Before heading to a glamorous editorial photoshoot or walking the runway for a show, there’s one big step you need to conquer first: casting. Model casting is far from easy; you’re pitted against dozens, maybe hundreds or thousands of other models as you try to convince casting directors and photographers that you’re what they’re looking for.

Some say getting a gig is pure luck or merely based on looks, but we say otherwise. There are ways to go the extra mile to boost your chances of landing your dream modeling gig. If you’re not sure how to prepare for your first opportunity, here’s the ultimate checklist for nailing that modeling opportunity and getting a callback.

Research the Brand

Going into a casting blind makes it more challenging to connect with the casting director and embody their creative vision. Be sure to research the brand and its values, style, and overall energy. Check out their most recent campaigns to see what kind of look and vibe they want to emulate. Is it something quiet and elegant? Edgy and unapologetic, or youthful and playful? Take notes so that you can incorporate that vibe into your tone and expressions when you meet the team.

Stay in Touch with Your Agent for Details

Get all the details about the casting from your agent, like the date, time, place, and extra requirements you need, if any. You should also know whether it’s an open casting (which involves way more people) or a request casting (which means the team asked for you specifically). That way, you know what energy to bring if you need to compete with others.

Practice Your Poses and Catwalk

In many castings, the team will ask you to pose a certain way or do a sample catwalk. If you’re sloppy with any of it, it can hurt your chances of landing the gig. Practice at home to ensure you exude confidence with thoughtful poses and a perfect walk. Observe your face and body in front of a mirror as you pose, and if you see anything that looks a little off, fix it. Walk in heels in your hallway the days before your audition, just to get that confidence and control for your catwalk.

Wear Simple, Form-Fitting Clothes

Casting directors want to be able to see your body and proportions, so don’t wear clothes that will take away from that, such as oversized shirts or dresses with too much fluff, texture, and distracting patterns. Instead, wear a simple, basic outfit that won’t take attention away from your face and natural silhouette. Something like a black or white tank top with your favorite pair of classic jeans is perfect for a model casting.

Do Minimal Hair and Makeup

Heavy makeup or over-styled hair can be distracting for casting directors. It also makes it difficult for the team to picture you in different looks and styles, so keep it at a minimum, but still look pretty and put-together.

Use minimal makeup only, focusing on light foundation or BB cream that covers up blemishes but still makes your skin look like skin. Add some light mascara and a neutral lip gloss, and you’re golden. Hair is a huge part of fashion, so make sure yours doesn’t look frizzy and unkempt at the casting. Keep it clean, shiny, and effortless. For an extra boost of confidence, book a light blowout at the best hair salon Aurora CO has to offer, or wherever your go-to spot is.

Arrive at the Casting on Time

Showing up late at the audition gives the impression that you’re unprofessional, unreliable, and not at all serious about booking the job. Make sure you’re on time for every casting. Don’t blame the traffic for your tardiness. Plan your route to the casting in advance so you know what time to leave home to be there 10 to 15 minutes early. Set up multiple alarms to make sure you wake up early and have enough time to get ready without rushing.

Being punctual shows that you respect the time of everyone at the audition. It also keeps you calm and relaxed, never rattled or jittery, making you emulate that air of professionalism that casting directors love.

Endnote

First impressions last when you do model casting. That’s why little details like how your hair looks, what outfit you wear, and whether you arrive on time can make or break your chance at landing the gig. Follow our tips above and make sure you’re as prepared as possible for your go-see. That way, when it’s time to book that job, you can sashay into that casting with confidence and knock them dead.