Many models love to model because of the sense of accomplishment. Some adore modelling because it breaks up their routine; many model with us as a part-time activity, which suits some people perfectly. Being the star of the shoot appeals to several models, who enjoy being in the limelight amongst the photographers or filmmakers under studio lights. All these are understandable, but we know not many people would model without a nice pay cheque at the end of the day.

So, we appreciate that earning money is important. After all, as the largest modelling agency in the country, we earn money from our duties. The burning question for models everywhere is: “How much money could I earn?”

It’s a question that we can easily answer, but with lots of answers. That’s because different modelling jobs come from different clients, all with different budgets. Remember – we collect our client’s payment before each and every job, so it means we have, in effect, collected our model’s fees before they’ve even started their assignments. That fee is largely dependant on the type of job (simple photoshoot, acting role, film etc) but – most crucially – the client.

It stands to reason that a model can expect to earn slightly more working for a larger client than a smaller one with a limited budget. Whatever the amount a model will earn, we always have it “in the bank”, so that means we can pay our models very promptly, unlike some agencies who might pay their employees after one or two weeks.

Getting down to the brass tacks – but how much? It could range from £70 – £100 for just an hour’s work, or up to £300 for a day’s work. For a family booking, it could be as much as £500 for a day’s work. That figure is possible for some our Starpets, too. For more pet fees, please click here. The key is the client.

To give precise examples, our wonderful model Neri collected a £700+ fee for her work with Ideal World TV way back in 2018; she’s since earned thousands of pounds in her starring role.

Ever since our wonderful Friend family had been our books they’ve earned over £6,000 over 7 assignments – quite an achievement and a pretty good fee per job.

We’re very open in revealing our model’s fees – providing we get their permission, of course. Readers can view some more modelling fees to give some idea of how fees can vary from model to model, client to client.

Just a note on why we take photos of models with cheques. Simply, we like to revel in their success, and showing people the reward of their success is more effective than saying we paid directly them into their bank accounts. Our models seem to like posing with cheques, too!

At Models Direct we specialise in placing everyday models in a wide range of very different assignments for our very varied clients.

This means we have a constant requirement for models of all types, ages, sizes, backgrounds and looks.

We need male models, female models, babies, teens and children – we even place model pets!

If you are considering modelling, then you must have at least an inkling that you will enjoy it.

And this is the very place to start!

Modelling with Models Direct might involve taking part in photo and film shoots or helping out at a promotional event.

We offer paid, part-time work that may be close to where our models live or could involve travelling (with expenses paid) to another location.

Our models have differing levels of availability and are therefore always free to turn down any assignment when they are offered it.

Equally, because it is our clients who make the final choice as to who they would like to employ, we are very transparent about the fact we are never able to guarantee work.

But if you join us, then you will be put forward for consideration whenever a client requests someone with your look and abilities.

The vast majority of our models are normal people – just like you – who have other jobs, commitments, interests and pastimes but also enjoy doing something a little different.

Although they have to be confident enough to pose in front of a camera, most of them are quite nervous before their very first job.

But, if you read the feedback they give us, you will see they are quickly reassured by our agents, the other models and the professional production crew on the day.

So, put quite simply, almost anyone can be a model – and if modelling is something you would like to try then you will almost certainly be suitable.

But, why not let us help you to make that decision?

Fill in our form, upload a picture or two of yourself and one of our agents will call you.

You can then ask them for their professional advice and you can also find out more about what modelling with us entails.

Good luck! We hope to decide to give it a go!

We’ll split this blog into two parts: emotionally and practically.

Emotionally, models take with them several different feelings – all of which are perfectly natural. No one has ice in their veins; nerves can strike at any time even in the most confident of souls. We wouldn’t be human if that wasn’t the case.

So, models need to take three essential emotions on their first model booking:

1. Confidence. Having the ability to know you’re the right person for the job is something that’s not as easy to acquire as it sounds. We’re not talking about arrogance. We’re talking about eliminating negativity and backing your own merits. Remember – we recommend models to our clients because we think they’ll be perfect for the role. Clients, though, always choose their preferred model. So, if you are picked, you’re the client’s ideal candidate, so models should have faith in their modelling ability. You’ve made great strides by being selected, so embrace it.

2.   Nerves. Everyone knows the “butterflies in the stomach” sensation. Adrenaline is released in times of stress, meaning blood pressure and heart rate is increased, sending more blood to the muscles. This perfectly natural, of course, where you body responds to anxiety. Nerves can work in your favour: they can concentrate the mind and prepare you for action. Perfect for your first booking.

3.   Excitement. Securing your first booking is a proud moment. Models should be excited about meeting new people, succeeding on set, and looking forward to future bookings.

Practically speaking, models must concentrate on a few essentials. Above all, they should be prepared and have read through our brief we receive from clients. Here are the all-important tips:

1.   Make sure you have the client’s name, main contact, address and phone number before setting off. If you think you’re missing some essential information, please speak to our team prior to the booking.

2.   If the brief requires you to bring specific clothing (e.g. tie or black dress to portray formality, jeans and trainers for an outdoor shoot), take two pairs of each.

3.   Take make-up if you wish, although you may not be required to use it.

4.   Water is essential…

5.   …As is having a fully charged phone.

6.   If your baby has been chosen, don’t forget nappies, wipes, food, toys and spare clothes.

7. Our pet models are always very popular. Take all their creature comforts as you would if taking them away for a few days: bedding, toys, water bowls etc. We want all animals to be as comfortable as possible.

8. Consider the time of year. If the forecast is dreary, take a decent waterproof coat; likewise, take suncream and a hat on summer assignments, even if the job is inside – you may feel hot and bothered even just walking a few minutes to the location. 

Find more information here on your first booking with us – the first of many we hope!

Life is an interesting journey and you can make it what it is by having faith in your abilities and dreams. It’s not always plain sailing though because there might be points where you’ll get sidetracked or self-doubt starts to creep in.

Those procrastinating thoughts and remembering past attempts might start swirling around and they’re not so easy to shake off. 

Or you’ll experience peaks and troughs along the way, challenges and obstacles you’ll have to navigate your way around to get through to the other side.

In this blog, we’ll take a look at how the power of self-belief can help set you up for small and big successes in your life, and how you can be a model – not just a one-hit wonder but have a long-term fulfilling career.

Why is having self-belief important?

When we think of self-belief, it might be having confidence in yourself, and while this is true, it doesn’t just stop there. It’s a deep-rooted belief system that shapes who you are – your thoughts, your actions and their outcomes. The great thing is, that having goals and a vision of where you want to see yourself, in a week, a month or by the end of the year gives you a target to reach and having the magic of self-belief can accelerate this. You’ll also embark on a journey of self-discovery and learn who you are and how you handle change.

Having self-belief means you can be:

Motivated

Determined

Patient

Positive

Adaptable

Feel empowered

It doesn’t come naturally to everyone though, and the process can take a lot of conscientious effort to bring to fruition. If you’re looking to become a model, it might feel like you’re out of your depth and a big win won’t happen for you.

So how can you instil self-belief? 

Positive affirmations

Switch those negative or limiting thoughts and beliefs with positive ones. Write them down on post-it notes, log them into your phone, and maybe have a personalised positive quote you’ve composed as your screen saver so whenever you look at your phone, it’s there! Another great thing is to say it out loud. In the mirror or just to yourself in your personal space.

Our agency knows how important this point is for models. Set yourself time in the day to dedicate this to yourself.

Set realistic goals

Don’t overwhelm yourself with the thought of setting goals. They can start as manageable bite-sized chunks and work up to more challenging ones. Remember to reward yourself along the way and recognise your achievements.

Whether you’re a teen, adult or senior model, setting goals will help you keep focused and make successes tangible.

Be around supportive individuals

When you’ve got people rooting for you and encouraging you to succeed, a supportive system will help instil self-belief and increase your confidence in yourself. They’ll suggest, advise and support you along the way on how to voyage across time and achieve positive outcomes.

It doesn’t matter what your age is – if you’ve got a child model, teen model or if you’re a model in your later years – having words of encouragement and praise will always add to your self-belief system.

Read or watch documentaries about successful people

Is there anyone famous you’d like to know more about? Reading someone’s life story or watching about it might help expand your mindset and help you to understand their journey, challenges, setbacks and accomplishments leading you to question how you can action the same positivity and resilience in your life.

And there you have it! Prospective models and fully fledged models, we hope this blog has helped remind you to have self-belief in your abilities and skills. Good luck and we hope that you continue to enjoy working with our MD team who also have the self-belief that you’ll be matched to top-tier clients and create amazing campaigns.

Good news for everyone, and even better news for models. Summer is a lovely month for getting out there and achieving great things; we often find our energy hits peak levels in warmer conditions, and certainly the days are longer and filed with promise. A lot of us generally find summer more productive, so there’s no excuse in ignoring your portfolio pictures to tempt our eclectic range of brands with your looks and talent.

Before you don your summer wear, think about how best to utilise the summer months to your advantage. It’s not just a case of slapping on the sun cream and snapping away to your heart’s content. It takes a little research, and a smidgen of organisation.   

First up, don’t assume that bright sunshine makes for clear photos or excellent filming conditions. In fact, this is rarely the case. Avoid the midday and early afternoon, when the sun is at its highest point. Instead, seek out shade. No one likes squinting when posing, and bright sunlight often causes unwanted shadows; not so bad when filming modelling reels, but very annoying when capturing the perfect photo. Late afternoon / early evenings, as well as early mornings, generally provide the best times in the day for films and photos.

Secondly, spend time understanding your camera’s setting; apertures and shutter speeds are the two most important aspects to experiment with. For example, you’ll need a faster shutter speed if you’re taking pictures of people or pets in motion.  Digital cameras are still popular, and different models have different settings for the time of the year. Most models know that photography is important to their success, but we appreciate that you don’t need to be an avid photographer to get results – step up the Smartphone! Try different grades on your phone to obtain the best colour gradients once you’re happy with the photos.

Thirdly, when filming reels (keeping them short), think about the most suitable backdrops. Don’t film with too many distractions in the background. Practice filming under trees, to the side of gates and fences, and to the side of buildings to achieve the perfect sun : shadow ratio. You may not get it right on the first few attempts, but practice makes perfect. If you’re lucky enough to be relaxing on a beach this summer, don’t over-do the sun hat / sun glasses combo; take a few snaps wearing them, but take more without them as our clients want to see your eyes and hair as well.

A couple more summer tips: don’t wear too much make-up, as it may “run” more in warmer weather. Trust your natural look, and avoid vivid filters when using Smartphones.

The potential for being selected for modelling jobs because you’ve updated your ePortfolio photos has never been higher. This summer could be the turning point in stepping farther up the Models Direct job ladder. Use your time wisely, and don’t rest on your laurels.

We have the brands that are actively looking for models just like you. We hope the summer sun shines favourably on you in 2024.

We don’t expect part-time, debut or even full-time models to know everything about commercial modelling. That’s why our monthly blogs and social media pages are so important to keep everyone in loop with success stories, as well as the latest fashions and general news. Knowledge is power, that much is true!

The kind of modelling work we offer depends on each individual brief we receive from our clients. These brands are an eclectic mix of multinationals, charities, start-ups and government agencies. Companies need to evolve to move with the times, transcending previous marketing campaigns to keep an audience’s attention. The audience is most often customers if they are profit-orientated; if they’re not, then the general public is the target audience.

With the recent surge in interest in AI, you might be forgiven for thinking that most marketing has minimal human input. We can’t predict what will happen in years to come, but we can tell you that humans are a crucial factor in all the assignments we receive. It’s been that way for decades, and it’ll remain that way in our lifetime for sure. Whether it’s a basic photo shoot or a job requiring acting, human models remain the most effective way to reach target audiences.

We offer varied assignments on behalf of our clients. Every client is different, so they send us various briefs. The most common types of modelling jobs we present to models are:

1. Fashion photo shoots

2. Marketing / promo photo shoots – e.g. being photographed displaying products for a brand’s website

3. Video shoots

Whether you’ve been chosen for work by multi-million pound companies like Barclays Bank and Next or been selected by a small local brand, there are some common traits to our modelling jobs. These should help you imagine what to expect on your modelling day:

1. Organisation – we give models all the necessary details before each assignment      

2. Working with clients that have been approved by us. Only clients that have been assessed by us have access to a model’s portfolio

3. The best modelling fees around – all paid within 5 working days

4. Fun! Modelling is work, obviously, but there can’t be as many jobs that people genuinely enjoy so much

At the time of writing (Jan 2024), a new review came in from Emma – a debut model who had registered with us only three months previously. Emma had a shoot with a large hospitality company, and was delighted to submit her evaluation:

“It was nerve-racking at first, considering it was my first ever modelling job! I didn’t know what to expect, but we had a lovely team and I worked alongside other models that were lovely; they made me feel settled so quickly. I’d work with Greene King again in the future.”

Not knowing what to expect as a model may seem daunting. However, our models always report that they work with friendly, understanding teams and can’t wait for more work. We take reviews seriously – and personally!

This year should be another fascinating and successful one for all involved in the Models Direct family – our models, our clients and our colleagues. Whatever the types of assignment we offer you, you’re in good hands.

Well, we’re glad you’ve landed on this page because MD will let you in on a few of our own tried and tested tips to get ready for the summer and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere it brings.

Wardrobe overhaul

Yup, one of the first places we would ask you to head to is your clothes. Whether they’re stacked in a wardrobe, folded in a cabinet or kept under your bed in a storage box, you’ll need to work through what’s summer-proof and what’s not. It’s your choice, whichever way your sense of fashion is swaying because you own your creativity. If you’re doing this for your baby model or child model, it’ll be the same process. If they’re old enough, they can help you by picking their outfit or helping you with yours!

Don’t forget good footwear for longer walks, and accessories – UV sun hats and caps, and UV protected sunglasses, or glasses and a sun umbrella.

Take care of your skin

Whether it’s you, your baby, your child, your teen, your family, or even your pet, take care of your skin! Whether the sun is peeping out from behind the clouds or set high up in the cloudless sky, ensure you’re wearing SPF 50 cream along with a sun hat. We know your pet can’t wear the same cream but you can purchase specialist pet sun cream to protect theirs too. Stay in the shade and out of the sun during peak hours.

Hair care

The summer heat can sizzle your hair. Maybe you might want a haircut (don’t forget to include an ePortfolio snap for your updated look) just so that it’s manageable. If not, that’s cool too. Tie your hair up, out of your face, wear a hat or cap, or even cover it with a scarf or use a thick headband to keep it away and tucked in. You can use a hair mask to treat it and show your hair some TLC in the evenings.

Keep hydrated

Do you find that you lose your appetite when the temperature rises and all you want is ice-cold drinks on repeat? Yup, sounds like us on a hot day too! This often happens due to sweating, loose motions (you know what we mean!), and vomiting – all natural things that happen to our bodies. So, we get thirsty hence why we flock to the freezer to top up on ice cubes. Just remember to keep the sugary drinks down and limit the caffeine. You might feel more dehydrated and at higher risk of tooth decay and teeth stains.

Have light and nutritious food

There might be points you don’t want to eat at all and just top up with fluids but having light foods might be better than opting for an empty belly. Fruits, yogurts, vegetables, and other lean proteins such as fish, chicken, egg whites and lentils are beneficial options to choose from. 

While there’s so much to do and much to get on with this summer; there’s also much to look forward to over the next few months! Enjoy the summer because it’ll pass by and you’ll be wishing for it to come around sooner next time! Don’t forget to timeline your sun-drenched days for the benefit of your luminous portfolio. Keep smiling and keep shining!

Radiate this summer and glow up!

Love Team MD x

At Models Direct, we’re open, honest and work transparently so we believe that this should reflect in all areas of our business including our reviews. We know that we receive triumphant feedback but there are points where the reviews don’t fair so well. Our HQ team has no qualms about putting these out into the digital world because we don’t want to mask how our people feel but we try to do our best to put things right.

Our models and clients’ expectations and reality are very important to us which is why, after every booking, we reach out to both sides to grab their takeaway. Our models have an open-ended opportunity to pen their thoughts whilst clients are sent across a set of questions to keep the process smooth and straightforward. We don’t always receive testimonials but when we do, our team is on it to get them listed on our website.

Models Direct always aim to reply to our models, whether they’ve left a positive or negative response, and if it’s the latter then we put in steps for our model to get in touch with our team and vice versa with our clients. It’s not easy to be criticised but because we’ve instilled a positive mindset into our business framework where we work together and pick each other up and praise our successes together, we look at it as a challenge which we need to get the best out of rather than a barrier.

Even though we’ve been a UK industry leader in the modelling scene spanning 30 years, this feature of our agency always proves to be a learning curve, even for us. We learn from our models and clients every day. Whether our business practises work for them or ways we can improve areas which might not have been met with much enthusiasm. Going back to being open, we are all ears when it comes to crucial insights that were hoping for a different outcome, potential issues and an unsatisfied takeaway.

Models Direct understands that our reviews are an essential ingredient of what makes our agency stand and remain strong with our powerful ethos of embracing everyone as a future model. How else would our potential models and clients learn directly about us if our reviews section didn’t exist? This platform serves as a celebration of our successes and growth in criticism where possible models and clients can make an informed decision whether to work with us or pass.

And with that, here’s a glimpse of our review highlights which we hope you enjoy reading and learning more about us!

Perhaps you have a dream of ultimately ending up in big screen film or television – or perhaps you are keen to promote your skills in front of a film camera for modelling work.

Our many and varied clients often require models of all ages, looks and types to take part in their filmed advertisements, campaign material and promotions.

And if they can see just how much you shine out within a moving image then you stand a much greater chance of being selected by them.

So what suggestions do we have for would-be models and actors who have never made a showreel before?

1. Look online to see examples of other people’s showreels. You want to draw ideas from the very best showreels and also consider what you feel doesn’t work very well. Watch lots of different examples and make lots of notes.

2. If you have existing sections of film that you want to include – perhaps from work you have already done – then think carefully about which footage to use. You want to use the sections that will most appeal to the people offering the kind of bookings you would like to accept. Resist the temptation to include everything. Just select the best bits.

3. If you are making a showreel from scratch and do not yet have professional material but want to show yourself moving and interacting with other people in different settings, think about how you can do this. Perhaps select a couple of outfits and ask a friend to film you modelling them. Smile, laugh and change your position as you move, so we can really see what you look like.

4. Make an impression at the beginning of the showreel. Start with the footage you think has the most impact. Then try to keep it engaging throughout. Consider how to finish with a memorable section as well. After all, you want people to remember you.

5. You do not have to pay for a professionally made showreel. There is software that will work on most phones, tablets and laptops these days. Have fun playing about with your showreel. Ask friends and family for advice. Keep it short and sweet, lively and interesting and update it regularly by adding new sections as and when you have them, especially if you complete assignments for us that involve video work.

So the old saying goes, but here at Models Direct we like to think that everyone is capable of going that one step further in the goal of self-improvement.

No doubt most models are content in one way or another in the way their careers are shaping up. Some of you might even have exceeded your expectations over the past few months…to which we say, “Good on you!”

However, it’s basic human nature to strive to be better. This progression could take several guises, and sometimes a personal improvement occurs when you least expect it. Whether it’s conquering a challenge or just making a slight alteration in your daily routine (wow – you really did manage to eat your “five-a-day”!), being the best version of you is realistically achievable. It’s just that some people only need a little push in the right direction, whilst others need a kick up the “you know what”.     

No one claims to know everything, and certainly no one is perfect. That said, being the best you can be is a success in its own right, and will have numerous beneficial knock-on effects: more self-esteem, more motivation, more happiness, a healthier mindset…the list is endless.

The decision to be the best you can be starts with someone that you’ll all know well – because that someone is YOU! We’ve talked a lot about what we can do for our models and our clients. Models should already know we’re in the best position to place models in front of renowned clients looking for the best talent in the industry. But it’s not as simple as this. Motivation, drive and steely resolve are essential traits models must possess to progress. Success doesn’t happen overnight, so whilst our booking team are always at the top of their game, it helps immensely for individuals to be confident and determined. That hunger – the desire to not be content with the bare minimums in life – can really only be achieved by an unwavering tenacity and a realistic outlook by you, and no one else.

Take a look in the mirror and ask yourself if you’ve done everything in your capacity to advance up the rungs of the accomplishment ladder. Don’t worry if you think you’ve been resting too much on your laurels; though we’ve said it’s natural to want to improve, it’s equally common to be happy with the occasional achievement and to leave it at that. But, wait! Could you be doing something more to fulfil your hopes and to tick more boxes? Most probably.

If you haven’t applied with us yet, and you think you’re at the stage where the version of you is primed, ready to go and hungry for success, have a look at the links below to get you in the mood (the reviews alone should really whet your appetite!)

If you’re already a model with us, then you’re probably on the right track in the quest of self-awareness and realisation. There’s no reason, however, to push yourself a little further, and we’re with you all the way!

Be yourself, but don’t be satisfied with second or third best. This sentiment is echoed for the younger generation, where many are starting out on their own paths of self-awareness. Behavioural changes are seen more in the transgression from teenager to adult. Mistakes will be made, success will be experienced, there’ll be highs and lows…in short, that’s the rollercoaster of life!

As long as you’re true to yourself and have the desire to learn new things and become better, you won’t go far wrong. Above all, yearn to improve in all aspects of life, and learn to enjoy the ride.