The Audition Process Demystified: Succeeding in Model Castings

Have you been invited to a model casting? If so, congratulations! You’re one step closer to launching a professional modeling career.

You’re excited, but you may be wondering how to prepare. Attending a casting call can be a little daunting if you’re uncertain what to expect. In this article, we will break it down and demystify the audition process once and for all.

Here’s what to know ahead of your next model casting call:

Anticipate a Wait

When you attend a model casting, you seldom know how many other models have been called in to audition. You could be waiting with just a few other people, or there could be hundreds attending the same casting as you.

To ensure you remain patient and in a good mood, clear your schedule ahead of time so you don’t feel stressed or rushed. Bring snacks so you don’t get “hangry” while you wait, and make sure you bring a book to read or some other way to pass the time while you wait.

When you get into the right frame of mind and anticipate some sort of a wait, you’re less likely to feel upset or flustered when it’s your turn to be seen. If you’re calm and collected, you’re more likely to be focused and ready to wow the room, which is precisely what you came to do.

Expect a Review of Your Portfolio

A large part of being prepared is looking prepared. So impress the casting team by bringing along your model portfolio.

A model portfolio is a book that showcases your past work. If you’re new to the industry, you can have friends or family take your photographs to reflect your look and style so you can build a model portfolio with those shots. A good portfolio will give the casting team an idea of your range and whether you may be a good fit for their project.

Consider bringing a comp card with you to the casting. A comp card can act as your business card, though it’s usually slightly larger than a postcard. In addition to a few photos, it typically includes your contact information, height, hair and eye color, and body measurements. It’s a good idea to leave your comp card with the casting team so you’ll stay fresh in their minds even after you’ve left the room.

Plan for a Brief Interview

Modeling is about more than just your look. It’s also about your personality. Models are often expected to sell a product, so you should also understand how to sell yourself. If you’re a print model, the casting team will want to know that your personality can jump off the page and grab a reader’s attention. Likewise, if you’re interested in a career as a runway model, you should know how to command a room. When you attend a model casting, ensure your personality shines through.

Be prepared to answer some questions about your model portfolio. For instance, if you have a professional portfolio, the casting team may inquire what project it was for or ask the name of the photographer who took the photos. Being prepared with the answers to these questions will make you appear professional and knowledgeable. You may also need to answer a few questions about your availability and, depending on the type of project, your comfort level with the job requirements.

Like any job interview, you should be prepared to answer some questions and make a good first impression.

Be Prepared to Take a Few Test Shots

The casting team may take a few test shots, or if you’re auditioning for a runway campaign, they may ask you to showcase your walk. If you’re new to modeling, practice some poses in the mirror beforehand so you know what looks work best.

Wear something simple, flattering, and form-fitting, and bring a few extra items to help you pull off a different look. For example, bring a pair of heels to showcase your walk or a hair tie in case the casting team wants to see your hair pulled back.

Anticipate Another Wait

After the model casting, you’ll have to wait to hear whether you booked the job. In some cases, you may be put on hold because the casting team is interested in you but hasn’t yet made a final decision. After their decision, they will let you know if you will be hired, or you may be released, which means the client will not book you for this project.

In many cases, you won’t hear from the casting team. If you don’t book the job, they may not contact you at all following the audition. So keep moving forward and auditioning for other projects while you wait to see whether you’ll hear something.

If you don’t book a particular project, you should know it likely has nothing to do with whether or not you’re a talented model. There are several factors that go into casting decisions, many of which are out of your control. So maintain a positive attitude and keep trying!

Another reminder—before you attend any model casting, you should thoroughly vet it. Be sure to meet up at a professional studio or another public setting. If you spot any red flags, trust your instincts. Partnering with a reputable talent agency is one way to confirm that you’re attending a professional model casting.

If you’re seeking representation, reach out to InnoVision Talent Agency. They work with models and actors of all experience levels. If you’re new to the business, seek trusted representation to keep your best interests at heart. They’ll help you navigate the casting process and be by your side every step of the way. So, if you’re just starting out and need a little advice and guidance, InnoVision is your team.