For a beginning model who may never have been to a casting, it can seem mysterious and unknowable – like what goes on backstage at the theatre or what teachers really get up to in the staff room.
If you want to become a model, you need to get familiar with how model casting calls work. Here’s a peek behind the curtain, revealing what happens at a model casting call.
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A model casting is like an audition, but for modelling work. It’s where a model meets the casting directors or scouts who are looking to hire. It’s usually in person, but it also can be online.
It could be for a specific shoot, whether it’s for a product, brand, or magazine. Or it could be meeting a photographer or a representative for a hair salon looking to collaborate with models.
There are also different types of work the model casting could be for. It could be for clothes fitting, catalogue, showroom, catwalk, photoshoot, film, a promotional event, or even a casting to join a modelling agency.
What and who the model casting is for is essential to how you prepare.
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Any information you’re given about the model casting call can and should be used to your advantage. Modelling is a competitive business, and castings are where you can really stand out.
It’s important to note whether it’s an open model casting call or whether you’ve been specifically invited. At an open model casting, you may have to work a bit harder to stand out and be remembered.
Research who you are going to see. If you’ve got a name, you can look them up. Otherwise check out the brand’s website. “The best modelling advice that I received is to present yourself as the perfect candidate,” model Alexandra Nicolescu told L’Affaire. The more you know about who you are meeting, the better you can fulfil their vision.
Prepare your skin, hair, and nails. You don’t have to do anything fancy; just make sure you’re looking your natural best. Moisturize those pins, file those nails, and check for unruly hairs in your mane.
It’s usually best not to wear too much makeup (a little to cover a spot, redness, or shiny skin is OK), so prep your skin the night before by drinking plenty of water and getting an early night.
You’ll want to wear something that shows off your figure, and nothing too baggy. Women will need to pack heels, skin-coloured underwear (in case you’re asked to try something on), and hair ties if you have long hair.
Go over your portfolio to ensure that it has your best photos for this particular client. If you’re with an agency, it’s worth discussing what’s best with your booker.
Check (and double-check) the address and time. You may have only one shot at meeting this photographer or brand representative, so you want to make a good impression. Plan your route well and don’t be late!
Finally, make sure your phone is charged and all the information you need is stored there without needing Wi-Fi to access it. You don’t want to be stuck on the street outside unable to find the door number because your data’s run out.
1. Join the queue. Depending on what kind of model casting it is, you may find yourself at the back of a long line (this is more common for open castings) or at least waiting with the other models who have been asked in. Use it as an opportunity to network — you may work with them again in the future.
2. Make any last-minute preparations. Put on any additions to your outfit if you haven’t already, and check your face and clothes to ensure that everything is in place to make a good impression.
3. Introduce yourself. You’ll then need to go and meet whoever is hosting the casting. You may be called in by name or expected to go in after the last model. Be confident, personable, and professional.
4. Show your book. The first thing you’ll need to do is hand over your portfolio. Make sure you’ve got plenty of comp cards in there so whoever is at the casting can take one.
5. Connect with the people in the room. Try to be memorable. That is especially important if you are attending an open or busy casting with lots of other models. It’s easy to be forgotten among so many faces, so try to stand out.
6. Try on clothes. At a fashion casting, you may be asked to try on some pieces so the team can see how well they fit and how you make their style shine.
7. Walk. At a runway casting for a fashion week or trunk show, you’ll be asked to walk for the casting team. Try to be relaxed and confident, and don’t rush it.
8. Pose for a photo. Especially if you make it to the later rounds of the casting process, your hosts will want to do a quick model casting photo shoot. It will likely be just with their phone or a digital camera. If you’re at a casting for a photographer, the casting may be held at a studio and you may be expected to do a few poses.
9. Say thank you. When everything is over, it never hurts to be polite and thank your hosts for their time. Being pleasant to work with can go a long way.