When you have been shortlisted for a job, this is referred to as an OPTION. You can be optioned for a job either before you have attended a casting or afterwards. Most often stills jobs option their models or talent before a casting takes place, whilst options on TV commercials usually happen after attending a casting. Essentially clients are wanting you to know IF you are available for the shoot dates, should they want to book you for the job. Although an option makes you a strong contender for the job, it is important to remember that it is NOT A CONFIRMATION.
An option must be taken SERIOUSLY as an immense amount of detailed planning goes into production of stills and TV commercials based on you agreeing to be available. An option is a promise or a commitment to making yourself available on the shoot dates, should the client like to book you. Once you have committed to an option there is no going back!
It is possible to be optioned on more than one job at a time. This is where is becomes tricky and it is best left to your agent to control the process and communication with the clients. The FIRST client that puts an option on you, has first pick. This is known as a FIRST OPTION. However, if the client who holds a 2nd option wants to book you, your agent will request the first client to either book or release you. That way you do not lose out.
Options stay in place until either the client issues a release or up until 6pm the day before shoot date. If you do need an update sooner than that, request that your agent gets an update from the client. But it is the production client’s prerogative to release you or not. So, before you attend a casting or agree to an option, please make sure you are available for shoot dates! After all, what is the point of attending a casting if you are not?
Once you have attended a casting and you are optioned it is hugely important to keep your look the same! Do not change your appearance at all until you know you are released or confirmed.
If you are optioned, it really is FANTASTIC news! We will be super excited for you! And you should be too!
