A model casting is a term which basically means an audition. A selection of models will be asked to attend a casting to meet a client who will require you to bring your model book ask a few questions and in some cases they will need to measure you. Castings can be held at the premises of the client, photographer or agency.
The Business of Modelling
Being a model means being self-employed and like any other self-employed person you are actually your own business. As with any other business there are tools of the trade that you need in order to work, be successful and continue to develop and promote your business.
Apart from yourself, keeping your looks, figure, grooming and clothes in tip top condition, what else can there be?
You will need your book (portfolio) which will need to be kept updated with the latest jobs or new portfolio images.
You will need to notify the Inland revenue that you are now self-employed, although some models do have part-time jobs initially, to top up their income until their modelling career takes off. The Inland Revenue can advice you of the details you will need to give them. You will also need to keep your receipts for expenses incurred during work, for your accounts.
Access to a computer is essential to enable emailing of up to date images to model agencies, clients, photographers etc., It is always beneficial for a model to be able to drive as your work will take you nationwide. Some models take the train, although it can be disadvantageous both financially and from an availability point of view.
Professionalism
Apart from the actual technique of modelling, one of the keys to success is to always conduct yourself with a high degree of professionalism. This takes the form of reliability, punctuality, honesty, integrity, pleasant personality and generally presenting yourself in a business like fashion.
What is a casting?
Model Agencies
Different model agencies can target different areas of the market. Some model agencies specialise in one very specific area, for example glamour, while other agencies have a broader scope for the Types of Modelling work they attract. Of course, over time trends can vary and agencies change.
As a company we are in touch with numerous agencies and know many of the bookers. We are aware of what type of images in a model's portfolio agencies require, therefore after we have photographed and put together your portfolio we are able to advice new models on which agencies to approach.
This information is designed to give you a general overview of the business side of modelling. During a portfolio day these topics are covered in more detail and we are always at the end of the telephone with support and advice.
For further information email, or telephone us on 01332 880496.