How does a commercial model spend his or her working time?
And what might a typical day for them be like?
Well, firstly, no two days are ever the same for any model – whichever area of the industry they work in.
One of the great appeals of the job is that it is varied, interesting and could take you anywhere!
In addition, the vast majority of those who work for us here at Models Direct do, in fact, model part-time because they also have busy work, student or family lives.
But if you plucked one of our male or female models out at random and put one of their days out on assignment with us under the microscope as an example, this is what it might look like…
6.30am: Awake early
Our commercial model will have ensured all necessary preparations were made the night before and that they got to sleep in good time. They will have set their alarm suitably early and be getting up with ample time to spare for breakfast, to check they have any clothing or props they were asked to bring or wear and that they have a snack, some water, a book and their phone (fully charged) all ready to go. They will also double-check the details for where they have to go and when they have to be there by – and that they have the phone number of their contact at Models Direct with them.
8am: Head off
Our commercial model will then embark upon their journey to the job. They may be driving, walking or going on public transport, depending on the set location. They will have discussed all this with their contact at Models Direct and will be aware that any travel costs will be reimbursed.
9am: Arrive on set
Upon arriving on set with plenty of time in hand, they will make themselves known to whoever is overseeing the photo or film shoot. This should be done immediately so the client knows the model has arrived promptly. The photographer or project director will explain what will be required of the model and when. They will be told where to wait when they are not needed and if (or when) refreshments will be available. They will be told more about the commercial modelling job and how they will be asked to pose or act to help promote the product or brand.
9.30am: Hair, makeup and wardrobe
Commercial models may be asked to visit the hair, makeup and wardrobe teams so they can be prepared for the shoot. They may have to try on and be fitted for whatever they will be wearing.
10am: The action begins
The shoot itself will be busy, exciting and possibly quite tiring. A commercial model is encouraged to eat and drink regularly to help keep their energy levels up. They are free to network with other models, as well as members of the crew, but must be aware of not making any noise or getting in anyone’s way if filming is taking place.
When stepping out in front of the camera, the commercial model will be expected to follow instructions and act as naturally as possible. They may have to interact with other models. The key is to listen and follow directions as closely as possible.
Many of our commercial models take their own behind-the-scenes pictures while on set. These are great to send to us for use on our website and social media platforms and for the models themselves to use to promote themselves. Many choose to share these with the other models present at the assignment, that way they might have an image or two of themselves that could even be uploaded to their e-portfolio.
6pm: After the shoot
A commercial model will always check their work is completed and that they are no longer needed before heading off. They will make sure they speak to the project director before they leave and that they have all their belongings. They may well message their contact at Models Direct at this point to tell them how the job went.
7pm: Home again
The commercial model will arrive home feeling tired but exhilarated and proud of themselves. It will be too soon to see any final images or to upload these to the commercial model’s e-portfolio but this is something they should make a note to do when possible. Most of our commercial models will also leave a review or give us feedback at this point.
- Behind the scenes: A day in the life of a commercial model
- Embracing Your Curves: The Rise of Plus-Size Modelling
- Think You Need to Live in London to Be a Model? Think Again!
- Real People, Real Ads: Why Commercial Modelling Is for Everyone
- Every Ability. Every Body. Models Direct Champions Inclusive Modelling
10pm: A well-deserved sleep
Our commercial models fall into bed safe in the knowledge they have completed a good day’s work and that they will be paid promptly.
