A casting isn't an exam; it's a chance to meet
The client is looking for the right person, not the perfect one. Here's how to prepare and show your best side, in person or remotely.
Read the brief like a map
Almost everything the client wants is in the brief: the type of person, the look, the city, the dates and the nature of the job. Read it twice before applying, again before you go, and note down any questions.
Get ready the day before
Look up the brand and the style of its past campaigns, and choose simple clothes close to what the client described, without turning it into a costume. Sleep well; tiredness shows on camera more than you'd think.
- Your ID.
- Your digitals on your phone.
- Comfortable shoes, plus a pair to suit the look.
- Water and a light snack.
Master the remote self-tape
Many castings now start with a video you record yourself. Open with a short intro giving your name, city and height, then do exactly what's asked. Stick to the requested orientation, landscape or portrait, and to the time limit.
- A plain background and soft front light.
- Clear sound with no noise or echo.
- One or two takes, no more.
Inside the casting room
Walk in with a smile and a simple greeting, and be yourself. Listen carefully to instructions and ask if anything is unclear. Remember the team is hoping you're the one; they want to finish casting as much as you want the job.
Respond to direction with flexibility
Teams often ask you to change your expression or movement to see how flexible you are, not because your first try was wrong. Make the change calmly and show some range between takes. If you're asked to do something you're not comfortable with, say so politely.
What happens after a casting?
Send a short thank-you through the platform, then give the client time without repeated messages. A client may put a provisional hold on your dates before confirming; respect the hold and don't commit to another job on those dates without telling them.
Not hearing back is common and doesn't mean you failed. Note what you learned and move on to the next opportunity.
Red flags not to ignore
Most castings are run professionally, but if you notice any of these signs, pause, check and don't hesitate to report it.
- Any request for money to apply, to book you or for mandatory photos.
- A casting in a private home or hotel room with no clear team.
- Pressure to move the chat to private numbers quickly.
- Requests for looks or photos that don't match the brief or your values.
- No clear information about the brand or company.
In-depth guides for every stage
- How to become a model The core steps from setting your goal to your first paid job.
- A beginner's guide to Saudi Arabia How the local market works, where the work is and what clients expect.
- A portfolio that wins clients Which photos you need, how many, and how to order them.
- Posing for photos Simple drills for natural, comfortable poses on camera.
- Commercial modeling Ads, catalogues and events: the widest, most varied way into the work.
- Modest fashion and abayas How to showcase garments professionally, from abayas to thobe and shemagh.
Frequently asked questions
Simple, neat, plain-coloured clothes close to the look in the brief. The goal is for the client to see your face and build clearly.
Yes, and it's a good idea, especially early on. For anyone under 18, a guardian must attend.
Anything from days to weeks, depending on the project. If you don't hear back in the expected time, treat it as useful practice and keep applying.
Yes, but do it quickly and politely, ideally before final confirmation. Declining early protects your reputation far better than pulling out late.
Your next casting is waiting
Browse open castings and use what you've learned here from your very first application.