AN INTRODUCTION TO CASTINGS
Welcome to the exciting world of modelling castings! If you’ve ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes of a casting session, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we will explore how modelling castings work and give you a glimpse into the process of finding the perfect talent for fashion runways, photo shoots, and commercials.
From open calls to private auditions, we’ll uncover the essential steps involved in casting models and the criteria that casting directors look for. We’ll dive into the intricate details of the selection process, including how models are shortlisted and what happens after the casting session ends.
Whether you’re an aspiring model or simply curious about the industry, this article will provide you with invaluable insights into the world of modelling castings. Let’s get started!
WHAT TO WEAR TO A CASTING
FOR WOMEN
Matching Underwear
Sporty Castings = (trainers + gym gear eg. leggings)
Otherwise skinny jeans + plain t-shirt, nothing distracting
No makeup
Nails are uniform and clean
FOR MEN
Plain black/white clean shoes
Plain t-shirt + jeans
Groomed nails (clean underneath + filed)
If you identify otherwise please wear what you feel would be appropriate taking the above into consideration.
TOP TIPS FOR A CASTING
SHOW SOME PERSONALITY AND BE POLITE
- If there are any questions you don’t understand say “I’m not too sure at the moment but I’ll ask my agent to get back to you on it.”
- Make sure you take your model card/portfolio
- Make sure to have easy access to your digital portfolio
- Always show up early/on-time
READ THE BRIEF
It may include information needed for the casting. For example, a bikini shoot might need you to bring a swimsuit and to be waxed.
RESEARCH THE COMPANY
So that if you’re asked you can give an honest, informative answer. It will go down well with the casting director, designer or photographer. Simply look on their website and at their social media profiles to get a good understanding of the brand and their campaign styles. You could also read up on the company history and ethos as additional preparation.
Being able to recall a campaign will spark conversation and make you stand out from other models.
NOTE TIME & LOCATION CAREFULLY
- The last thing you want is to turn up late or in the wrong-place.
- Look up your route and set an alarm.
- Make sure you leave yourself plenty of time to get to your destination and get ready in the morning. It doesn’t hurt to leave early just in case of traffic or other unforeseeable circumstances, too.
DO NOT GO DRINKING THE NIGHT BEFORE
- Heavy eye-bags and spotty skin will not be a good look on the day.
- Get an early night and make sure you drink-plenty of water.
- Don’t bring friends/family/pets with you.
- Don’t wear any makeup or light makeup at the most, casting-directors want to see you as natural as possible so they have a better idea of how their ideas will work with you in mind.
WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU ARRIVE AT A CASTING
When you show up there will most likely be a long wait ahead of you so make sure you take something to occupy yourself with (phone, book, music, etc) – make sure your phone is fully charged, and also remember to take water and some snacks as most castings won’t have anything to give.
NEVER leave the venue whilst you are still waiting unless it’s an absolute emergency, even for a phone call if you are-called out whilst you are outside of the building they may cross your name off and move on and you’ve missed the opportunity.
THE CASTING ITSELF
Once called in front of the casting directors you will be asked a few questions. Be confident and friendly. It is a daunting experience but with some practice, it will become a lot easier.
They will ask you to show your walk, try on clothes, and will likely take a few snapshots. Begin with a straight up and down shot and then continue to move through a few poses that you have prepared each time they shoot.
The casting is normally only a few minutes and then you’re free to go
AFTER THE CASTING
There will usually be three outcomes either:
1. They go with a different model
2. They ask for a second casting
3. You are picked for the job
Always make sure that you message your booker afterwards to let them know how it went! If you don’t get the job don’t think that you did something wrong, there are always a multitude of reasons as to why they may have picked someone else that can have nothing to do with you personally!
