UR Models – Scam or real?

UR Models – Scam or real?

Is there really an UR Models Scam or it all as good as it seems to be?

Ok lets start this off with a positive as it deserves it, there is absolutely no UR Models scam and how do we know this? We investigated them personally, we went in to find out the truth and What we found was not only is there NO SCAM but they are probably one of the most honest companies in this sector out there, they want to help not hinder.

We sent one of team ‘under cover’ to find out the truth and experience what UR Models promise, our lovely team member found out they are completely honest and up front and there is no catch whatsoever. Their policies and help is stated right from the offset, so there are no surprises or disappointment down the line.

Their promise to help kick start your career is correct, they do just that even if you don’t purchase a portfolio from the studio (Which we didn’t for obvious reasons). When talking with UR Models they are very clear about the fact they are not a modelling agency they simply work to help you find work from agencies or to pursue on a freelance basis. So of course we booked in for a test shoot.

We were given a few options of making payment for our deposit either card, bank transfer or PayPal all obviously secure and traceable. We then attended our photo shoot, playing the part as a model wannabe, our team member had a great time and said all the staff were attentive and professional ( Thumbs up) We didn’t obviously purchase our test shoot images as we didn’t them, we were purely using this as a test to conclude what UR Models was all about. We were then given a full refund on the deposit we paid for our test shoot, it took three days for the bank to process it back but that’s standard and what a great service UR Models offer. And even though there was no exchanging of money or nothing purchased they still gave our colleague great advice and some agencies contacts, that shows they go above and beyond to help any model even when they are not gaining their selves.

So to conclude there is no scam whatsoever going on, they offer a free service and are dedicated to help aspiring models.

 

UR Models

UR Models – Modelling agencies and how they work

Knowing how modelling agencies work will not only benefit your knowledge, help you crack into the industry but also give you all options then you can decide which is best for you.

UR Models often get asked What is an agency? They are a company who represents a model and works to get them paid work. They earn a commission from the job they get you on, so it’s in their best interest to work hard for you

UR Models Who do big agencies work with? They work with big budget advertising agencies and companies, this means more income for you and commission for them

UR Models What will they offer models? Agencies invest into the models and increasing there skills as this ultimately works for them and you. They will get you training, test shoots, portfolios, create you comp cards and printed material. They do all this by deducting it out of models final pay as well as their commission, so you both are equally investing

UR Models Who does the agency approach for work? They present you to designers, photographers, ad agencies and casting directors.

UR Models What are they responsible for? They book the jobs, they bill for the jobs and then pay the model. By them handling everything you as model gets the time to concentrate on the job at hand and developing your abilities.

What is an agencies business hours? They generally work 24 hours a day as the modelling world is not your typical 9-5 job, if they are not in office most agencies will have an operator or an out of hours service.

 

UR Models ‘Undercover’

UR Models ‘Undercover’

UR Models Review – A step by step of our ‘Undercover’ experience of UR Models.

 

1) UR Models Review – Application & Website

Online application submitted via their website www.ur-models.co.uk
The website was very user friendly and easy to navigate, form to register was simple and easy to follow

2) UR Models Review – Phone Call, Emails, contact & Deposit.

The call after registering was very good, we learnt a lot and got to talk in depth with someone who seemed to know there job very well, which was refreshing. The rep was very friendly as well, they were easy to talk to. We were offered a modelling test shoot, which is used as a way of being assessed and seeing our modelling abilities. A deposit for this shoot was taken via my card for £50, this is just to safe guard both parties and not waste the photo studios time, We understood the need.

3) UR Models Review – Assessment Shoot

The assessment shoot was a lot of fun and the staff immediately built up a good rapport with me.  They made the whole day a great experience and we definitely learnt a lot about the industry and what it was like to be in front of the camera. The professionalism was not as obvious as the competitors, but i couldn’t help but wonder if this gave them an edge… as in not trying too hard, so go over the top which can make you think they are trying to cover something up….

The portfolio that was put together for me was of an amazing standard. For obvious reasons I declined the purchase and was then refunded as promised my deposit. If you are serious about becoming model this is definitely a great service which enables you to get going with ease, a must for any model wannabe.

 

UR Models – Advice on being a Successful Model

UR Models – Advice on being a Successful Model

The secrets to being a Model by UR Models When attending the all-important castings, go well presented and think carefully about your outfit and figure and important tip as a female model always wear heels. Your outfit should be simple as you don’t want distract from you modelling abilities. Look after your skin, use minimal products, over use can dry out you skin and age you (Never a good look. The modelling world can be lucrative if you know where to start and have a hunger for success, the most determined always wins. Always have a back career though as no one can guarantee how well your modelling path will go, so you always want something to fall back on.

Avoid scammers they can be harmful to you career and you confidence. Some may approach you say they are agencies and ask for a up front free, well remember NO agency would ask for this, it’s illegal to. An agency will earn their money from getting you paid work down the line. It’s also industry standard any model under 18 years of age HAS to have parental permission and have them attend any shoot.

UR Models would never send anyone a friend request and nor would any legit company so anyone trying to make contact on line is a scammer, delete, block or report them and never get into a conversation they are not out there to help you, they want to harm your career and cost you a lot of time and money.

Continue reading UR Models – Advice on being a Successful Model

Fashion Modelling

Fashion Modelling 

We believe the key to success in the modelling industry is knowing it, having all information needed and know who to go to for help & work.

Criteria for Fashion Modelling with an agency:

  • A top Fashion modelling agency must be located in one of the top fashion capitals, reason being is the most lucrative, prestigious modelling assignments can be found there. These are: London, New York, Milan, Parid, Tokyo, Sydney, Rome, LA, Prague, Toronto, Sao Paulo and Barcelona.
  • Make sure the agency has a good reputation within the industry, they need to be well known to be of the best standard.
  • That the fashion agency has provided models to the best in the business and for top fashion designers such as Gucci, Calvin Klein, Prada and Valentino.
  • Some of the top fashion modelling agencies in the world: Elite Models, Ford Models, IMG Models, Marilyn agency, Models 1, One Management and NEXT models.

 

 

To get signed to one of the top Fashion modelling agencies takes a lot, it is not easy and their standards are high, we are talking Kate Moss standard. But you need to remember you are not limited to High Fashion modelling, there are a huge amount of sectors within this industry so you will find something great within modelling. Knowing where to start on discovering all areas is also confusing, so listen below are some services that will help you, using one these will give you the best chance of success.

www.become-a-model.co.uk

www.ur-models.co.uk

 

UR Models – Investigation

UR Models – Investigation

Investigated – A step by step review on our findings

 

1) UR Models  – Application & Website

A easy online application done and submitted through their website

www.ur-models.co.uk

Was informative and form itself was very easy to follow and complete

2) Phone Calls, Emails & Deposit

My first contact with Ur Models was with a guy called Tom he firstly was really appreciative for me choosing UR Models and also said he loved my photo and would like to know more about me. We chatted for some time bout my hobbies, interests, aspirations etc then we discussed the modelling industry and told me about different areas of the modelling world which if I am honest I didn’t know existed. Tom was without a doubt clued up, he knew is industry well and this gave me a sense of confidence in the whole process.
Tom went on to tell me that UR Models are not a agency and don’t think of them like that, they work closely with aspiring models and give them the platform to succeed and eventually get paid work. So a advice and guidance service basically. He offered me the opportunity to attend a photo shoot at a real professional studio, he said it would be good for me and an industry expert could then determine my direction in the modelling world. To secure this I had to pay a deposit but a deposit which is fully refundable, he even left me with an authorisation code that I could use to track the payment with my bank, and all of our conversation was then backed up with an email from Tom.

3) Test Shoot

My shoot was a week ago and it was brilliant, it was a completely worthwhile trip. The Makeup, styling, hair and team were amazing, it was friendly vibe but professional beyond words. They organised 5 photo shoots in total, three which took place in their studio and three outside on the street of London (Slightly scary all dressed up) but were all equally great fun, the team also made me feel at ease whenever I got anxious or unsure. The photographer guided me through everything which was so great as I had no clue what I was doing.

Once the shoot ended I went to get some lunch as I was starving and this gave the team a chance to assess the images, this prospect did make me nervous. When I returned I was so pleased to hear I had passed their requirements and had great potential!! I then saw my images and even I thought I looked great, we talked over the industry some more, my direction etc and my consultant when through portfolio packages I could buy if I wanted, there was no pressure. Obviously this was an investigation, I had no dream to be a model so I declined the offer. The deposit was then refund into my bank within 3 working days which is standard banking.

4) Getting Modelling Work

The day after my shoot, Tom the guy I had first spoke to rang me, I explained I didn’t purchase any images but he still wanted to talk and give advice. He gave me advice on agencies and who to contact and also gave me some great advice on working freelance, he told me I would need a portfolio to gain work, so to contact him if I need any more advice.
I am overall very satisfied with the service ur Models gave me, they done exactly what they said they would and all their advice was amazing. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to become a model, you can’t go wrong with help like this.

 

Male Models

Male Modelling

Over recent years and especially now Male modelling has become of the most lucrative segments in modelling, they are in huge demand and work is offered throughout fashion, skin care and products.

There are many areas within the Male modelling industry so the doors are open to a variety of male models, all ages, shapes and looks are considered.

Some areas of modelling have requirements such as High fashion and Catwalk, you would need to be a model of a certain look and meet height standards of between 5’11 – 6’2

 

Below are the areas of modelling Male models can go into:

  • Fashion models (Clothing).
  • High fashion models (Designer Clothing).
  • Editorial (Magazines)
  • Runway (Catwalk mostly for designers).
  • Commercial (Adverts i.e. razor blades or health insurance).
  • Catalogue (Online and mail order.)
  • Promotional (Live male modeling work i.e. a trade show).
  • Extras (For TV and film).

To be taken seriously in this industry you portfolio is must, any model needs this important tool to gain work and a reputation. So make sure the images you include are of a high standard, this is the first thing potential employers see before meeting you, so first impressions count. Show diversity as every client wants to see you can adapt to different visions. Also always get a model release form signed by a photographer this enables you to use photos as you wish.

 

If you are serious about becoming a male model and want the best shot at it then look at the below sites, they have all the info you need and are a great support when entering this daunting industry.

www.become-a-model.co.uk

 

www.ur-models.co.uk

 

 

Freelance modelling

Modelling Jobs

Advice and Guidance on getting Modelling Jobs

 

We firstly want to cover the myth that you can only getting modelling work through agencies, this not true at all and you need to remember this when entering the modelling world.

When you enter the world of modelling do NOT rely solely on agencies if you get signed to one, there are other options that could gain you huge rewards.

The secret to more work is UR Models  – Freelance modelling!

There are hundreds and hundreds of freelance modelling job opportunities out there and anyone can apply for them on their own without agency help or direction. You will obviously need a portfolio to apply for any work and the more professional the better.

You can find modelling work via searching online, not to mention the numerous modelling sites out there that you can register too.

When you begin modelling the more exposure you get the better, so get as much work as possible!

If you are seriously considering becoming a model then we suggest contacting one of the following services which will be able to give you the best guidance and advice on getting your first modelling jobs.

www.become-a-model.co.uk

 

www.ur-models.co.uk

 

Becoming a Model

Becoming a Model

Our guide

The modelling world is a daunting one if you don’t know it, it often very confusing and having some help from experts is imperative to great success. Your best chance of success is having a middle man service, we have listed some below, all of which are honest, reputable and industry leaders:

www.become-a-model.co.uk

 

Here are some further tips and advice:

Portfolio- Your holy grail, your most important tool! This goes for any model and is something that should never be over looked. It works as CV into the industry and is a industry standard. So it needs to be high quality, contain 6-12 of your best images and show diversity.

Agencies: Get in touch with agencies this will kick start you career and get your name out there. Check out whos best to go with by talking to other industry professionals or using the services mentioned above. Never pay joining fees with agencies!

Open Calls: Attend as many as possible. They can appear a little overwhelming but you will soon get used to the process as this part of the modelling world. Smile, be confident but not arrogant and if you get a knock back, dust yourself off as this part and parcel of being a model. Say you, remain polite and move on to the next one. A portfolio is must for attending castings and if you want to be signed to an agency.

 

Key attributes needed: Be committed and hungry for success, modelling is a competitive industry and takes lot of hard work, so only the determined succeed. Keep in mind ‘Rome wasn’t built in a day’ so hard work will pay over but do not expect success over night. Be professional at all times, this shows your take your line of work seriously. Always listen and be willing to learn this shows you’re adaptable. When you are contacted always return contact promptly as you may miss the opportunity. Practice makes perfect!!

 

Unfortunately, the industry of modelling comes with scammers. Scams can leave you feeling abused, mistreated and completely deflated, so it’s best to get your head around some tips on how best to avoid them. A modelling scam generally involves someone stopping you in the street and telling you that you could be a model. They are hard to spot because when you are scouted by an actual legitimate agency, they will tell you a very similar thing. What you don’t want, however, is to be caught unawares by someone that is trying to sell you a poor service. Companies that approach you on the street to do this should not, generally, be trusted.

 

Be wary if, when you show up to the place they have told you to go, they start getting pushy. For example, if they tell you that you can only use a specific photographer, the service is likely to be a scam. You should always have a choice over which photographer you want to use to build your portfolio, especially if you’re paying a lot of money.

 

Secondly, take a big step back if the company asks you to pay any kind of initial fee for them to “be your agent”. An actual agency will not expect you to pay any money to work with them. They may ask you to sign exclusively with them, but they won’t charge an upfront fee.

 

As tempting as it may be to succumb to pressure, don’t fall for the “this is your only chance, without taking this you probably won’t make it as a model” line. This is a way of putting pressure on to ensure you fall for the scam. A legitimate company will be welcoming and encouraging; they will not be trying to do a hard sell.

Finally, be wary of anyone that guarantees that you will get work. No one in the industry can make this promise as a legitimate guarantee. Further, if they persistently talk to you about large salaries and a glamorous lifestyle, take caution. Modelling work can be irregular, and whilst it can lead to large salaries, a legitimate agency won’t be promising this in your first meeting, if ever.

 

Paying to have a great portfolio created with a legitimate photography studio is one thing, paying for someone to be your “agent” is another.

 

Modelling scams are unfortunately a part of entering the modelling industry, but don’t have to affect you if you keep your wits about you. Don’t be flattered into submission, don’t hand over any cash without doing your research, and hunt out your own photography studios, rather than being conned into using an illegitimate service by someone on the street.

 

Posing tips – by UR models

Posing tips – by UR models

Posture

  • Posture is everything in a photo it can create the best image or the worst- Keep shoulders back, tummy in and back either straight or slightly arched depending on what is best for you personally
  • Elongate the neck, not have correct posture with this can again ruin a perfectly good photo
  • Keep in mind whatever is closest to camera can come across the biggest and this can destroy a image and proportions – Having your hips side on to camera and shoulders point front ways with make you lose your waist and give you a more triangular body shape
  • When you need to pose leaning on something make sure you use your muscles to fully lean, you just want to give the illusion you are leaning. If you lean properly you will ruin your body shape or obstruct the camera from picking up your whole body shape and putting pressure on certain body parts will make you look bigger than you are thus ruining the final result.
  • When posing your eyes say a lot about the image, your eyes give emotion so it’s imperative to try and absorb yourself in the shoot, get into the character you’re playing and evoke emotion through your eyes. If this is hard for you try to ‘Smize’ which is a tip by top model Tyra banks, its smiling through your eyes. The method is basically squinting by only by using you bottom lid, it will create drama on your face and show through on your image.
  • Always be aware of how your face looks in shots, tilting it the wrong way or not maintaining good neck posture will ruin a image and can make your face look bigger than it is. So our top tip is elongate your neck like we have previously covered and keep your chin down, this was you have good posture but hide any areas that would cause image to look wrong.
  • Catching the light correctly on your face will help show off your best features and shadow the not so good areas for a shot.
  • Pouting ok we are all victim to this when posing for a shot but avoid this when doing professional shots as this will cause the face to tense and look odd. You made me briefed to do so every once in a while but if you are not then keep your face natural and genuine this will add to the perfect shot.
  • When posing for the photography remember your expression is everything, so don’t just maintain one expression, be adventurous as this will show you are not a one trick pony and you are versatile.
  • In portrait shots obviously your only weapon to make a good impression is your face, so be expressive and show emotion.

Clichés

  • Don’t follow suit and use Model 101 poses like hand on hip, pout etc this has been overdone and not something clients want to see, be creative and get into the moment, clients don’t want you making their product or brand look tacky and repetitive.
  • Symmetry is a great asset in some shots but at same time can come across a little boring, for instance in high fashion or catwalk its always a good idea to have a certain angle or body part just off
    centre or crooked this adds dimension to a shot and that’s important, you need to draw people in.
  • Try different angles, experiment a little, you may not feel comfortable at first but moving around and being creative will pay off. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE
  • Best advice is breathe- pose-click, breathe-pose-click – after a while this will become habit
  • Don’t just completely do as you like the client and photographer are there also to give direction so always be listening whilst thinking

 

Portfolios are any models most important tool, it’s your CV to the industry and no point should this be over looked and standard should never be over looked either, high quality images not only show you off best but they also show you are serious about your career. Do your homework and you will see time and time again this being said and it’s no secret a decent portfolio will cost some money but like any business you have to invest to reap the benefits, you cannot expect photographers, studios or agencies to help you for free, they are ultimately earning a living too just as you want to. Keeping all the above tips in mind when you attend your professional shoot to create your portfolio will help you get the perfect shots and will show the industry experts you are working you mean business!

 

Hope this helps and good luck!