A model call, frequently referred to as a casting call or open call, is a centralized event used across the fashion and commercial industries to find talent. These events serve as a primary meeting ground where clients, photographers, or agencies can efficiently evaluate numerous potential candidates. The goal is to quickly assess whether a model possesses the necessary physical attributes, presence, and professional demeanor required for upcoming projects or long-term representation. This initial evaluation is a fundamental step in matching talent to the specific needs of a brand or creative team.
Defining the Model Call and Its Purpose
The core function of a model call is to act as a rigorous filtering mechanism for clients such as brands, designers, and production companies. These gatherings allow decision-makers to see a high volume of candidates in a short period, which is necessary for maintaining project timelines and ensuring a wide selection pool. This efficiency is highly valued, preventing the need for dozens of individual meetings.
Model calls are typically held in professional settings like agency offices, production studios, or dedicated casting spaces. The setting is designed to be neutral, placing the focus squarely on the talent’s look and presentation. The purpose is the precise matching of talent to defined requirements, whether the need is for a specific look, a particular height for a runway show, or a unique character trait. Successful candidates demonstrate the right physical traits and the ability to take direction quickly and project confidence.
Common Formats for Model Calls
The industry utilizes several distinct formats for model calls, differentiated primarily by their scope and selectivity. Understanding the nature of each event helps models target their efforts effectively, ensuring they attend calls that align with their career stage and goals. The three main structures are open calls, specific casting calls, and agency scouting events.
A. Open Calls
Open calls are the least exclusive format, advertised publicly and accessible to nearly anyone who meets general physical criteria. These events are often used by larger agencies or clients for initial scouting, aiming to discover new talent without requiring prior representation. Due to their broad appeal, open calls typically draw large crowds.
B. Specific Casting Calls
Specific casting calls are highly targeted and selective, often being invitation-only or requiring pre-submission. These calls are driven by the precise needs of a project, such as a search for a model with specific hair color, athletic ability, or a particular ethnic look. Attendance is limited to those who closely match the creative brief provided by the client or casting director.
C. Agency Scouting Calls
Agencies host scouting calls specifically to identify and sign new talent for representation, rather than filling an immediate job booking. These events focus on potential and long-term viability within the agency’s roster. Success results in a management contract, offering a path to professional representation and future bookings.
How to Prepare for a Model Call
Preparation begins long before arriving at the location, starting with the careful assembly of a professional portfolio, often called a “book.” This book should be meticulously curated, presenting high-quality images both physically and digitally to showcase the model’s versatility and best work. Ensuring the portfolio is easily accessible and well-organized demonstrates a level of professionalism that clients expect.
Attention to personal presentation involves selecting simple, clean, and flattering attire that allows the client to clearly see the model’s natural shape and proportions. The industry standard often calls for form-fitting jeans or leggings paired with a plain tank top or t-shirt, avoiding excessive makeup, jewelry, or distracting logos. The focus must be on the raw talent, not the wardrobe.
Models must know their personal statistics with absolute accuracy, as these measurements are used for immediate wardrobe and booking assessments. They should have their current height, bust, waist, hips, and shoe size memorized, as discrepancies can lead to major issues on a job. Planning logistics and arriving punctually is also necessary, often meaning arriving 15 minutes before the scheduled time to account for unforeseen delays. Researching the client, brand, or agency hosting the call provides context, allowing the model to tailor their demeanor and style to the specific aesthetic being sought.
What Happens During the Model Call Process
Upon arrival, the model’s experience begins with a sign-in process, where they provide their contact information and measurements, often followed by a significant waiting period. The atmosphere is typically fast-paced and highly structured, requiring models to maintain composure and patience while waiting for their turn to be seen. This initial stage tests the model’s ability to handle the often-mundane logistics of the industry.
Once called, the model meets the casting director, client, or agency scout for a brief face-to-face evaluation lasting only a few minutes. This is the moment for the model to showcase their personality and take direction clearly, as the client assesses their on-camera potential and demeanor. The interaction requires quick thinking and a professional disposition.
A standard procedure involves taking “polaroids,” which are simple, unretouched test shots taken on the spot under basic lighting conditions. These immediate photos capture the model’s current look, usually a headshot and a full-body shot, without professional styling. If the casting is for a runway show, the model may be asked to perform a brief “walk” to demonstrate their movement and posture before being dismissed.
Following Up After the Casting
After completing the model call, the standard expectation is a period of waiting, as the industry typically operates under the premise of “don’t call us, we’ll call you.” Casting directors and clients need time to review submissions and compare notes before making a decision. Models must manage their expectations, as hearing back can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.
If the model secured the casting director’s contact, a single, brief, non-intrusive thank-you email may be appropriate. This correspondence should simply reiterate professional appreciation, as repeated contact is strongly discouraged and often viewed as unprofessional.