Our clients like to know that models are proactive. Not updating photos on your portfolio could be a major disadvantage, so we urge every registered model to keep their looks and talents current.

Most industries change; it might not be from year-to-year, but all companies progress at some point. This could be a re-branding campaign, a change in personnel, a move to a new headquarters…whatever the reason for change, you can be sure that it’s for the company’s benefit. And so, models, too, should explore new avenues and seek ways to elevate them from the others that are competing for the same successes. The best way to do that is to keep portfolios fresh and tell us if you’ve changed your looks or gained new experiences that will help you get noticed by our clients.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

A lot of models ask how often they should update their details and photos on portfolios. Every model is different, but a simple answer is as often as is necessary. The worst thing any model can do is to leave photos in their portfolios, forgetting to add fresh images and assume that clients will be attracted to models who haven’t bothered to tell them how their looks have changed or what new skills they have acquired since the last time they visited their portfolio.

Broadly speaking, models should update their photos every few months. This gives us and our clients the confidence to models are taking their careers seriously, as negligence is a tell-tale sign that models expect to be offered jobs purely because of initially completing portfolios.

This is a common mistake. We have responded to some models who mention that they haven’t been offered as many jobs as they’d like. Whilst we understand their frustration, looking at their portfolio history usually suggests they haven’t kept their portfolios fresh, current and, most importantly, relevant.

Every few months is a reasonable timescale to update photos, even if you have the same look as you did when you registered with us. We want to see varied photos in different fashions. It should be apparent that if models change hairstyles or have added some new tattoos, then this must be reflected in portfolios.

In short, think of your portfolios as the first thing our clients see – much like a CV or cover letter. Clients are not mind readers, after all.

Check your contact details are still valid – if we can’t get in touch with you with the good news, it could jeopardise a fabulous Models Direct booking.

Yup, we were not kidding when we said we’d answer it like that. No one has time to read through lots of content and we appreciate that because everything is whizzing past super quick, we’ll get straight to the crunch here.

Modelling isn’t as rigid as it used to be. If a model’s height is below what one would think was average, or equally above, it isn’t scrutinised and then made into an issue whereby perhaps the prospect of withdrawing an application is hinted or considered.

However, there might be some height guidelines depending on which modelling category you’re looking to work in. If the matter of height does concern you, please read on:

Catwalk modelling

Those models you see donning the runway do have more height and body measurement expectations than other areas of modelling. You will generally expect to see super slim and super tall models walking the length of the runway and back, although the catwalk landscape is pushing for more diversity and inclusivity with models such as hijab-wearing Halima Aden, Naadirah Qazi and Megumi Soyer-Shima who are making waves.

Height requirement:

Women – between 5’8” and 5’11” with a 6-8 dress size and a 34″-24″-34″ bust, waist and hip measurement.

Men – around 6’0” to 6’2”.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Commercial modelling

This modelling division looks for relatable models who will appeal to a target audience which means that the height requirement is much more relaxed than for runway models. It’s all about everyday people connecting with models they can relate to and see their reflection in including models’ appearance as well as their height.

Height requirements:

Depends on what a company desires but it varies from one brand to the next.

Petite modelling

Many females, for example, fall under 5’7” making them the ideal height for petite modelling. Whether it’s for catalogue modelling, commercial modelling or promotional work, petite models are being included in the modelling industry and not being scrutinised for their height. On the contrary, they’re celebrated and embraced for their petite stature and will appeal to everyday people who are also petite.

Height requirement:

Women – under 5’7”

Plus-size modelling

The dress size which best represents this modelling niche varies from one brand to the next but generally speaking, it’s over size 16. Any model which fits in a dress size above this is plus-size although a lot of people are calling for this category to be scrapped so that body size is a more encompassing topic rather than labelling everyone. Hey, some people might not want to be put into a plus-size box and are most certainly entitled to that.

Height on the other hand for plus-size models does not follow a strict guideline.

Height requirement:

Depends on what a company desires but it varies from one brand to the next.

Other modelling niches include fitness/sports modelling, body parts modelling, and disabled modelling. Each brings its own magic and doesn’t meet typical modelling standard requirements so height diversity can enjoy the limelight without the pressure.

Yes, our beautiful baby models are out there making people feel happy every time they see their gorgeous smiles – and they don’t even know it!

From tiny newborns to feature in magazines and advertising to lovely little ones just taking their very first steps for adverts and campaigns, our baby models are everywhere.

Models Direct has extensive experience of working with tiny tots on all sorts of projects for clients of all types, from supermarkets and clothing companies to nappy and toy brands.

Our clients come to us seeking beautiful boys and gorgeous girls to appear within family groups as well, in everything from holiday promotions to healthy eating.

Baby modelling is competitive, but, at the same time, we receive a steady stream of demand for tiny models from our clients.

And, of course, our beaming beauties grow up to become child models in the blink of an eye –  so we always need more smiling little faces to add to our books to replace them.

If you have a bouncing bundle that you think could shine in front of a camera, then why not get in touch?

We would like you to take a selection of lovely photos to show us – pictures that present your pride and joy in the best possible light.

If you could then upload a selection of these along with your application form, we will then give you a call to discuss how modelling with us works.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

If we decide your baby is right for us – and you decide it could also work for you and your bundle of joy – then you can become part of the Models Direct team.

We charge a small admin fee to go towards some of the costs of promoting your child, but this is fully reemable after your baby’s first assignment with us.

Once you have joined us, we will give you an e-portfolio to manage for your child.

This needs to be regularly updated with new photos and information about your baby – after all, your tiny tot will change quickly and we need to be able to see that for ourselves.

As long as you are doing this, we will put your baby forward for any modelling jobs that are right for him or her.

Our client then makes the final choice from the shortlist we have sent over as to which baby they would like for the assignment.

If your laughing little one is selected, then one of our agents will liaise with you and ensure you are kept updated about all the arrangements.

And if you have any questions at all then you can call them whenever you like.

You will, of course, need to accompany your little one to the photo or film shoot and be on hand throughout the entire process.

The parents of our baby models enjoy the experience of being involved in something new and different.

And, of course, putting their baby forward for modelling can mean a little much-needed extra income too.

Little Sienna’s mum told us this about her experience:

“Sienna and I had lots of fun on this photo shoot for baby sleeping products!

“It was like an F1 tyre change, with lifting Sienna as she slept from pod to pod (to model four different product designs)!

“I was a very proud mummy watching Sienna be adorable during this shoot and we cannot wait to do more with Models Direct!”

And lovely Lola’s mum said:

“Lola had to model some baby sleep/grow bags and she also modelled some vests.

“The pictures were taken in a cot, on a mattress, a rug and a snuggle pillow.

“I look forward to receiving a copy of the catalogue and photos when they are ready.

“I would recommend this type of experience to people who have a happy, cheerful baby because you do not have to do anything – they are just themselves. 

“I found Models Direct on the internet and am glad I chose them.” 

To find out more about baby modelling with Models Direct please contact us.

We understand the strength of having modelling talent to leverage new campaigns which is why we’re always about getting new models to sign up with us and request that our existing ones continually update their ePortfolios, reels and measurements/skills so that brands have a holistic overview of what they have to offer.

Our team has seen that brands have a knack for curating innovative products and services that aim to captivate and inspire their target audience, and they do it incredibly well. Shaping their brand’s visual identity is an exciting process and a long-term opportunity to collaborate with agencies like us as we value creativity, innovation and authenticity.

What brands may look into investing  when building their campaigns could include:

Product shoots – they will plan, style and request for high-quality product photography which may include models who will appeal to their target audience. This will mean recruiting models of all ages and even pets!

Lifestyle shots – brands will want to create beautiful lifestyle imagery that reflects the personality and vibe of their brand, weaving products and services seamlessly into real-world scenarios.

Content creation – they may intend to produce a steady flow of on-brand, engaging content for use across social media, websites, and marketing campaigns.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Video content – brands may create video content, long and short-form for reels, TikToks, and ads, blending campaign-forward style with eye-catching storytelling.

Building a brand will take time. Whether you’re a new or established brand seeking models for your next campaign, Models Direct can help. We’ve got diverse models – baby models, junior models, teenage models, adult male and female models, mature models and pet models.

We really did think this through and understood how brands will need models of all ages and from all backgrounds. So here we are, over thirty years on, still recruiting and providing models fit for different scenarios our brands suggest.

Here is a snippet of some of our client’s reviews. There’s more of this which you can take a look at here:

Focal Point Digital

“Everything went fine, and the models were great. Very happy with the service provided.”

Marc Cain

“Just to say that Terry was lovely! I’m very pleased with the service – quick, efficient,and everything was sorted very fast. If I need something similar again in the area, I wouldn’t hesitate to contact you guys again. Best Sarah”

The Avid Seamstress

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick? Yes, great responses and very thorough.

How did the assignment go on the day? Very well, model was on time and fantastic to work with, great energy and very flexible.

How did our talent(s) perform – did they do a great job? See above.

Are there any changes you would like to see? None.

Would you use us again, if so, why? Yes, cost effective.

Are you a brand looking to hire? Let our MD team know and we’ll be happy to help – always! We look forward to hearing from you.

Follow our 10 steps that include top tips and advice to help you do well:

1 If you are chosen for an assignment you must be 100 per cent sure that you will be able to attend. While we know that emergencies do very occasionally crop up, you need to understand that if you let us – and our client – down at the last minute, then it will make things very difficult. We need to know all our models are reliable.

2 Listen carefully to what our team member tells you about the assignment itself. Make sure you understand where you need to go, when you need to be there and whether you need to wear anything special or bring anything with you.

3 Ask any questions you like and gain as much understanding as possible of what will take place during the booking. This will help you to feel confident on arrival on the day itself.

4 Find time to practise poses in front of the mirror. Ask a friend or relative to snap some shots or to film you as run through some of the actions you might expect to take place on the day. Even if the shots and sequences are different during the assignment itself, this will still help you to feel confident and ready.

5 Plan your journey to the job very carefully, making sure you leave lots of time for traffic or public transport problems. Ensure your phone is fully charged, you have relevant contact details with you and that you bring a snack, a drink and a book or something else to do with you.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

6 When you arrive, make sure the person in charge knows you are there. Introduce yourself to members of the crew and any other models. Ensure you know when you will be required on set and whether you need to see any wardrobe, hair or make-up team members first in order to be camera-ready.

7 Listen carefully to what the team would like you to do in front of the camera. If you have any questions, do not be afraid to ask them. Follow their instructions carefully.

8 Chat to the crew and other models when the cameras are not rolling, but please make sure you are not causing a distraction or making any noise while other people are being photographed or filmed.

9 Have fun! The more you enjoy the process of modelling, the more this will shine through in your photographs and footage.

10 After each assignment, make sure you give us your feedback so we have a good understanding of how the booking went. Don’t forget to let us have any behind-the-scenes photos or video footage you have taken and remember to update your e-portfolio with details of the assignment and any final images received.

We’ve made the decision for two main reasons:

1. To oversee a surge in model bookings in our nation’s capital and its environs.
2. To expand our operation, fulfilling the ever-increasing demand for the very best commercial models.

The decision wasn’t a difficult one to make. We’ve seen a growth in all parts of our business, from our talented staff to the number of innovative clients who rely on us to supply the models they need for a diverse range of marketing campaigns. Additionally, when we considered the increase in models wishing to star in the finest commercial modelling jobs available in the country, we had to think about expanding.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

That’s when we knew a new office was necessary in maintaining our high standards and assisting the thousands of brands that need our services.

Modelling in London

We’re fortunate to give models of all ages and backgrounds the chance to put their skills to good use all over the UK – and even abroad. We know that there are many brands looking to reach audiences and new customers wherever they’re based. The aim of using our commercial models is to present a captivating marketing photo shoot or film to appeal to those that might use the brand’s products or services. Using models is as effective as ever.   

But there’s something a little bit special about modelling in London. An obvious advantage is that many of successful brands are based in our capital. London is only one of two Alpha ++ cities in the world, meaning it’s at the top of the tree for decision-making power, innovation, financial institutes, media and communications, and education / research. The one city that can rival London is New York. London’s influence and reputation speaks for itself.

Modelling in London presents many benefits for our talent, namely:

• More opportunities to work with world-leading brands.
• Potential to gain more contacts.
• Greater modelling fees in line with London’s cost of living.
• Exceptional transport links.
• Greater chance to express diversity due to an unmatched multi-cultural environment.

The fast-paced nature of working in any bustling city can be an impetus to anyone’s schedule and can easily be the catalyst to bigger and better things. In London, anything is possible, and there’s arguably no better place in the world to realise dreams. As commercial modelling is more accessible than most other types of work, we have no doubt that a new office in London will open more doors for our models, whilst helping our clients in the process.

Whilst our Norwich Head Office will remain the hub of business, our new office in London will have positive repercussions for everyone involved.  

As you know, commercial modelling is not high-end fashion modelling. Commercial modelling in London means that just about any company, brand, charity and service will at some time require a Models Direct model, and we want you to be involved.

These are exciting times for everyone. Come and join our revolution!

Families exude a kaleidoscope of emotions with love resting at the top of the list. These genuine, raw feelings within a family unit can then be translated on screen or in images, and that’s where brands and businesses step in and team up to make some fascinating and timeless campaigns.

Our modelling agency, Models Direct, is not surprised that our clients call for real and manufactured families – dependent on the logistics of the campaign. But when it comes to real families coming together to create a standout campaign, there’s no better place to hire them than from us!

Why?

We provide a diverse landscape of talent.

Our families come in all formations and sizes. Some consist of two family members whilst others consist of more.

Provide us with your brief and we’ll present a selection of families who closely fit what you’re looking for.

If you’d like to arrange a casting call or self-tape, let us know and we’ll arrange this for you.

You’ll have access to our selected families’ portfolios and see their diverse and up-to-date range of images and reels.

You’re in control as you get to choose who you want for your project. We don’t sway your decision. If you change your mind and don’t want to go ahead, there are no hard feelings! We totally get that things change – marketing visions and directions can always alter right till the last minute and we accommodate these changes from both our clients and models side of hiring and booking.

We request feedback from our clients and want to know how it went – the positives and the negatives – so that we can continue to improve our services and provide the best experience for everyone.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Take a look at our client reviews to see what they had to say about our family models:

Hoburne Holidays

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick? Very quick and efficient, great service

How did the assignment go on the day? Really good, the family were great, kids great and everyone worked well.

How did our talent(s) perform, did they do a good job? They did a great job, very responsive and listened well.

Are there any changes you would like to see? None

Would you use us again, if so, why? Yes, we would, very quick and efficient, great models.

Sanctuary Housing

How was your talent booker – friendly, efficient, quick?

Molly is always friendly, efficient and quick. On this particular occasion, we required models with very short notice and Molly was able to get the assignment moving with only a week’s notice and find us exactly what we were looking for.

How did the assignment go on the day?

The models arrived early with no problems getting to the location. They were exactly what we were hoping for and made the shoot a breeze.

How did our talent(s) perform, did they do a good job?

The Brown family did exceptionally well considering it was their first assignment as a family. We shot in a variety of different locations and they took each scenario in their stride. In hindsight, the 4-hour day was perhaps a little too much for the youngest member of the family, as you can tell towards the end that he was getting a little tired! This wasn’t a problem for us as we came away with plenty of great material anyway, but it is a learning curve for us for booking younger actors/models in the future.

Are there any changes you would like to see?

No, we are always really happy with the service that Molly and talent management give us.

Would you use us again, if so, why?

Definitely. We think that Molly is brilliant, and we are really pleased with the talent we have been able to find through her, they have fitted the briefs perfectly.

For more of this, head over to this page and if you’d like to hire a family for your marketing campaign, let us know right here! We look forward to working with you and helping you build your campaign.

The takeaway

The demand for modelling has skyrocketed with our agency and we’ve got new and existing clients coming to us for our comprehensive services backed with expert knowledge and experience in the sector. If all this sounds good to you, we’d love to have you join us!

Whilst there are certain restrictions to high-end fashion modelling, the diversity in commercial modelling is evident. We do not specialise in any type of model. Commercial models encompass everyone, from toddlers to mature models, males and females from all backgrounds. The one attribute for commercial models is that they must be dedicated to their assignments, from regularly updating their portfolio photos to representing themselves (and us) on set. The rest usually takes care of itself.

Some people fare better in modelling jobs than others. Not everyone is suitable for all our jobs. Age and gender are key factors, but thankfully modelling experience is not required. That’s equally critical, as it shows that anyone with the desire to become a Models Direct model can succeed.

What’s also important is knowing the range of different types of models we’re always interested to hear from. Some agencies specialise in plus size modelling, while others mainly have females on their lists. Some will have more of an emphasis on pets.

We’ve been the UK’s leading commercial modelling employment agency for a number of years, and we put all our effort into each booking, no matter what type of model we’re representing.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

And which different types of models are we experts at putting forward to our numerous clients, giving them the best chance of being seen and ultimately being offered their dream commercial modelling job?

Here’s the list of the main types:

Commercial modelling – diversity is the key here, with commercial modelling appealing to everyone. We are always interested to hear from anyone with the desire to work with top brands all over the UK and abroad. Commercial modelling is totally accessible, well paid and fun. Read more about commercial modelling here.

Mature modelling – age is not a limitation. Instead, embrace your wealth of life experience by signing up with us and uncovering plenty of modelling jobs as a mature model.

Baby, child and teenager modelling – modelling is not just for adults. We’ve provided our clients with hundreds of youngsters in exciting shoots (accompanied by their parents and guardians, naturally). Babies are usually classed as infants up to two years of age, child models are up to the age of twelve, and the age of teen models should be self-explanatory. The range of assignments on offer for children is limitless; all we ask is that they are well behaved and have fun in a safe environment.

Pet modelling – perennially popular with several clients, household animals of all shapes, sizes and breeds are always welcome!

Plus size modelling – for those with a fuller figure, there are many chances to be seen by our clients. For the past few years, we’ve experienced a surge in plus size modelling, so we welcome anyone to join us and have the best chance to be selected by top brands looking to appeal to the public.

We cater for anyone and everyone – and it starts with having the desire to become a model. After that, registering with means we’ll show our clients what you have to offer!

A short and sweet answer because we know that our Models Direct readers like info to be straight to the point. We appreciate that no one has time to trawl through words so here it is:

If you’re looking to be signed up with us, you don’t need any official qualifications to be an MD model. We know that’s pretty unusual as most modelling agencies will ask for previous experience.

But guess what? We don’t! It’s not compulsory for us to have newbies with an illustrious modelling history, and we don’t penalise anyone if they don’t. In fact, we encourage new models to climb on board our modelling hub even if they come without any experience. It’s totally fine for us!

As for requirements, when it comes to applying there are a couple of things to bear in mind. If you have a baby model, child model or pet model, the parent/guardian/pet owner will need to be over 18 to make the application process happen.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Kasthur and her husband both worked on an Aviva campaign and here’s what Kasthur said:
“Thanks, we had a great day on our couples photo shoot, I have done a few jobs before for you, but for my husband, this was his first time modelling, and he really enjoyed it the production team were just great and made you feel relaxed, hubby is now looking forward to doing more couples jobs ”

Dawn & Mark were booked for a couples campaign with Potters Resort, and here’s what they had to say:
“Just finished my first couples shoot – really good fun.
Started the day outside in the glorious sunshine, and ended up playing mini golf, rowing a boat, having fun in a swimming pool, and rounding off the two-day shoot with bar and restaurant photographs.

Photographer and Client made us feel very at ease with nothing forced. Overall a very enjoyable couple of days enhanced by the lovely other couple we were paired with”

So, if qualifications are not required and there are no requirements apart from the age restriction for submitting an application, what do we actually need from our models?

We need:

Your correct personal details and an up-to-date profile pic.
You to be ready for your first call from one of our specialist modelling coordinators.
You to ask us anything you’d like; we’re happy to help answer your questions!

And that’s it! Just be yourself, be open to trying new things and of course, if you’re feeling nervous, speak to us! You won’t be the first but we can assure you that as the assignment goes underway, your nerves will disperse.

We’ve grown rapidly since we started the business in 1990, and that growth has resulted from a rapid increase in both clients and models. This is beneficial for everyone, because more clients mean more modelling opportunities. But that doesn’t mean that every model who registers with us will be inundated with offers of modelling assignments.

The good news, however, is that joining a reputable agency remains the best way for models of all ages and backgrounds to be put forward to the decision makers: the clients.

We’ve never said commercial modelling isn’t competitive. There has always been competition for jobs – just like in every industry sector. Joining Models Direct makes it much easier for models of any experience to be seen by our clients, who then inform us which models they’d like to work with them.

Any model could approach a brand directly. There’s nothing stopping a model contacting a company and asking if they need models for advertising campaigns. The chances of that model merely speaking to the right person are slim; moreover, even if they do find the right person to talk to, communication would invariably stop right there, with the company telling the hopeful model that they only find models with their preferred agency.

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
• From Blossoms to Big Smiles – Spring Photography Tips for Child Models
• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Agencies develop a trusting relationship with their clients. It’s another solid reason for models to join a good agency. The chances of securing work with an agency significantly increase with an agency working on a model’s behalf. The reality is that, although we place hundreds of models per week in exciting modelling jobs, some models might not be chosen by the clients, even though they are a perfect match, and we put them forward whenever their talents are called for.

But the plus for models is that they can – and should – help themselves. We do everything we can to find our clients the right models for their specific assignments. It’s what we do, and we’re extremely proficient at doing it. Here’s a quick checklist of how models can increase their chances of being chosen by clients:

1. If any contact details have changed since you last registered with us, please ensure that they have been updated on your personal Models Direct portfolio.

2. Just as important, be sure to add fresh photos and reels to your portfolio. This is especially vital if you’ve changed your look. If you’ve had a new haircut or treated yourself to a fresh tattoo, don’t hold back! Take a few up-to-date photos and upload them to your portfolio. Make sure you stand out! Alternatively, if your current portfolio doesn’t include more niche images (e.g. in gym gear for any fitness modelling gigs), be sure to add them. We have plenty of jobs available requiring specific models for specific assignments. We’re not a generic modelling talent agency…

3. Keep up to date with the commercial modelling industry, and be proactive.

4. Don’t be shy in contacting us if you need any assistance. Our team are here to help all models, and we invite anyone to visit us in Norwich by appointment.

Any Models Direct model is in the best place to be seen by all kinds of brands who are actively seeking new talent for their campaigns. Keep at it, and keep the faith!