The Model Builders – Answering Your Frequently Asked Questions

You might have heard of The Model Builders, but do you know what we’re all about? Here, we answer your most frequently asked questions.

Who are The Model Builders?

The Model Builders are the UK’s leading support service for aspiring fashion models.

With over 18 years of experience in the modelling industry, The Model Builders guide models and help them to navigate the competitive world of modelling.

What’s the difference between an agency and Model Builders?

The Model Builders are not an agency. An agency is a company that signs up potential models and finds them work, taking a cut of the payment a model earns from their modelling jobs. The Model Builders, by contrast, is a modelling support and photography service. The Model Builders won’t find you work, but they will give you the knowledge and confidence to find it yourself.

How do The Model Builders work?

It’s a simple process. First, you’ll register for free on the website. This includes submitting photos so our team can determine whether you have a chance of success in modelling. One of our experts will get in touch and discuss any experience you may have, as well as your goals.

Next, we book you in for a photoshoot. Our photoshoots take place at one of our photography studios around the country, and you can choose the one that’s closest to you. You’ll have to pay a small deposit to secure your booking and, once there, you will have your hair and make-up done before being guided through the process of a real-life photoshoot.

After your shoot, you’ll have the opportunity to sit down with one of our experts and discuss your photos. They will help you choose the best ones, and you can then decide whether you want to purchase them for inclusion in your modelling portfolio or for use on your z-card.

We then provide ongoing advice and support, and will answer any questions about the industry you may have (like what is a casting call, how to get signed to a modelling agency etc).

Where do I need to travel to?

The Model Builders has several photography studios around the country; simply pick the one that is most convenient for you!

Why would I need to pay a deposit, the website said it was all free?

A deposit saves your space, and prevents last-minute cancellations, which can be costly to the company. You get your deposit back upon purchase of photos taken at your photoshoot.

What do I need to bring with me on the day?

You will need to bring some outfits with you to change into for the photoshoot. Think about your outfits carefully; they need to fit well and not be too distracting. Some people like to bring several outfits so they have lots of different options to choose from when selecting their favourite photos.

What happens if the shoot goes well, do I need to buy a portfolio?

It’s entirely up to you! You don’t have to purchase any photos for your portfolio, but nearly everyone does because the images turn out so well. Buying portfolio images is a great way to invest in your career as a model, and having professional photos sets you ahead of the competition.

If I already have a portfolio, can you support me without buying another one from yourselves?

The Model Builders are not just a photography studio, they are also a model support service. We provide professional ongoing guidance and support to aspiring models who are new to the industry.

How much will the day cost?

A day at our studios is completely free, but you will need to factor in the expense of travel as well as any photos you may wish to purchase at the end of your shoot.

What timeframe do I need to have the shoot in?

You will need to set aside a couple of hours at the least for your photoshoot. The photoshoot itself can take around an hour. Pre-shoot, you will have your hair and make-up applied, so you will need to make time for this, too, as well as a post-photoshoot talk to discuss your modelling technique and to go through your photos.

Are there any specific height requirements?

There are no height requirements for having a shoot with The Model Builders. However, it’s important to note that in the real modelling industry, many agencies and brands like to work with models who are in the region of 5’7” and above. But don’t feel despondent if you aren’t quite this tall; there are petite modelling agencies and brands out there who work with shorter models, and of course, there are always those models who manage to break the mould (Kate Moss is only 5’6”!)

Are you interested? Register with us today – it’s free!