It’s a fair enough request. We’ve never shied away from informing our clients and models how we conduct our work. A level of transparency is beneficial to a sound working process, so we’re happy to tell others how we book models for all assignments.

We initially receive a brief from our clients, asking for the models we think will serve the client’s needs the best. These briefs usually come by email. We receive several of them daily, as our loyal client list is the most extensive in the UK. A client’s brief can be as simple as “Male model wanted for commercial shoot”, or as detailed as “Mature model aged 65 years – 75 years required for short video as part of a government advert in the EC2N area of London.” A lot of briefs give the specific dates the shoot will take place on. We gave London as an example, but it’s important to know that we operate anywhere in the UK, Ireland and in other countries farther afield – see the fabulous photo of our model Darin, who packed his passport and was whisked off to Spain for a sunny photo shoot.  

After reading briefs, it’s over to our team. We consist of experienced booking professionals who know exactly what our clients need for successful marketing assignments and commercial adverts.

Our team study registered models, gathering their looks, geographical locations and ages, all of which match the brief. We’ll then recommend them to the client in question, which includes giving them access to a model’s all-important portfolio.

The client will then spend time perusing our recommendations before telling us which model (s) they’d like us to contact with the good news. We’ll get in touch with models to offer them the assignment. At this stage, any model can accept or refuse the assignment. We understand that circumstances change, so the timing of the assignment might not be convenient for some models.

When models accept the job (and in most cases they do), we’ll tell our client and arrange all the necessary booking details at our office. This includes informing the model:

• The client’s name and chief contact on the day.
• The location of the assignment.
• Timings of the assignment.
• Any necessary details, e.g. specific clothing to take.
• Their fee (which is paid to all models within 5 working days upon completion of the job)
• Our booking agent’s details.
• That we keep in touch with models prior, during and after their booking.

Key points for all models to know are:

• If you haven’t been offered work sooner than you’d expect, don’t give up. Modelling is competitive, so keep your portfolios updated with current photos.
• We have a sixth sense in knowing what types of models our clients are looking for, but it’s always our client’s decision which models are picked.
• If you refuse an assignment once chosen, we won’t treat you any differently when looking for future bookings.
• We’re always available to speak to for advice, tips and help.

Both clients and models respect our booking process for being straightforward and effective.

It’s proven to be successful for decades. We look forward to booking you as one of our next models, whether it’s part of a film shoot in Devon or a photo session in Scotland. We cover all corners of the UK, giving models better opportunities to shine on assignment.  

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.

Regrets are natural. They could be in your personal life or in your career. You may regret not trying out for a sports team or playing an instrument. Sometimes the reason is logical; at other times a little bit of self-doubt creeps in to ruin a perfectly good opportunity. Occasionally this self-doubt is irreversible: that is to say, once you have a feeling of scepticism or uncertainty, you never get over it and won’t look to conquer these negative sentiments. When this happens, self-doubt has won. They’ll be other chances to beat it, but for now, the only thing that has stopped you in your tracks is a lack of confidence…

Confidence – a “faith” in oneself or one’s abilities – is an important factor in modelling. Let’s go back to the original question, “What if…?” If you’ve ever given real consideration to becoming a model, you might already be half-way there. It’s probably a bit of self-awareness and lack of confidence that has proved the defining obstacle to your modelling dreams. 

A lot of people aren’t aware of the genuine prospects modelling can provide: the industry is now openly looking for models of all sizes, shapes, backgrounds, talents and ages (yes, that includes toddlers to the more mature models). And it’s not just clothes or fashion modelling that clients look for either. Unique features are like gold dust, so if you have a distinctive physical characteristic or a particular attribute that stands out, use it to your advantage! Note: we use the word “unique” to mean “special” or “exceptional”, not “different”. As a prospective model, you need to identify your valued assets and have the confidence to take the next step into modelling – and that’s knowing your plus points and getting in touch with Models Direct!

Allow us to be philosophical for a minute. The above definition of confidence is true enough (“A faith in oneself or one’s abilities”), but let’s delve deeper. “Faith” is regarded as a belief without evidence. Here are two examples of confidence and faith, both with different connotations:

1. If you tell a friend that you have “faith” in them in running a full marathon in two hours, you’re not being sincere (after all, no one has ever accomplished a sub-two hour marathon!). All you’re really doing is being over-optimistic to show your support and to psych up your friend. It’s harmless, but ultimately doesn’t mean a lot – you’re not confident at all they’ll be able to run 26 miles in under 120 minutes…who would be?

2. You earnestly tell a would-be model friend they should consider modelling. “But why?” you hear them cry, “I couldn’t do it, could I?” You tell them you have “faith” in their qualities – whether facial features, unique selling points or simply because you know a bit about the industry and what some clients are looking for. You are being genuine in your “faith” because the evidence is there in front of you – the evidence is your friend, staring at you! Your sincere comments then get your friend to thinking about becoming a model. And what did it take? Just a few honest words to increase their confidence. Perhaps, simply, no one ever told your friend they’ve got modelling potential in the first place. What a shame.

Confidence can be either self-appointed or gained. A lot of famous models questioned their potential before their successful careers. In many interviews, Cara Delevingne stated frankly she was bullied at school and felt no sense of self-worth. Look at her now! Leading up to inventing the light bulb, Thomas Edison failed so many times he nearly gave up. But, as we know, he didn’t, and went on to quip, “I have not failed ten thousand times—I’ve successfully found ten thousand ways that will not work.”

There are many things that hold certain people back: children, work, lack of motivation. These are all viable, and people shouldn’t be judged on these alone. A fear of failure is also justifiable, but is easier to overcome. It comes down to needing that spark of confidence to take them to the next level. Don’t give up at the first sign of failure: use it as a learning curve to gain more knowledge and to come back stronger. 

Confidence – everyone has the ability to have it and to use it. But treat it with respect. Too much of it can sour a relationship (personal or business) and can even prevent you from accepting help or ideas from others. Use it wisely. “Confidence won’t always produce results, but it will give you the best possible chance.”

Our advice is straightforward. Do a little research, and if you’re seriously thinking about modelling in any capacity, please get in touch. We’ll consider your look and are happy to discuss anything with you. We know what to look for. Don’t look back at a missed opportunity by mulling over the “What if…?” question. Have the confidence to take the first move. After all, you have nothing to lose.

We’ll leave you on a humorous note. There’s one activity where self-doubt is absolutely necessary to avoid repeat disasters: “If at first you don’t succeed, maybe skydiving isn’t for you.” And if you try it again after an unsuccessful first time, you must be really confident. Or bonkers.

Running out of ideas on what to watch whilst in quarantine? Seen Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney + back to back but want something different?

Well, since Models Direct is a long-standing modelling agency always on the lookout for new models (even during these unprecedented times). We’ve always got our eyes peeled for the newest trends and the latest happening in the modelling industry.

So, we’ve found something for all you budding models out there to watch! You need to head over to BBC Three where an insightful four-part series has just aired its first episode (this Sunday just gone) on our screens – Models: Street To Catwalk. Take it from us, you’ll want to get comfy, cosy and dig into something delish whilst watching this.

What it’s all about

Models: Street To Catwalk takes us on the path of three young gorgeous models who were scouted by a UK modelling agency. The programme will give any prospective models out there a behind-the-scenes pass to what goes on within the industry. You’ll discover the peaks and troughs, achievements and challenges that these young models are journeying through to not just make it into the modelling world but to make it BIG!

For any of you out there reading this and have felt unsure about venturing into this field, this programme opens the doors and reveals how it is for models breaking into the arena. Modelling agencies are matching the demands of consumers. Consumers want to see a real representation of models who bring a unique, flair of diversity. Consumers want to see models who they feel will represent them and who they can relate to. If this is executed accurately, then the industry flourishes.

Models: Street To Catwalk reveals Nemesis’ goal of searching for the edgy, diverse ‘Manchester look’ which is their trending sought after look. The three youngsters are from unconventional backgrounds and are now trying their hand at reigning the camera with awesome poses and bold expressions!

Our thoughts 

We certainly hope you take on our suggestion and watch the series. As a modelling agency ourselves, we too encourage new models and existing ones to come on board and keep up the momentum of excepting assigned new jobs.

We’ll put it out there just as the programme does – modelling isn’t always as easy as it’s hyped up to be. Sometimes waiting to hear back from an agency can be agony but there’s always reward in patience and positivity. 

Register with us

If you’re serious about taking the modelling plunge, we say, head over to our registration page and apply to Models Direct. It really couldn’t be simpler; just hit the send button along with a couple of snapshots of yourself and your application will whizz into cyberspace and reach our inbox in next to no time.

Maybe this will be your time to shine; add an extra job to your CV and earn extra cash too! What’s not to like? Stay tuned to Models: Street To Catwalk for more in-the-know modelling insight and don’t worry if you missed the first episode – you can stream it on BBC iPlayer. 

In a busy office like ours,  there is plenty of chat  about the general goings  on,  who said what, who’s done what and who needs to be saved (and who should go!!),  it’s all pretty gripping stuff!

What is it we all love about #LoveIsland??

Viewing ratings have soared and broken records, so  it’s clearly a concept that appeals to the majority and offers it’s viewers  something not other programs do!

With Charlie, Eyal and Hayley all being models the Models Direct team have been watching what’s going on and how they come across to an audience,  with their toned physique ‘s and  good looks, they seem to be what alot of viewers aspire to be like possibly, is this  a healthy thing? Is it a true representation of how models are in this industry today?

Models Direct represents all category’s of models, including, fitness, fashion, catalogue and commercial, all  have a variety of shapes, looks and measurements.

Love Island has all the right ingrediants for viewers, fun, laughter, beautiful scenery and of course gorgeous people, all of which is  good escapism from our own lives for a little minute –  it’s very clever, entertaining TV from ITV.

It’s Friday night and with two couples up  for elimination, who are you going to be voting to save??

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