All you need to know to start modelling

Before beginning your modelling journey, it is worth having some insight into how the industry operates and how Models Direct works.

Then you can make an informed decision as to whether you want to apply to become a model with us.

Apply to be a model

Here are our key suggestions of what you need to know to start modelling:

1 Most models are everyday models

If you hope to take part in commercial, lifestyle or promotional modelling, then you will find most modelling work is for everyday models. These are normal people of all backgrounds, looks and body sizes who are employed to represent genuine members of the public in advertising, campaigns and promotions. This means that essentially anyone can, in theory, become a model – a great place to start!

2 Confidence and sociability are vital

To become a model, you have to be confident enough to step out in front of a camera. You also have to be friendly, easy-going and ready to listen to instructions. You must be able to work well with other people – other models and the crew on the day – and you have to be prepared to wait around when not required. New models will find their confidence just soars following their first successful assignment, so you don’t have to be super self-assured to start with, but if you are someone who is exceptionally shy or anxious, then modelling is probably not for you.

3 Choose the right agency

We would always advise those starting out to join a reputable modelling agency to represent them. Models Direct has been in the business for over 35 years now. We are a registered employment agency that is regularly inspected by the government’s Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS). We would urge anyone considering joining an agency (or any individual or organisation claiming to be a modelling agency) to check them out very carefully before signing on the dotted line. Read our reviews and blogs and follow us on social media to gain insight into the way we work, the clients we work with and the assignments we send our models along to.

4 Modelling is competitive

Models Direct is a busy agency that places models on jobs right across the country – and even beyond! We have an impressive list of clients, ranging from renowned brands and high street names to smaller businesses, charities and operations. Our team actively seeks work for our models and responds quickly to requests from new and existing clients requiring models. However, modelling is a competitive industry and we like to be open, honest and transparent about the fact we can never guarantee to place any single model in work. This is because it is our clients who make the final choice as to the person they would like to employ. Our job is to supply them with a shortlist of suitable candidates.

Hire a model

5 It is down to you too

Although we will be your agent, we need you to do your bit too! If your application is successful, we ask you to ensure your e-portfolio is kept up to date with recent photos. This will improve the chance of being selected, as we and our clients will know the person we are booking looks like the person we are seeing on screen. We need you to make sure we always have your correct contact details and that you respond quickly to us if we get in touch. For some modelling jobs, there can be a very tight turnaround. You do not have to accept any assignment we offer you, but we need to be able to reach you to offer it to you.

If you have read all of this and are still interested in modelling, then fill in our form and send us a couple of pictures. We will then be in contact.

If there is anything else you would like to know, please do ask us.

It is important to us that anyone embarking on this exciting journey has a good understanding of what to expect and is full of enthusiasm about what hopefully lies ahead.