Modeling Agency Scams
Some modeling agencies are nothing more than con jobs designed to cheat models out of their money
Scam modeling agencies often advertise in newspapers to encourage potential models, both men and women, to meet
company representatives for group screenings. The ads usually state, "No fee." At follow-up interviews, however,
"selected" applicants are asked to sign a contract agreeing to participate in classes and to pay more than $1000
in advance for the photographs that are required before they can work as models. I have also seen this one where
the scam agency states that they will pay for everything except for the make-up artist which will cost $500.00 for
the day In the end, most of the would-be models receive no photographs and no job leads. The companies simply
pack up and leave town before it all hits the fan.
How do you know if a modeling agency is going to rip you off?
Recognizing a modeling agency scam may not be easy. Many of the advertising claims made may sound perfectly reasonable.
When you contact or meet with them, their practices may be similar to those used by legitimate modeling agencies. When
you see a modeling agency ad keep in mind that most modeling and acting agencies don't advertise. The mere fact that you
are seeing an ad at all should make you suspicious. Below we've compiled a collection of the warning signs that can help
you determine whether a modeling agency is crooked.
Modeling Agency Warning Signs
Below are some common lines you will hear from talent agency scam artists. First see what they say and then we'll tell you what they
are really saying.
- "We're scouting for people with your 'look' to model and act."
These people are out looking for people because their income is based on commissions. So the more people they convince to
"drop by" the office the better their chance of making money. This is a very generic line to use on someone and without
some specifics you should be wary.
- "Your deposit is totally refundable."
Sure it is. Only if you meet their incredibly restrictive rules. Nevermind the fact that it's odd that
you've even been asked to make a deposit in the first place.
- "You must be specially selected for our program. Our talent experts will carefully evaluate your chances at success in the field and will only accept a few people into our program."
Remember what I said about commission sales? If you have money for the classes they will try to sell you you will be accepted. This is
not so much about talent. This is all about how much money they can get you to spend before you realize what a crock it is.
- "There's a guaranteed refund if you're not accepted into the program."
Everyone with money is accepted into the program since that's the only thing that matters. Since everyone
is accepted offering a refund is a bit of a joke. A joke on you.
- "You can't afford our fees? No problem. You can work them off with the high-paying jobs we'll get you."
Whether you get work as a model or not you will have to pay is back. We're ot a charity.
- "Commissions from our clients are our major source of income."
The only way we make money is from charging you fees. Please sign up for another class.
How to avoid modeling agency scams
- Ask yourself, "why me?" Don't let your emotions - and the company's flattery - take control. Think carefully and critically about how you were approached: if it was in a crowded mall, think how many others also may have been approached.
- Avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Never sign a document without reading and understanding it first. In fact, ask for a blank copy of the contract to take home and review with someone you trust. If the company refuses, walk away.
- Be leery of companies that only accept payment in cash or by money order. Read it as a strong signal that the company is more interested in your money than your career.
- Be wary of claims about high salaries. Successful models in small markets can earn $75 to $150 an hour, but the work is irregular.
- Ask for the names, addresses and phone numbers of models and actors who have secured successful work - recently - based on the company's training.
- Check out client claims. If an agency says it has placed models and actors in specific jobs, contact the companies to verify that they've hired models and actors from the agency.
- Be skeptical of local companies claiming to be the "biggest" agency or a "major player" in the industry, especially if you live in a smaller city or town.
- Realize that different parts of the country have different needs. For example, New York is recognized for fashion modeling; the Washington/Baltimore area is known for industrial or training films.
- Ask if the company/school is licensed or bonded, if that's required by your state. Verify this information with the appropriate authorities, such as your local consumer protection agency or state Attorney General. Make sure the license is current.
- Ask your local Better Business Bureau, consumer protection agency and state Attorney General if there are any unresolved consumer complaints on file about the company.
- Get everything in writing, including any promises that have been made orally.
- Keep copies of all important papers, such as your contract and company literature, in a safe place.
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