Do I need professional photographs to be a model?

This is a common question, so it’s one we answer frequently. And we always have the same answer: No, you don’t.

Certain agencies may very well ask for professional photos. We can’t speak for the majority, but we know that some agencies do very little with the photos, expect keep them “on their books” and never have the intention of using them to get the jobs models want. Some agencies will charge models money for the “privilege” of doing just that.

Other agencies ask for expensive photos taken by a professional. If their intention is to use them to actively seek employment for models, then so be it.

Apply to be a model

However, we have never asked our models to submit professionally taken photos when applying with us. Nor will we.

We want to make registering with Models Direct as easy as possible, so that our clients can choose from the best selection of models for their assignments. We want clients to make their choices without prejudice; our job is to put forward the most suitable models which satisfy their requirements – be it age, gender or simply the looks they’re looking for. Professional photos are not crucial for clients to select models.

We don’t want prospective models to get too bogged down with a laborious system when all they want is to provide us with essential contact details and a couple of clear headshot photos. A model’s look is important, and so is the quality of photos they submit to us in their registration, but paying large sums of money for professional photos isn’t something we ask our models to submit.

Professional photos have their place, but we certainly don’t insist on them for our models to have the best chance of appearing in promotional shoots and in exciting modelling assignments.   

In short, enthusiasm and dedication trump expensive photos every time.

But what are the requirements for photos we do insist on?

First, we just need two, colour headshot photos. These can be taken with an iPhone or digital camera. The two photos must be:

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  • Headshots only, including the shoulders.
  • Taken by another person – resist the temptation to take selfies, please.
  • Taken in a well-lit room against a neutral background. 
  • Clear, and devoid of shadows which take the emphasis away from your face.
  • Of you smiling naturally.
  • At eye level.
  • Of a recommended height : width ratio 5 : 4
  • Clear of make-up, excessive jewellery and headwear. Whilst you may love to accessorize your looks, we want to see your face and facial features.
  • Of you, and you only.

If you want to approach a professional photographer to increase your personal stock of images, go for it. Just don’t assume you need them to apply with the UK’s no.1 modelling employment agency. We don’t want to deter a wealth of potential talent by asking them to pay good money for professional photos.

So, as long as you follow the above tips when you register with us, you’ll be giving yourself a good chance of being snapped up by our famous clients. Good luck!