About Model Casting Calls

Casting calls are useful tools for both agents and models. They are a necessity for models as both a way to network and get work. For casting agents and directors, viewing models in person is essential to the process of finding the right model for a campaign.

Function

Casting agents use casting calls to see several models in person at one time. For open casting calls, It can be more convenient than making appointments for models to come in individually. It's particularly good for casting agents interested in new faces. Ordinarily, a new model would be unlikely to get a coveted appointment with a casting agent, but an open casting call levels the playing field.

Types

There are open casting calls (nicknamed "cattle calls" because so many models attend them) and closed casting calls. Models are typically sent on closed casting calls by their agent, although on rare occasions, a model may be "discovered" by a casting agent and invited to a closed call. Casting calls could be held for a fashion shoot; editorial work, glamor modeling or even commercials. If the casting call is for glamor modeling, the model may be expected to wear a bikini to the call. A casting call for a commercial may require the model to read from a cue card or script.

Features

On an open call, the majority of a model's time will be spent at the casting call waiting in line. After waiting in line, the model will likely have to fill out an information sheet or a release form. Once the model has filled out the form, then he will have his picture taken. At this point, the model will probably be sent away. If the casting director thinks she can use the model, she will contact his agent to book him. Closed calls are usually by appointment so there is considerably less waiting involved. When the model's name is called, the model will meet with the casting director or client, bringing along her portfolio for them to view. The model may also be asked to pose both front and side profiles so the casting director can get a better look.

Benefits

The major benefit of the casting call for the model is being able to be seen by casting agents and designers. It is an excellent networking opportunity, even if the casting agent isn't able to use the model in that particular campaign. For the organizers, casting calls are an efficient way of looking for models. They get to see the model in person, evaluating both the model's personality as well as her look. Open calls are particularly good if the designer or agent is interested in fresh faces. While some model's stories have perpetuated the rags to riches myth, most models have a hard time even getting in the door for major casting agents and designers. An open casting call gives them that opportunity.

Misconceptions

A misconception that some models have with open casting calls is that because they are sent away immediately after having filled out the forms and had their pictures taken, they didn't "make the cut." This may not be the case. Casting calls can be very long days for the organizers and the models have to be hurried through so that the organizers are able to see everyone in the allotted time. Otherwise they end up going longer than planned, not being able to see everyone they wanted to see, or having to schedule yet another casting call. If the organizers like the look of the model they will contact her.