A new model platform keeps model agency perks, cuts the downsides
What if you could book the perfect model — someone who fits your concept and budget — instantly? It sounds ideal, but anyone who’s tried knows how time-consuming it can be. You scroll through Instagram, reach out to a model agency, and ask around — and just like that, hours disappear.
Phone calls, favors, quote comparisons, and contract negotiations... model casting is still a messy process. Too many steps, too many fees. Brands often don’t know what they’re paying for. Models don’t know why they’re being paid so little. We built Spotlite to change that.
Why Spotlite Over a Traditional Model Agency?
Spotlite is a model casting platform that helps brands connect with professional models and creators faster and with full transparency. In just 1 year and 7 months, we’ve facilitated over 500 model castings and tripled our revenue year over year. Now, we’re expanding from Korea into Thailand, on track to become a global model agency alternative.
Co-founder Benjamin, a former model himself, saw how inefficient traditional model casting could be. In early 2023, he decided to fix it — and that’s how Spotlite began. Traditional casting involves layers of middlemen: agents, stylists, photographers — each taking a fee. Spotlite eliminates the noise. Brands can find and book models directly. Models work safely, get paid fairly, and avoid hidden costs.
A Model Casting Platform That Improves Every Day
Spotlite started with a simple no-code site showcasing 100 model profiles. With zero marketing budget, we reached ₩14M (about $10K USD) in transactions within just six weeks.
We then introduced a chat feature so clients and models could communicate directly. Some tried to take deals off-platform. Instead of restricting them, we asked: what value do we protect most? The answer: transparency.
So we made everything visible — hourly rates, commission fees, usage rights. Clients appreciated the clarity. Bookings nearly doubled. We’ve since added enhanced model portfolios with photos and videos to help brands make faster casting decisions. Every time clients come back, Spotlite offers a better experience.
From Feedback to Features
"Clients in Thailand keep asking about image usage rights."
"The chat UI is hard to follow."
At Spotlite, we don’t just collect feedback — we turn it into features. Every Monday, we review user feedback and product data. Even small changes like chat spacing or notification text are discussed and implemented. In two months, over 40 suggestions became live updates.
① Smarter Chat for Model Casting
We redesigned chat so that clients and models can clearly see the project total and model payout. No more confusion.
② Model Self-Registration
Models can now apply directly and create their own profiles on Spotlite. With a few clicks, they’re instantly discoverable by brands around the world — without relying on a model agency.
What’s Next for Spotlite?
Growing in Thailand
After strong growth in Korea, we expanded into Thailand. We listened to local needs and ran our first global shoot in Bangkok just three months later. Today, Spotlite operates across three countries with a 12-person team connecting brands and models in real time.
Beyond Models: The Full Creative Stack
We’re evolving from a model casting platform to an all-in-one hub for creative production. That means photographers, stylists, and more — plus smart filters and matching tools that recommend the right talent based on real performance data. With this foundation in place, we’re preparing regional marketing strategies to scale further.
Spotlite isn’t just a model casting platform — it’s a modern alternative to traditional model agencies. We connect brands with creative professionals faster, smarter, and more transparently. From models to photographers, stylists to studios, Spotlite helps you manage production without the hassle.
If casting has ever felt overwhelming or inefficient, it doesn’t have to be. Want a faster, simpler way to book models? Try Spotlite today.
👉 [Book Models with Spotlite]
More for Fashion Brands
▶︎ Still not using UGC? A content marketing guide for fashion & beauty brands
▶︎ New to production, casting, and creative planning? A freelance editor’s survival story
