I wanted to take a minute to dig-in to the topic of casting calls - why I use them, who should respond to them, to discuss some FAQ’s and, most importantly, how you can get notified about upcoming needs.

Why I Issue Casting Calls

Here are a few of the reasons why I issue casting calls:

There is a specific need from a brand/client/association/organization/magazine/publisher;
Stock images - I have a catalogue of stock images publishers can access to find images that suit their content needs. I like to keep my catalogue content fresh and require a wide variety of images to do so; AND, my personal favorite reason…
I have a specific vision in mind and want to create something because I can’t stop thinking about an idea and I need to breathe it into life!

FAQ’s About Casting Calls:

How Do I Find Out About Casting Calls?

I always issue casting calls to people on my mailing list FIRST.

So if you want to be in the know, you need to be on the list.

CLICK HERE TO GET ON THE LIST.

If I’m not able to find what I need through my mailing list, I might then decide to post on my Facebook Page or Instagram.

Who Should Respond to Casting Calls

Worried you or your animal aren’t model material? Trust me, you are :)

Each casting call I issue includes information about the types of people and/or animals I’m looking for as well as the geographic location/area that I’m searching in. (Right now, it’s exclusively limited to the Ottawa, Ontario area because I’m not travelling but hopefully that will change in the future once the coronavirus is no longer an issue.)

Please review each casting call carefully and, If you meet the requirements, you should ABSOLUTELY respond.

I’m normally looking for a diverse variety of people and animals. If a client has a specific vision in mind, those requirements will be outlined in the casting call.

So again, if you meet the requirements, you should respond to the casting call.

How Do I Respond to a Casting Call

Instructions on how to respond are listed with each casting call I issue and usually involve completing a questionnaire or sending me an email.

How Will I Get Notified If I’m Selected?

I will reach out to you via email if you meet the requirements and are selected.

What If I’m Not Selected?

While I wish I could photograph everyone who responds to casting calls the reality is, I can’t. I need to select the people and animals that will give me the best chances of success at creating the images I require.

If you aren’t selected, that doesn’t mean you and your animals aren’t AMAZING and please don’t let this discourage you from replying to future requirements because you might just be perfect for the next casting call.

If I am selected, what is required of me?

It depends on the casting call but, at minimum, you will be required to sign a standard model release allowing me to take your photograph and use the images I take.

I’ll give you plenty of information ahead of time to help you prep and to put your mind at ease.

Will I receive copies of the images?

I normally provide a small selection of fully edited web-sized digital images (perfect for sharing on social media) to the models/owners/handlers. The number of images you receive depends on a variety of factors including:

the length of the photoshoot (which can vary greatly when working with animals),
the number of images I end up editing (which varies based on the requirements of the photoshoot, my own stylistic preferences, how easily we can achieve a specific pose etc.),
the weather (because most photoshoots will take place outdoors), and
a million other factors.

Prior to the photoshoot, I will give you an idea of the number of images I estimate you’ll receive.

Have other questions?

I would love to hear them - drop them in the comments below so that I can answer!

All About Casting Calls