Do You Really Need Instagram in 2025?

The industry has changed dramatically. Once upon a time, a strong folio, showreel and comp card were enough. But today, before a client or casting director books you, they’re scrolling your Instagram, Tik Tok and X. It’s your living, breathing portfolio that tells the world who you are as well as what you can do.

Let's break down why social media matters for traditional models, actors and talent, the mistakes to avoid, and how to make it work for you without burning out.

Q: Isn’t a portfolio enough? Why do I still need Instagram?

A:Your Instagram is your brand now. Even if we send clients your materials for casting, and give our recommendations they will still check your socials to see how you fit into the casting puzzle. Regardless of the booking and whether or not the brand or agency is briefing inhouse or through a casting director they like to see what work you are doing and as importantly, who you are and what you stand for.

They are looking to see if you are a fit and aligned with their brand or productions core philosophy. Just one example might be; The brand sells leather goods (shoes, belts jackets) alongside fashion ranges and you are completely against animal products,  that would be a misfit for casting. If you have a strong stance on any topic, it will align you with some clients and producers and cause others to rethink casting choices to ensure there are no conflicts of interest. More than ever before clients and brands are using digital storytelling and social media to reach their audiences, whether that’s to sell fashion, beauty products, a film or TV program. Casting choices need to match the brands intended audience because behind all of those creative mediums it is advertising dollars that fund them.

Q: Do I need a huge following?

A: No. The number of followers matters far less than the quality of your content and how consistent you are. Brands and casting directors are looking for alignment and authenticity. A few hundred engaged followers in your niche is often more valuable than tens of thousands of people who don’t interact. It’s a window into your world, so be authentic and consistent to the career you want to create and who you are. Your vibe really does attract your tribe.

Q: What type of content actually works?

A : Behind-the-scenes moments, chats about real life situations like casting prep, role preparation, before and after transformations of your shoot or the character you are playing, oer events you are attending. Skincare, wellness and beauty routines, fashion looks, and thoughtful reflections about your journey or topical news and hot takes. Client's love seeing your personality come through. Every post is like a soft audition  and photographers, brands, and casting directors are watching. You should post recent work, flash backs to past campaigns and tag in the creatives and crew you worked with on those shoots. If you’re an actor show your screen prep and self tapes.  Research and look at the people you follow on socials and why you find them interesting to watch. What keeps you scrolling and engaged. Why di you like that content and how are they filming and editing it?  That will help you figure out what you want to post on your own channels.

Q: How often should I be posting?

A : Aim for three to four posts a week. It doesn’t need to be overwhelming. A simple plan could look like this:

• Monday: Reel.
• Wednesday: Carousel.
• Friday: Reel
• Sunday: Carousel

The easiest way is what's called 'batching'. Shoot a range of looks for photos and videos in one session, change outfits, switch up backgrounds or locations, and you’ll have weeks of content ready to go. Most professional creators do exactly this. They set up a few days a month to capture all the core content they need for the next 30-60 days and set them up in a calendar like later or a posting scheduler to automatically post. Set and forget.  Then if they choose to add more, they can add stories, reels and candid snapshots of events and things into that mix as they go. For those who want a digital presence but don’t want to capture everything they do every day, this 'batching' process can take away a lot of the mental load.

Key Takeaway

Consistency beats perfection. Your Instagram doesn’t need to look like a glossy editorial. Authentic, regular content is what shows clients you’re active, engaged, and ready to work.

Want more?
This blog is based on our Ask the Agents podcast series. Subscribe for deeper conversations on how models and actors can thrive in the evolving creative industry.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6RCrbZGcqpIDqwpPAioLV1?si=nscjwGxcSXisnUKS2UsTkQ