It’s time to embrace these beautiful, unique and quirky characteristics that make us stand out and give a whole new perspective on what beauty should look like. Welcome to our blog about modelling with perfect imperfections. 

The modelling world has been slowly evolving over the decades where we’ve been seeing more models of different shapes, sizes, races and ages come to the forefront. It’s really empowering and uplifting, and as a top UK modelling agency, we’re truly proud to be a part of this shift in change. We want to open a pathway for those who are eager to climb the modelling ladder and assist this modelling division to thrive. We’re unlocking some secrets about this category and what to look out for if you’re interested in applying, so keep reading!  

Unique features: what are they?

Having something that makes us different is in all of us. Whether it’s obvious or behind the scenes, we can all draw attention to special features that set us apart from everyone. Think Cindy Crawford’s iconic mole, Naomi Campbell’s beautiful exotic looks and Winnie Harlow who doesn’t allow her vitiligo to define who she is. 

What makes you “you”? Here are some show-stopping examples of unique and quirky features to look out for:

Eye colour – maybe you have a striking tone or heterochromia (two different eye colours).

Hair colour and texture – it could be your luscious locks are heavenly highlighted with gorgeous tones or that they’re super soft looking. 

Birthmarks and moles – do you have any that can be picked up by the click of a photographer’s camera. 

Tattoos and piercings – have you got yourself inked or pierced that’ll get heads turning? 

Can you relate to any of the aforementioned points? Is there any part you’ll be able to connect with? 

We reckon that you’ll have something to showcase if you’re interested in taking up a part-time career in modelling, that’s for sure. If you need to chat, speak to someone you trust or our professional team for confidential advice and some friendly chit chat. 

Bottom line:

Don’t waste time and energy concealing your beauty

Our modelling mission

Models Direct strive to create a diverse, dynamic, and inclusive environment for our talented models, where everyone feels safe and valued. We’re committed to giving everyone a fair and equal opportunity regardless of gender, age, race, colour, religion, culture, sexual orientation, marital status, disability or gender identity. It couldn’t get any better than that!

The takeaway

Who said that unique looks which are perfectly imperfect aren’t beautiful, memorable and marketable? Don’t go under the radar and conceal whatever makes you the wonderful human being you are. Join our sought-after modelling division today by completing our free online application – build your career and earn an extra income. It really is easy peasy!

There’s been a stark emphasis on diversity in the media over the last few years. Of late, we tend to think of diversity as the inclusion of everyone in a range of activities. This could be giving everyone equal opportunities in the job market, or carrying zero prejudice in day-to-day activities.  

Diversity is about giving everyone the chance to express themselves, and the commercial modelling world is one of the most accessible of businesses in which to do this. There’s absolutely no reason at all why people living with disabilities should be overlooked for modelling assignments throughout the UK and beyond. We know this based on facts, because we’ve placed several individuals in high profile modelling jobs where only disabled models were required. So it’s not really an opinion whether disabled models are useful or effective in certain assignments – they’re essential! 

It’s important to know that disabled modelling makes up a large segment of the commercial modelling industry. In fact, it’s a rapidly growing part of our business, with clients choosing to feature more and more disabled models to get their message across. Our booking team at Models Direct HQ processes each application from disabled models in just the same way as the rest; obviously, the type of assignment has to be taken into account, but we give the “green light” to anyone with the drive, enthusiasm and passion to succeed in one or more of our available modelling jobs.

And on this subject, why should disabled models be pigeonholed as simply models who endorse products for other disabled individuals? Part of the inclusivity that the modern world proudly promotes means any model should be just as eligible as the next. Sure, there might be limitations depending on the precise assignment, or practicalities that should be adhered to but, in general, disabled models should be suitable for a wide range of modelling jobs.

If you haven’t done so already, there is no better time to make sure your portfolio is tip-top. Though we’re experts at finding the right models for the right assignments, presenting as much information as possible on your application means we have more to work on in finding you your ideal modelling job.

Disabled models are immensely sought-after, and it’s sometimes a surprise to hear that some would-be models don’t think they’ll ever find themselves on a shoot with professional photographers. Well, think again! Disabled models are like gold dust, and are deservedly treated as such.

Our established team at Models Direct loves to hear success stories, and there are plenty of terrific disabled models that have excelled for our clients. For example, read about Darin and his modelling experience in Valencia.

We can’t promise all our models assignments in the sun, but we can promise you that we’ll use our 30 years’ experience to promote you in the best possible way. Now, that’s a reason alone for all disabled models out there to either spruce up their portfolio, or take the first step and apply with us. We’ll do the rest!       

Whilst Ms Aden isn’t classed as a commercial model, her appearance in a magazine with a 1.5 million+ circulation demonstrates an obvious shift in perception – and not just in the modelling industry.

The world is constantly changing, even if it’s by small, subtle modifications. Diversity is no longer concerned with age or gender. It’s all-encompassing, and looks to raise consciousness through media promotion. The whole point of diversity is to recognize the talents of everyone#, and to represent those who have something to give back to the industry. Diversity enhances the world, as it represents everyone. In short, no one should be excluded if what they can bring to the collective modelling table is effective and relevant.

The word “normal” is a spurious one, so many people prefer the term “traditional”. When “traditional” models in the 1980s and ‘90s were largely pigeon-holed and, to some extent, glorified, the 21st century realised that the demand for a greater diversity was not only beneficial – it was necessary.

Diversity can be seen in people living with disabilities, those from varied ethnic backgrounds, and people in same sex marriages. Also added to the list are people with any features that “break the norm”, be it tattoos, disfigurements, or piercings.

It’s beyond doubt that diverse models have been propelled into the limelight of late, and with good reason. The concept of tailoring campaigns and products to a wider ranging audience has been seized upon by companies worldwide, and with it the demand for diverse models has intensified. Nowadays, eyelids won’t bat when a wheelchair user is published in photo shoots. It’s natural and pertinent. A female model with head tattoos may well have been shunned a couple of decades ago, but guess what? Not anymore!

So, with the industry changing to increase inclusivity in this fast-paced progressive world, can top modelling agencies fulfil the requirements of their clients? We can’t speak for other agencies, although we know that we’ve represented hundreds of diversity models in a range of appealing assignments all around the world.

This fact alludes to an important point: diversity models are essential for our clients. They are needed, because in most cases advertising campaigns won’t have the same impact without them. Whether it’s a straightforward consumer ad (selling a product) or a campaign to get a point across, diverse models have the qualities our clients are looking for.

And more good news: diverse modelling is not a short-term trend to tick a few boxes. On the contrary – it’s here to stay, and we look forward to hearing from even more diverse models.

You don’t have to be the next Halima Aden to succeed as a diverse model in the commercial modelling industry. Apply with us, and we’ll have a look at what you can offer us and our clients. 

We understand the world is made up of all sorts of beautiful, unique individuals and that is what makes it such a wonderful place to live.

The world of modelling is all about reflecting the world around us and, as such, you are now far more likely to see people of all shapes, sizes, backgrounds and ethnicities within it.

Flick through your social media at breakfast, look out of the bus window on your way to work and switch on your TV in the evening and you should see a glorious array of individuals.

But those who want to become successful models need to highlight their differences and show us what makes them stand out from the crowd.

They need to contact us and tell us what makes them special, so we in turn can promote them to all our many major clients who are looking for diverse models for their range of assignments.

Here are our top tips for those hoping to break into the business or who are already involved but hope to see greater success:

1. Send us your application and support it with some great photographs

2. Tell us what makes you different, highlight any unique features, tell us about your abilities and really sell yourself to us

3. Once you have uploaded images to your e-portfolio remember to update them regularly

4. The portfolios of children and babies must be updated every two to four months (the younger the child, the more important it is to do this)

5. Always follow our top tips on how to take great photographs

6. Keep abreast of fashion and ensure that whatever you are wearing in your shots is up-to-date or timeless (ie that it doesn’t age you)

7. Be friendly, patient and undemanding – we are highly experienced at our business and we will do our very best for you

For more information spend time browsing on our website and reading what our other models say about working with us.

We stand out from others in the industry – and we love working with models who do too!

Ideally, a modelling agency like Models Direct will ask you to update your photos once every three months to ensure we have your latest look, as well as suitably seasonal images.

It really is not essential to have professionally taken photographs, but there are a few guidelines we suggest you follow when taking them yourself.

Your pictures need to help you to stand out from the crowd and it is therefore vital you take and supply them as we need them to be.

Ensuring you have a suitable backdrop to each image is a key part of creating the perfect picture.

Influencers and celebrities with a heavy social media presence spend time creating their sets and backdrops, often with astounding results.

You don’t have to do this but being creative while also ensuring you follow our guidelines can often yield fantastic results.

Here are Models Direct’s top tips for achieving a great backdrop:

Every portfolio picture you supply us with must have an uncluttered backdrop to ensure you stand out well. Clear anything behind you that detracts from the focal point – you!

Try not to stand in front of heavily patterned wallpaper or in a room with too many vibrant colours around you.

When in doubt have your photos taken against a plain background – for some shots you can’t go wrong with white.

All your shots need to be well lit and taking them outside in the natural light can really help with this.

Try to choose a picturesque outside location as your backdrop, but again ensure that whatever is behind you does not draw the eye away from you as the centrepiece.

Now spring is here, and the weather is warming up, you could perhaps find yourself some beautiful, green locations in which to take your photographs.

Perhaps also look for outdoor locations that might work as a backdrop with some edge – natural wood, concrete even corrugated iron could work well if you want an urban feel.

Try making your own indoor and outdoor backdrops to add interest to your shot without overwhelming the picture.

You can start with a large piece of board or plastic and then cover it.

These might range from velvet or another textured fabric in a colour to complement your clothing to something like strips of natural wood.

If your backdrop is solid, you can always experiment with different colours by repainting it as necessary.

Don’t be afraid to have fun with your backdrops but also be ruthless when it comes to editing your images down and discarding anything that doesn’t work.

The most important thing is to make sure your ePortfolio is looking it’s best, why you would be ideal for a particular modelling job, how confident and versitile you are infront of the camera and please update them regularly!!

If you’re thinking about unlocking something new for 2021 then you have come to the right place. We’ll let you in on how our simple application process works after you’ve hit that submit button. Let’s find out what the modelling potion is for the recipe for success. 

Step 1: Fill out our online application form

Access our homepage and fill in your details on the right-hand side of the page. Use the drop-down menu to select which age group, gender and whether your model is a human or a pet! Type your first and second name, select your date of birth, gender, email address, mobile number and country of residence. Next up, you will need to upload a recent headshot and full-body profile (taken no longer than 6 months ago). Both need to be taken against a plain background with nothing else being captured in the shot (no one else being accidentally snapped!)

Lastly, confirm that you are 18 or over, that you agree to the terms and conditions, and privacy policy set by Models Direct. Then all you have to do is press the ‘submit application’ button and away it will go. 

Step 2: Our registration team will be in touch 

Our registration team will then call you on receipt of your application to discuss it and qualify you over the phone. This is an essential part of the process so that we get to know you better. We like finding out about what interests you about the modelling industry, your aspirations, inspirations and motivations. It’s as easy as that!

Step 3: We select you when a client calls for your look 

Your application will then go through an inhouse assessment whenever one of our dedicated clients call for your look. Our team will decide whether an offer will be made based on your look, experience and demographics by undergoing a comprehensive model search. Models Direct is extremely thorough and ensures that all of our models get a fair chance to step forward and live their dream as a model. If you tick the boxes then you’ll be selected to cover an assignment and start your new career. 

Accelerate your modelling career

If you’re interested in following our simple 3-step recipe for applying as a model, go ahead and apply to us whenever you can. We are always a phone call or email away from giving you modelling advice, answering your questions or just having a good natter!  

You can also keep in the loop and get all the latest scoop with what’s happening at our modelling agency by subscribing to our blogs and following our social platforms.  

If there were ever a time to join our agency, it is now. 

We have been through one tough year and are starting another one on the same note. With restrictions in place, you might have lost some confidence and motivation – in everything that is happening around you or within you. This is normal given the unusual circumstances and the anxiety and pressure everyone may be experiencing now that we have entered 2021.

Models Direct understand that with some deep reflection, it might be that you are looking for new found inspiration and drive to push yourself and take on a new pathway or challenge in your life. Improving your skill set might be what you are looking for so adding a new venture like modelling to your CV could be the perfect addition.

If you have thought about taking up modelling but have been stalling it due to the unpredictability we all faced during 2020, our modelling agency – Models Direct – is here to encourage all potential newcomers to cast their worries aside with our modelling advice.

We continue to have a positive outlook and aim to look onwards and upwards despite the peaks and troughs of 2020. Our modelling expert team works together with confidence, motivation and care for each other and our talented models. For some modelling confidence and success, we’ve compiled a short list of what you can do to improve your self confidence. 

1. Persevere and don’t give up

If you want to try out modelling, don’t hold yourself back. Don’t be hard on yourself either if you find yourself feeling anxious or wobbly.

Say positive things to yourself. You are a person with abundant skills and abilities. Don’t doubt who you are and what you stand for.

2. Positive affirmations – keep ‘em coming!”

An excellent and easy way of reinforcing self belief is through positive affirmations. Check online for some great examples to repeat to yourself everyday. 

In the meantime here are some of our favourites:

“Self confidence is a super power. Once you start to believe in yourself magic starts happening.”

“Do not give your past the power to define the future.”

3. Don’t be afraid to research and ask questions

No one will ever push through the barriers of understanding new ventures without asking questions. So go ahead and ask us!

This will help you gain confidence as you’ll be better prepared in the industry and will know what’s to be expected from you as a model.

4. Focus on your successes

Remember the times you experienced success – in exams, projects, presentations, interviews and so on. Keep remembering those times! Don’t allow yourself to forget successful moments. Use your memories to boost your confidence in your ability to continue succeeding. Forget “failures” or things you deem as negative, just be you and be positive. 

Models Direct have our fingers crossed that by the end of this month there will be some light at the end of the tunnel. Once things begin to slowly open up, we’ll have a colossal amount of requests flooding in for models across all categories – newborns, babies, toddlers, children, teens, adults, seniors, plus-size, petite, big & tall, body parts, bridal, sportswear and so much more. 

Even though we predict that the future will be bright, we have been scouting for models wherever we have been able to do so following government guidelines. 

Like modelling, any career in the entertainment industry is steered by confidence, self belief, persistence and determination. So, if you have these attributes (or some of them) get in touch with our fantastic team for sound modelling advice. 

The Valentine’s Day countdown is officially underway and we’re nearing the finish line. It’s just around the corner for those of you who might need a little nudge to get something for your Valentine.

Models Direct have been putting our professional models forward for relationship-themed assignments and they’ve absolutely loved it. Don’t believe us? Read through our comprehensive blogs to get more insight, but now that we’re on the topic of love and hearts, we thought we’d talk about diverse relationships and how they are in demand in the commercial modelling industry.

Types of relationships

Relationships come in many forms but the five basic types are self, friendship, family, romantic and professional. All types are important to us as humans and when we maintain strong bonds and connections with other people and have a good relationship with ourselves, we can improve the quality of our life. We can share precious moments and times with the people we love and care for as we are social creatures built to thrive in the presence of others.

The relationship that we have with ourselves is probably the most vital out of the other types mentioned above. Why? Because if we are content and satisfied with ourselves; if we love and appreciate ourselves; if we are comfortable in our own skin and essentially embrace who we are, this then reflects in all our other relationships. If we feel positive within our minds and bodies, this will impact on all our surrounding relationships. Self-love isn’t vanity, it’s a necessity.

“If you’re searching for that one person that will change your life, take a look in the mirror.”

What relationships can mean to us

Relationships and love can give us meaning and purpose to life. They can give us with strength, security and positivity, lifting us out of darkness and bringing us happiness, light and hope for today and the future. And especially now, given the turbulent times we are facing across the world, relationships are more important now than ever.

As for our romantic relationships, we’re breaking barriers and loving people regardless of their gender, race, ethnicity or religion. Diversity is thriving and should continue to because we’re all equal and we all matter regardless of what we look like. Love has no boundaries.

Maya Angelou once said, “We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter what their colour.”

About us

Our modelling agency covers all spheres of modelling categories including couple and family modelling. Our clients are always on the lookout for models and with Valentine’s on the horizon, our stars have depicted scenes of diverse relationships and love. Climb on board if you’re ready to become a Models Direct model, and if you’re an existing one, get in touch with our team to see how we can leverage your career.

Who doesn’t love social media? We know it might not be everyone’s cup of tea but for those who are social media fans – influencers and followers – will know what great tools we now have at our very fingertips. The social media giants, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram (and the many more adding to the mix), have changed our world, the way we interact with our devices and with each other. We’re able to do incredible things that we probably thought would only be possible in sci-fi movies and novels.

Social media marketing

Models Direct are using social media marketing so privide awesome content (just like our current blogs and posts) so that our readers and online modelling community are always engaged, up to date and in-the-know! Instgram paticuarly allows building brilliant brand awareness to reach clients and creative people across the UK and worldwide….pretty excioting, but it’s not just about pumping out regular content though.

At Models Direct, we want to know where our leads are being generated from, meaning we pay attention to what YOU’RE saying about us and where your interest lies in our modelling agency. This helps us to push self-promotion further, so we can connect to our audience even better. Our aim is to keep you hooked and create a reliable source of fresh, informative industry content.

Influencers igniting a spark

Influencers are hot off the press when it comes to brand promotion via social media. They’re selected to collaborate with as they already have a large social media following in place. This exposure helps spread the word of mouth and adds credibility when they promote the brand.

Models Direct understands the importance of having influencers on board and a part of the MD modelling family. We have influencers who have worked with us and our clients who have helped drive traffic and generate interest in our agency from a wider, initially untapped, audience.

Models Direct social media following

Our Instagram and Twitter following is buzzing as we’re loving uploading content daily. Models Direct’s social media presence is helping our prospective and existing models stay tuned to what we’re getting up to.

With recent figures indicating that we have 4,619 following us on Twitter, and 30K followers on Instagram, our modelling agency is leveraging high with our platforms pushing forward in this new digital age. We are current and aim to evolve with the digital changes and needs of our audience so that we stay ahead, keeping content real, quirky and fun whilst broadening our readers so that we reach out to more people.

Keeping it fresh with our blogs

Alongside the social media platforms we use, our lively blogs freshen up Models Direct’s pages with the latest assignments that our models have been selected for. We keep our blogs short and sweet, but include all the details and images our readers need to know about new photoshoots, bookings and assignments.

Despite our frequent use of social media and blogs, we do not use these platforms to showcase our models and promote them. Models on our books are put forward whenever a client’s brief matches their look – on the contrary, self-promotion isn’t required. Unlike some showcase agencies we have an experienced team of in-house booking agents who use their expertise to connect with casting agents, producers and companies around the world, building relationships, this is how they actively source assignments for our talent. Our platforms do include images, yes but only to illustrate the assignments and show our readers what our models get up to.

With the use of social media, we can get our information to reach a wider target audience. This is essential to the industry as everything is very visual with photographic, commercial and promotional work, and social media certainly helps to easily carry this message through. 

If you are yet to become a member of our online modelling community click here….be part of the Models Direct modelling hub!

Fortunately, diversity in commercial modelling has been on the increase. Companies now respect that models shouldn’t be packed into convenient categories, pigeon-holed in cute stereotypes. Take a model who is six feet in height without heels, has tanned skin and golden hair. Great! There is a need for this type of model in the industry – no question – and they should be encouraged to keep doing what they do best (we should know – we’ve placed many in top jobs for years). But the industry has shifted somewhat, and the need for diversity is perhaps two-fold:

1. To banish bias and prejudice, thus promoting tolerance and open-mindedness. Basically – for humane and moral reasons.

2. Marketing departments of companies (whether global, national or local) understand the importance of diversity, if only for profits. Without criticising companies for merely thinking about money (they all don’t, even though profits make or break them!), they’d be losing out if their products aren’t targeted to everyone. If there’s a need for merchandise for every type of consumer, companies don’t want to miss out on selling the products – that’s business, folks! Are CEOs forced to promote diversity? Probably not. It’s just unwise for a large business to ignore diversity. And that’s where commercial models come into a league of their own. Who better than diversity models to promote anything related to diversity?

Which brings us to posing the question: what are diversity models? It’s really quite simple! Models of diversity represent the breakdown of universally-perceived “normal” social barriers, thus including everyone from whole communities and demographics – regardless of sexual orientation, gender, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, looks, size or disabilities. Everyone is different, so everyone should be included. Indeed, everyone has a unique set of talents, and these should be broadcasted to help achieve unreserved equality.

Commercial modelling is perhaps the genre where diversity has the most influence, because it is arguably seen by the most people. Every single person is a potential customer, so companies would be foolish not to tap into the diversity ethos.

Feedback from Holly’s assignment (pictured above):

“Holly really enjoyed her day having her photograph taken. She was made to feel the centre of attention which she loved, so would definitely like to do this sort of thing again.

Holly had to pose as a customer with her ‘mum’ and visit a car showroom to choose a new car. She enjoyed sitting in the car and pretending to drive. The day has boosted Holly’s confidence, as she just loves making people smile.

We’d definitely recommend doing this to anyone who asked, but you must be confident.  This is the first role Holly has had with Models Direct, and we hope it is the first of many more. This is something which holly could potentially consider as a career when she is older, if she decides to continue.” – Holly’s Parent

Click the link to hear how model Clare got on on her first modelling assignment: https://www.modelsdirect.org.uk/models-direct-supports-diversity/

Regarding advertising, diversity models can be utilised in various campaigns, and not just confined to fashion shoots. An example is our disabled model, Gary, who appeared in Kwik Fit’s short film promoting their “worry-free packages”, replacing wear-and-tear car parts, including tyres. As the UK’s leading fast-fit supplier of tyres, Kwik Fit saw the benefit of featuring Gary (who has a prosthetic leg) to illustrate how partial mobility shouldn’t be an obstacle. After filming, Gary stated, “As ever the day went very well and was quite seamless despite the very early start! The crew were very well organised and very welcoming, and it was once again a great insight into just how much effort and planning goes into such a short presentation“.

The final short film can be viewed by clicking on the link: https://www.weareiris.co.uk/kwikfit

Whether you’re a wheelchair user or living with a neurological / genetic disorder and you fancy modelling, we’d love to hear from you. Models from all backgrounds should get in touch with us, and together we can continue our mission to promote diversity to the masses! Join us by clicking here.