Published: 27th Mar 2025
The Business Disability Forum (BDF) is a trusted and respected organisation that seeks to remove barriers and champion inclusivity for all those living with disabilities. They have several programmes to help anyone with a disability, and one of the campaigns is “Changing the image of disability”. This aims to increase representation and improve how disabled people and disability are portrayed in images – whether it’s on social media, in printed materials, on TV or on corporate websites.
Specifically, the “Changing the image of disability” campaign focuses on increasing the number of disabled people in imagery, whilst increasing awareness and improving public, media and business perceptions in the media. The final aim is to create a more realistic view of disability. The BDF comments that disabled people are often regarded at both extremes of the general public perception: that is, either as unstoppable superheroes, or as people who must rely on others to perform the most basic of tasks. They want the public to view disabled people as neither.
It’s why the BDF came to us to request a number of disabled models to help them with their campaign. The BDF wanted to run a photoshoot for their “Changing the image of disability” section on their website. The location? Gatwick Airport – the UK’s second busiest airport. The design company? Faltrego, based in north London. The result? As you’d expect, it was an all-round success, with each model commenting on how well the day was organised and what they got out of it – other than a rewarding pay cheque!
Airports can be stressful for everyone – even for those with thousands of air miles clocked up over a lifetime of flying. Though they may be more challenging for those with physical (or mental) disabilities, airports should be accessible for all, so the BDF wanted their campaign to be shot at a hectic but organised location, and Gatwick fitted the bill.
Our models were photographed by Faltrego’s Head of Production for Phot and Film, Lexy. They were snapped waiting to check in and transporting luggage throughout Gatwick; ordinary activities everyone has done probably at least once.
Our models were rightly excited to be chosen, and even more excited on the day.
Aseefa said, “I was so nervous and stressed because this was my first shoot, but everyone was so lovely. I felt welcomed and valued even alongside people with heaps more experience than me! I was encouraged and supported the whole day, and I forgot about my nerves by the middle of the day. I enjoyed being part of a team. My efforts and energy became instinctive, and my confidence grew with the encouragement and help of other members of the team, models and all production members. I enjoyed myself thoroughly and thank Models Direct for helping this opportunity reach me and I am so grateful for all for the help and enthusiasm from pre-shoot process to the post-shoot catch up. I look forward to the next assignment!”
Wendy echoes, “I was offered a wonderful opportunity, and it didn’t disappoint. It was a warm friendly and relaxing atmosphere, and I was humbled to work alongside some truly beautiful inspirational people.
I will never forget my day and will always hope our paths cross again soon.”
What praise, but not that surprising!
Darren was quick to voice his opinion: “I had the time of my life! All (disabled) models were treated with the utmost respect, all needs met, and a fun but exhausting time was had by all. Communication has been brilliant throughout and even though the shoot was at an airport, everything was organised so well, there was no time for nerves. Would TOTALLY recommend Models Direct to all ages/abilities! Thank you.”
We always have opportunities for disabled models of all ages. By joining us, you’ll be in the best position to be seen by the ones that matter – the clients. If you’d like to be involved in exciting modelling assignments like Darren, Wendy and Aseefa, submit the quick and easy registration form today.
