Navigating the Casting Boom: Why It Feels Easier and Harder

By Elisabeth Roselli – Founder of BECOMEAMODEL™ & 20-Year Commercial Model 

 If you’ve been paying attention to the commercial modeling industry over the last few years, you’ve probably noticed something:

Castings are everywhere—and yet, booking jobs can still feel like an uphill battle.

When I first started 20 years ago, castings were limited to in-person auditions, and most models had to live in major markets like New York or LA to have a chance.

Today, digital casting has exploded. There are more opportunities than ever… but also more competition than we’ve ever seen.

Let’s break down why we’re in a casting boom and how you can navigate it to your advantage.

Why There’s a Casting Boom

The Rise of E-Commerce 

1. Online retail needs constant fresh content models for product photos, lifestyle shots, and seasonal campaigns.

2. Streaming Platforms & Content Marketing 

   Brands and entertainment companies produce endless ad campaigns, social media videos, and brand stories requiring fresh faces daily.

3. Social Media Advertising 

   Short-form video ads, Instagram posts, and TikTok campaigns require a faster casting turnaround than traditional TV commercials.

Why It Still Feels Hard to Book

Even with all these jobs, many models still struggle to land work because:

• Oversaturation: Influencers, actors, and everyday people are submitting alongside professional models.

• Budget Pressure: Many quick-turn projects pay less than traditional campaigns.

• Speed Casting: Jobs are posted and booked in hours if you’re not ready to submit instantly, you miss out.

How to Stand Out in the Boom

Submit Early & Often 

1. Many jobs close casting within 24 hours. Set up notifications on casting platforms so you can respond immediately.

2. Perfect Your Self-Tape & Digital Skills 

   Clients want to see quick, professional-quality submissions clear lighting, a clean background, and confident delivery.

3. Stay Flexible 

   Short turnaround times mean you might get a call today to shoot tomorrow. The more flexible you are, the more you’ll book.

4. Build Relationships 

   Casting directors remember reliable, professional talent. Even if you don’t book this time, you might be perfect for their next project.

Final Thoughts

We’re in one of the most exciting times in commercial modeling history.

More opportunities exist than ever but success goes to the prepared. 

If you stay ready, respond quickly, and present yourself professionally in every submission, you’ll not only survive the casting boom, you’ll thrive in it.

Want my exact casting strategy? 

Inside BECOMEAMODEL™, I walk you through how to find legitimate castings, submit with confidence, and book jobs—even as a beginner.