it to be like, and I am looking forward to other assignments. Thank you for the opportunity that you’ve given me to pursue a career in modelling.” – Mohummed

“Really enjoyed working with Models Direct again! The crew were all lovely, fun and very professional – which makes all the difference when you’re shooting outside in the winter morning chill!
Charlie at Models Direct made it a pleasure to work today, for all the greatly appreciated updates, clear communication, thoughtful planning and considerations. Thanks! :))” – Graeme

“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

To read all the latest reviews from our models click here.

Model Fee: £440

“Yesterday and today went equally well, I really enjoyed modelling for Luxury Student Homes in Liverpool. The photographers were great and made me feel at ease.The client, Jess, was lovely to work with and made sure we all had plenty of refreshments and food between sets. The other models were very friendly and easy-going, it was a pleasure to work with them too. Overall I loved my two days working with them and it was such a fun experience.
My agent, Molly, made sure I kept updated with information prior to the job via emails, and reassured me I could contact her if needed.” – Tegan

“It was a great experience, got to take some beautiful pictures with very nice and warm people. The staff there was also kind and friendly which made the experience even more fun and unforgettable. I really do hope to get another opportunity at this kind of work. Due to such a positive environment, it made taking those pictures and portraying such emotions even easier. Thank you for such an amazing opportunity.” – Dariah

“I successfully completed my photo shoot with Luxury Student Homes yesterday and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. Jess from the housing company made us all feel very welcome and treated us all well throughout. The photographers were also friendly and made the photo shoot a comfortable and efficient process.

I would also like to thank Molly from Models Direct for organising this fantastic opportunity. She was very helpful and was always quick to respond to questions related to the photo shoot. This has been a great experience and am hoping it will lead to more opportunities in the future. ” – Jamie

Model feedback is can be very useful to new models too, it offers a great insight into the variety of assignments Models Direct promote you for and the types of work and locations are models and talent are working in.

Check out how these models got on recently on assignment:

“Many thanks to Charlie at Models Direct for arranging another great photo shoot, this time for active wear brand Seven Active. I stepped in last minute the day before the shoot, but still was given all the necessary information to allow me to be fully prepared. The entire team on set were brilliant to work with and very professional. I look forward to seeing the final stills!” – Annie – Model Fee: £210

“It was my first time doing a modelling shot. It was for a new website content for a gas installation, playing the part of an engineer. The company hire was with Coda Comms/ End user – Servomex at the Picture House in Bournemouth. All the staff were friendly and approachable. Well given out instructions and I made some new friends. I didn’t feel nervous because of the friendliness of the crew and the environment too. Everyone respected each other and the crews were such hard workers, non stop working.
Big thanks to Charlie from Models Direct for recommending me this shoot. Super friendly and made sure I was well equipped and prepared for the day. Been a really good experience which has given me motivation to under take more model shoots.” – James – Model Fee: £190

“Had a great time on my shoot today in Bournemouth for a gas engineering company Servomex for new website content, was treated very well by the guys running the shoot from Coda Comms. Also got on great with fellow models James and Waleed. Thanks to Charlie for another well organised job.” – Gregory – Model Fee: £200

“Devon really enjoyed his time at his first photo shoot with you guys today. The photographer was very friendly and they understood that Devon is very young and kept Giving him praise and breaks.” – Sian – Devon’s Mum, Model fee: £160

“This was Bud’s very first modelling job, and what an amazing experience it was! Charlie at Models Direct was fantastic in organising everything and ensuring we knew what to do and where to go. The guys we worked with on set were amazing, and very complimentary about Bud – from his looks to his behaviour. They say you shouldn’t work with children or animals, but I think Bud set the record straight, at least for pets (!) by being a perfect model, even if I am a little biased! Thanks again, and I hope this is just the beginning! ” – Bud’s Owner, Model Fee: £200

To read more reviews from our models click here

If you would like to be considered to be the next ‘new face’ on the Models Direct books click here

Child modelling work can be a rewarding experience for children and parents. Whilst we all think our own children are cute and adorable, kids of all ages, shapes and sizes are required for modelling work. Models Direct have clients who are always looking for children, both boys and girls to model for their latest campaign!

Child models are wanted for a whole host of different types of child modelling   assignments and jobs from photographic shoots for catalogues and marketing material to TV commercials. Kids are used to promote products such as toys, kids fashion, Shoes, Holidays and Services. Whether in magazines or on television child modelling is a very competitive industry, but can be lots of fun for both you and your child.

When you watch television or flick through a magazine you will notice that children are used alot in advertising , it makes the campaign or commercial relatable to the customer and is a big market. Parents spend huge amounts of money on their children whether this be clothing, toys, holidays and experiences, so there is a large demand for child models worldwide.

Children who are confident and outgoing are ideal candidates to become child models. On photo shoots, photographers will direct the child, but they need to be happy to follow direction and be comfortable to have the spotlight on them. For some children this comes naturally and for others it doesn’t, so it is important to understand that not all children are right for the modelling industry. It is also helpful if your child has  an interest in other types of entertainment, maybe they dance, sing, act or play an instrument, this is a great additional skill to have and allows them to get used to performing to an audience from a young age.

Although as a parent you are constantly on hand to give reassurance and work as team, the industry can be tough and there is rejection, your child will not be right for every job they are put forward for, however when the right job comes along there will be a real sense of achievement and excitement. Models Direct are highly experienced when liaising with parents about their child’s modelling career,  we understand the importance of clarity and step by step information is provided to parents when their child or children are selected for work, we  are there with you every step of the way!

Child modelling is also a great way to earn a little be extra pocket money, earnings can vary from £150 to £1000’s depending on many factors, client  budget, length of assignment,  etc. This will all be explained to you  as and when your child is successfully selected for an assignment.

The Models Direct team make it very clear how important it is to keep your child’s photographs current and up to date! Children change and grow all the time and their photographs need to reflect that,  so we  would recommend to update them quarterly.  If your child if selected by a client for a shoot they will expect them to turn up looking as they do in the images they selected them from.

Check out this feedback from children who have recently had assignments:

“Dear Marie and Models Direct representatives. We would like to express our gratitude for making our daughter’s first ever assignment so enjoyable for us all, we really didn’t know what to expect as this is a completely new adventure for our family. From the moment you rang us letting us know that Freya was shortlisted for the assignment until the actual photo shoot and beyond, we felt valued, reassured, comfortable and very well informed about the process step by step. When we arrived at the venue, there was a lovely representative of Models Direct that greeted us and the waiting room was very welcoming. The most important thing for us was that our daughter was happy with the photo shoot and comfortable in that environment and I can honestly say that she really enjoyed her experience. Everyone was so friendly and our daughter was full of smiles although your client needed a serious facial expression for their campaign :). We got there eventually! I cannot thank you enough for your professionalism as an agent and for choosing us to be one of the Models Direct models.” – Freya’s Mum

If you think your child would be interested in becoming a model or they have expressed an interest themselves, why not take a look at what is involved and   apply for your child to become child model.

The feedback below direct from the models, all about how they found this modelling experience:

“Another amazing and memorable shoot arranged by Models Direct for MTC Coventry!! Breath taking, relaxing venue with excellent modern surrounding infrastructure for the perfect photo shoot. Great and warm friendly staff from the start, and not to forget my amazing colleagues! The food was superb! Many thanks to Models direct for always delivering. Looking forward to the next one!!!” – Andrew

“I had my first assignment on Friday and it was great fun. A very relaxed atmosphere with plenty of food and drink available. I am now looking forward to my next.”- Catherine

“I did my first assignment today, a corporate shoot for MTC with 9 other Models Direct models.
Fantastic day, it was great to meet other models, the direction from MTC was excellent and we were so well looked after!
Thank you Charlie at Models Direct for all of your help! Can’t wait for my next assignment.”- Francesca

“Another great day arranged by Models Direct at a photo shoot for MTC in Coventry. Fully briefed by Charlie at Models Direct, lovely client and great company from the other models I’m really pleased with how the day went. Looking forward to more days in future. – Gavin

“Models Direct gave me a great first assignment sending me to a friendly and professional place that provided food and drink all included by the client, I am looking forward to the next assignment with you guys. Thankyou” – Jake

“Models Direct have some interesting assignments and they pay good money. THANK YOU” – Harjit “

To be considered for modelling click here

“It feels great to be back working for Models Direct and look forward to many more assignments with them.”

To be a successful commercial model it’s very helpful to have acting experience, you are often asked to portray a different character or play a role and will then be filmed or photographed while doing so.

Steve recently was selected to portray the character of a security guard for Axis Security for them to use for promotional purposes. Steve and the other models were photographed by a professional team while in character to create realistic and a true representation of the company they were working for!

Steve has a very friendly and enthusiastic personality. He is easy to work with, has a great look, always professional and very talented at being in character.

Model Fee: £173.00

“I modelled for Axis Security for the day. The location was in central London (Piccadilly Circus) the shoot involved six of us playing various roles with photos being taken in different parts of the clients buildings. Photos were taken of myself and two other models posing as security officers in a friendly manner, talking to customers and checking their I.D’s. We also had some photos taken of us patrolling the outside area of the buildings acting as though we were on our radio’s. I had a great time with the other models and crew members were also very friendly and easy to get along with, which helps towards being relaxed for the shoot. It feels great to be back working for Models Direct and look forward to many more assignments with them.”

FINAL IMAGES OF STEVE MODELLING FOR AXIS SECURITY

The demand for model families has grown at Models Direct this year, so when Steve was selected for an assignment recently it was great to be able to offer the opportunity to his son also! Steve’s son Shai pictured below did a fantastic job on his shoot with his dad and you can read their feedback from the day!

Model Fee: £280

“My son and I (Shai) had our first assignment with Model Direct together, the assignment was for an online advert for Hasbro, it was my son’s first time so he was a little shy but after sometime he settled in quite nicely. We had various scenes with Shai in the bathroom and of us in the kitchen with me rewarding him (after his successful potty training) with a tub of ice scream. The film crew were very friendly along with the lovely ladies who were looking after Shai who were very helpful, we both had a really good time!”