Models Direct’s love for animals is next-level adoration which is why, when we set up our agency thirty years back, our expert team made a solid decision that we would also focus on pet modelling. 

It’s an exciting industry but we’re not just saying this! We’ve seen so many of our cute furry friends, no matter what species they are, have the spotlight shine on them for different sorts of campaigns over the years and it doesn’t look like it’ll be slowing down any time soon either! 

We’re serious about getting our adorable animal stars featured in the next campaign when a client pops in a request with our team, and making it a successful one! But why do brands even need a pet model when they could just use any animal in their campaign instead of going through an agency with all that hard work involved?

With Models Direct, it isn’t hard work! What we provide is a comprehensive structure for both our models and clients and in this case, clients are presented with reliable models who understand the demands and expectations of the modelling industry due to their ongoing experience with our agency. This is why so many owners put their pet’s application forward with us. 

• Do I need professional photographs to be a model?
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• How do I find modelling work?
• Our Guide to Modelling with Models Direct
• The Ultimate Models Direct Guide to Getting Your Child Into Modelling

Firstly, our application is online making it convenient and easy for owners. It’s open 24/7 so you can apply any time. 

After this, one of our dedicated modelling specialists will be in touch with you via phone. They’ll talk in-depth about our agency and understand your goals, hopes and aspirations for your pet. They’ll also walk you through what a typical modelling booking looks like and if you’re happy to go ahead, they’ll begin the registration process where they’ll get your pet officially on their books as a Star Pet model! 

What follows could be a casting call or hopefully a call from your assigned coordinator informing you that a client has liked the look of your pet and they want to hire your companion. This stage could also involve you heading to our jobs board where we post regular ads for pet modelling gigs which you can directly apply for yourself.

Some examples include: 

Guinea pig/rabbit requested for a video shoot
Pet dog models who were required for a commercial
2-3 puppies needed for a project shoot
Pet cat models required for a commercial

There’s a wide variety of requests where we see not just cats and dogs getting booked with top-tier clients but rabbits, hedgehogs and other species. Our animal database is vast and our clients match this demand for diversity too! 

If you’re interested in your pet turning into a Star Pet model with interesting jobs such as commercials or photoshoots, apply here and join Models Direct on a pawsome journey you won’t forget! 

Our UK-based modelling agency welcomes all types of pets to be put through our easy-peasy application process.

Popular pets like cats, dogs and rabbits aren’t the only animal species to be booked with us and shine in the spotlight. Cute hamsters, fishes, snakes and hedgehogs are examples of interesting animals who’ve become pet modelling stars with Models Direct.

So, how can you begin your pet’s modelling journey?

Question: does your pet have what it takes?
Does your animal friend feel comfortable in new environments surrounded by new faces, alongside different sounds, smells and textures? Yep? Awesome!
Has your pet been toilet trained? Are they able to follow basic commands and if not, can they be distracted?
We know! Lots of questions, and lots to think about too!
If you’re unsure and want a trusted agency to represent your cuddly animal, you’ll need a trusted agency like MD that will be by your side, working with you and your pet.
No one wants to be represented by an agency that hasn’t got their best interests at heart, and where Models Direct has been in the business for over 30 years, our dedication to our craft shows in the campaigns our animals have been booked for.

With the right modelling agency, like Models Direct, opportunities will arise as an agency is meant to put your potential pet model forward for work.

This is what happened with award-winning ethically sourced beauty care company, Coco & Eve approached us.  They requested our wonderfully fluffy and cute rabbits, Sparky and Delilah, to be the stars of their Easter campaign. This tied in nicely with the season’s bunny theme and the company’s cruelty-free ethos.

If you choose Models Direct to represent your pet, we will:

Ensure our clients are fully vetted and legitimate.
Set up casting calls if the client needs to see your animal before deciding whether they want to book them.
Let you know immediately if you’re pet has been booked.
Give you some time to think about whether you want to go ahead. If you don’t want to or can’t, there are no hard feelings – we understand, not every assignment is possible to pursue.
Negotiate an appropriate payment with our client so you know what your pet will earn beforehand.
Ensure that your animal’s payment is made on time after the assignment has been completed.
Request for your feedback (positive or negative) after the assignment.
What we ask from our pet model owners:
Updated, varied images regularly uploaded to their designated online portfolio
Informing us about any physical changes, growth spurts, or medical conditions.
Keeping an eye on our jobs board where owners can directly apply for suitable modelling positions, anytime they come live on our site.
Staying in the loop with our socials, blogs and website.

And then you have it! This is our guide to pet modelling. If you have any burning questions or anything you’d like to discuss, feel free to get in touch with our modelling coordinators at MD. We’re always happy to help, and we’re always eager to see your amazing animals!
 

Here at Models Direct we love our star pets!

We are all huge animal-lovers and we are always on the lookout for more furry, feathered and four-legged friends to join us.

We have clients who love pet models just as much as we do and as such they approach us with regularity asking for all sorts of cute creatures to take part in their photo shoots.

Not only can animal models feature alongside female, male, child and family models in all sorts of advertising and campaigns, but, of course, they also often appear on their own.

They may be used to promote animal products and services, everything from pet food to healthcare, and to advertise anything more general – from paint and food to insurance and banking.

So why is there such a strong demand for pet models?

Well, the advertisers are very clever – after all, whose heart doesn’t melt when they see a cuddly kitten or pretty pup?

And it’s not only the typically cute creatures that we love seeing on screen – we also love animals that are funny, interesting, unusual or perhaps even have characteristics that are almost human.

So if you have any animal, from a fish to a guinea pig or a tortoise to a pony, that has something special and different about it, we would also love to hear more and see a photo.

Once you have filled in our form, we will be in touch to explain more about how the process of modelling works with us.

We need to know that your pet is used to being around people and would not be distressed near cameras, lights and human models.

Models Direct works with many well-known brands and companies and these organisations employ highly experienced production teams to manage their shoots.

If pet models are involved, they will ensure they employ a crew that is used to working with animals and, on occasion, also special animal chaperones to assist on set.

And you will be there too – you are the person who knows your pet best and your help will be invaluable.

Anyone interested in finding out more about animal modelling with us should read our reviews and blogs relating to our star pets.

For example, after working with us, gorgeous Bud the cat’s owner told us:

“Another great modelling experience for Bud!

“Charlie at Models Direct is always so kind and helpful – making sure that we had all the necessary information prior to attending the shoot and taking into account Bud’s needs as a cat model.

“The client was great – very patient with Bud, even accommodating a location change when the conservatory became too hot for Bud.

“The human model was wonderful with Bud, and we all had a smooth and stress-free experience.”

And Sammy the dog’s owner said:

“Sammy and I had our first booking this week: filming with a group of students at a veterinary surgery in Bracknell.

“Models Direct was very helpful and ensured we had all of the information we needed but also made us feel comfortable going into our first booking.

“The film crew members were all very friendly and respectful of Sammy’s age and his mood on the day and were happy to take direction from me.

“We had a great time!”

We’d be arrogant if we didn’t think models would ponder the question before applying to us. No one should apply with any agency without putting together the pros and cons, and everyone should conduct a little background research on the agency prior to applying.

Some models will ask “what have I got to lose?”. It’s important to realise that being with a top agency like us gives you a helping hand in the modelling industry. We’re the crucial link between talented models and clients wishing to use models in their photo shoots and advertising films. So, what have you really got to lose?

We must emphasise once again that being on our books gives everyone the best chance of working with top companies throughout the country – and sometimes abroad. Being with us increases your odds of being seen by the decision makers – that we know as fact. Models could approach brands by themselves, and we wish them the best of the luck. We know many models have done just that, and some have been offered work. A very small minority, though, so it’s delusional to think that just because you may have a portfolio and a dose of optimism that you’ll quickly find the key to success.

Joining an agency is the best way to be seen by brands. But why choose us, and not another modelling agency?

It’d be easy to say that models choose us because of the number of reviews on our website.

True, the reviews are valuable, and we appreciate any kind of feedback, but models need to know some key points that separate us from the other agencies. With that in mind, here are the most important aspects of Models Direct that any person with the desire to give themselves the best chance of becoming a model should know about us:

1. We started when Damian and Suzy decided to create a modelling employment agency way back in 1990. We’ve been operating and successfully growing year on year, so we’re not a “flash in the pan” company like some.

2. We’ll ask for a small, lawful registration fee to cover cost. Models can choose to pay this for one, two or three years, offering them convenience on different budgets.

3. We do not ask for professional photos when models join us – nor have we ever done that. As long as the initial photos are clear and accurate, they can be taken on a Smartphone. Some agencies will charge for photos – we do not.

4. The main objective for models is to be seen by brands who need “real life” models. As we have the largest modelling client list in the country, it stands to reason that the odds of being chosen is higher than most. Also, we make sure that all new clients are checked for authenticity. Clients come back to us time and time again, satisfied that we can provide them with quality, talented models for their campaigns.

5. We are inspected regularly by HM Government’s Employment Agency Inspectorate. Inspectors may ask at any time to ask for evidence of working conditions, the agency’s terms and conditions and details of payments / fees to work-seekers.

6. Speaking of which, we negotiate the very best fees with our clients. We also collect payment before any assignment, meaning we can pay our models withing 5 working days.

It’s not really a “hard sell” when the facts speak for themselves. Please come and meet us at our Norwich HQ for a chat if you have any questions. You’ll be able to meet the team in person!

Follow our application image guidelines

When applying, you’ll need to add two profile images – without these, the application won’t be able to move forward to the next stage. Models Direct needs one headshot and one full-length body shot, that’s all. Both images need to be clear, basic shots captured in front of a white background, and in portrait format. The ideal height-width ratio needs to be 5:4. The same would apply to your baby, junior and pet! It might some time to get the perfect shots but it’ll be worth it and help the application process speed up.

To make your images glow up, you don’t need to wear heavy make-up or have your hair done professionally. On the contrary, they need to be as simple as possible with neutral-coloured clothes. Accessories such as jewellery, hats, scarves or bandanas aren’t needed to glow up your images.

However, if you have any unique features – tattoos, piercings, beauty spots, braces or striking features – showcase them too! You can take a look at our blog which looks at unique physical characteristics.

Are you on socials?

If so, let our team know when you’ve sent your application over. When one of our modelling coordinators touches base with you, share your socials with them. You can also pop it into an email. We can take a look at your online presence and understand your visibility.

Do you have a website?

(We do! It’s new and refreshed so check it our here in case you’ve missed it!)

It’s not necessary to have one, but if you do have an online home to your profile pics, or things that interest you, please share it with us. This can add as a unique selling point, setting you apart from other models.

If you’d like to make your model application glow up, it’s much easier than you think! There are no tricks but lots of treats with positive outcomes in the end. Follow our application image guidelines, and let us know if you’re on any socials and if you have a website. All of these areas will help lead to processing your application faster, getting you onto our books and being visible to clients. Good luck! If you have any further questions, get in touch with our expert team!

Models themselves will want to get out and about to take some new shots for their e-portfolios and pet owners might also decide that now is the time to get snapping.

At Models Direct we love to see new images of our superb star pets – and of course, the better the pictures you give us, the more your cute kitten or perfect pup will stand out.

To show just how up to date your pets’ images are, it is always a good idea to ensure they truly reflect the current season and autumn is a most wonderful time for doing this.

Those with larger animals – ponies, donkeys and horses, for example – will have no problem at all carrying out a photo shoot against a great autumnal backdrop.

Take your four-legged friend to some beautiful woodland or along a scenic bridleway where the magnificent colours of autumn are gloriously resplendent.

Ensure he or she is well groomed and the rich colours of his or her shiny fur is sure to look its absolute best against such complementary shades.

Happy hounds are also easy enough to take out to picturesque autumnal settings.

Throw a ball or encourage your waggy-tailed chum to jump up for his favourite toy and get someone else to take an autumnal shot that will be pure animal magic.

Smaller pets, such as rabbits, guinea pigs, tortoises, and, of course, cats, are probably best photographed in the safe confines of your home.

But there’s no reason you still can’t have some seasonal fun.

Before you undertake your photo shoot, head out on a long woodland walk or perhaps take a stroll through your local park.

Bring a bag along and pick up a few autumnal bits and pieces as you go: these might include interesting and colourful leaves, conkers and pine cones.

Take these home to your own sunny garden and use them as props as you encourage your cuddlesome creatures to pose beside them.

If you don’t have outside space that you can use, then consider creating a mini studio at home.

Find a corner of a room with a plain background, pop your pet on a throw or piece of fabric in an earthy brown, olivey green or rusty red and then bring out your autumnal accessories.

After all, what could be cuter at this time of year than a kitten batting about a pine cone or a bunny twitching its nose at a bright red maple leaf?

Those of us who have been lucky enough to have holidays or to have treated ourselves to days out may have lovely new photos we want to add to our e-portfolios.

We might also have been to weddings and summer parties where we have taken special shots that we need to sift through and upload.

If we have been selected for summer modelling assignments then perhaps the final images are starting to come through and we may wish to add these to our e-portfolios as well.

But these last few days or August are also a time to begin thinking ahead.

September is a time when those of us who are at school or who have school-aged children will be starting to prepare for the new academic year.

Students also begin to move towards the start of the new semester and another year of studying hard towards their futures.

If we are at work, then September is when we and our colleagues return after our various summer breaks and life starts getting back into a rhythm of some normality.

In the modelling world, things are as busy as ever and at Models Direct we are already taking bookings and looking through our list of models to find just the right people for each job.

These may be last minute requests for models for Christmas campaigns or they could be from clients asking us to help them out for photo and film shoots that are scheduled for the new year.

As usual, we hand pick models that meet each client’s requirements and then we send our selection through to them to make the final choice.

So, if you are one of our models, now is the time to get your e-portfolio up to date to ensure you have done all you can towards being selected for an assignment.

There are no guarantees at all, but you need to be sure your e-portfolio looks its best in case one of our clients is requesting someone just like you.

If you are someone who is considering joining us, then this is the time to start your research…

Click through our website, read about the experiences of our other models and consider whether this is something you might like to be put forward for.

After all, September is a time of new beginnings and perhaps modelling might be just the activity you have been looking for to bring a touch of something different to your life this coming autumn.

We have customers who have worked with us for decades and come to us time and time again when they need models.

And we have agencies and businesses who approach us for the first time looking for someone very specific but have perhaps never worked with a professional operation like ours before.

Whatever their requests, all our clients receive the same attention to detail and high quality customer service.

And no matter how different their requirements might be, we always do our utmost to go the full distance to ensure they are happy with the models we suggest and the service we provide.

So how does the process of choosing a model work?

Well, our clients give us their requirements, we search our books for just the right models to meet what they are looking for and then we give them a selection to choose from.

Our clients look very carefully at the e-portfolios of the models we have suggested and then they make the final choice.

And what do our clients love to see when they choose between models?

Firstly, they want to see good, clear, high-quality photographs.

They need to be able to see you – including your face – properly in all the pictures.

They don’t want to see filtered images, silhouettes or anything so creative and obscure that you do not stand out clearly in the image.

Our clients want all the pictures to be well lit, without any glare or other sun distortion.

They want to see photographs that reflect how versatile you are – different poses, different locations and different outfits.

If you have any previous modelling or acting experience, you must include these photographs or show reels.

And make sure you also tell us about any other relevant experience – dancing, gymnastics, sports, for example – and better still, upload some images of you engaging in these pastimes for our clients to see.

If we can keep our clients happy, then they will continue to come back to us for their models, in the same manner as they have for all these past years.

Now we just need you to play your part to ensure you have the best possible chance of being selected by them when they are looking for someone just like you.

Many of us have cats, dogs, rabbits – even hamsters, guinea pigs and perhaps ponies (!) that we think could be star pets, but getting the right photographs is essential.

Here are our top tips to ensure that the images you send us are the ones that are likely to help bring in the work for your pet model.

1 Wait for your pet to be in a good mood before conducting the shoot. Make sure he or she is well rested, well fed and ready to have some fun. If your pet is tired, hungry and grumpy, then the star pet qualities might not shine through!

2 Check your pet is looking his or her best. If they have fur, given them a good brush to remove any loose hair and tidy them up a bit. Clean their eyes, check their paws, claws or feet and make sure their teeth are looking good if they are likely to show.

3 Find a nice, quiet place to conduct your shoot in. Your pet may well be agitated if there are too many people around or if there is too much noise. You want them to be calm, well behaved and ready to respond in the way you need them to for your shoot.

4 Keep backgrounds uncluttered so we can clearly see your pet within the setting. Studio-style shots against a plan background are always great, but we would also like to see your beautiful bunny on leafy green grass and your pup playing happily in the woods, for example.

5 Let’s have some nice still model poses and some action shots as well! We’d love to see your cute kitten chasing a piece of wool or your puppy playing with a ball. Again, just make sure we can see his or her face clearly.

6 You can take your pictures on your phone but make sure they are high resolution and that you do not compress them or make them smaller when you save, upload or send them. If you do, they could end up blurred or pixelated. We need your pet pictures to be sharp and clear.

7 Please send us colour photographs but please don’t put them through any filters or edit them in any way. We need to see you star pet as he or she really looks.

8 Finally, have fun with your photo shoot. Putting your pet forward for modelling needs to be fun for both you and your lovely bundle of fur. While we need you to ensure your photographs show all the creature features we need to see, we also want you and your perfect pup or cute kitten to have a good time.

(ends)

We’re talking about pet modelling, lovingly referred to by Models Direct as “Starpets”.

It’s no secret that the great British public are huge animal lovers. Pet ownership per capita is amongst the highest in the world, and the (then seemingly endless) lockdowns have only heightened our desire to share happy memories with cuddly four-legged chums, feathered friends and scaly companions. Pets are a wonderful addition to any household, because animals can bring happiness, companionship and responsibility (the latter particularly applies to youngsters).

So, with the number of pets in the UK at an all-time high, this year is the perfect time to ponder if your pampered pooch or other loyal pet could help our clients with their modelling requirements.

Many brands have suffered recently due to the pandemic, so the run-up before Spring could be a bumper time for companies to restore some customer attention in the form of effective advertising campaigns. Many of our high profile clients come to us looking for the ideal dog, cat or rabbit, and we’re more than happy to put forward a shortlist of pets on our books which we think will generate interest from their campaigns. We don’t discriminate either! Though canines and felines are more popular in front of cameras, we like to hear from people who own horses, birds and reptiles, as they can all contribute to eye-catching marketing campaigns.

One of our rabbits, Elliott, recently “hopped to it” in a wonderful assignment for Coco & Eve, a beauty product company loved by fashion editors all around the world. They needed an adorable bunny to be photographed for their website to help get across a cruelty-free & vegan message to their customers. With distinctive fur and being the epitome of health, Elliott couldn’t have been better placed, and Coco & Eve were delighted with the results.

We’ve been asked many times by renowned clients for the very best in animal models. One of our favourites was for luxury fashion brand  Mulberry, who have used French Bulldogs and Miniature Schnauzers clad in stylish knitwear to dazzling effect. Where else would clients go for their search for top quality animal models? We’ve been the first port-of-call for a string of companies for decades…it’s what we do!

Another success animal shoot was for Pet Lab, who specialise in supplements to keep dogs at the peak of their health. They supply such products as chews for supple joints and shiny coats, as well as dental treats and probiotic goodies. We put forward Dudley – a delightful French Bulldog – and they were so taken with his charms that they couldn’t refuse Dudley’s services!

With the worst of the pandemic behind us (fingers and paws crossed), 2022 could be the year that sees your talented pet gain fame as one of our Starpets.

Fill out a simple application, and our lovely booking team will take it from there!