Your first casting or go-see: what to bring and what to expect

A casting is a short meeting where a client, casting director or photographer sees models for a specific job. A go-see is similar but more general: you meet a client or photographer so they know who you are, even if there is no particular booking yet.

Both can feel intimidating the first time. In practice they are usually brief, quite routine and, once you have done a few, much less stressful than you expect.

Before the day

Preparation starts as soon as you receive the details. Read them carefully and check:

• The address and time. Castings often run on a schedule, and some are first come, first served. Plan your route and allow extra time.
• What the client wants to see. The details may ask for a particular look, such as natural hair, no make-up, or heels for a runway walk.
• Who will be there. A legitimate casting comes through your agency or from a verifiable company. If you are unsure, ask before you go. Our guide on how to spot a modelling scam lists the warning signs.

The night before, get some rest, eat normally and drink water. A tired face and a rushed arrival show more than you might think.

What to wear

Unless you are told otherwise, think of yourself as a blank canvas. The client wants to imagine you in their clothes, not see a styled outfit.

• Simple, fitted clothing in plain colours: black or neutral tones work well.
• Clean, natural hair, tied back or easy to move away from your face.
• Little or no make-up, and well-cared-for skin and nails.
• Shoes suited to the job. Many models carry a pair of heels or plain flats in their bag and change at the casting.

Avoid big logos, strong patterns and anything you will keep adjusting. You want the people in the room to look at you, not at your outfit.

What to bring

Pack a small bag with:

1. Your portfolio, digital or printed, if you have one.
2. A few comp cards if your agency provides them.
3. Your measurements, written down and up to date.
4. Any shoes or items the casting details mentioned.
5. Water, a snack, and a phone charger, because waiting can take a while.
6. Identification, and for under-18s, a parent or guardian, who should come with you.

If you are not yet sure what goes in a portfolio, our guide to building a modelling portfolio from scratch explains what to include.

What usually happens in the room

Every client runs things a little differently, but a typical casting includes some of the following:

• A quick introduction. Say your name and, if relevant, your agency. Keep it short and friendly.
• Your book. The client may flip through your portfolio while you wait. You do not need to narrate it.
• Photos or a short video. Often a few quick digitals or a brief clip of you turning, smiling or saying a line.
• A walk. For runway or show work, you will usually be asked to walk a short distance.
• A fitting. Sometimes you try on a garment so the client can see the fit.

The whole thing may last only a few minutes. A short casting is not a bad sign; clients often see many people in one day.

How to carry yourself

Clients are not only looking at your face. They are also asking whether you would be easy and pleasant to work with on a long shoot day.

• Be on time, polite to everyone, and patient while you wait.
• Listen to instructions and follow them calmly. If you do not understand something, ask.
• Be yourself. A natural, relaxed manner usually comes across better than a rehearsed pose.
• Keep your phone away while you are being seen.

You are always entitled to feel safe. A genuine casting never requires nudity or underwear and never asks you to pay to be seen. If anything feels wrong, you can leave and tell your agency.

After the casting

Most of the time you will not hear anything immediately, and often you will not hear back at all if you were not chosen. That is normal and rarely personal. Clients choose for reasons you cannot control, such as matching other models already booked, a very specific height, or a change of creative direction.

If a client is interested, your agency may receive an option, which is a provisional hold on your date, before it becomes a confirmed booking. Keep that date free until you hear more.

After each casting, take a moment to note what went well and what you would change next time. Over a few weeks you will notice how much more comfortable you have become.

Your next step

Castings come more easily once an agency is putting you forward for the right jobs. If you are ready, start with our free model application. If you are working abroad for a casting, read our guide to visas and travel for models first, and look at our FAQ for anything else.