We are always happy to reveal more about the way we work to any of our models, clients or other partners.

Our business has been in operation now for over 35 years and, of course, it has evolved greatly over the decades.

Today we pride ourselves in being a thriving, 21^st-century agency with an impressive and diverse array of models.

We operate locally, nationally and internationally.

We work with some of the biggest and best-known companies in the UK and beyond, helping them to find just the right individuals for their marketing campaigns and other projects.

So what do you find when you open the doors to Models Direct and step inside?

Well, at the helm we have our managing director Damian O’Connor and our operations director Suzy O’Connor.

Between them, they have grown Models Direct to become the powerhouse it is today.

Their passion, diligence and professional approach are as strong as they ever have been.

And this is exactly what ensures our agency retains its excellent reputation and remains a leader within its field.

Ever-dedicated and working tirelessly is our team of highly professional and equally passionate agents.

These industrious individuals know their business inside out.

• 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

They forge strong links with clients; are dynamic in seeking work for our models and are there on the end of the phone to help each and every individual they place on an assignment.

Our models know they can call or email their contacts at Models Direct if they have any queries or concerns as a job approaches and their agent will respond quickly.

These people are the public face of Models Direct – the smiling, caring, friendly individuals who help ensure we remain people-focused, with the individual right at the heart of our activities here.

Finally, we do, of course, have all the other vital staff that any company has – the busy bees and quietly solid employees who manage our IT systems, websites, social media and other company activities.

We are an organisation of real people who work closely together to ensure a smooth, friendly and highly efficient service.

And we work with clients, who are just as enthusiastic about what they do, and models who enjoy teaming up with us as much as we love working with them.

There is often a suggestion in our industry that not all agencies are what they say they are – and sadly we have to admit this is true.

Some individuals and companies purporting to be modelling agencies are not operating legally or responsibly.

Some are simply websites that showcase models’ photographs in the hope that a client might happen upon them.

Unlike us, they don’t actively seek work for their models.

Models Direct, however, is inspected, vetted and accredited by the government.

We are a legal, authentic employment agency.

And anyone who would like to come along to our offices to meet us and find out more about just how real we are is very welcome to.

But don’t take our word for it – what do our models think of our team here?

Here is some of their feedback…

Adam said:

“During the summer holidays, my son got a call to go for a shoot at Morrisons.

“The service and the advice given by Models Direct’s Gemma was absolutely fantastic.

“My son enjoyed himself.”

Imogen said:

“The team at Models Direct is always so helpful with providing the right level of information at the right time.

“It means that the jobs are always fun and completely hassle-free!

“Charlie is great and super friendly too!”

And Erin said:

“From start to finish, I have had an amazing experience with Models Direct.

“I had my first modelling session, which was great!

“A great group of models, friendly staff and an overall chilled experience!

“Anna has been so helpful setting my account and portfolio up, and Gemma has been a star, organising everything for the modelling day!

“I really felt part of a team and at ease with the whole process.”

If you would like to become part of our team as a model too, then please fill in our form.

Clients interested in booking models can also contact us.

Children with that extra special something can really excel at modelling, with the camera often picking up on that specific sparkle or engaging smile and really highlighting it.

Models Direct has worked with junior models for almost 35 years now.

We know how to spot the children who will really shine during a photo or film shoot and we know how to find just the right youngster for each assignment.

Over the decades, clients we have worked with who have featured our child models have been as varied as Disney, the Paddington Bear Experience, Morrisons, Linda McCartney’s and Tottenham Hotspur FC.

We have teamed up with clothing ranges, food producers, holiday firms and many, many charities.

And you only have to skim through our client list and read our many other blogs to gain a flavour of these.

Those seeking to book child models approach us with their requirements and our team then investigates each and every client and assignment thoroughly.

As a fully government-vetted and accredited employment agency, we understand our responsibility to all our models – especially the little ones – and we have the necessary depth of experience required when it comes to working with children.

Once we understand more about a booking, we search through the e-portfolios of our child models, looking for little ones of just the right age and appearance – and with that special something.

• 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

This is why we need you, Mum and Dad, to ensure you have uploaded a great selection of recent images that really show your little Ben or Bella at his or her very best.

We like to see pictures where you have captured that cheeky smile or lovable laugh – that mischievous look or impish grin.

And we also like to hear from you why you think your young model is just that little bit different.

Are they confident when performing on stage? Do they have skills like singing, dancing or playing an instrument? Do they love nothing more than playing in a football team at the weekends?

If your child has modelling experience, then please, of course, tell us about that too…

But if not, it really doesn’t matter – some of our best shoots have been with youngsters who are modelling with us for the very first time.

Read the reviews from the parents of our other child models before filling in our form and sending us some photographs.

Your child is unique – but we need you to tell us why!

And before you know it, your young model could be having fun and earning a little extra income.

This is what Dan and Jack’s parents told us after they were chosen for an assignment with Transport for London.

“Dan and Jack really enjoyed the photo shoot today.

“They got to wear lots of different outfits, from Christmas jumpers to Easter attire to summer casual clothes.

“The team was really friendly and easy to work with.

“There were lots of giggles along the way.

“Thanks Models Direct for another opportunity to earn money and have lots of fun at the same time.” 

Yes, our beautiful baby models are out there making people feel happy every time they see their gorgeous smiles – and they don’t even know it!

From tiny newborns to feature in magazines and advertising to lovely little ones just taking their very first steps for adverts and campaigns, our baby models are everywhere.

Models Direct has extensive experience of working with tiny tots on all sorts of projects for clients of all types, from supermarkets and clothing companies to nappy and toy brands.

Our clients come to us seeking beautiful boys and gorgeous girls to appear within family groups as well, in everything from holiday promotions to healthy eating.

Baby modelling is competitive, but, at the same time, we receive a steady stream of demand for tiny models from our clients.

And, of course, our beaming beauties grow up to become child models in the blink of an eye –  so we always need more smiling little faces to add to our books to replace them.

If you have a bouncing bundle that you think could shine in front of a camera, then why not get in touch?

We would like you to take a selection of lovely photos to show us – pictures that present your pride and joy in the best possible light.

If you could then upload a selection of these along with your application form, we will then give you a call to discuss how modelling with us works.

• 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

If we decide your baby is right for us – and you decide it could also work for you and your bundle of joy – then you can become part of the Models Direct team.

We charge a small admin fee to go towards some of the costs of promoting your child, but this is fully reemable after your baby’s first assignment with us.

Once you have joined us, we will give you an e-portfolio to manage for your child.

This needs to be regularly updated with new photos and information about your baby – after all, your tiny tot will change quickly and we need to be able to see that for ourselves.

As long as you are doing this, we will put your baby forward for any modelling jobs that are right for him or her.

Our client then makes the final choice from the shortlist we have sent over as to which baby they would like for the assignment.

If your laughing little one is selected, then one of our agents will liaise with you and ensure you are kept updated about all the arrangements.

And if you have any questions at all then you can call them whenever you like.

You will, of course, need to accompany your little one to the photo or film shoot and be on hand throughout the entire process.

The parents of our baby models enjoy the experience of being involved in something new and different.

And, of course, putting their baby forward for modelling can mean a little much-needed extra income too.

Little Sienna’s mum told us this about her experience:

“Sienna and I had lots of fun on this photo shoot for baby sleeping products!

“It was like an F1 tyre change, with lifting Sienna as she slept from pod to pod (to model four different product designs)!

“I was a very proud mummy watching Sienna be adorable during this shoot and we cannot wait to do more with Models Direct!”

And lovely Lola’s mum said:

“Lola had to model some baby sleep/grow bags and she also modelled some vests.

“The pictures were taken in a cot, on a mattress, a rug and a snuggle pillow.

“I look forward to receiving a copy of the catalogue and photos when they are ready.

“I would recommend this type of experience to people who have a happy, cheerful baby because you do not have to do anything – they are just themselves. 

“I found Models Direct on the internet and am glad I chose them.” 

To find out more about baby modelling with Models Direct please contact us.

Follow our 10 steps that include top tips and advice to help you do well:

1 If you are chosen for an assignment you must be 100 per cent sure that you will be able to attend. While we know that emergencies do very occasionally crop up, you need to understand that if you let us – and our client – down at the last minute, then it will make things very difficult. We need to know all our models are reliable.

2 Listen carefully to what our team member tells you about the assignment itself. Make sure you understand where you need to go, when you need to be there and whether you need to wear anything special or bring anything with you.

3 Ask any questions you like and gain as much understanding as possible of what will take place during the booking. This will help you to feel confident on arrival on the day itself.

4 Find time to practise poses in front of the mirror. Ask a friend or relative to snap some shots or to film you as run through some of the actions you might expect to take place on the day. Even if the shots and sequences are different during the assignment itself, this will still help you to feel confident and ready.

5 Plan your journey to the job very carefully, making sure you leave lots of time for traffic or public transport problems. Ensure your phone is fully charged, you have relevant contact details with you and that you bring a snack, a drink and a book or something else to do with you.

• 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

6 When you arrive, make sure the person in charge knows you are there. Introduce yourself to members of the crew and any other models. Ensure you know when you will be required on set and whether you need to see any wardrobe, hair or make-up team members first in order to be camera-ready.

7 Listen carefully to what the team would like you to do in front of the camera. If you have any questions, do not be afraid to ask them. Follow their instructions carefully.

8 Chat to the crew and other models when the cameras are not rolling, but please make sure you are not causing a distraction or making any noise while other people are being photographed or filmed.

9 Have fun! The more you enjoy the process of modelling, the more this will shine through in your photographs and footage.

10 After each assignment, make sure you give us your feedback so we have a good understanding of how the booking went. Don’t forget to let us have any behind-the-scenes photos or video footage you have taken and remember to update your e-portfolio with details of the assignment and any final images received.

This is why we always speak to potential new models – or their parents if they are children –  on the phone once they have uploaded their application form and some photographs.

The reasons for our friendly phone chat are numerous – but, in a nutshell, we need to know that you are right for us, we are right for you and you understand exactly how we work.

We have been in the business for over three decades now and have built a solid reputation for the way we operate, our transparency, our professional service and the care we take of our models.

So, why do we need to talk to you?

We like to get to know you!

Firstly, we will, of course, verify that you are who you say you are and that you are genuinely interested in taking on paid, part-time modelling work through us.

But we also want to find out about the real you!

What you enjoy doing, whether you have previous modelling experience or if you have other skills or qualities that make you suitable for this kind of work…

• 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

We like to find out what kind of modelling you are interested in, what your availability is like and whether you are prepared to travel.

We need to find out if you are confident enough to step out in front of a camera and can listen and respond to instructions.

And we will also explain to you how important it is that you are organised, prepared and punctual because we need models who are reliable.

And, why should you want to talk to us?

So you can get to know us too!

We can tell you more about the clients we work with, the wide variety of assignments we send our models on and how our processes work.

We will explain to you just how competitive modelling is – and that we can never guarantee to find work for any single one of our male, female, child or pet models.

This is because we don’t make the final choice.

When our clients approach us for a model (or models), we give them a selection of suitable individuals and they choose who they would like to employ.

During our phone chat, we will explain more about how you can maximise your chances of being chosen, primarily by ensuring you keep your e-portfolio and modelling photos up to date.

During our call, we will also explain that we charge a small initial admin fee, which goes towards the costs of seeking work for you and promoting you to clients.

This fee can be reimbursed to you after your very first booking through us.

And we will tell you more about how much you might earn for an assignment.

After our discussion, we will submit your application – along with feedback from the phone call –  to our panel and they will decide whether you are right for us.

Equally, you will be expected to take some time to absorb everything we have told you and to decide whether you think modelling through us is right for you.

But, please don’t be nervous about receiving your phone call from us – all our agents are friendly, warm and approachable.

You only have to read some of the feedback from those who have modelled with us to see just how much they invest in their relationships with our models – and just how much our models think of them!

Here at Models Direct we have a rich variety of all sorts of models of all ages.

Our models start as young as newborn babies and can be as old as those in their 80s or 90s!

Our clients, who promote a wide range of different products and services, need people of all ages to help them do that.

They need models who can pose as mums, dads, grannies and grandpas and they need people to help them advertise products specifically aimed at consumers of the same age.

These days, marketing teams not only need to tempt a broad swathe of potential purchasers to buy everything from cars and food to clothes and home accessories, but they also have specific items and services aimed at certain age groups.

Mature models might, for example, be required for promotions focusing on retirement, older people’s holidays and certain health products.

• 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

Some of our mature male and female models took part in photo and film shoots in their earlier years and are simply continuing to do what they enjoy.

For others, who are new to the industry, it is about discovering a different pastime that brings them new experiences and additional income.

But, let’s hear feedback from some of our older models themselves to see what they have enjoyed…

Ian accepted an assignment with Greene King. He said:

“After a few years spending time behind the scenes, I thought it was time to try to get back in front of the camera.

“The whole process with Models Direct was straight forward and the team were great while getting me on-boarded.

“A few months in and today marks the date of my first assignment. The shoot was well run, organised, and professional whilst relaxed and informal.

“I had the opportunity to meet many great people, some aspiring to make modelling and acting their career, while others were using it as an opportunity to earn some extra income and have fun at the same time.

“Gemma from Models Direct has been a star from first contact to the end of the shoot, remaining in communication and being accessible if needed. I look forward to the next time.”

Anthony said:

“It was a very good day…a learning curve.

“All the people I worked with were very welcoming and friendly – thank you to all.

“As I was playing the part of a client for a caring company, I was showcasing what this company offers to its elderly customers.

“I had photographs taken with a number of their carers and many other things, like exercising, cooking, gardening and going out for entertainment, including eating out and going to the cinema.

“It was a very good and enlightening day.”

And Karen modelled as part of a pretend family for Red Tractor. She told us:

“From start to finish, Gemma was fantastic at keeping me informed about the day and how best to prepare myself.

“She told me who would be there and everyone made me feel very welcome.

“My choice of outfits was appropriate and I felt we bonded well as a ‘family unit’ as per the comprehensive brief!

“The photographer was really calm and gave us useful prompts and guidance so we all felt very comfortable.

“The house setting was lovely and we were able to relax between our sessions.

“Lunch was also excellent. I’m really looking forward to my next assignment!”

To find out more about mature modelling with us, please fill in our form and we will contact you to explain more and answer your questions.

Firstly, we always respond to our models and would-be models, telling them that they WILL get paid.

This is in a marked difference to many of the so-called agencies who either expect you to work for nothing, claiming “this will give you valuable experience” or never actually getting around to paying you.

Yes, we hear about this happening time and time again…

Models Direct is a fully government-registered employment agency.

We operate within the law at all times – and we are experienced, professional and reliable.

This is why we are always happy to be inspected by the government; why our clients return to us time and time again and why our models stay with us.

If you join us as a model, we will be your agent.

We will negotiate your fee on your behalf, discuss it with you before you accept any job and then ensure you are paid swiftly after completing any assignment with us.

How does that sound?

Well, now to the exact amount you are likely to be paid…

Well, this depends on a variety of different factors from how experienced a model is to the amount of time they will be required in front of the camera.

You may be taking part in a day’s shoot where you are needed for one hour or a five-day shoot where you are required for every shot.

Your role may be a simple walk-on part or much more acting may be required and there may be lines to say.

You may have to travel to the shoot (all expenses paid) or it may be right on your doorstep in your home town.

All these factors will be taken into account when we negotiate the fee with the client – and then you can decide whether you are prepared to carry out the assignment for that sum.

Read reviews from our models to see if they feel happy with both the work we offer and the fee negotiated on their behalf.

Here are just a few of them…

Terry said:

“I have just finished a fun photo shoot for the Salisbury group. The views across London were amazing and the crew were even better.

“I always know when I get an assignment from Models Direct that it will run smoothly and we will get paid on time!

“I am a massive fan. Bring on the next job!”

And Beau said:

“My two children loved their first paid photoshoot yesterday.

“All staff were professional, friendly, approachable and thoughtful.

“The communication we received from Models Direct prior to the shoot was faultless.

“The studio and staff exceeded my expectations – toys, snacks and drinks were provided for the children, and the atmosphere was so relaxed.

“They really enjoyed themselves and earned money in the process!

“We are really hopeful for more bookings to follow.

“Thank you Models Direct.”

Tapuwa also felt the work was fairly rewarded:

“I had my first shoot with Models Direct yesterday and I had so much fun.

“It was an all-day shoot for a pretty exclusive client and I’m glad I was part of it.

“I even made a new friend and it’s well paid too!”

To find out more about modelling with us, including the kinds of assignments you might be offered and how we will pay you, fill in our form and we will call you for a chat.

We work with some of the most recognisable brands in the world – McDonald’s, Sky, Sony, Amazon, BMW to name just a few – and we send models to assignments right across the UK and beyond.

Models Direct is as professional an agency as you will find and is justly proud of the reputation it has earned for its professional and efficient service.

Unlike many other organisations (and even individuals) claiming to be agencies, we are government-verified and registered.

We are an inspected and accredited employment agency that focuses on finding paid part-time work for its models.

And we are there to respond swiftly and effectively to source just the right model (or models) for our clients.

You only have to read our many blogs and the wealth of feedback we receive to see just how successful we are at doing this.

Yet there is so much more to Models Direct than simply being a proficient, fast-paced business.

We are also a team of real people, genuine agents who love their jobs and work tirelessly to match models with clients and assignments.

Our team members have all worked with us for years; they know the business inside out and they take pride in the exceptional care and high-quality service they offer everyone.

This includes, of course, our clients, our models and all those other people we liaise with on a daily basis.

Our team members all love the variety of what they do…

One day they could be sending a family along to a local supermarket for a photo shoot – the next they could be discussing flights for male and female models who are jetting off abroad.

As you peruse the reviews our models leave after each assignment, you will gain an understanding of just how much pride our individual team members take in each model and every booking.

Once someone has been offered and accepted a job, our agents will be in touch every time they have additional information to convey and they will be available on the end of the phone if needed.

They will also check in afterwards to make sure the job has gone well and will ensure our model receives the agreed fee within days of completing the assignment.

Models Direct has been a key part of the British modelling agency for more than 30 years now – and we hope to be here, working with you, for another 30 to come.

Renowned in the world of British modelling for our professional service and our ability to provide a wide range of models, we are also known for being able to respond quickly.

Having operated for over 30 years now, we understand there are all sorts of reasons why clients might come to us requiring a model (or models) – sometimes within hours.

This may be due to another model having to withdraw at the last-minute because of illness or a family emergency or it might be that there has been a late change to the photo shoot and an additional person (or people) are required.

Now, like all businesses, we are only too happy to admit that the more time we have to fill a booking the better!

So we would always urge existing and new clients to contact us as soon as possible about their requirements.

We run a busy agency here and, of course, it makes our lives easier if we have a little more time!

However, we do understand that things don’t always work out like that so if you are looking to hire a model and need someone at short notice, please do get in touch.

We are here – ready and waiting to help!

Models, when you join Models Direct we don’t expect you to always be able to take on a last-minute booking.

We know that the vast majority of our male and female models have other jobs and commitments, including their families or perhaps their studies.

And, of course, our child models have to go to school!

But we also know there may be times when you can respond quickly, either by changing your plans or because you happen to have some free time.

So, on occasion, we will approach you about last-minute bookings to see if you may be interested.

All we ask is that you are open and honest with us and only commit to accepting an assignment if you know you can be there promptly, ready and able to work.

Neri, for example, is one of our plus-size models and she was booked for a television job at very short notice.

She told us: “This was a last-minute assignment, that ended up being one of the most empowering experiences since becoming professional.

“I got to work with four of the most beautiful confident ladies, a fantastic film crew and the man with the naked plan, Gok Wan.

“From the costume designers to the make-up artist and the runners, everyone was so welcoming and worked so hard to make sure we felt relaxed and comfortable in the environment.

“Gok was lovely and gave direction really clearly – he was so fun and we all had such a giggle.

“The assignment went really quickly and Molly from Models Direct was so supportive.

“Such an exciting experience, I’m so glad I was accepted and thank Molly for putting her trust in me and putting me forward.”

And this is what one of our clients, the Andrew Simpson Foundation, said about our speedy response:

“We were really happy with the service. It was a tight turnaround but went brilliantly.

“We got all that we needed in a short time span.

“We will definitely be using Models Direct again for future projects which are coming up.”

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.