A modeling casting begins before a girl or a guy steps onto the runway in front of the jury. Initially, models need to create a calm, natural, and neat appearance. This is how agency representatives assess candidates, focusing on natural attributes and acting potential when working with the camera or on the runway. 

Advantages of "Live" Castings 

Girls and guys attend castings to find potential employers, and major agencies regularly search for new faces with unique features to work on international runways. 

A portfolio with photos doesn’t always accurately reflect a model’s true appearance, so agencies organize competitions to discover new talent. 

Very often, during the casting process, models who impress receive job offers from various agencies, even if they have no prior experience in the business. 

Disadvantages of "Live" Modeling Castings 

Experienced models understand that casting is part of their job—the better they prepare, the more confident they feel and the better they showcase themselves. However, modeling contests frequently feature new faces without runway experience or prior participation in such events. Beginners are often sure they will be selected, so they get very upset when told they didn’t make the cut and are advised to come back next time. Not every model is ready to accept criticism and work on their shortcomings before the next casting. This is why there are many tears at modeling contests. 

Preparing for the Casting 

First and foremost, you need to fill out a form on the agency’s website. Agency representatives (managers) carefully review each resume and select those that seem interesting. Afterwards, they call models to clarify certain parameters and details. 

Upon receiving such a call, models should conduct the conversation attentively and politely. If invited to a casting, be prepared: 

• Tidy up your appearance (hair, nails, and body should be clean and well-groomed); 

• Keep makeup minimal and natural-looking, or better yet, avoid cosmetics entirely during the contest; 

• Avoid strong perfumes or scents; either don’t wear them or choose something light and subtle; 

• Hands should be well cared for, nails should not be very long, and either with clear polish or none; 

• It is preferable that during the runway walk, girls wear a black two-piece swimsuit; other muted colors are also acceptable; 

• While waiting, you can wear a fitted black tank top, leggings, or black jeans; 

• Shoes are an essential element for models—they should be black and have high heels. 

Bring with you a portfolio with full-length swimsuit photos (side, back, front, close-up), as well as several professional shots that showcase your modeling work. 

Additionally, bring a hair tie. 

For males, the requirements include: 

• A solid-color (no prints or logos) tank top or T-shirt; 

• Trousers (straight-cut jeans); 

• Flat-soled shoes. 

If necessary, you might be asked to remove your T-shirt to assess your physique. 

What Else Might You Need? 

First of all, you will need identity documents at the casting (ideally a passport). It’s also advisable to bring a change of underwear/swimsuit and shoes in case you need to change on-site. 

Basic essentials might include: 

• Wet and dry wipes; 

• A hairbrush; 

• Drinking water; 

• Sometimes a light snack (fruit, shelled nuts). 

What to Avoid When Attending a Casting? 

To avoid problems, leave all valuables at home, including jewelry (rings, earrings, chains). You will be asked to remove them before the runway walk, and there usually aren't storage lockers for such items at modeling contests. Losing valuables can lead to negative impressions of the event. 

Helpful Tips 

If you are a beginner model, pay attention to how more experienced colleagues behave: 

• How they walk the runway (the walk usually lasts only 10–15 seconds; this is enough time for professionals to evaluate you); 

• How they smile (facial expressions show agency representatives your confidence and interaction with the audience); 

• How they converse with the jury (it’s better to prepare a brief presentation about yourself to avoid forgetting something important and to stay composed). 

What Happens During a Casting? 

1. Upon entering the building or room, all models are greeted, their documents checked, and they are registered. Some measurements may also be taken here (height, bust, waist, and hip circumference). 

2. Castings don’t always take place on equipped runways, so organizers may ask you to walk back and forth on an improvised runway. While you walk, they evaluate your coordination, posture, and confidence walking in heels. 

3. Agency representatives often review portfolios brought by models and take several photos during the casting. They may ask you to smile, frown, or look thoughtful. 

4. At some castings, organizers ask for a brief self-introduction (it’s helpful to memorize a few simple phrases about yourself in the language of the country hosting the contest). Others may ask 2–3 clarifying questions (age, work or study place, modeling experience such as shoots or runway). They may also ask why you decided to work in the modeling industry.  

Waiting for Results 

Some models may receive job offers during the casting, but others will have to wait anxiously for about 3–4 weeks. During this time, the agency reviews all recorded materials from the contest (video footage and photos of each model). 

Portfolios of the most interesting models are sent to international partner agencies. When responses arrive, casting organizers contact the models and invite them for a meeting. If a girl or boy is under 18, parents are invited as well. During the meeting, contract terms are discussed (where and how they will work, accommodation, payment amount), and all travel arrangements are agreed upon (visas, tickets, departure date).