Casting Calls

One of the best ways to snag an agent is to attend an open casting call. What exactly is an open casting call, what happens there, what do you bring, what do you wear? Don't worry, I'm here to answer these questions so it doesn't become so nerve-wreaking if you decide to go to one.

What is a casting call? Casting calls are certains times during the day when an agency opens its doors to anyone without having to make an appointment. This gives you the perfect opportunity to meet face-to-face with top agencies. The only catch is that you will be among the sea of other new faces hoping to attract the agent's attention.

What do you wear to a casting call? The most important thing to do when it comes to clothes is to be yourself or sport your own personal style. But please be age appropriate. Do not dress overly sexy but don't undress, either. The best thing you can do is throw on some comfortable pair of jeans, wear shoes with a little bit of a heel, and a cute top. Wear clothes that flatter your figure and that you feel good wearing.

Hair? Makeup? Wear your hair how you normally would. If you like it up, then put it up. If you love it down, wear it down. Make sure your hairstyle doesn't draw attention away from your face so keep your style simple. Also make sure that it is out of your face. Don't hide behind your hair. Wear little to no makeup. Period. Agencies don't care about you glammed up. They want to meet the real "you".

What do you bring? If you have a portfolio, then by all means, bring it with you. If you haven't done any photo shoots or don't have a portfolio, don't worry, this won't count against you. At most, bring a few snapshots of yourself. These don't have to be professional but they should be good quality and show your face straight on. No funny poses or pictures with other people. At the casting call, the agent will take a picture of you to put a name to a face.

What happens at a casting call? Each agency has their own way of conducting their casting calls, but expect to be looked over head to toe by the agency's staff. They'll ask you questions about yourself, if you have any modeling experience, why you want to be a model, what makes you stand out, what your plans for the future are, etc. Be honest, be confident and be yourself. They may also ask you to walk for them (as in a runway walk--if you don't know how, just do your best, they don't expect you to be a pro), so they can see how your body moves. They'll also tell you what you need to work on and what you can improve.

At the end, they'll get your personal stats and contact info. If they're really interested they'll let you know on the spot. Or they may tell you straight up that you aren't what they're looking for. There are times when they'll tell you to come back at a later date, which could be months or even a year or two from now. Don't take it personally. The good thing is that they want you to come back so don't question their reasons. Listen to their feedback and work on improving.

Casting calls are your time to shine above the other girls who are there. Agents can always tell by body language who is comfortable being there and who is a nervous wreck. Believe in yourself and show them why you are worthy of being represented by them.