Direct booking refers to a booking where a model is selected directly by the client without having to participate in a casting beforehand. The decision is usually based on the model’s comp card, portfolio, previous jobs, or social media presence. Often, these are models the client has already worked with or who perfectly match the desired look.

For the model, a direct booking is a positive sign, as it demonstrates existing trust and demand. It also significantly speeds up the entire booking process. In most cases, however, the arrangements are still handled through the agency, which manages the negotiations, particularly regarding fees and usage rights or buyouts.