My first interaction with the company was 5* easy application on line, 5 photos added. Phone call received the following day, Jane provided an introduction of the company and briefed me on the 1st s... See more
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Everything about models direct was explained clearly, clarifying all details, and informative. Ocean did a great job explaining plainly how the company works , she was friendly and positive.my experie... See more
Company replied
Today i did a photoshoot for YourTribe which had a variety of shots that were taken from different angles and areas of the student accommodation. I found it successful and as expected. The photographe... See more
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Jane was beyond helpful! There is no question she couldn't answer and she made me feel at ease whilst discussing the future of my son entering this unknown world of modelling! Very exciting!
Company replied
Company details
Written by the company
Models Direct is the leading UK modelling agency for men, women and children wanting to appear in Film, TV, Modelling, Advertising, Photographic, Fashion, Catalogues, Promotions, Walks-on, Extras. Applications are invited worldwide to meet the ever increasing demands of our clients. We look for modelling business, get our models the highest fees, collect and pay our models within 5 days. We check our clients and manage every details each booking putting our models safety, convenience and welfare number one. This we have done for more than 34 years as a family business working everyday of the year for our models, clients and reputation. Our clients like to work with us as we are highly competitive with our model rates, organised in our planning and booking management and work hard to make every assignment big fun and a great success. We welcome prospective models and clients, as well as our existing business modelling and client partners to visit out Head Office to meet the team. We make what we think is a unique gesture in contributing half the travel costs. We're that keen to say 'hello'. Models Direct: for our clients and models your modelling fun, vision and work, is our business.
Contact info
232 Fakenham Road, NR8 6QW, Norwich, United Kingdom
- modelsdirect.com
4.8
Excellent
4K reviews
Replied to 100% of negative reviews
Typically replies within 48 hours
How this company uses Trustpilot
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They only care about money
I spoke to a lady called Anna, o begin with she was very nice. As soon as she mention registration fee (180) and a three year contract I had reservations, I have been modelling since I was 16 and have never been asked to pay a fee upfront. I explained these reservations and the response I got was "we're a government approved company" and then abruptly said "bye" and hung up. Even if I had second thoughts or wanted to go back to them in future I now 100% won't. As soon as I said I wasn't comfortable paying the tone and professionalism dropped (never in my career have I experienced this). After the call I was left feeling like they only care about signing you up. I asked if work was guaranteed and was told it wasn't, again in my previous experience as a model, every agency I have worked with guaranteed work within the first month. Models Direct is an international platform for thousands of people. Meaning that you're "competing" against the world. Though I can't comment on their service throughout, I can say that this is not the sort of agency to get into if you're looking for paid moddeling work. You could get lucky, but one in a million chance with this agency. The way I see it is like Vinted, you want to buy a bag but when you search, the results say 500+ then you start scrolling, about 20 minutes in you're either going to choose one of the first ones you see or go somewhere else. Now imagine this for a company booking one model with 1000's upon 1000's of applicants. I will be continuing to search for a more private agency that can represent me and guarantee me work. Not an angency I have to pay upfront, with no guarantee of work and people over the globe. It felt very impersonal and just that they're trying to get you to sign up. They will respond to this comment with their "government approved status" and that they "can't guarantee work" but an agency, especially one with upfront fees, should be able to guarantee work.
17 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Carla - Thanks for contacting us.
It is good to hear that you are taking your modelling career seriously and have had the diligence to do your research. However, I understand that you have read some unsettling things while researching our company. I appreciate that you have come directly to me with your concerns and provided us a fair chance to respond.
No agency should be guaranteeing work to a model that is not possible. It is not the agency that decides which model gets selected. Yes we cover international work but this does not mean our models are competing against the world. We work with all different age groups and all different bookings. Not all models will be put forward for the same assignment.
Models Direct is a regulated employment agency and has been since 1990. Over the years we’ve had a number of visits from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy whose job it is to regulate the industry. By complying with the legislation, the recommendations from the BEIS and following the The Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations Act, we have been able to offer our employment agency services to models and clients for over 30 years.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
It's a scam
It's a scam!
My daughter was signed with lots of false promises with modeling jobs but it's been a year and nothing! They just say add more pictures😂
4 October 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Sophia - Thanks for contacting us.
We have located your daughter's details and can see she has been registered with us since April 2025 during this time she has been put forward for 19 different bookings. We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
Some models we represent do not get selected for work - we make no secret of this, there are more models than work. Modelling is competitive and some models will not be selected by our clients. Models who are not selected will inevitably be disappointed - it's the nature of the industry - same for actors, singers, dancers, entertainers... any form of talent selection.
Looking at her profile we can see we have not had any updated photos since registering. We have a number of automated systems that will remind you if your details need updating. This is to keep your portfolio up to date. You can track how many searches or portfolio views you get in your ‘dashboard’ plus we’ll email you a round up every few weeks. We also send you our newsletter email once a week so you can see the type of work that has been going on plus tips and tricks to improve your portfolio.
It is vital we have recent and up to date photos and measurements on the profile so we can promote her correctly. We can see you have not logged into the profile since registering.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
My first shoot with Models Direct today
My first shoot with Models Direct today
I had all the relevant information ahead of time from Gemma who was in charge of the booking and she was on hand for any questions or queries. This enabled me to be prepared and relaxed for the day ahead.
The shoot was so much fun, I was made to feel so comfortable from the outset ....if anything it almost felt like it was over too quickly!
Gemma checked in with me again after the shoot and explained the post day process. I am so impressed with the care taken and the communication from Models Direct and really looking forward to doing more shoots,
11 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Denise - Congratulations for securing an amazing booking.
We are so pleased you enjoyed the day and everyone involved was friendly and welcoming. Gemma is always available to offer any support and guidance needed both before and after each booking.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
So far so good
So far so good! Ocean has been amazing. It’s very early days so long may it continue.
11 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Ms Bruce - Thank you for your review. We are so pleased you have had such a positive experience with us so far.
Ocean is always available to offer any support and guidance needed.
Please remember to keep your profile up to date and keep an eye on our socials for all the latest agency news.
https://www.instagram.com/modelsdirect/
https://www.facebook.com/modelsdirect
Thanks from the MD team.
Thankyou so much to Models Direct for…
Thankyou so much to Models Direct for an amazing experience for my daughter. She had an amazing day and loved being in front of the camera. Lovely team, who always answer any questions you have, and always at the end of the phone. Thankyou again!
4 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Thea - Congratulations to your daughter for being selected for an amazing booking.
Great to hear she enjoyed the day and the team were friendly and welcoming. We are always on hand to offer any support and guidance needed.
Well done from the MD team.
The shoot was great
The shoot was great, super comfortable and lovely team at CPFC, Isobel and anya made it really enjoyable. It was also a lovely group of models to work with! Gemma made sure all my questions where answered and all ran smoothly
4 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Alicia - Well done for securing a fantastic booking.
We are so pleased you had a successful shoot and met some lovely new people.
Gemma is always available to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Fantastic experience from start to…
Fantastic experience from start to finish. Staff were very friendly and helpful. My daughter had a great time and it was so much fun. We look forward to hopefully working with Models Direct again in the future.
4 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Laura - Congratulations on being selected for an amazing booking.
We are so pleased your daughter enjoyed the shoot and everyone on set was friendly and welcoming.
We are always on hand to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
I was greeted with friendly faces from…
I was greeted with friendly faces from the get go & had all the information I needed to feel safe in the inclusive environment provided.
All staff were helpful & I had excellent guidance from Gemma, hope to work with her & Models Direct again soon!
4 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Travis - Well done for securing a fantastic booking.
We are so pleased you had a successful shoot and enjoyed the day.
Gemma is always available to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
The team were lovely
The team were lovely, very welcoming and friendly. Everyone made made daughter feel comfortable. The whole experience was very enjoyable and professional.
4 February 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Kerry - Congratulations to your daughter for securing an amazing booking.
We are so pleased she enjoyed the day and everyone made her feel welcome.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Working with Models direct
Working with Models direct on this shoot was very seamless and enjoyable. They communicated what’s going to happen and all the details so well. Made themselves readily available for all queries I had and constantly provide me with more opportunities
8 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Tonye - Congratulations on securing an amazing booking.
We are so pleased you enjoyed the shoot and were well supported throughout. We are always available to offer any guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Waste of time and money
My baby’s application was approved nov 24 and I spoke to Anna a few times. Had to pay an initial fee of the best part of £200 and got absolutely no where. Heard nothing whatsoever. Had a phone call from Anna a few months later just as a ‘catch up call’ but that was it. Utter waste of money and time updating her profile. I’ve just give up now and not bothered updating her profile in months - no one’s rang to ask me why or to update it etc so clearly no one knows or cares. Would not recommend this company
27 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Rebecca - Thanks for contacting us.
We have located your baby's details and she has been registered with us since December 2024 and during this time she was put forward for 3 different bookings. We can see you have not updated her photos or measurements since 12th May 2025. Following our investigation, it appears that some of our emails may have been marked blocked either by the email provider or by settings applied to your inbox. When this happens it can prevent updates from being delivered as intended.
If you would like us to help resolve this, please get in touch and we can advise on how to ensure our emails reach the inbox going forward.
You may be frustrated that you’ve not had any work. Modelling is competitive - the younger you are the more so. This is something we go to some lengths to explain in our initial calls to new applicants. The decision to hire models is made by our clients.
We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
You are also always welcome to contact your Coordinator directly at any time if you would like an update or have any questions.
Thanks from the MD team.
My dad nearly got scammed for 180£
My dad nearly got scammed for 180£, not only did they raise the price but they also somehow accepted me into the industry within a few days. Now the worst part was, if I had actually accepted this contract and everything, they would stopped me from trying to go to any other models, which was a problem because if they weren’t giving u jobs despite paying a fee how would I find another one? What an absolute joke, don’t spend time with agencies that claim a fee because I would rather have them take the fee from, when u first get a paying job right? Or am I wrong. I’m sorry , I’m not slandering this company, but I am making you aware of the mistakes you might make working with this company… Anyways models direct, I’m not trying to be rude, I know I might haven’t gotten the job yet or been paid, but those problems are the assumptions I’ve made. Other 1 reviews say similar things
22 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi - Thank you for contacting us.
It is good to hear that you are taking your modelling career seriously and have had the diligence to do your research. However, I understand that you have read some unsettling things while researching our company. I appreciate that you have come directly to me with your concerns and provided us a fair chance to respond.
The admin fee is a contribution toward the costs of including you in our work seeking publication on www.modelsdirect.com, access to which is available to vetted clients only. It is within the law to charge an admin fee for this service which, in the commercial modelling industry where Models Direct largely operates, is quite the norm. When you get to the ‘high end’ modelling world it makes more sense to no longer charge an admin fee but rather take commission only from the high value modelling fees charged. The ‘high end’ modelling industry only accounts for a small percentage of the day to day modelling jobs but does gain the most press coverage which is why many new faces have this expectation when first joining an agency. The admin fee would not have been increased; we have a set fee for a model to be registered with us.
We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
Some models we represent do not get selected for work - we make no secret of this, there are more models than work. Modelling is competitive and some models will not be selected by our clients. Models who are not selected will inevitably be disappointed - it's the nature of the industry - same for actors, singers, dancers, entertainers... any form of talent selection.
Models Direct is a regulated employment agency and has been since 1990. Over the years we’ve had a number of visits from the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy whose job it is to regulate the industry. By complying with the legislation, the recommendations from the BEIS and following the The Conduct of Employment Agencies and Employment Businesses Regulations Act, we have been able to offer our employment agency services to models and clients for over 30 years. We are also a non-exclusive agency. Our models are welcome to work with agencies.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
Fab experience
Fab experience. Great communication all the way through before and after the shoot. Any questions I had were answered to reassure me. Very professional everytime. Thank you again Models Direct can’t wait for my next one!
15 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Kimberley - Congratulations on securing an amazing booking with us.
We are so pleased you have had such a positive experience with us so far. We are always on hand to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Good communication and expectations…
Good communication and expectations were clear.
16 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Kathryn - Congratulations for securing an amazing booking with us.
We are so pleased you had a successful shoot and everything was clearly explained.
We are always on hand to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
I signed my teenage son up with Model…
I signed my teenage son up with Model Direct a year ago. Before I joined, they called and emailed me frequently, but once I paid the fee, I never heard from them again. I have called several times and even applied for jobs through their website, but still nothing. I’m very disappointed.
19 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Marina - Thanks for contacting us.
I have located your son's profile and I can see he has so far been put forward for 20 different bookings. After applying to join Models Direct we will try to call you to discuss how we work and what it is you are looking for in a modelling agency. There are many misconceptions about the modelling industry and it is our job to set realistic expectations as well as explain what is required from you.
As you can imagine, there are many people enquiring how to become a model everyday and a significant proportion of our time is devoted to these calls. So, when you first apply the initial contact from us may seem quite high as we explain how we work, what pictures we need and how to set up your portfolio. However once you are up and running, the need for input from us is reduced.
We have a number of automated systems that will remind you if your details need updating. We can see your son's photos have not been updated since August 2025. We recommend you update the photos and measurements.
We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
This was my second job booked with…
This was my second job booked with models direct! The communication was great and the shoot went really well! I was stuck in bad traffic on the way but was fully supported by the team and reassured in the situation! Great experience again cant wait for the next☺️
8 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Emily - Well done for securing another fantastic booking.
We are so pleased you had another successful shoot. Great to hear you felt well supported during your shoot. We are always available to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
DIS Health and Fitness
DIS Health and Fitness
It was great to work for DIS Health and Fitness today
We were well looked after
The whole team were very professional
Good to meet other models too
A good day all round
14 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Jo - Well done for securing an amazing booking.
We are so pleased you enjoyed the day and were well looked after on set. Great to hear the team were professional and you got to meet some other models.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Great experience with Models Direct
Gemma gave me all the information I needed and kept me well informed about everything that I needed to know.
It was a first experience of modelling and despite being a bit nervous it was great fun and I would definitely recommend people to try.
I will certainly accept an opportunity again if asked.
I’m 65 soon and it’s fun being around and meeting different people for all sorts of reasons.
Mark.
14 January 2026
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Mark - Congratulations for securing a fantastic booking.
Nerves are to be expected especially on the first booking, you did a great job. We are so pleased you enjoyed the day and had fun meeting new people. Gemma is always available to offer any support and guidance needed.
We can't wait to see the final images.
Well done from the MD team.
Total scam
They should be upfront about your chances of getting a job. There is no panel reviewing your photos, it's a total con. Never received any work. I was in a vulnerable state when I signed up for this. I am disappointed with myself more than anything. If you're expecting phone calls and jobs after the initial charm offensive, then you also need a good shake. THIS IS A SCAM. ABSOLUTE BULLSH*TTERS
15 May 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Thanks for contacting us. Unfortunately without your full name we are unable to locate your details. Please complete the below information request so we can provide an update.
After applying to join Models Direct we will try to call you to discuss how we work and what it is you are looking for in a modelling agency. There are many misconceptions about the modelling industry and it is our job to set realistic expectations as well as explain what is required from you.
As you can imagine, there are many people enquiring how to become a model everyday and a significant proportion of our time is devoted to these calls. So, when you first apply the initial contact from us may seem quite high as we explain how we work, what pictures we need and how to set up your portfolio. However once you are up and running, the need for input from us is reduced.
We have a number of automated systems that will remind you if your details need updating. This is to keep your portfolio up to date. You can track how many searches or portfolio views you get in your ‘dashboard’ plus we’ll email you a round up every few weeks. We also send you our newsletter email once a week so you can see the type of work that has been going on plus tips and tricks to improve your portfolio.
You may be frustrated that you’ve not had any work. Modelling is competitive - the younger you are the more so. This is something we go to some lengths to explain in our initial calls to new applicants. The decision to hire models is made by our clients.
We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
Some models we represent do not get selected for work - we make no secret of this, there are more models than work. Modelling is competitive and some models will not be selected by our clients. Models who are not selected will inevitably be disappointed - it's the nature of the industry - same for actors, singers, dancers, entertainers... any form of talent selection.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
Don't waste your money and your time…
Don't waste your money and your time plus your hopes with models direct they get your annual registration fee never call you for a job disappointed
5 February 2025
Unprompted review
Reply from Models Direct
Hi Filiz - Thanks for contacting us.
We have located your profile and can see you have been registered with us since March last year, during this time you have been put forward for 48 jobs.
You may be frustrated that you’ve not had any work. Modelling is competitive - the younger you are the more so. This is something we go to some lengths to explain in our initial calls to new applicants. The decision to hire models is made by our clients.
We don’t guarantee work but we will put models forward to clients whenever their look is called for but the final decision with who gets booked is down to the client. This is why in the initial conversations with you and subsequently, through our automated quality control systems, we emphasize how important it is to have a range of updated photos and a complete list of measurements and skills.
Some models we represent do not get selected for work - we make no secret of this, there are more models than work. Modelling is competitive and some models will not be selected by our clients. Models who are not selected will inevitably be disappointed - it's the nature of the industry - same for actors, singers, dancers, entertainers... any form of talent selection.
We hope this helps put the modelling industry into perspective. You are welcome to our Head Office by appointment, meet us, see what we do and then you will be in an informed position to make a judgement.
Thanks from the MD team.
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