Landing Your First Modelling Job | Models Direct Tips

Landing a first modelling job is a very achievable.

It won’t usually happen without models putting in a little bit of work, but we’ve contacted thousands of first-time models to give them the good news, so we know that landing a first gig with Models Direct is realistic.

Commercial modelling has always been open to anyone. We stress that our models do not need experience, but it’d be wrong to suggest that anyone can become a model unless they put in the effort. And that effort lies with you – the model. 

What should first-time models do before they apply with a reputable agency? Do they even need an agency? And what should they think about once they’ve registered? Our models have found success by following a few simple guidelines; sure, sometimes Lady Luck plays her part, but on the whole models need to give   themselves the best chance of landing modelling assignments.

Before any would-be model does anything, they must consider if it’s the right move for them. Be selfish, and be confident: what do you want to get out of modelling? What benefits will it bring? More than anything, you need to be certain that it won’t impact your current job or school priorities. Many of our models enjoy part-time modelling gigs, and these opportunities are perfect for busy lives.

Landing a debut modelling job is more attainable by registering with a decent modelling employment agency. Any model can take the right photos and build a personal portfolio and send them unsolicited to an agency, but some agencies are merely showcase agencies, AKA photo agencies. They could insist on charging models for photos, and the chances of actively finding models work is negligible.

So, after you’ve thought about how modelling can be done around your lifestyle, research modelling employment agencies and determine which ones might suit you. And remember the key word – employment. Only a government-regulated modelling employment agency can find models work. We’ve been in business since 1990, so we’ve built up a solid reputation that serves all our models well.

You’re in the right mindset and you’ve researched relevant modelling employment agencies. Now weigh them up and gather intel from them. Which clients do they work with? When were they established? Are they nationwide? What do their reviews reveal?

We have well over 2,000 reviews on Trustpilot, over 35 years’ experience, an impressive client list and we regularly offer modelling jobs to models from all over the UK, and even abroad.

Registering with a decent agency is always a massive step to landing that first job. An agency will put forward models to clients whenever a model’s look and characteristics fit a client’s job brief, so the chances of being known to clients and creative agencies they work with are significantly increased. All our clients are vetted, so models know they are legitimate. Plus, we arrange bookings from start to finish, meaning models can concentrate on what they dream about doing – using their talents as commercial models.

When give models access to their personal portfolio when registering. These must be updated every couple of months or so with up-to-date and relevant photos and reels. Again, this simple procedure massively increases a model’s chances of being picked by a client.   

Take genuine interest in the commercial modelling world by reading our blogs, IMAGE magazine, and our social media posts. Modelling news can be found here.

Once you’ve joined and updated your portfolio, look after your wellbeing and practice poses in front of a mirror. Please be patient, too, as commercial modelling is competitive. That said, we receive hundreds of opportunities every week, so the perfect job could land in your lap sooner than you’d think.