And summer is a distant memory.

But don’t let the winter blues stand in your way. The winter months are a phenomenal time to update your portfolio. Stunning backdrops and clear, unblemished skies are just two reasons to get outdoors and start snapping away. Plus – and this always needs reinforcing – clients always look for models who have taken the time to regularly enhance their portfolios with contemporary and updated reels and photos. It means that models care about being selected and don’t rest on their laurels. As our clients always choose which of our models they want for their assignments, winter is another perfect opportunity to let them see what you have to offer them.

We always look at a model’s portfolio if they tell us they haven’t been picked since applying with us after a few weeks. The modelling industry is competitive, so always looking for new ways to stand out is imperative. It’s not surprising that some models don’t get selected because they haven’t been keeping their portfolio fresh – just uploading a handful of shots won’t cut it. Models must keep their portfolios ticking over with a variety of snaps and poses. Persistence often pays off.

And wintery shots can spark a revival in a model’s stagnant portfolio. Just as we pray for sunshine in summer, many of us cross fingers for a blast of pure, powdery snow.

Snow needn’t been the definitive theme for spectacular and effective portfolio images. Winter is an atmospheric season. There are wonderful photos to be taken and reels to made by using dramatic winter scenery not often seen throughout the year. Use the wintery setting to your advantage.

Frozen lakes and snow-capped hills will give your shoots a feeling of magnitude. Sure, you should always be the focus of the photo or reel, but an impressive backdrop can improve the wow factor.

We have plenty of Christmas assignments – well, it is the busiest time of the year for most of our clients. Retailers will be looking for new modelling talent to help them sell more products to customers. Some will be on the hunt for models who look perfect in woolly jumpers and hats; others will favour more cheeky models posing in Santa hats and boots. Some want household pets to be featured in their Christmas campaigns. Whatever angle you want to go with, there’s no point staying indoors. Get out there and see how the winter months can assist your portfolio pictures.

Remember, too, that many of our clients come to us well in advance of Christmas. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to update portfolio photos a few weeks before the festive period. That’s not to say that January and February is a quite period for us; the two months aren’t as busy as December, but we’re a 365 day-a-year agency, so we have a lot more jobs than you might think in the New Year.

Winter, we salute you!

A showreel can be an excellent way of showing prospective employees just what you are capable of – and from Models Direct’s point of view helps us to promote you to our clients.

Once you have made your showreel it can be uploaded to your e-portfolio, giving us and those we find models and actors for, another window to your skills and capabilities.

Not only could a showreel take you one step closer to your dream of appearing in advertisements, but it could also eventually lead to television programmes and even movies.

Models Direct has a broad spectrum of clients on its books who make requests for male, female, child and other types of model.

Having a showreel can set you apart from everyone else and almost act as an audition for a role – without you having to do anything else once it has been created and uploaded.

So where do you start?

As with anything creative, it is always a good idea to seek inspiration from what other people have done.

We are not suggesting you copy the showreels of other models and actors, but by watching their videos you can see what works and what doesn’t.

Jot down a few notes as you go when something strikes you as working especially well.

Then look at what footage you already have that could be included…

Have you appeared in video material before, whether on an assignment you have completed for Models Direct or others?

Take your time going through this film and choosing only the sections that you feel show you at your very best.

Resist the temptation to include everything – your showreel has to be short and punchy to hold the attention.

If you don’t have any existing video then make some.

Let’s see you introducing yourself, modelling different outfits and interacting with others in an interesting and engaging manner.

Again, keep it tight, bright and interesting.

Ensure your very best material comes at the beginning and end of the showreel so you grab the attention of the viewer from the start and leave them with a good impression at the end.

You may well have editing software on your laptop, tablet or phone already.

If not, you should be able to download some from a reputable and trustworthy website. This is usually fairly straightforward to use.

Once you have made your showreel, show it to friends and family members and ask them for their honest opinion.

Take their criticisms on board – all of us get too close to whatever it is we are creating and need to hear the truth from others about it.

Then, make the changes, check it again and when you are ready upload it to your e-portfolio.

Now you are ready to go!

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!”

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.

Catch good lighting
Without a shadow of a doubt (no pun intended here!), good lighting is key to making your outfit selfie pop up. You want to be the centre of attention in your images minus any distractions such as shadows, dark, blurry areas and objects that aren’t a necessary addition to your pic. All eyes should be on you.
If you’ve got the almost perfect pic but need to make some edits then go ahead and crop out what you don’t need or switch up the contrasting colours to help it stand out. Whether you’re a female model or a senior one, these points will be sure to help!

Take a full image of your outfit

If you’re taking an outfit selfie it only makes sense to go for an image that encompasses the outfit in its full glory. Your choice of ensemble for your outfit should be showcased and added to your ePortfolio collection, after all that’s what a selfie outfit is for.

Glow up with accessories

To accessorise or not to accessorise, that is the question. Well, it really shouldn’t be if you’re out to light up your Instagram feeds and of course your ePortfolio. Models Direct has been seeing clutch bags (mini and oversized), silver jewellery and cute tights on the fashion scene so whether or not you have these accessories in your drawer or jewellery box, get some extras out that you could team up with your look and get snapping.

Bring along your friends

Friends, besties, to all the people you have in your friend’s circle, invite them over. They’ll cheer you on and support you (because that’s what true friends do!) and chances are, you’ll slay your pics! Have some of them join you too and these to your feeds.

Polish up like a profesh photographer

What we mean is, to use editing apps to refine your images if you need to. We know we say not to use filters, but editing is fine especially if you have to get things like the colour balance right if you’ve snapped a spectacular piece. Our suggestions? Try out Adobe Photoshop Camera, Snapseed and Lightroom Photo and Video Editor if you already haven’t.

We hope these five tips take your top spot for outfit selfie ideas for your Insta feed and other socials, not to forget your modelling ePortfolio!

Reels are short film clips. They are usually entertaining, but can be equally educational, depending on what tickle’s the creator’s fancy. Models should consider reels as a vital tool in self-marketing. They can be used in conjunction with our new ePortfolios, so the scope for promoting yourself to wider audiences really is limitless. As long as models know that reels are beneficial to their own careers (and can be a hoot to star in and create), then it’s all good!

They are often considered a clone or spin-off from TikTok. The company Meta hit the headlines in 2021, when it changed its name from Facebook and acquired Instagram. So, for the purpose of this blog, we’ll show you how to create reels using Instagram as outlined by Meta’s official guidance.

We’re sure most of you are familiar with Instagram. However, it’s worth noting that Instagram Reels can only be done on certain phones (they should be easy to create on most of the up-to-date models of iPhone and Androids, although it may be impossible to get started on older models of phone). Such is life!

To get started

First off – what exactly can you expect from Instagram Reels on the Instagram app?

In short, Reels is a new video feature available on Instagram (hence the capital “R”). It allows users to record and edit short videos up to 60 seconds in the Instagram Camera (though as Reels will be continuingly developing, the duration will probably increase, and some users benefit from 90 second clips). Users can either add effects and music to their  reels, or use their own original audio.

Below are the easiest steps to follow to record a reel from the app, although sometimes the best form of attack is to experiment. Everyone’s different!

Note: Reels can be created directly from the Instagram Stories menu – positioned either between the default “Normal” mode and “Create” mode, or on the bottom menu next to “Story”. It might depend on your phone or app, but we’re sure you’ll get there without any trouble.

To proceed

Step 1. Tap the “plus sign” icon at the top. Alternatively, swipe right anywhere in the feed.

Step 2. Scroll to “Reels” at the bottom.

Step 3. Tap and hold the “Play” button (it’s the one with a right arrow). This allows you to record a clip. You can also tap it once to start, and again to finish recording. Top tip: you can also tap your camera roll in the bottom left to add a video from your camera roll.

Step 4. Tap the “watch” button (this is a black and white icon with a left arrow). If you’re happy with your recording, click on “Done” in the bottom right.

Step 5. If you have an Android phone, tap the black and white icon with a right arrow to add stickers, drawings or text to your recorded reel. Use the slider at the bottom. If you have an iPhone, click on “Preview”. See, it really does depend on the make of your phone!

Step 6. Tap “Share to”. Then tap “Cover” to change your cover photo and caption.

Step 7. If you want to share your reel to your story, tap “Stories”.

Step 8. Tap “Next”. Then tap “Share”.

The progress bar at the top shows how long you’ve recorded for.

It’ll probably be a little bit of trial-and-error for some of you, but with a little patience, it’ll be a piece of cake for most!

Reels should be the way forward for a lot of models. In no time at all, you’ll be reeling off clip after clip, promoting yourself even more to a wider audience!

Tip 1: Be you

It’s very tempting to check out how other Instagrammers’ travel feeds are shaping up because that’s part and parcel of being an active Insta user, no doubt. However, when you start frequently mirroring their look, that’s when you should refocus and just be yourself. Don’t forget you have your own creativity and individuality to exhibit, and ultimately that’ll draw others even more into your feeds – be the real you!

Tip 2: Try a different angle

Sometimes you can get warped into doing the same thing a million times because that’s how you think it should be done. That’s not the case though especially when you’re tapping into your creative side. See if you can take a shot at a different, unusual angle instead of what you and others usually do. Experiment with compositions: try zooming in, zooming out, taking low and high shots, framing your images – perhaps with an arch or greenery, enabling eyes to follow patterns and prepositions.

Try something extraordinary instead of ordinary!

Tip 3: Get up early

If you want an IG shot that beats the crowd and captures softer lighting, then wake up early to capture that which accompanies the gorgeous sunrise. The sky’s painted with beautiful colours that you can’t get during the day. The same can be said for sunset – a fantastic time to get some more encapsulating shots on your camera roll. There’s nothing quite like a calmer morning and chances are that even the locals won’t be up that early either.

Tip 4: Don’t orchestrate your shots

Sometimes we overthink what we’re doing and take away some authentic elements because we want to get it perfect. The rawness and energy behind a shot can be achieved if you just start snapping in the middle of whatever it is you’re doing or seeing. Just spontaneously taking in the moment, the buzz and the natural surroundings without any added staged glitz to make it more glamorous can make a perfect travel snap or any snap for that matter.

Tip 5: Connect with local photographers via Insta

What better way to get inside advice than to connect with local photographers. They can offer the best areas, times and routes to use when shooting those travel pics. The location hashtag will help develop more traffic and visibility of your feeds.

We hope you find these top tips helpful when you get clicking and snapping. Enjoy your holidays and remember to add your images to your modelling portfolio. 

Alicia Keys to Reese Witherspoon, TikTok is an A to Z of celebs and everyday people creating some fantastic material for the world to see, and we couldn’t wait to join them. So, it’s really (and finally) happening now and we couldn’t resist, what with all our Models Direct platforms doing brilliantly and with the 3.7 million active UK users that are scrolling through their TikTok feeds, it’s been a no brainer. We wanted to capture the TikTok generation and add this to our content and increase engagement with our long-standing modelling agency.

Our dedicated team are going to give you the best clips to populate your feed, and you never know, some may go viral but for now, we’re looking to get some short snappy videos out there and gain some traction for likeable and shareable content.

Our stance forever has been that we want to represent real people – everyday normal people who go out, do the shopping, go to school, go to work – you catch our drift. It’s all well and good having that perfectly structured model that walks down famous runways but what about the rest of us?

That’s where we’ve stepped in and for 30 years, which has been amazing every step of the way as we’ve expanded our services, Models Direct have had thousands of everyday people walk through our doors and have been paid for modelling work, which gives us so much pride in what we promote – fair access to modelling opportunities encouraging diversity and inclusion.

What to look out for

We’ll be dropping in Gen Z slang when we add our content to this amazing new cultural landscape that’s shaping our digital world. Don’t be surprised if you see some funky captions, so if you’re not on the app just yet, there are captions floating all over the internet to help. You’ll know what POV and OOMF mean in next to no time!

We’ll be pushing trends, hashtags and edits straight to your phone to let you the latest on our models, and their modelling assignments with behind-the-scenes content to delight your senses, which brings us to the next exciting part!

TikTok videos created on set

We’re also asking our talent if they’d like to create their own TikTok feedback video which they can do so by sending them to bookings@modeldirect.com. Seeing the experience through their eyes will be quite something and invaluable for those who haven’t just dipped their feet into our waters, and even for those who are interested in what everyone is getting up to. We hope it’ll inspire and motivate us all to push further, push boundaries and push the great work we have our models collaborating on with our prestigious and well-known brands.

Wrapping it up

Follow us for the latest! We promise you’ll enjoy the content which will keep you scrolling for more on what’s happening at our agency. Join us on our TikTok revolution, we can’t wait to meet you there and don’t forget to share and like what you see.

There are so many benefits to this social media platform for those who work within our industry, from using it to showcase their work through to keeping in touch and making new connections.

It can be a great way of finding out about potential jobs, picking up tips from others and giving those you want to promote yourself to, the chance to see you as you want to be seen.

At Models Direct we encourage all our models to follow us on Instagram!

That way you can view our stories, enjoy our highlights, keep on top of our news and find regular links to our many helpful blogs….

You can also find out more about what goes on behind the scenes at our assignments and follow our models of all ages when they step out in front of the camera.

Through Instagram you can view final footage and stills from our models’ commercial and lifestyle work, giving you real insight into the clients we work with and the jobs we book for.

You can see our own professional staff in action too – as we often post snippets of our team members as they go about their daily business.

All in all, it’s a great way to find out how we work – and how you will work – if you join us.

In recent times, Instagram has also become an invaluable tool for our models and, indeed, for those working in the modelling industry right across the world.

From well-known names to those just starting out, most models use it as a platform through which to showcase their work.

Many even set up a dedicated account for their modelling, where they post their own behind the scenes photos and footage, as well as the final, edited piece of work.

This might be a film, commercial, promotional video, brochure, website or even product packaging.

All of this can be displayed colourfully and professionally on Instagram, so the platform almost becomes like a secondary e-portfolio for you.

The explosion in social media over recent years has brought many benefits to both experienced models and those hoping to break into the industry.

The trick is to use it carefully and sensibly, making it work for you and helping you get to where you want to be! If you have any questions regarding this please don’t hesitate to ask one of the team.

Why choose a model for your campaign?

We begin with this question, especially if you are unsure or contemplating the idea with your marketing team, but why even choose a model to be the centre stage of your company’s campaign? The answer is real human connection. Your target audience will be able to relate to your product or service better if there is something real behind the story you want to convey, and if that means a human (or even animal) portraying that then it could become something quite remarkable!

How much would it cost to hire a model? 

After deciding that a model would be the best feature of an upcoming marketing campaign, you will want to know how much to budget for them. You might think that it is incredibly expensive and your marketing costs will be compromised. Take it from us, a 30-year old, well-established modelling and talent agency, that it is not as costly as you may believe.  

Here is a snapshot of some of the factors that can determine the cost of hiring:

Experience in the business 

The longer they have been in the industry, the more exposure, practice and established connections they have made over time as a professional model, which will naturally mean their rate of pay will be higher. However, new models can also be just as professional and influential so you may want to opt for them if your budget is limited. 

Our modelling agency always welcomes newcomers and we have first-hand examples of the great success we have had not just from our long-running models but our new ones too. 

Social media presence 

If a model has an impressive following on social media, chances are that they will be higher in demand for work. They will increase your marketing campaign’s exposure and reach because who doesn’t like to see someone they can relate to? However, this could come at a higher budget. 

Location of modelling assignment 

Another factor to consider is the location of the work. If you have decided that they will need to work further afield, travel will be reimbursed as a courtesy of their time and skills. 

Duration of the project

Finally, how many hours put into the assignment will naturally determine how much you will need to put aside for your model – the longer the project, the more to pay. So, once you’ve finalised your campaign’s projection, you will have a better idea of how long it will take to complete. 

The budget takeaway

With all of these factors to bear in mind, hiring the right model – whether it is a human or animal – will be the key to successful advertising. If you would like to go ahead, our team of modelling experts can help select the right model that matches your requirements. We will then work through our models’ profiles and secure those who closely match your specification for you to then choose from. It is as simple as that! Models Direct take away the stress and pressure of finding a model for you so that you can concentrate on what matters the most – creating a memorable campaign with amazing models on board. 

If you have any questions or comments, please get in touch with our team today who can help.