Casting calls are organised auditions where models, actors or other talents present themselves for specific projects. They form the bridge between clients seeking talent and professionals looking to find work. These selection processes are essential for advertising, fashion, film and commercial campaigns, where casting directors choose the best talent for their project.
What exactly are casting calls and why are they so important?
Casting calls are professional auditions where models and actors present themselves for specific roles or projects. They function as the selection process through which clients find the right talent that fits their campaign, brand or production.
In the modelling industry, casting calls play a crucial role because they determine the quality and suitability of models before contracts are signed. For female models and male models, they offer the opportunity to showcase their skills and make an impression on potential clients.
There are two main types of casting calls:
- Open casting calls – Accessible to everyone, often announced via social media or websites
- Closed casting calls – By invitation only, usually through modelling agencies or casting directors
- Digital castings – Online applications via photos and videos
- Live castings – Personal meetings at a specific location
Casting calls are important because they help clients find the perfect face for their brand, whilst giving models the opportunity to advance their career by securing new contacts and projects.
What different types of casting calls exist?
Various types of casting calls exist, each with specific requirements and expectations. Commercial castings seek models for advertisements and marketing campaigns, fashion castings focus on fashion and lifestyle shoots, whilst film castings look for acting talent for productions.
The main categories are:
Commercial castings focus on advertising campaigns and marketing material. Here brands look for accessible, recognisable faces that appeal to their target audience. The emphasis is on naturalness and authenticity.
Fashion castings are aimed at fashion shoots, runway shows and lifestyle campaigns. These often require specific body measurements, walking skills and a strong photographic presence.
Film and television castings seek acting talent for commercials, films or series. Here acting skills and the ability to convey emotions are crucial.
Sports castings focus on athletes and sporty types for sports brands, fitness campaigns and healthy lifestyle campaigns. Physical condition and sporting background are important factors here.
Each type of casting has its own dress codes, portfolio requirements and expectations regarding experience and skills.
How can you best prepare for a casting call?
Good preparation for a casting call begins with compiling a professional portfolio, choosing the right clothing and mental preparation. Authenticity and professionalism are the key words for a successful casting experience.
For your portfolio preparation:
- Ensure you have recent, professional photos that show your versatility
- Take both headshots and full-body photos with you
- Add your CV and contact details to your materials
- Practice different poses and expressions in front of the mirror
- Ensure your portfolio is clear and easy to view
Regarding clothing choice, it is important to read the brief carefully and tailor your outfit accordingly. Wear comfortable clothing in which you can move well and that reflects your personality without being distracting.
Mental preparation includes researching the brand or project, practising your introduction and visualising a successful casting. Stay authentic and let your natural personality shine through.
Always bring: your portfolio, a bottle of water, any specifically requested clothing and a positive attitude. Arrive on time and be prepared for waiting periods.
What happens during a typical casting call?
A typical casting call lasts 15 to 30 minutes and consists of arrival and registration, a brief introduction, showing your portfolio and possibly some poses or movements. Casting directors assess your appearance, professionalism and suitability for the specific project.
The process usually proceeds as follows:
Arrival and registration – You check in at reception, fill in any forms and wait until you are called. This waiting time can vary from a few minutes to an hour.
During the casting interview you introduce yourself, show your portfolio and answer questions about your experience and availability. Be honest about your experience and show interest in the project.
During the practical test you may be asked to pose, walk or act out short scenes. Listen carefully to instructions and be prepared to follow directions.
Casting directors look for models who not only fit the project visually, but are also professional, can work well together and radiate the right energy. They assess your potential as a male model or female talent for their specific needs.
Afterwards you are usually told when you can expect the result. Thank the casting directors for their time and leave professionally, regardless of how you think it went.
How Matt Faces helps with casting calls
Matt Faces offers comprehensive support with casting calls by professionally preparing models, providing personal guidance and making the perfect match between talent and clients. We ensure that our models go to castings with confidence and well-prepared.
Our concrete support includes:
- Casting preparation – Personal coaching on presentation, portfolio optimisation and mental preparation
- Strategic selection – We only choose castings that match your profile and career goals
- Professional guidance – Support throughout the entire casting process, from application to follow-up
- Network access – Direct connections with casting directors and clients at home and abroad
Our experienced casting directors work closely with international brands and production houses to create the best opportunities for our models. Through our personal approach and years of experience in the industry, we maximise the chances of successful casting results.
Would you like professional support with casting calls and to take your modelling career to the next level? Contact us and discover how we can help your talent grow in the modelling industry.