Image Spring 2009

TH E U K’S ON LY M ODE LLI NG MAGAZ I N E

IMAGE www.modelsdirect.com

SPRING 2009

First impressions count: make yours matter

Spring fever! It’s in the air: the irresistible urge for new beginnings…

Behind the scenes at Models Direct

Portfolio pics that please 0871 224 6000 UK BT landline calls to the above 0871 number will cost no more than 10p per minute. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary

It’s all happening!

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through Models Direct about the assignments the y’ve got Here’s what w orking models sa y “The photoshoot experience was fun and interesting, we received a warm welcome. The MD team was very understanding and supportive.”

“My assignment co-ordinator made me feel at ease. The company representative was pleasant and informative.”

“Babies ‘R’ Us photoshoot: Alicia did really well, she smiled and waved at the camera. The photos came out really good.”

“The photoshoot went really well, Leah worked well with them and at the end the photographer came to us and said she did a great job.”

“We had a great time on the assignment for Babies ‘R’ Us.” “My photographic shoot went well; it was my first time and I tried to do it in a professional manner.” “I had to model winter clothing. I very much enjoyed this experience and the clients were very welcoming.” “I thoroughly enjoyed my first job. The managers of the company were extremely friendly, welcoming and helpful.” “My first assignment and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff were really friendly and made me feel very comfortable and welcome.”

“I really enjoyed the day and had a lot of fun. People were very friendy. All in all it was a great day.” “Everyone was absolutely wonderful and I was very relaxed and able to follow directions well.” “I really enjoyed it and can’t wait to see it on TV.” “I really enjoyed the assignment a lot. The people were so nice. The clients were satisfied with the result.” “The photoshoot was brilliant. I really like working with professionals. I enjoyed it so much.” “All went well, it was great! I really enjoyed the experience, and was involved in four different shoots.” “I had a fantastic day. I really enjoyed the company of the crew. Thank you for giving me a wonderful experience.”

“All went well, I really enjoyed myself. They were very nice and they were pleased with me.” “The assignment went well. It is real pleasure to work for GMTV. Looking forward to working with them again.” “It was my first job. All in all it was a good experience and they were all very nice people. Thanks for an enjoyable day.” “Really good assignment on GMTV. The people there are just wonderful and I had a great time.” “Thanks for the assignment; the client seemed pleased with our work. Looking forward to the next assignment.”

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“I really enjoyed it, with lovely and friendly people, thank you for the opportunity.”

IMAGE NEWS

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Curved? Ball! Happiness comes with curves, according to a study which revealed that size fourteen women are the most satisfied with their life and looks. Girls who wear the dress size rated their general happiness higher than any other, according to research from cereal brand Special K. More than 43 per cent of size 14 women also said they were as happy as they could be with their career, and almost a third said they couldn’t be more content with their love life. Second happiest are size 12 women, with almost threequarters saying they are completely satisfied with their friendships and 45 per cent saying they enjoy a very successful career. Size eight women came third in

the poll of 3,000 women, closely followed by those who wear a size 16 and a size 10. Those who wear a size 24 or above did not fare quite so well, with 18 per cent admitting they are extremely unhappy with their life, less than four per cent unhappy with their career and more than one in 10 extremely unhappy with their love life. But researchers discovered that it’s not just plus-size women who are unhappy, as size six girls came fourth, with size 18 women at number five. A spokeswoman for Special K said: “It’s great to discover that being a size zero doesn’t necessarily bring happiness. Our research shows that the curvier size 14 woman is much more comfortable with her shape and has a happier outlook on life.”

BORED? NOT US! A recent survey of past and present Models Direct talent revealed the motivation behind their modelling ambitions. Some said they dreamt of a full-time career as a model while others simply hoped to earn extra money from assignments. But a convincing percentage cited the desire to ‘do something different’ as their main inspiration. Interesting, then, that a study by the New Economics Foundation found that Britons have Europe’s fourth-highest levels of boredom. Clearly those involved in that study hadn’t heard of Models Direct!

2009 GOT OFF TO A FALSE start for me when a slip on ice left me with a shattered wrist... being waited on for a few weeks was lovely, but did nothing for my resolutions to lose weight and work out more! The article on p14 couldn’t have come along at a better time – apparently spring is the best season for life changes, so I am dusting off my to-do list and am determined to get back on track. If making it as a model is among your ambitions this year, there’s plenty in Image to inspire and help you. And, as always, a dedicated team at Models Direct working on your behalf. Read about them, and the assignments of our models have worked on recently, on pages 5-12. GILLIAN BENDALL Editor

In this issue 04 First impressions last Creating a good first impression is key to getting your assignment off to a flying start. Here’s how to make the most of those new encounters 05 Models Direct news A roundup of news from the team at Models Direct, plus models talk about their recent assignments 09 A match made in heaven Well, at Models Direct anyway! Sign up and you can be sure there’s a hard-working team dedicated to the task of finding you modelling work around the UK 13 Snap to it! Don’t let yourself down with poor portfolio pictures – a decent image is just a click away… 14 Make a fresh start Spring is the season for new beginnings, and that makes it a perfect time to set out rules for a healthier, happier life

Spring 09 IMAGE 3

Creating a good first impression is key to getting your assignment off to a flying start. Here’s how to make the most of those crucial new encounters

First impressions last I

t takes just a quick glance for someone to form a first impression about you when you meet – in just 30 seconds it’s reckoned they’ll have an opinion based on your appearance, body language, demeanor, mannerisms and how you are dressed. And after just four minutes those first thoughts are likely to have become something more lasting – a judgment – which will set the tone for any subsequent relationship between the two of you. Research shows that first impressions are made up of the following: • 55 per cent visual impact • 38 per cent tone of voice Seven per cent what you •actually say Whether they are in your career or social life, it’s important to know how to create a good first impression, so here are some top tips. 4 IMAGE Spring 09

Be on time There’s no such thing as a ‘good excuse’ for being late. Plan to arrive a few minutes early and allow for possible travel delays.

Be yourself If you are calm and confident, the other person will feel more at ease too and you’ll have a solid foundation for making that first impression a good one. Learn some relaxation techniques if nerves tend to get the better of you.

Present yourself properly Physical appearance matters, but it should always be appropriate to the person you are meeting and the reason you’re meeting them. Start with the way you dress. On a modelling assignment you may be given clothes to wear, but it’s still important to turn up looking right for the

job – if it’s a photoshoot in a plush hotel then ‘smart casual’ is going to be more suitable than sportswear. And pay attention to your personal grooming too – clean and tidy is appropriate for most business and social occasions.

A winning smile A warm and confident smile will put both you and the other person at ease, but don’t go overboard as that will only make you seem insincere and smarmy. Keep jokes to yourself… what amuses you may cause offence to others.

Call minder One modern manner worth remembering is to turn off your mobile phone. You can’t create a good first impression if you are speaking to someone else, and your new aquaintance – or client – deserves your full attention. I

MODELS DIRECT The hottest news from Models Direct Worldwide

WELCOME TO YOUR WORLD fter more than 18 years in business, we believe that Models Direct is a market leader in terms of its clients, staff and services. But we also recognise that every business can better itself, and we’ve been working towards that with an across-the-board review of how we work and who we deal with. As part of that review, we recently surveyed thousands of models who are currently on our books, or have been registered with us in the past. Their responses have given us a clear picture of who they are and why they want to work as models. They show that there’s a definite ‘community’ of like-minded people out there, who all share some common goals. One of the clearest messages to come from our past and present models is that while some of them may hope for a full-time job in the industry, many more consider modelling work a great way to supplement their existing income. But as important, it seems, is the opportunity modelling assignments provide for ‘doing something different’. Everyone seems to want to spend their spare time doing something interesting and exciting – even those with fulltime jobs told us they have time on their hands in which they could earn some extra money, and

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they consider modelling a great way to do that. The social aspect is a great incentive too – time after time, models return from assignments and tell us they’ve made new friends. Our models are found work in all sectors of the industry – yes, we supply catwalk and photographic models, but our people are also used to staff events, to promote clients and their products at trade shows, to meet and greet, and to ‘stand’ for designers who need to show off their work to potential buyers. While many of our younger models aspire to be like the celebrities they see on the TV and in magazines, our survey shows that the majority of our talent recognises simply that they have a ‘look’ which clients will like. They come to Models Direct because they understand that we operate in the real world of modelling, where models are actively ‘marketed’ by our assignments team. which works tirelessly to build strong relationships with clients who include photographers, marketing and advertising agencies, TV and film production companies. The amount of repeat business we win is testament to their reputation for consistently good, high-quality customer service. Read more about them on p9.

The Models DIrect team… pleased to meet you and ready to help you achieve your modelling ambitions

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MODELS DIRECT NEWS

MISSIOSNHED LI ACCOMP

Farm charm DSA PR called off their search for a child model to take part in a photoshoot for Bernard Matthews Farms when we presented Emilia’s portfolio to them… they knew they’d found their girl! The happy agency told us afterwards: “Emilia was fantastic, thank you! She was well-mannered, patient and really turned on the smile for the camera! The photographer and client were really happy with her.” Image is published four times a year by: Models Direct UK Ltd 34 Hurricane Way, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6HU Tel: 0871 224 6000 www.modelsdirect.com

NEWS MODELS DIRECT MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Babies are us! Valued MD client Basement Photographic provided more repeat business when it was looking for cute female babies to model for the Babies R Us Spring/Summer 2009 catalogue. Babies aged from five to nine months were requested and we were delighted when MD models Leah, Meadow, Tiona and Alicia beat off stiff competition and were selected – especially as it was the first modelling assignment for each of the girls! Holiday hot-shot Model Rebecca enjoyed a day in the Lake District when she was selected for a photoshoot by client Cumbria Tourism. She had to travel around the region, posing for images to be used in web and promotional material. Rebecca told us: “The day involved photoshoots at various tourist, as well as retail, locations in Cumbria – like Windermere bus station, Farfield Mill at Sedbergh and Rheged Visitor Centre at Penrith. There were various internal

shots taken within the retails outlets at Rheged and I was required to look like a tourist shopping. Some close-up shots were also taken of me holding shop items. All in all I felt very comfortable with the photographer who put me at ease when I was unsure. It was a fun day and I look forward to my next assisgnment”. Natalie Swaby, Marketing Executive at Cumbria Tourism added: “Rebecca was calm, honest and enthusiastic and understood what we wanted to achieve. As the shoot progressed she grew in confidence and became more relaxed in front of the camera.”

A taste of A-list life Having already booked eight models for a photoshoot last September, we were delighted when a regular client came back to us again for six more models just a month later. The assignment took place in the exclusive Aspinalls private members’ club in Mayfair, London, where the models posed for several shots around the venue, including some in a Rolls Royce. Model Donna, 46, summed up the day when she told us: “I had a wonderful, amazing and unforgettable

Editor: Gillian Bendall Email: [email protected]

A gem of a job When new client Conduit PR called the MD assignments team late one Friday afternoon we got straight on the case to find a promotional model who could represent their client Gemfields Resources at the largest mining convention in Europe. Pretty model Laura jumped at the chance to wear emeralds and other fine jewels while promoting the company, whose directors had travelled all the way from Zambia to attend the conference in London. The event attracted more than 3,000 people and Laura told us: “I had to wear a sash which stated the company name and walk around handing out leaflets and talking to people to inform them of a free prize draw in which they could win £1,000 worth of emeralds. The people from Gemfields were very friendly and helpful and it was a good day.”

Design director: Ike Davis Email: [email protected] Advertisement director: Laura Thorpe Email: [email protected] www.2dle-oo.com Printed by: GB Print Unit 7 Europa Way, Martineau Lane, Norwich NR1 2EN ‘The World Stage’, ‘Talent Management’, ‘Models Direct’ and ‘Image’ are all registered trademarks ©2009

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experience! The client Andrea was very professional and spoilt us with great hospitality, food and drink. I really loved working with Lorraine and Linda from Models Direct – us ladies had a fantastic time. The guys Chris, Andy and Slim (also from Models Direct) were great too and we all worked very well together. “The highlight for me during this upmarket and extraordinary photoshoot was being photographed sitting in a Rolls Royce outside the club and sipping on champagne. The most exceptional shoot I have ever experienced and what a bonus to get paid on top of it!”

TO ADVERTISE CALL

0871 224 6000

UK BT landline calls to this 0871 number will cost no more than 10p per minute. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary

Spring 09 IMAGE 7

MODELS DIRECT NEWS

MISSIOSNHED LI ACCOMP

Farm charm DSA PR called off their search for a child model to take part in a photoshoot for Bernard Matthews Farms when we presented Emilia’s portfolio to them… they knew they’d found their girl! The happy agency told us afterwards: “Emilia was fantastic, thank you! She was well-mannered, patient and really turned on the smile for the camera! The photographer and client were really happy with her.” Image is published four times a year by: Models Direct UK Ltd 34 Hurricane Way, Norwich, Norfolk NR6 6HU Tel: 0871 224 6000 www.modelsdirect.com

NEWS MODELS DIRECT MISSION ACCOMPLISHED

Babies are us! Valued MD client Basement Photographic provided more repeat business when it was looking for cute female babies to model for the Babies R Us Spring/Summer 2009 catalogue. Babies aged from five to nine months were requested and we were delighted when MD models Leah, Meadow, Tiona and Alicia beat off stiff competition and were selected – especially as it was the first modelling assignment for each of the girls! Holiday hot-shot Model Rebecca enjoyed a day in the Lake District when she was selected for a photoshoot by client Cumbria Tourism. She had to travel around the region, posing for images to be used in web and promotional material. Rebecca told us: “The day involved photoshoots at various tourist, as well as retail, locations in Cumbria – like Windermere bus station, Farfield Mill at Sedbergh and Rheged Visitor Centre at Penrith. There were various internal

shots taken within the retails outlets at Rheged and I was required to look like a tourist shopping. Some close-up shots were also taken of me holding shop items. All in all I felt very comfortable with the photographer who put me at ease when I was unsure. It was a fun day and I look forward to my next assisgnment”. Natalie Swaby, Marketing Executive at Cumbria Tourism added: “Rebecca was calm, honest and enthusiastic and understood what we wanted to achieve. As the shoot progressed she grew in confidence and became more relaxed in front of the camera.”

A taste of A-list life Having already booked eight models for a photoshoot last September, we were delighted when a regular client came back to us again for six more models just a month later. The assignment took place in the exclusive Aspinalls private members’ club in Mayfair, London, where the models posed for several shots around the venue, including some in a Rolls Royce. Model Donna, 46, summed up the day when she told us: “I had a wonderful, amazing and unforgettable

Editor: Gillian Bendall Email: [email protected]

A gem of a job When new client Conduit PR called the MD assignments team late one Friday afternoon we got straight on the case to find a promotional model who could represent their client Gemfields Resources at the largest mining convention in Europe. Pretty model Laura jumped at the chance to wear emeralds and other fine jewels while promoting the company, whose directors had travelled all the way from Zambia to attend the conference in London. The event attracted more than 3,000 people and Laura told us: “I had to wear a sash which stated the company name and walk around handing out leaflets and talking to people to inform them of a free prize draw in which they could win £1,000 worth of emeralds. The people from Gemfields were very friendly and helpful and it was a good day.”

Design director: Ike Davis Email: [email protected] Advertisement director: Laura Thorpe Email: [email protected] www.2dle-oo.com Printed by: GB Print Unit 7 Europa Way, Martineau Lane, Norwich NR1 2EN ‘The World Stage’, ‘Talent Management’, ‘Models Direct’ and ‘Image’ are all registered trademarks ©2009

6 IMAGE Spring 09

experience! The client Andrea was very professional and spoilt us with great hospitality, food and drink. I really loved working with Lorraine and Linda from Models Direct – us ladies had a fantastic time. The guys Chris, Andy and Slim (also from Models Direct) were great too and we all worked very well together. “The highlight for me during this upmarket and extraordinary photoshoot was being photographed sitting in a Rolls Royce outside the club and sipping on champagne. The most exceptional shoot I have ever experienced and what a bonus to get paid on top of it!”

TO ADVERTISE CALL

0871 224 6000

UK BT landline calls to this 0871 number will cost no more than 10p per minute. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary

Spring 09 IMAGE 7

MODELS DIRECT

NEWS

MISSION ACCOMPL ISHE

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Twins are seasonal soap stars Four-month-old twins Laura and Megan were selected to appear in various TV magazines as well as on the BBC website in the run-up to Christmas as part of a promotional campaign for top soap Eastenders. The babies were held by cast members Sean and Roxy and were playing the part of their premature daughter who was at the centre of a key seasonal storyline. After their photoshoot the girls’ spokesperson Katie told us: “There were several different magazines, each with a 25-minute time slot and the girls had a different outfit for each one. The cast members we worked with were really good with the babies and the photographer was really patient. Megan and Laura were given plenty of time for naps and feeds which was really important as they are still so small. As a first assignment it was very interesting and exciting, and we really look forward to the next one.”

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Sporting chance Columbia Sportswear Company returned to Models Direct for the second year running when it needed models to show off a new range of ski and snowboarding wear to potential clients… and was so impressed with the models that some were asked back again for further presentations! The models were Stuart, Will, Ashleigh, Toby and Carly. It was a first assignment for model Stuart, who told us: “I was particularly nervous but my assignment co-ordinator made me feel at ease by providing all the relevant details in time for the job. When I got there, the company representative was pleasant and informative and the staff made me feel relaxed and comfortable in front of the prospective buyers.” Also making his modelling debut was Will, who said: “This was my first assignment and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The Columbia members of staff were really friendly and made me feel very comfortable and welcome. Over the two days the company seemed pleased with the work I did and I really enjoyed my first assignment.”

The cat’s whiskers Continued requests for cover stars from ‘The Cat Collection’ magazine resulted in Smudgy being offered her first photoshoot before she was even registered on the Models Direct books! Owner Billie Davis told us afterwards: “The shoot was fabulous!”

BEHIND THE SCENES

…well, at Models Direct anyway! Models with us can be sure there’s a hardworking team dedicated to the task of finding them modelling work around the UK… nlike certain other, passive, ‘showcase’-type agencies, Models Direct prides itself on playing a truly active role in finding work for the models on its books. The agency maintains a highlyexperienced team dedicated to the task of finding work for models signed up with the company. Every day throughout the week the team liaises with existing and potential clients, discussing forthcoming events and photoshoots, talking through their needs, discovering just what it is they’re looking for in the fields of fashion, promotional, marketing and other modelling

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A match made in heaven work and, in the process, matching these clients with suitable men, women, teenagers, children and – yes! – working pets from the Models Direct roster. It’s a demanding and timeconsuming task, but one which every member of the team enjoys and from which they derive much satisfaction. Leading a team of no fewer than 20 professionals each with the experience, industry credentials and nous to get the job done are Lisa and Amy, who pride themselves on bringing the right people together for everyone’s benefit. “Our role is to work on behalf of the models securing

assignments and building relationships with clients to guarantee business,” says Lisa. Amy agrees: “From the beginning to the end of the assignment we ensure our models and clients get the highest level of service possible. When we receive an enquiry we try to find the perfect model for the job. And we go on liaising with clients and models to make sure all aspects of the booking runs smoothly.” Satisfying work, certainly, but it’s demanding too and, as Lisa explains, each day brings surprises: “Typically, in working for Models Direct no two days are ever the same. We’re Spring 09 IMAGE 9

BEHIND THE SCENES dealing with new enquires for all sorts of jobs from newborn babies through to an elderly couple to a pink poodle or a Birman cat!” And that’s what is at the heart of such a successful operation. Models Direct is perfectly placed to provide potential clients with exactly what it is they’re looking for – whether that’s children, a 20-something, or just a couple of ordinary-looking blokes to stand in a pub and raise a pint or two while being snapped. In fact, there’s work for every type: old, young, large or small! “On a daily basis we are asked for ‘real’ people by

advertising agencies and photographers,” explains Lisa, “and they’re always looking for ‘everyday’ people to help promote their product as this will reach out to the correct demographic group. “Which just goes to show that anybody – no matter what their age, size or shape – can have a go at modelling!” laughs Amy. Lisa outlines a recent success involving a broad range of models: “Recently I was approached by an existing client, a large government organisation, looking for seven models aged between 19 and 60 years to be photographed

Team leader: Lisa

for general publicity shots for their company. “The shoot was due to take place over two weeks in central London. All models chosen were required for two hours and every one of them loved the experience.” “Also this week three of our teen models were selected to attend a casting for a photoshoot for the launch of a new dance mat game for the Wii.” adds Amy. “One boy was chosen and his face will be seen on the packaging for the new game right across the world!” Impressive results indeed and, while the models in each case deserve lots of credit, it’s successes such as these which are the direct result of the diligent behind-the-scenes efforts of the Models Direct team. Effort which spans the UK in a bid to bring together clients and models. Lisa says: “We keep in contact with clients large and small up and down the country to remind them that when they are next looking to book models, promotional models or even animals they should contact Models Direct.” “This is a great advantage to our models,” says Amy, “they have the opportunity to be put forward for work anywhere in the country no matter where they live – an opportunity they might not get with a local agency.” Given the breadth of experience Lisa and Amy bring to their work, what advice would they give to

Team leader: Amy

aspiring models eager to maximise their appeal to the greatest number of clients? “The model’s E-Portfolio is vital,” explains Lisa. “It’s what the client will see when making their decision on who gets the job!” Amy adds: “The E-Portfolio is where the model can really sell themselves by ensuring their portfolio is kept up to date with recent pictures showing their current look and recording all their measurements accurately. Remember, the portfolio is the only thing the client has to decide between one model and the next, so it needs to be accurate and look the very best it possibly can!” Good advice and simple common sense, you’d think, but it’s surprising just how many models try to make do with a snap from the camera on their mobile, shot in halflight – hardly a recipe for a quality portfolio! While Models Direct does everything possible to bring clients and models together, it is in the end, Amy says, somewhat dependent upon your E-Portfolio. “Now more than ever the business really is open to everyone,” chorus Amy and Lisa. “We encourage anyone who is looking for fun and a new hobby and the chance of earning a little extra pocket money to give it a go!” And right from that word go, you can be sure these two and their superb team will be spearheading the campaign to

get you working. “We start promoting our models straight away,” says Amy, “as soon as their EPortfolios are complete and we have good clear pictures, we are ready to put them forward to our clients.” Lisa details a recent case to illustrate the point: “We had an enquiry from a client for two identical baby twins for a TV series. The babies had to have a very specific look. A mother had recently called in with interest of signing up her twin girls, but had not yet registered – we saw the potential of the twins and contacted the mum to see if she would be interested in the on-going work for the girls on the series, she jumped at the chance and the girls enjoyed their first

taste of modelling at the age of six months old!” A prime example of what Lisa proudly asserts is Model’s Direct’s foremost mission: “The dedicated team here at Models Direct proactively seeks work for our models, unlike a showcase agency. We are the UK’s largest model employment agency.” And finally, what single most important piece of advice would Lisa and Amy suggest to existing models and those about to take the plunge? “A great attitude – the modelling industry is very competitive and models should be aware of this. It is not all about standing in front of a camera and looking beautiful; models must be organised, punctual and great at following directions.” I Spring 09 IMAGE 11

PRACTICAL PICTURE THIS

Don’t let yourself down with poor portfolio pics – a decent image is just a click away… espite living in the Facebook age – a generation growing up with online images of themselves, their friends, families, pets and wacky escapades just a click away – the primary factor in being passed over when it comes to winning work as a model continues to be poor portfolio pictures. Modelling might be one of the few remaining careers in which a complete novice can make it to the top, but that doesn’t mean its practitioners aren’t dedicated professionals deeply committed to the task in hand – the more so, precisely because they’re often dealing with beginners lacking any kind of modelling experience. And the classic mistake made by so many of these would-be models? Having poor pics! The team at Models Direct

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Snap to it! deals daily with clients searching for the perfect face to promote their products, sell their services or show off their styles – that’s ‘perfect’ whether young, old, large or small, children, cute pets, blonde, sassy and sexy or skinny, bearded and balding! With any or all of those attributes you’re well on your way… but then, oh dear! Your portfolio picture, you know the one: the morning after the night before, snapped in a rush on a low-res camera phone. You’re dressed in something that’s seen better days, and partly obscured

Dos & don’ts… • Do provide at least one unobscured headshot on a white or unfussy background • Do provide a range of pictures showing different outfits • Do take the trouble to brush your teeth and hair, apply makeup (if relevant) and coax the best from yourself • Do shoot in natural light if possible for gentle skin tones • Do incline your head slightly and just to the side to maximise your features • Don’t obscure your pic with confusing extras – including your mates! • Men: Don’t show yourself sans shirt and flexing muscles – it’s naff! • Don’t think “That’ll do…” ‘cos it won’t!

by a large dog, cat, grubby baby, pride-and-joy car. Come on people – clients want to see you! You, in a range of clothes: something smart, a suit or at least a collar and tie for the blokes, not just the ubiquitous jeans, T-shirt and trainers. They want to see your face, your baby’s face or your pet’s, and they want to imagine it adorning the product, service or concept they’re promoting. If you have a long hair show it up as well as down. A profile pic is always a good idea, full length is excellent. But at the very least, make sure your portfolio includes two contrasting outfits and an unobscured head shot, well lit and with an unfussy background. You can make it as a model – whether part-time for pocket money or full-time – but give yourself the best possible chance and maximise the efficiency of the Models Direct team in the process. Okay, start snapping! I Spring 09 IMAGE 13

Make a fresh start

FUTURE PERFECT Spring is the season of new beginnings – and that makes it a perfect time to set out some rules for a healthier, happier life e all do it: start the year with a list of resolutions that will make us happier, healthier and wealthier than ever before. But by the end of the January many of those good intentions have gone out the window – the depths of winter are no time for self-denial and most of us fall off the wagon, ditch the diet and give up the gym routine well before St Valentine’s Day and its customary boxes of chocolates come along. So if your 2009 resolutions are in tatters don’t despair… simply acknowledge that you set yourself up for failure and get ready to start all over again – this time, with some sensible advice to support you.

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Food for thought Winter is no time to try surviving on salads and crispbreads, but now the weather is warming up you can start to think about swapping those calorie-laden comfort foods for something a little lighter. Key to a better diet, though, is a change of focus. Stop thinking about losing weight, and instead start to consider changes that will boost your metabolism and improve your health. For example, opt for lower-fat dairy products because they contain a fraction of the saturated fats that clog up the arteries, not because they are lower in 14 IMAGE Spring 09

calories. And don’t deprive yourself of the things you love – just find sensible alternatives. That could mean having a smaller chocolate bar than usual at snack time, or a bowl of chopped fruit instead of a bag of crisps to pick on while watching TV. Focus on what you can eat rather than what you can’t, experiment with the new season’s fresh produce and make the time to really appraise and appreciate what’s on your plate.

In the drink Alcohol is part of daily life for many of us nowadays, a contributing factor in a multitude of medical complaints and antisocial behaviour problems. If you’re trying to cut down on the amount you drink then, as with food, it’s important to set realistic goals and start with small changes. Try cutting back gradually and acknowledge your achievements – if you aim to drop from four drinks a night to two but then end up having three, that is still a success. Practical ploys such as alternating every glass of wine with one of water will help. And it’s good to remind yourself of the benefits of cutting back too – a pub-sized glass of wine contains around the same number of calories as a chocolate bar, and the money saved on booze could be better spent, for example on new clothes for summer.

Finally, change your routine so you’re not heading for a drink simply out of habit. If you normally reach for a glass as soon as you get in from work, make a cup of tea or have a glass of squash instead. Or get off the bus a stop earlier and enjoy a slightly longer stroll home… a walk is far more effective than a stiff drink for working off stress.

Work it out If your goal for 2009 was to do more exercise, then now really is the best time to spring into action. Trying to drop a dress size or train for a marathon in a month is unrealistic… again, the key is to set achievable targets and focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t. Choose one simple thing you

can change each week – it could be walking up stairs instead of taking the lift, cycling with the kids to school instead of driving, or enrolling for a regular exercise class – and over a month that will be four life-enhancing changes you’ve made. Multiply that by the number of months left in the year and you start to realise how much better you could look and feel by this time next year. Increasing your activity levels will bring huge benefits and the great news is that it doesn’t have to be expensive. Get together with friends for a jog around the park, take the family kite-flying at the beach or buy an exercise DVD and work out while dinner is cooking… getting in shape is just a matter of getting motivated.

Smoke screen Stopping smoking isn’t easy, but the drastic improvements it will make to your life and health are undeniable. Quitting will not only reduce your risk of serious illness, disability or death, but will also get rid of the stale tobacco smell from your hair, skin and clothes, reduce teeth-staining and those tell-tale wrinkles which make smokers age more quickly. If you care about how you look, and how others perceive you, then stopping smoking really has to be at the top of your must-do list this spring. Thankfully there’s a wealth of NHS and web-based advice to help, and even support groups for those smokers who don’t think they’ll be able to go-it-alone. A simple technique for preparing

yourself for success is to become really aware of how and when you smoke, and the effects of each cigarette on you. Make a note of every time you smoke, when, what you were doing, who you were with, how you were feeling, how much you enjoyed it and how it made you feel. Reading your diary will help you spot potential danger points when it will be hardest not to smoke, and you can then plan how you will cope with these. All habits are hard to break, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Quitting for even a short while gives your body a chance to repair some of the damage and most smokers make several attempts before stopping for good. The key message is ‘don’t give up I on giving up’. Spring 09 IMAGE 15

Make a fresh start

FUTURE PERFECT Spring is the season of new beginnings – and that makes it a perfect time to set out some rules for a healthier, happier life e all do it: start the year with a list of resolutions that will make us happier, healthier and wealthier than ever before. But by the end of the January many of those good intentions have gone out the window – the depths of winter are no time for self-denial and most of us fall off the wagon, ditch the diet and give up the gym routine well before St Valentine’s Day and its customary boxes of chocolates come along. So if your 2009 resolutions are in tatters don’t despair… simply acknowledge that you set yourself up for failure and get ready to start all over again – this time, with some sensible advice to support you.

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Food for thought Winter is no time to try surviving on salads and crispbreads, but now the weather is warming up you can start to think about swapping those calorie-laden comfort foods for something a little lighter. Key to a better diet, though, is a change of focus. Stop thinking about losing weight, and instead start to consider changes that will boost your metabolism and improve your health. For example, opt for lower-fat dairy products because they contain a fraction of the saturated fats that clog up the arteries, not because they are lower in 14 IMAGE Spring 09

calories. And don’t deprive yourself of the things you love – just find sensible alternatives. That could mean having a smaller chocolate bar than usual at snack time, or a bowl of chopped fruit instead of a bag of crisps to pick on while watching TV. Focus on what you can eat rather than what you can’t, experiment with the new season’s fresh produce and make the time to really appraise and appreciate what’s on your plate.

In the drink Alcohol is part of daily life for many of us nowadays, a contributing factor in a multitude of medical complaints and antisocial behaviour problems. If you’re trying to cut down on the amount you drink then, as with food, it’s important to set realistic goals and start with small changes. Try cutting back gradually and acknowledge your achievements – if you aim to drop from four drinks a night to two but then end up having three, that is still a success. Practical ploys such as alternating every glass of wine with one of water will help. And it’s good to remind yourself of the benefits of cutting back too – a pub-sized glass of wine contains around the same number of calories as a chocolate bar, and the money saved on booze could be better spent, for example on new clothes for summer.

Finally, change your routine so you’re not heading for a drink simply out of habit. If you normally reach for a glass as soon as you get in from work, make a cup of tea or have a glass of squash instead. Or get off the bus a stop earlier and enjoy a slightly longer stroll home… a walk is far more effective than a stiff drink for working off stress.

Work it out If your goal for 2009 was to do more exercise, then now really is the best time to spring into action. Trying to drop a dress size or train for a marathon in a month is unrealistic… again, the key is to set achievable targets and focus on what you can do rather than what you can’t. Choose one simple thing you

can change each week – it could be walking up stairs instead of taking the lift, cycling with the kids to school instead of driving, or enrolling for a regular exercise class – and over a month that will be four life-enhancing changes you’ve made. Multiply that by the number of months left in the year and you start to realise how much better you could look and feel by this time next year. Increasing your activity levels will bring huge benefits and the great news is that it doesn’t have to be expensive. Get together with friends for a jog around the park, take the family kite-flying at the beach or buy an exercise DVD and work out while dinner is cooking… getting in shape is just a matter of getting motivated.

Smoke screen Stopping smoking isn’t easy, but the drastic improvements it will make to your life and health are undeniable. Quitting will not only reduce your risk of serious illness, disability or death, but will also get rid of the stale tobacco smell from your hair, skin and clothes, reduce teeth-staining and those tell-tale wrinkles which make smokers age more quickly. If you care about how you look, and how others perceive you, then stopping smoking really has to be at the top of your must-do list this spring. Thankfully there’s a wealth of NHS and web-based advice to help, and even support groups for those smokers who don’t think they’ll be able to go-it-alone. A simple technique for preparing

yourself for success is to become really aware of how and when you smoke, and the effects of each cigarette on you. Make a note of every time you smoke, when, what you were doing, who you were with, how you were feeling, how much you enjoyed it and how it made you feel. Reading your diary will help you spot potential danger points when it will be hardest not to smoke, and you can then plan how you will cope with these. All habits are hard to break, so don’t be too hard on yourself. Quitting for even a short while gives your body a chance to repair some of the damage and most smokers make several attempts before stopping for good. The key message is ‘don’t give up I on giving up’. Spring 09 IMAGE 15

Client requests Office National Assignments Department Here are examples of recent client requests, received by our Head

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We search our database of models from all over the country and propose to clients those which match their requirements. Our co-ordinators call the models selected, offer them the assignment together with a fee… then the assignment takes place!

Online fashion jewellery retailer looking for one or two male models for website. Models need to have a commercial look. Photographic models. Budget £400 Promotions and PR agency looking for four male models for major sports brand – images will be used in major sports shops up and down the country. Models to be from the London area. Photographic models. Budget £1120

Menswear fashion brand looking for a male model aged 30-50 for new website. Model must be tall, have dark hair, be tanned and clean-shaven. Photographic model. Budget £225 Production company looking for a dancing male (dad) model for viral. Face not important as will not be seen, average build; doesn’t need to be a great dancer – just able to move! Production/TV. Budget TBC Production company looking for young female models, aged three to ten years local to Edinburgh, for casting for major catalogue work. Photographic models. Budget TBC Women’s clothing company in Lancashire looking for size 12 models, one blonde one brunette. Photographic models. Budget TBC Hairdressers looking for female model to enter L’Oreal Hair Trophy hair show. Model must have short hair and be based in Glasgow. Photographic model. Budget TBC Healthcare clinic looking for one male and one female model for new brochures to advertise adjustable beds and reclining chairs, aged 40-plus. Photographic models. Budget £1200 Repeat client looking for a young couple aged 18-30 and older couple 40-plus to use for publicity material for government agency. Photographic models. Budget £900 Council requires four to six child models in the south for fostering campaign, to be used to recruit foster carers. Photographic models. Budget £900

Hairdresser in Poole, Dorset, looking for a female model for photoshoot for a hair show, must have short hair and great skin and be willing to have her hair changed! Photographic model. Budget TBC

Medium dog required for advertising campaign. Animal photographic model. Budget £350

Council requires model and father model for photographic shoot. Photographic models. Budget £500 Salon training academy requires female model who must be 6ft for a catwalk show in Manchester, must have catwalk experience. Production model. Budget TBC Hair salon in Essex is looking for a model to cut and colour hair to enter into hair competition, more work to follow if they get through the first stage of the competition. Photographic models. Budget £150 One cute five-year-old boy required for fashion catalogue shoot, blonde or brown hair. Baby photographic model. Budget TBC One male model and one female model required to show a new range of snowboarding/ski wear at in-house presentation for sportswear company. Fashion models. Budget £200 Fifteen baby models required, as young/new-born looking as possible, for advertisement for major sports brand. Baby photographic models. Budget TBC

Laser clinic surgery requires model with good skin and nice legs for advertising. Aged 20-30 yrs. Photographic model. Budget £150

Call us 0871 224 6000

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Baby models aged seven- to nine-months-old required to model dresses in spring/summer catalogue of major baby brand. Photographic models. Budget £300

UK BT landline calls to this 0871 number will cost no more than 10p per minute. Calls from mobiles and other networks may vary