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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Focal Point Digital

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

Marc Cain

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

The Avid Seamstress

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here’s the list of the main types:

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

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

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

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

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

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

We offer paid, part-time work to a range of different models who may be seeking all sorts of different modelling work.

From lifestyle and commercial modelling to promotional modelling work, our assignments also vary between jobs of just a few hours up to work for several days.

Our clients come to us with bookings that are right here in Oxford, as well as jobs that may be in area parts of the UK or even abroad.

Once models are signed up with us, they may be put forward to any client offering the kind of work they have requested and requiring a model of their age, look and body type.

Our clients then make the final decision as to who they would like and then we discuss the job, the fee and all other details, including duration and location, with the chosen model.

It is entirely up to our model whether or not they would like to accept the booking.

We have child and teen models on our books who are still at school, as well as students at college or university.

We have female and male models who have full or part-time jobs, families to look after and busy social lives.

They all accept work from us as and when it fits in with them – after all, it has to be right for them, as well as for us and the client.

One of our young male models accepted an assignment modelling football kit for Oxford United.

This is what he told us afterwards about how modelling for Models Direct works for him.

“Models Direct is absolutely easy to deal with and leaves any model (beginning, starting out in the industry or professional) at ease.

“They plan and book everything, which makes being a freelance model a lot easier.

“It also makes keeping a part-time job or working full-time much more realistic.

“I really embrace the process of Models Direct.”
Apply here to find out more about working with us.

And what teenager doesn’t like having fun – isn’t that what this period of our lives is all about?

Here at Models Direct, our teen models are aged between 12 and 17 and can be of any background, size, body shape and appearance.

Our clients approach us for teen models in all their wonderful variety – after all, they want real-looking models who reflect our young people as they truly are.

Our teen models might be asked to model teen clothing or other products aimed at their age group or they may be required to form part of a modelling family for a shoot.

Here at Models Direct, we have vast experience of working with babies, toddlers, children and teenagers.

We are fully vetted and accredited by the UK government and are a genuine, registered employment agency.

We understand all the safeguarding issues around working with youngsters and we investigate each and every new client and assignment thoroughly.

We also require our teen models to be accompanied on each modelling job by a parent or guardian.

So, what should you do if you are a teenager or the parent of a teenager who is interested in modelling?

Firstly, we would ask both parents and potential models to read the reviews left for us by our existing teen models and their parents.

This will give you all a good insight into the kind of work we offer and what our models and their families think of it.

Then, if you are interested, fill in our form and wait for us to get in touch.

Please note down any questions you might have to be sure you feel our friendly agent has answered all of your queries during the discussion.

If we decide your teenager is suitable – and you decide we are the agency you are looking for – then we will give you an e-portfolio.

This completely secure portal is where you or your teen can regularly upload images so we can see exactly what they look like at any given time.

This is vital – especially with teenagers who change so often – as we can only put young people forward for work if we can see their photographs are recent.

If this is the case, then when clients approach us for a teen model meeting your younger’s description we will include them in a selection for the client to choose from.

Our teen models love having new experiences with us.

After his very first assignment, Rashan told us:

“As this was my first modelling assignment I didn’t know what to expect but Models Direct put me at ease from start to finish.

“I was given all the information I needed to understand what was expected of me and what I could expect on the day.

“Everyone was very friendly and it was a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

“I really enjoyed the whole experience and can’t wait for my next shoot!”

And Rianna said:

“I was a bit nervous to be working with other people who were older than me, however, once I got there and met everyone, it was so fun.

“It was so exciting and I had lots of fun meeting new people.

“It is something that I would be very happy to do again and again.

“The most enjoyable part of the assignment was getting to meet other models like me who were doing their first job as well.”

To find out more about teen modelling, fill in our form.

So, it is important to do everything you can to reassure and prepare them.

First of all, it’s essential to know that your point of contact here at Models Direct will do all they can to help you prepare your child.

They will give you lots of information about the photo or film shoot and tell you whether you need to dress your child in a particular way or bring any special props from home.

They will also suggest you bring plenty of toys, games and refreshments to keep them busy when they are not required on set.

If they have the information, they will let you know who will be there to meet you on the day, the people the crew is likely to include and whether any other child models are taking part.

Once you have all this information, you can spend a little time practising striking poses with your child.

The best way of doing this is to take them to a mirror – then get them to try out a few expressions: happy, sad, quizzical and thoughtful, perhaps.

Ask them to make funny, silly faces and then to be completely normal again.

Try to make them laugh to show them how much fun performing for the camera can be and try different poses with them sitting on a chair, lying on a cushion and standing up.

Then, get out some of their toys or books and ask them to play or read while you take a few more photos.

Turn a light or two on and gently direct it towards them, then ask them to look up at you and smile as you take another round of snaps.

Click away as they play, calling for their attention from time to time to get them to look up.

The team on the day will know how to get the very best from your little one and from the other models on set – but practising striking a few poses ahead of time will certainly help put your child at ease.

OK, my guess is you thought of Kate Moss or maybe Naomi Campbell or Kylie Jenner?

Or perhaps the image that sprang to mind was a male model – perhaps David Gandy or Sean O’Pry?

Of course, we think of all these famous faces whenever modelling is discussed or imagined – but the reality is that we could not be further from the truth.

The vast majority of those who model are everyday models – people just like you and me.

They may be everyday male or female and they may be babies, children or teenagers.

They may also be petite, tall or plus-size – they may be mature models, models that put themselves forward as a family group and they may even be pet models.

Yes, the modelling industry is truly keeping it real these days.

We need real people to play the parts of other real people because we are all ultimately the very real consumers that our clients are hoping to appeal.

Why don’t you spend a little time watching advertising or campaigns to see for yourself?

Yes, of course, the high fashion houses and beauty brands employ celebrities and super-models to help them promote their superior products.

But those adverts do not reflect the very real ways in which most of us spend our money – at supermarkets and high street shops, buying services from banks and insurance companies, and booking holidays, train tickets and days out.

Most of the ads you see every day will feature the smiling faces of parents, grandparents, children and people going about their daily jobs and pastimes.

These are the faces of everyday models playing the parts of everyday people.

And, of course, there may also be a cuddly kitten or bouncing baby featured too – just for that little bit of ahh factor!

Our everyday models don’t have to have modelled before.

In fact, many of our models don’t have any previous experience when they sign up to join us.

We receive a steady stream of requests for everyday models from our very varied clients and we supply them with a selection to match their requirements.

They then choose who they would like for the assignment.

At Models Direct, we don’t represent the Kate Mosses and David Gandys of this world – no, we have our feet firmly on the ground.

We represent everyday models seeking fun, paid, part-time work.

We represent people just like you!

To find out more about joining us, read the reviews from our other everyday models, then fill in our form, send us a photo and one of our agents will be in touch to explain more.

We’re sure you have but a gentle reminder from our side is always helpful, just in case you haven’t had the chance to review your portfolio, which is why we’re sending this blog out to you.

For our baby models, child models, teens and adults, and even for our Star Pets, we need up-to-date pics and details as part of your ePortfolio profile. Our MD team needs your current look to accurately represent you, right this very moment, and if we need to get a hold of you, we’re dialling the right number or sending an email to the right address.

Our booking process happens behind the scenes where our expert modelling coordinators put forward our models who match our client’s modelling brief and requirements.

So, if yours aren’t current, then we might be putting a version of you in the past that the client would have been interested in then but not now.

This can be disappointing for models to learn if they’ve reached close to closing a modelling deal but are yet so far and have to be turned down.

Modelling requirements can vary from client to client quite drastically as everyone is requesting a different talent so being as close to the look that represents you, your baby, child or teen right now is essential.

We also want to avoid trying to get hold of a selected model and either their number is out of service or the registered email address has bounced. Luckily, this doesn’t happen often, and we usually do get in touch with our talent to let them know the good news.

How often should you update your ePortfolio?

Babies – every 6-8 weeks

Children – every 3 months

Teens – every 6 months

Adults – every 6 months

Young pets – every 3 months

Older pets – every 6-12 months

Measurements such as height, weight, and shoe size, should be updated along with photos, especially for babies and children as they change so quickly. For more information on how to check these, head over to this blog.

If there are any specific changes such as hair cuts, hair colouring, piercings, tattoos, braces, weight loss or weight gain, let us know by sending over pics and updating your measurements section.

The takeaway

Models should make sure their photos and details are up to date so that their chances of being matched to a client’s marketing vision doesn’t end in a no deal.

Sometimes our models are booked as soon as they’ve registered with us and sometimes it takes time. Just remember to keep those images fresh, and fun and show off your personality. As for your contact details and measurements, be sure to let us know of any changes too!

Thanks for reading and thanks for being a registered MD talent!

So, where should teen models and their parents start?

Firstly, always work with a trusted, reputable agency. That way you know that you and your teen will be looked after every step of the way.

Here at Models Direct, we have worked with teen models and their parents for more than three decades now.

We also work with babies, toddlers and children, so we are highly experienced at ensuring the work is suitable and that our young models will be treated properly.

If your teenage boy or girl is interested in modelling, then why not sit down together and take the time to read some of the reviews from other youngsters and their parents who have worked with us?

Also have a look at some of our blogs to find out more about our clients, the assignments they offer and the work our teen models undertake for them.

Next, have a good chat about the realities of modelling.

Ask your teen whether they think they have the confidence to step out in front of a camera.

Will they be happy to pose, act and interact with other models?

Are they able to listen to instructions and act upon them?

And most of all, do they think they will enjoy modelling?

After all, the most important thing about modelling is that it is fun…

If you and your teen then decide to proceed, fill in our form and send us some photographs.

We will then get in touch to explain more about how the process works.

If your son or daughter then does join us, you will be asked to maintain an e-portfolio for them, regularly updating their photos and information.

This will enable us to put them forward for any suitable work.

Suitable work means anything that is age appropriate, meets their needs in terms of the kind of modelling work you have suggested they might like and where our client has requested someone matching their description.

However, our clients always make the final choice from the shortlist of models we give them, so the final stage is completely out of our hands.

But, if your teen is chosen, we will then be in touch with you again to explain more about the assignment and to tell you where you need to go and when.

From that point on, you can call us at any time if you have any questions or concerns.

And you can rest assured that on the day itself your teen will be working with a team that is experienced at working with young people – and, of course, you will be there on set too.

We love it when new teen models join us and then stay on with us into adulthood.

Teen modelling can be a great confidence booster and a superb part-time hobby for young people.

And, of course, it gives them a little extra in their pocket to save up or spend on themselves – so what could be better!

As you know, at Models Direct we love nothing more than seeing superb new photos uploaded on to your e-portfolio.

And we always suggest taking great new pictures that tie in with the season so they look fresh and up to date.

Summer, of course, is a fabulous time to do this because (on the whole!) the weather is better, the colours are more vivid and there are lots of great outdoor locations to choose from.

Female and male models should ask a friend or relative to help them out by stepping in to act as their photographer for a couple of hours. Then follow our top tips…

Mums and dads of baby and child models can, of course, take snaps of their little ones themselves.

So where could you go to get some stunning outdoor modelling shots this summer?

Well, you don’t have to venture too far unless you want to!

If you have a garden or outside space with some lovely greens and seasonal colour, then start there.

Otherwise, head off to your nearest park or public garden, where you could take some great photos in front of leafy trees and vibrant flowerbeds.

Think about whether you have a pretty woodland, lovely lake or picturesque river close by.

You could get some fantastic new pictures and perhaps have a picnic or a fun afternoon out at the same time.

Days out to the beach, countryside or other beauty spots can, of course, also make fabulous locations for summer photography.

Just try to ensure that no-one else is in the background and that you and whatever you are wearing stands out clearly against your scenic background.

Be wary of taking your pictures in bright, glaring sunlight – stand in the shade if the sunlight is too bright and always ensure the sun is behind the photographer.

Existing models can then head home afterwards, select the best pictures and upload them to their e-portfolio.

Those who have not yet joined us can upload a few of their new summer modelling shots with their application form.

So plan a date, check the weather on the day and then get out and about!

We can’t wait to see your sizzling new summer shots  – and some of the beautiful places you have visited!

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!