About Us - Hired Hands Models
Our Core Agency Values
Diversity and Authentic
Representation
We are committed to representing models and artists of all backgrounds, ages, genders, body types, abilities, and ethnicities. Authenticity is at the heart of our approach, ensuring every campaign reflects real people and real stories. We champion equal opportunities, regardless of gender, race, creed, sexual orientation, or religion.
Ethical Practice
and Fair Representation
We advocate for fair pay and sustainable career opportunities within the creative industries. Our commitment extends to ensuring safe, respectful, and professional working conditions for all talent, promoting ethical and responsible representation.
Family Values with a
Progressive Outlook
As a family-run agency, trust, integrity, and personal service are at the core of our operations. While rooted in tradition, we embrace a forwardthinking, inclusive approach to meet the evolving demands of the modelling industry.
Industry Leadership
and Innovation
We continuously evolve, expanding our talent roster and embracing digital advancements. As industry leaders, we set best practices and developed bespoke COVID-19 safety protocols, demonstrating our commitment to safe, modern, and efficient working processes.
Precision, Professionalism
and Reliability
Our rigorous selection process ensures every model meets the highest industry standards. We take pride in precision matching, ensuring the perfect talent for every brief. Trusted by leading brands and photographers, we are known for delivering consistent, reliable, and professional service.
Proven Expertise
and Legacy
With over 30 years of industry experience across two generations, HHM has evolved from pioneers in hand modelling to leaders in diverse talent representation. Our longevity reflects our adaptability, commitment to excellence, and deep understanding of the industry.
Talent Support
and Development
We are dedicated to nurturing new talent, providing training, guidance, and opportunities for growth. Equally, we support established professionals, ensuring they continue to thrive and maximize their potential within the industry.
Who We Are
Established in 1991, Hired Hands Models (HHM) began as one of London's pioneering agencies specializing exclusively in professional hand models. Over the past three decades, we've evolved to meet the dynamic needs of the advertising, film, and photographic industries, now representing not only hand models but also body parts models, commercial models, manicurists, and hair & make-up artists.
Our Legacy
Founded by Steve and Judi Barker, HHM started as a partnership operating from their North London home. Steve's background in advertising copywriting and Judi's expertise in theatre production and casting laid a strong foundation for the agency. Their dedication and insight positioned HHM as the go-to agency for top-tier hand models, a legacy that endures today.
Leadership Today
In 2019, the founders' daughter, Chloe Barker, and her partner, Thomas Albone, took over the day-to-day running of the agency from Judi and Steve, bringing with them valuable experience from their previous careers in creative post-production and media performance marketing.
Together, they have successfully navigated HHM through significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, Brexit, and the journey of becoming new parents— accruing over a decade of combined, hands-on experience leading a modelling agency through uncertain times. These experiences have strengthened their resilience, adaptability, and leadership, ensuring the agency continues to evolve while maintaining its trusted reputation.
Chloe, born and raised in London, has a passion for music, art-house cinema, and global cuisine—always carrying a bottle of hot sauce just in case. Thomas, a lifelong Fulham fan and music enthusiast, has also worked in independent film productions. Though more of a dog lover, he’s now a proud co-parent to their child and one cat.
Their combined expertise, dedication, and personal approach ensure HHM remains a family-run agency, rooted in traditional values but driven by a progressive, inclusive outlook.
