Ensuring the safety and well-being of our models is right at the very heart of what we do here at Models Direct every single day.
When new clients request models from us, we ensure we carry out thorough investigations so we (and our models) know exactly who they are.
We also discuss each assignment with them in great detail so there is a clear understanding of the assignment itself and what our model (or models) will have to do.
The UK modelling industry is complex, poorly regulated and not always professionally managed, which is why we advise models, would-be models and parents of models to be vigilant.
With 35 years at the heart of the industry, Models Direct has seen many changes.
- How to stay safe in the modelling industry: the UK perspective
- Paws and Pose: Why Pet Modelling Will Be Huge
- Why Plus-Size Models Are Reshaping UK Advertising
- London Modelling Opportunities: Where Real People Shine
- UK Modelling Agencies Explained: How They Work for Models and Clients
And our team members have a deep understanding of the risks and dangers, as well as the many pleasures, benefits and rewards modelling in this country can bring.
This is our advice for all UK models:
Find the right representation
Join a UK government-regulated and vetted employment agency. Overall, this is the single most important step towards ensuring your safety. Make sure the organisation or individual is actually a registered agency and is legally allowed to look for work for you. Read reviews, find out more about assignments, and track the activities of the agency over a period of time to make sure that – just like Models Direct – it really is authentic and busy.
Do not accept cards or compliments on the street
The oldest scam in the book is the cards and compliments trick. Photographers or so-called agents approach people in public places and tell them they would like to feature them as a model. They compliment their looks and the person may be tempted in by the flattery or the lure of the money they are told they could earn. Remember, at best, this tactic will involve paying for a portfolio of professional photos that you really don’t need and is unlikely to lead to work. At worst, this could be a method of enticing you into an unsafe situation. Despite what you may read, models are very, very rarely spotted on the street in the UK by genuine agents. If you are given a card like this and you are a Models Direct model, then we will check it out for you.
Be careful who you give your details to
In the same vein, be cautious when it comes to giving individuals or organisations your details. Make sure they really are who they say they are before doing so. Check them out with Companies House to start with. It is possible for anyone to set up a company but at least you can see they are registered and still operating. Then do some serious online searching. Remember, it is very easy to set up a fake website or social media profile. Dig deep into any website or platform. You want to see that they have been operating for a substantial amount of time and are still very active and posting regularly. You are looking for genuine, credible feedback from lots and lots of UK models and clients who have actually worked with them over the years – not just a handful. Only give your details out once you are really confident it is safe to do so.
Make sure someone knows where you are
Children and teens must always be accompanied by an adult. That is non-negotiable by us here at Models Direct and any organisation or individual that tells you anything different is not to be trusted. All our UK models are aware that their point of contact at our agency knows exactly where they will be for each assignment and is there on the end of the phone if there are any complications. We always advise our models to ensure a friend or family member also knows exactly where they are going, as well as how they plan to travel to the destination and approximate timings. An additional step can be to have a tracking or finding app on your phone so friends or relatives can see where you are if they are concerned.
It is important not to let safety concerns about modelling prevent you from following your dreams.
But it is equally vital to be sensible, well informed and vigilant.
UK models, we are here to ensure your safety and we urge you to consider joining us as you begin your journey.
If you do, then we take on all the hard work in investigating clients, researching assignments and generally making sure you are happy, comfortable and well cared for.
Chidimma said after a photo shoot with Greene King:
“I had a great experience with my first commercial with Models Direct.
“The crew members were very helpful and respectful.
“All the models were well looked after.
“I look forward to doing more jobs with Models Direct.”
Nivi was also full of praise after her booking with Soak & Sleep:
“I had such a brilliant time at my recent shoot for a luxury brand.
“The location of the shoot was absolutely stunning!
“Charlie was incredible throughout this whole experience – she provided me with all the necessary details prior to the shoot and kept me updated and answered all of my questions in good time.
“She is always so positive and supportive!
“From the moment I had arrived, I was looked after so well.”
After posing for Getty Images, Junita told us:
“I had a great experience working with Getty Images.
“The booking and all the details were sent promptly by Charlie.
“I appreciate the quick response to all my questions.
“I loved the shoot and look forward to more.
“We were very well looked after by the client and by Models Direct!”
And Michael carried out a shoot with Deliveroo, telling us:
“I was part of an extremely fun shoot for a well-known food delivery brand.
“Not only were the team professional and meticulous, but they were fun and allowed room for a completely relaxed environment.
“It was a great day of work.
“Models Direct was also incredibly helpful in regards to making sure I got to the location safely and followed up with me post shoot to make sure it all went smoothly.
“This level of care provided by the agency is amazing to experience and is what helps the agency stick out from others.
“I can’t wait for what is to come with my career with Models Direct.”
