A modelling agency open casting call is a very popular way to be “discovered”. However, it is quite hard to stand out from the hundreds of other hopefuls who attend such interviews.
Read on to discover how an open casting call could be the opportunity you’ve been looking for.
What is a Casting Call?
A casting call – also known as a go-see or a walk-in – is an interview. Usually, aspiring models are invited to casting calls. But occasionally a modelling agency or brand will hold an open casting call. That means anyone can turn up.
These are usually advertised in the newspaper as well as online and on the agency/brand’s social media platforms, so it’s a good idea to follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram so you don’t miss any notifications.
You’ll be told the time and day of the open casting call, as well as any requirements. There are usually only one or two places available, and you will be up against hundreds of people – so it’s important not to get your hopes up too much and instead see it as a learning opportunity.
All talent-related industries can hold modelling casting calls including movie, commercial, broadway, theatre and TV. Agencies, production companies and brands that work with children will always be on the lookout for a constant supply of fresh faces because children grow up so quickly. It gives unknown actors and models with no experience the chance to be noticed.
Finding Open Casting Calls
Open casting calls should be easy enough to find – but generally, they are few and far between. They will be advertised in multiple areas, so you’ll need to keep your eyes peeled. Keep an eye on their websites as well as their social media pages.
Open auditions can take place for women, men and children – as the parent of a child model, you’ll want to ensure you’re following any child and family-related brands in case they do a call out for a model.
Casting calls tend to take place at the location of the agency/brand. These are typically located in major cities like London, Manchester and Birmingham.
What to Expect at an Open Casting Call
All casting calls are different, because all brands and agencies are different. Open casting calls tend to be extremely popular, so expect it to be busy – try to get your name down as early as possible to avoid missing out, and try to arrive early to avoid long wait times.
Wait times are inevitable, but they can be tedious and boring, so make sure ot bring plenty of snacks, water and entertainment. Some people even like to bring chairs and cushions with them as it has been said before that some agencies and brands have no had enough seating to go around – some models have even said they have had to wait in the hallway and on the stairs!
With children, you’ll want to bring things to keep them entertained. It may also be worth bringing a sleep mask so they can have a nap if the wait times are long.
When it is your turn, you’ll be asked to meet the casting director either on your own with your child or as part of a small group. If you’re up against a small group, you really need to make sure your child stands out. This is where confident kids will have the upper hand. Try to encourage them to speak and make a good impression off the bat. Don’t worry if your child becomes shy – casting calls can be overwhelming even for adults.
Your child will be judged within minutes of meeting the director. You’ll be told either way if you have been successful. Don’t be discouraged if the answer is no – there are hundreds of applicants, and usually only one or two spots.
Preparing for an Open Casting Call
Ensure you know where you are going, as well as the time and date of the casting call. The last thing you want is to turn up to the wrong place at the wrong time! Try to give yourself plenty of time to get lost or delayed. We recommend trying to arrive early, if at all possible.
Try to make sure both you and your child eats something beforehand. This can be tricky if you are nervous, but you may need to wait for a while and you don’t want your tummy rumbling mid-interview. Take a sandwich and some snacks and water with you, too. Nothing too smelly or messy, though!
It might be worth bringing a change of clothes for your child just in case they get messy. Plan the outfit in advance – you don’t want to be rushing on the day.
Prep your child well before the interview so they too know what to expect. Try asking some questions and encouraging/guiding their responses. They just want to ensure your child has a glowing personality and lots of confidence – you’ll only have a minute or so to show this, so give it everything you’ve got! A child who loves the spotlight will do well here, but a shy child may struggle.
Bring your child’s modelling portfolio, if they have one. If not, bring a selection of modelling photos you have taken yourself, or had taken at photoshoots. The director may like to see how well your child photographs.
You don’t need to apply make-up to your child. They will want to see your child’s natural beauty, so just ensure their clothes are clean, their nails are trimmed, their hands and faces are clean, their teeth are brushed and their hair brushed and styled nicely.
