Your safety is YOUR responsibility!!

It's unfortunate, but there are a lot of dangerous people in the world today. When you ask if modeling is dangerous I have to say that you have too look at it from this perspective - Any time a person is traveling into the unknown... there are risks, add to that someone whom is ignorant, innocent, young and pretty, the risk gets even grater. Add that meeting someone you don't really know anything about - it's sad but it can be a recipe for the worst.

This is why it is so important to set a few guidelines for yourself when making contact with possible photographers or agents. If you follow the simple guideline you will get less 'scum' or bogus requests, you'll avoid a lot of the modeling scams, you'll avoid a lot of heartache and you'll be a whole lot safer.

• Do not use your real name or full name on the Internet. Use only an alias or 'Stage' name in your online profiles or portfolios.

• Have a hotmail email address for people to contact you and do not disclose any personal contact details in any email until you are certain the enquiry is legitimate.

• NEVER STAY OVERNIGHT AT A PRIVATE RESIDENCE. If you have to travel ensure APPROPRIATE accommodations are provided (Like YOUR OWN hotel room)

• Get as much information about the photographer as possible.

• REQUEST A FULL PHYSICAL ADDRESS If the photographer seems reluctant to give you references, a physical permanent address or other relevant information - WATCH OUT

• Have the photographer give you a full description of what the shoot will involve. KNOW EXACTLY WHAT IT EXPECTED OF YOU IN FULL DETAIL !

• Ensure that the photographer has established 'roots' in the community - Not someone that can just pull up and disappear overnight. This may be harder to find out in larger cities but it can be done. Above all, if you are uncertain of the photographer or the photographers associates do not accept the assignment/shoot.

• Have the photographer show you samples of his work. Ensure you like and are comfortable with the photographers style or technique of photography.

• Make sure someone knows when you are going, where you'll be, when you will be back, how to contact you, and what to do if they can't.

• Have a friend or family member check in on you. Have a 'Silent Alarm' code word. This is a word that if you use it when you check in - your friend Knows to call for help.

• If plans change and the location changes or the shoot takes longer - let people know, and that you are alright.

• A chaperone is good if it's the right person. It's important that they have to know to stay out of the way and not to be a distraction to either you or the photographer. Many photographers are uncomfortable with someone looking over their shoulder. Work out, understand and feel comfortable with the ground rules of the shoot with the photographer prior to accepting the assignment.