Qualities casting judges Look out for in identifying their ‘ideal model’ (Inspired by Paul Lee Cannon)

You might be genetically gifted with stunning features such as good height and statuesque body, but that does not automatically guarantee your scaling through the hurdle of Casting Director’s scrutiny and Creative Director’s probing eyes during auditions. These set of people are professionals who often do not get swayed by mere physical attributes nut are on the look pout for outstanding qualities in you as a model.

Such qualities are listed as follows:

1. Confidence

 

Professional fashion models know their best angles and know how to use them. A result-oriented and vision-driven model will always be prepared to discuss career projection, accomplishments and why they’re perfectly fit for the role. Putting their best assets forward is a cakewalk for them – or should we say “catwalk?”

2. Poise

Do they carry themselves well? A promising prospect need not have the gait of Naomi Campbell or swagger of Tyson Beckford, but posture offers a window into whom the aspiring contractor is. Head held high is a strong indicator of aplomb, determination, and a positive spirit. Slouching could be a sign of poor habits, too casual of an attitude, and lack of attention to details. Of course there are always exceptions, but these are the most obvious signs.

3. Headshot

Does the camera love them? A model’s profile photo doesn’t have to be snapped by Steven Meisel, but it should definitely be professional, appropriate and current. In other words, well groomed, no party pics, and a photo taken at the most recent times are ideal features of headshots

4. Portfolio

Like a fashion model demonstrating their runway walk for a potential client, here’s the opportunity for the model to walk assessors through their work and for interviewers to size up their presentation skills. If they’re effective at making their work shine, the interviewers will know they've got a confident applicant in their midst.

5. Preparedness

Models have the advantage of makeup to disguise flaws (puffy eyes, pimples) but there’s no hiding lack of preparation for a casting session. It’s always easy to tell if someone is not ready. Like a model tripping or falling on the runway, a model might stumble through the conversation, or worse, fill the room with moments of awkward silence because they can’t find the right words. When this happens, a casting judge that gives not a scrub would probably not waste time in politely cutting the session short.