What Casting Directors REALLY See (You're Doing It Wrong)
Fresh out of a shoot and still buzzing, it hit me: so many new faces make the same preventable errors. From my side of the lens, here’s what casting directors notice immediately, and how to fix it.
Want to shoot at any of these with Dante's Models? Book a session or apply to be represented.
The 'Every Angle' Pose
I see it all the time: new models cycling through every pose they know in 30 seconds. It looks forced, not versatile. Agencies want to see *you* confidently owning a few key looks, not a rapid-fire catalog.
Hold a pose for at least 3-5 seconds, allowing the camera to capture it and the director to assess it.
Ignoring The Call Sheet
It's baffling how many models skim or outright ignore call sheets. 'Bring a nude bra' isn't optional, it's a vital instruction. Showing up without essentials flags you as unreliable before the camera even clicks.
Read the call sheet twice, highlight key instructions, and pack the night before.
The 'Just Rolled Out of Bed' Look
While 'natural' is often requested, it doesn't mean disheveled. Your hair should be clean, your skin fresh, and your nails groomed. It shows respect for the job and that you understand presentation.
Invest in good skincare and maintain a consistent beauty routine. It pays off.
Talking Too Much (Or Not At All)
It’s a balance. Some models overshare or chatter incessantly, disrupting the flow. Others are silent, making it hard to connect. A good model engages respectfully, asks relevant questions, and listens intently.
Engage when spoken to, offer relevant input, and let the professionals guide the conversation.
Forgetting Your Feet
Many new models focus only on their upper body or face, leaving their feet stiff or awkwardly placed. Your feet are crucial for dynamic poses, creating length, and defining posture. Point, flex, cross – they tell a story.
Practice in front of a mirror, focusing on how different foot positions change the line of your entire body.
The 'Copycat' Portfolio
New models often fill their books with photos trying to look exactly like the current 'it' model. While inspiration is good, agencies want to see *your* unique appeal, not a pale imitation of someone else's brand.
Seek out photographers who can help you discover and express your unique strengths, not just replicate trends.
These five locations are the foundation of NYC editorial photography.
Master them and you have a portfolio that sells to any client in the city.