Recording a casting video: What to keep in mind? 6 tips from our bookers
A poor casting video can knock even the most talented model out of the running — before the bookers have even watched three seconds. E-castings have long since replaced live castings in many areas, and customers now decide within seconds whether to scroll on or book someone. Whoever knows how to record a convincing casting video has a huge advantage over the competition. Our bookers at CM Models watch hundreds of such videos every day — and they know exactly what works and what doesn’t.
Why the casting video is more important than ever before
E-castings have become the norm in the fashion industry. Clients from New York, London or Paris book models without ever seeing them in person — based solely on photos and videos. That means: your casting video is your digital business card. It shows not only your appearance, but also your presence, movement, voice and personality.
Anyone who has already informed themselves about the requirements to become a model and knows the first steps to
“We often decide within the first five seconds of a video whether someone has the right energy level. Technique can be improved — but presence is either felt or not. Therefore: stay natural, look directly into the camera and simply be yourself.”
— Booker, CM Models
The 6 Most Important Tips for Your Casting Video
Tip 1: Set up the lighting, background and camera position first
Before you utter a single word or move, you need to make sure the technical aspects are spot on. The most common mistake: too little light. Natural daylight is your best friend — position yourself in front of a window, but not with your back to it. Ring lights also work well if there’s no natural light available.
The background should be neutral and tidy — a plain white wall is ideal. Distracting posters, piles of clothes or brightly coloured wallpaper will divert the Booker’s attention from you. The camera should be positioned at eye level or slightly below, never from above or extremely from below.
- Use daylight from the front
- Neutral, tidy background
- Position the camera at eye level
- Hold your phone horizontally (landscape) or vertically (portrait) depending on the requirement
- Use a tripod or stable setup system
Tip 2: Clothing and make-up — less is more
The casting video is about showing yourself — not your wardrobe. Neutral, fitted clothing such as a white T-shirt and plain jeans is ideal. Eye-catching patterns, logos or lots of jewellery are distracting. When it comes to make-up: natural and fresh, not too strong. Bookers want to see how you really look — not what a professional make-up artist has made of you.
If you’re unsure how to prepare properly, our article on
Tip 3: The structure of a professional casting video
A good casting video follows a clear, simple structure. It doesn’t need to be a film production — but it does need structure. Our bookers recommend the following format:
- Introduce yourself briefly with your name and height
- Show your face frontally, then left/right profile
- Walk towards the camera, then walk away
- Short turn to show your body from all sides
- Finish with a smile, then your name and location once more
Tipp 4: Use movement and walk deliberately
The walk is one of the most important elements in a casting video. Many models move stiffly and unnaturally in front of the camera — this is immediately noticeable. Practise your walk beforehand, relax your shoulders and arms, and walk at a natural, confident pace. Those interested in professional catwalk techniques should take a look at our tips on
Important: Avoid forced poses or gestures. What bookers want is authentic movement — not a performance.
Common mistakes that bookers spot immediately
With hundreds of applications every week, our bookers know the typical mistakes inside out. Those who avoid these mistakes stand out positively — as most applicants make exactly these errors.
| Common Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | Better Like This |
|---|---|---|
| Too dark image | Facial features not visible | Daylight or ring light from the front |
| Busy background | Distracts from the face | Neutral white or light wall |
| Heavy make-up | Natural look not visible | Minimal, natural make-up |
| No eye contact with the camera | Seems insecure and uninterested | Look directly into the lens |
| Shaky video | Unprofessional impression | Use a tripod or stable surface |
| Too long or too short | Under 30 sec. too little information; over 3 min. too much | Ideal: 60–90 seconds |
Especially when you’re just starting out and wondering whether you have the necessary measurements and requirements for a model, the casting video is an opportunity to show that presence often matters more than mere numbers. There are also options for those without classic standard measurements: for example, as a
Technology and Equipment: What You Really Need
Smartphone or Camera?
The good news: You don’t need expensive equipment. A modern smartphone with a good camera is completely sufficient — provided the conditions mentioned above (lighting, background, stability) are met. It’s important that the resolution is at least Full HD (1080p). Many bookers receive videos shot in 4K — this looks good, but it’s not essential.
Sound and Language in the Video
The tone is often underestimated. When you introduce yourself in the video — and you should always do this — your voice must be clear and understandable. Avoid recording in an echoey room. A small lavalier microphone for your smartphone can work wonders here, but it’s not strictly necessary. Speak clearly, at a normal pace, and smile — it sounds obvious, but it’s surprisingly often forgotten.
Editing and Cutting
No filters, no over-the-top cuts, no background music — unless the client requests something more creative. A simple, unedited video appears more honest and professional than an overproduced clip. If you want to edit, keep it minimal: trimming the beginning and end is completely sufficient.
Casting Video Checklist: Everything ready?
Before you press “Record,” go through this checklist:
- ☐ Natural light or front-facing ring light set up
- ☐ Neutral, tidy background chosen
- ☐ Camera at eye level and securely positioned
- ☐ Clothing: plain, fitted, no patterns
- ☐ Make-up: natural and fresh
- ☐ Hair tidy — loose or tied back as desired
- ☐ Smartphone storage cleared, battery charged
- ☐ Introduction prepared with name, height and place of residence
- ☐ Test recording made and checked
- ☐ Video exported in Full HD (1080p)
- ☐ Filename: Firstname_Surname_Casting.mp4
If you are already listed with an agency or are looking for one, you will find information about
Important to know: A
Once you have finished your casting video, you can apply directly with us: Apply now and submit your video.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Casting Video
How long should a casting video be?
The ideal length is between 60 and 90 seconds. In this time, you can show all the important elements: introduction, facial views, walk and turn. Videos under 30 seconds provide too little insight; videos over three minutes are rarely watched in full.
Can I record a casting video with a smartphone?
Yes, absolutely. A modern smartphone with a Full-HD camera is completely sufficient. What matters most is not the camera, but the lighting, background and stability. Use a tripod or place the phone on a stable surface to avoid shaking.
Do I need to speak in the casting video?
In most cases, yes. A short introduction with your name, height and place of residence is standard. Many clients and bookers also appreciate hearing your voice — it gives a more complete impression of your personality. Keep your statements short and natural.
What should I wear for a casting video?
Opt for simple, fitted clothing in neutral colours — for example, a white or black T-shirt paired with plain jeans. Avoid large patterns, logos, attention-grabbing jewellery or overly loose clothing that hides your body shape. The aim is for the bookers to see you — not your outfit.
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