A casting call for a photo and video shoot for Western Union sought diverse individuals comfortable on camera. The project aimed to represent a range of backgrounds and experiences, emphasizing inclusivity and authenticity.
Here's a breakdown of what the casting call entailed:
Who They Needed
The casting call specifically targeted the following demographics:
- South Asian and/or Indian people: Individuals aged 14 and above with ancestry in South Asian countries.
- North African and/or Middle Eastern people: Adults, kids, and teens with ancestry in North African and/or Middle Eastern countries.
- Muslim Kids/Teens: Children under 20 who are Muslim and/or have experience celebrating Ramadan.
- Seniors: Adults aged 50 and above who are comfortable on camera.
No professional acting or modeling experience was required. The main criteria were being comfortable on camera and receptive to direction.
Project Information
- Advertiser: Western Union
- Type: Stills + Video
- Union Status: Non-Union
- Shoot Location: Portland, OR area
- Shoot Dates: Tuesday, September 17th - Wednesday, September 18th (1 day, TBD), with a wardrobe fitting on Monday, September 16th (1-2 hours).
Pay and Usage Terms
The selected talent would receive $3000 for one day of work. This included compensation for the hours worked and the use of their image by the advertiser, as outlined in the usage terms. Mileage and lodging reimbursement were available for talent living more than 100 miles from Portland.
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The usage terms were as follows:
- Stills: 1 year global - online, digital, internet/new media, print retail, OOH (includes BTS). Paid + organic.
- Video: 1 year global - online, internet/new media, digital (includes OTT/Streaming/Connected TV), paid + organic.
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Hiring Requirements
To be eligible, applicants had to:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Reside in Oregon, Washington, or California.
- Be legally eligible to work in the US.
Commitment to Diversity
The casting call explicitly welcomed and encouraged people of all identities (races, sizes, physical abilities, genders, sexualities, religions, ethnicities, countries of origin, and more) who fit the specified parameters. This reflects a commitment to representing authentic diversity across all projects.
Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA)
Applicants agreed not to disclose their involvement in the project or any details about the advertiser, product, or shoot shared during the casting process. Violation of the NDA could result in termination and/or legal action.
Our Partners
The organizers acknowledged that the brands they work with may not have a perfect history regarding media representation or other social issues. They partnered with them in hopes of moving in a thoughtful and conscientious direction. Feedback on the casting call was welcomed to open a dialogue on behalf of the talent, emphasizing that their voice matters.
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