A global hub for business, finance, art and culture - London is also at the heart of the fashion, advertising, entertainment and modelling industries.
One popular misconception about our thriving capital, however, is that the only opportunities here are for experienced, professional, high-fashion catwalk and magazine models.
But this could not be further from the truth.
The vast majority of modelling work that takes place right here in vibrant London is everyday modelling - modelling assignments that feature all sorts of normal people.
Here we aim to explain more about modelling in London by offering insight into the types of modelling jobs you could be offered through a reputable, government-accredited agency.
We explain how modelling actually works in London, what a model working with Models Direct can expect, and how our clients book our models for their very different assignments.
Ref. HTRX-7899
Lots of fun! Had a great time at my first shoot for the NHS at West London Studios. I'm a newcomer to modelling and registered with models direct with no expectations. I was blown away to get my first gig which was fun and friendly. Hard work and an all round great experience.
Lots of fun! Had a great time at my first shoot for the NHS at West London Studios. I'm a newcomer to modelling and registered with models direct with no expectations. I was blown away to get my first gig which was fun and friendly. Hard work and an all round great experience.
Models Direct matches men, women, children and pets with a broad array of modelling assignments, most of which involve posing for photography and all of which is paid.
Our strongest sectors include commercial, advertising and lifestyle modelling: helping to promote the everyday products and services we all use in our lives or that we aspire to have.
Our London models also accept catalogue and e-commerce work, and assignments for charities, organisations and local authorities.
We are active in specialist sectors, such as fitness, family, plus-size, maternity and body part modelling, and we employ people to model at live promotional events and brand activations.
In addition, when considering what to expect as a model in London, it is worth noting there are also many opportunities for extras in TV and film.
Behind the scenes at West London Studios - model Tom on set for the Royal College of Nursing's 'Supported to Thrive' campaign shoot
Our process is simple.
Clients contact the agency with a brief and we put together a shortlist based on requirements and availability.
Castings are not required: selections are made entirely from online profiles.
Once the client has selected a London model (or models), our agents will make contact with them to discuss the assignment in more detail.
For a true understanding of what modelling is like in London, it is important to have realistic expectations.
Models Direct finds paid, part-time work for its models, but can also be a great starting point for those eventually wishing to build a full-time modelling career in London.
However, because of the nature of the industry and the process explained above, we never guarantee to provide work for any of our models on a regular basis.
Modelling is a competitive industry, especially for younger models.
Natalies profile shot and the final Sky Sports campaign image - her first booking, with filming taking place in East London
Even though we are an incredibly busy agency, the nature of the work is that assignments are not permanent - our clients contact us as and when they need models.
The great beauty of part-time modelling work in London, however, is that it can be flexible and fit in with other commitments.
The more available a model is and the more frequently they add and update good, clear photographs on their e-portfolio, the better their chances of being selected.
Ref. SKWQ-9348
For my first job with ModelsDirect, I couldn't have had a better experience. From before the shoot, everything was well organised and ModelsDirect were so helpful. The location was great at the studio in East London, and as soon as I got there the whole team were so accommodating and friendly, I felt really comfortable from the get go. Despite the hot weather, the whole team did the best they could to look after us during the shoot, making sure we constantly had water, and even buying us ice lollies at one point! The whole day was great fun, meeting other models from ModelsDirect and the guys from Sky Sports, and all the hair, make up and production team. So excited to get working on more shoots for ModelsDirect and seeing what the future holds!
For my first job with ModelsDirect, I couldn't have had a better experience. From before the shoot, everything was well organised and ModelsDirect were so helpful. The location was great at the studio in East London, and as soon as I got there the whole team were so accommodating and friendly, I felt really comfortable from the get go. Despite the hot weather, the whole team did the best they could to look after us during the shoot, making sure we constantly had water, and even buying us ice lollies at one point! The whole day was great fun, meeting other models from ModelsDirect and the guys from Sky Sports, and all the hair, make up and production team. So excited to get working on more shoots for ModelsDirect and seeing what the future holds!
Your Models Direct agent will brief you fully before each assignment, so you will know exactly where to go, when to be there and what to take.
It is important to arrive in good time and follow instructions very carefully.
Our models are expected to be hardworking, reliable and professional - and the better the feedback, the more likely they are to be rebooked.
We are sometimes asked: is modelling in London full time? The answer is that for a few people it can be, but for most of our models it is a part-time occupation.
We work largely with people who have other jobs or commitments; a modelling lifestyle in London can be ideal for students, families, freelancers and those who are flexible.
Andrew's debut as a Boots Corporate Eyecare model saw him featured in print across London. Spotting himself on the campaign poster made the whole experience unforgettable.
As your agent, we represent you and put you forward for suitable modelling assignments in London.
We provide you with your own secure, online account where you can manage and update your e-portfolio.
We promote you to our clients and put you forward whenever someone like you, with your availability, is required and we shortlist you for jobs using our work-seeking publication.
We negotiate and handle contracts, fees and travel arrangements.
Our role is to give you guidance and support throughout.
To find out more about what modelling in London is really like and whether it is something you would like to pursue, the first step is to apply...
