I had the pleasure of interviewing Peyton Lantz, Clutch Magazine’s co-casting director and chatting about what her experience working for Clutch has been like so far. Peyton is a senior here at Florida State University majoring in media and communications with a minor in psychology and is also a member of Alpha Chi Omega. Peyton hopes to move out to Los Angeles after graduation to pursue a career in the film industry.
Her Campus (HC): What is your position and what does it entail?
Peyton Lantz (PL): I have been the co-casting director for Clutch for the last two semesters. I work with Ally Jones as a cohesive unit in charge of selecting the models for each issue. At the start of each season, we release numerous advertisements encouraging students to apply, in which we carefully sort through their portfolios up until the first staff meeting. Throughout my time with Clutch, I have been privileged enough to see all kinds of beauty and talent, and making the selections is very difficult. We try to cast models we feel will fit our theme for the issue and will help us express the narrative we are aiming for. We thrive off unique applicants that can serve looks and make for a distinctive experience for our audience.
HC: How did you first get involved with Clutch?
PL: I got involved with Clutch last fall and worked my way up from an advertising assistant to casting director. My big in Alpha Chi Omega, Jessica Wilsey, was a part of Clutch prior and motivated me to get involved. I will always thank her for the encouragement as being part of the Clutch family is more than I ever could’ve dreamed of. I have gotten the opportunity to work with an array of students of all ages and experiences. It has been an amazing journey and I am proud to be around such an authentic team of creatives.
HC: What do you look for when casting models?
PL: When Ally and I get together to cast our new group of models, we look for energy, most importantly (which may sound strange at first). The vibe a models’ portfolio brings is key to telling what kind of spirit they will bring on set, which directly conveys the quality of the photos. We look for true beauty in the sense of originality and authenticity. Ally and I’s goal is to put together the most unique array of men and women possible as Clutch embraces individuality. I couldn’t be happier with our selections in the past, we truly are the dream team.
HC: What does a photo shoot day typically look like?
PL: Shoot days are the best days! On a typical shoot day, the team and models gather at a select location and immediately get to work. The beauty team does the models’ makeup, and an elite group of stylists dresses them accordingly afterward. We prep each model significantly until it is time to travel to the set location of that shoot. The whole staff is encouraged to join the shoot and give their creative criticism. The shoots can last a few hours, as we all work together to create the image we want to present to the rest of campus. Being on set with Clutch has made for my fondest memories at Florida State, as our combined energy sets the scene for greatness. (Special shout outs to Isaac Quillet and Makayla Hineman for assembling such a kick-*ss group of people to work with). Shoot days are absolutely irreplaceable!
HC: What opportunities has working for Clutch given you?
PL: Working for Clutch has opened many doors for me as well as given me the courage to follow my dreams, as cheesy and cliche as that may sound. I have always had a passion for film, photography and media, and working alongside such a brilliant group of individuals has given me the freedom to explore such fields. Clutch has allowed me to meet students with similar interests as me as well as gain reputable experience in doing what I love.
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