Go-sees explained: a first guide for new models

Your booker sends a message: a go-see tomorrow at 11, with an address, a name and not much else. If you have just signed, or you are thinking about applying to an agency, this is one of the first appointments you will be sent to, and nobody always stops to explain it. This guide covers what a go-see is, how it differs from a casting, what to bring and wear, what happens in the room and what to do afterwards.

What a go-see is

A go-see is a meeting set up by your agent with a client, photographer or casting director. The name comes, quite literally, from the phrase "go see someone". The job glossary on Jobwork describes it as the first meeting between a model and a potential agency, photographer or future client, a chance for both sides to see whether they are a good fit.

Often there is no specific job attached. As MAVN Models puts it, a go-see is when an agent asks a model to visit a client or photographer so that they can remember your face for future work. You are being introduced, not auditioned.

Go-sees come in a few forms. Jobwork lists three:

• The classic go-see, a short meeting where the client looks at you and your book.

• A go-see with a test shoot, which runs longer because photos are taken there and then.

• A catwalk go-see, where the client wants to see how you move and walk.

Go-see or casting?

The usual difference is this: a casting is normally for a particular job, and a go-see is a general introduction. MAVN Models sums it up as a casting including "a particular employment", while a go-see is seeing clients and photographers with no specific job in mind.

In practice the words are used loosely. The industry glossary on theFashionSpot defines a go-see as seeing someone who is casting for a particular job, and notes that "casting" can also mean a go-see itself. So do not rely on the word alone. Read the details your booker sends, and if you are not sure whether there is a job attached, ask them. If it is a casting, our guide on how castings work covers that side in more detail, and the model's handbook of industry terms will help with the rest of the vocabulary.

One more thing worth knowing early: according to Jobwork, in most cases models are not paid for going to a go-see. Payment comes when you are selected for an actual job.

Before you go

A little preparation makes the whole thing easier.

• Read the brief properly. Note the address, the time, who you are meeting and anything they have asked you to bring or wear.

• Look up the client. MAVN Models advises researching the client beforehand so you can dress for them. A quick look at their website and social channels also gives you something to talk about.

• Plan your route and arrive early. MAVN suggests at least 10 minutes early; Country Girl Management says 15. If you are going to be late for any reason, tell your agent straight away.

• Keep the night before quiet. Jobwork's advice is to avoid a big night out so you look fresh.

What to bring

• Your book. Your portfolio should hold only your best work, as MAVN Models advises.

• Comp cards. Country Girl Management and Photogenics both say to bring comp cards, the printed cards with your pictures and measurements.

• Recent digitals on your phone, easy to pull up. Our step-by-step on nailing your digitals explains how to get them right.

• A pen and notebook, for names and anything you are asked to follow up on (another MAVN tip).

• A small grooming kit, for touching up hair and skin before you go in, as Photogenics suggests.

• A charged phone, water and a snack. Waits can run long and most venues will not have anything for you.

If you are under 18, Country Girl Management advises bringing a parent or guardian. If you are over 18, go on your own and treat it as you would a job interview.

What to wear

Keep it simple so the client sees you, not your outfit. Country Girl Management's advice is jeans, high-waisted if possible, with a white or black singlet-style top, and small heels if you are comfortable in them. Photogenics says to choose neutral colours that will not distract.

For grooming:

• Clean, natural hair.

• Natural make-up, or very little.

• No fake nails or false lashes, and natural or no nail polish.

Our castings guide gives the same basics for men: a plain T-shirt, jeans and clean, plain shoes. If the client works in swimwear, lingerie or sportswear, the brief may ask for something specific, such as plain matching underwear or gym kit. Whatever you wear, make sure you can move and walk comfortably in it.