MODELING SCAMS
IF YOU HAVE THE LOOK, LOOK OUT!

What could be more flattering? Someone approaches you at the mall and says, "You could be a model. You've got the 'look' we're after. Here's my card. Give me a call to set up an appointment."

People have always said you're good looking and now visions of glamour, travel and money flash before your eyes.

If and when you make that follow-up appointment, you'll probably find yourself in an office filled with lots of other model and actor hopefuls.

Then the sting starts. What you thought was a legitimate job interview with a talent agency turns into a high-pressure sales pitch for modeling or acting classes, or for "screen tests" or "photo shoots" that can range in price from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

It's true that some successful models have been discovered in everyday places like shopping malls, boutiques, clubs, and airports but the vast majority of would-be models knock on door after agency door before work comes their way.

Man, woman, or child — it makes no difference to bogus model and talent scouts. Often, these scouts are after one thing — your money — and will say just about anything to get it. But what they say isn't always what they mean.

To break into the business, you — the talent — need professional photos. There are two types of standard photographs — a "head shot" and a "composite card."

The typical marketing tool for an actor, experienced or not, the head shot usually is an 8" x 10" black and white photo of the face, with your resume printed on the back.

A "comp card", the typical marketing tool for the experienced model or the wannabe, usually features several shots on the same sheet, showing off the talent in different attire or settings.

Agencies and schools offer separate and distinct services. Make sure you know the difference.

Modeling (or talent) agencies secure employment for experienced models and actors. Some agents require that you sign up exclusively with them; others may allow you to register with them as well as with other agencies in town.

Modeling and acting schools claim to provide instruction — for a fee — in poise, posture, diction, skin care, make-up application, the proper walk, and more. Modeling schools do not necessarily act as agents or find work for you — after you take their classes, you may be on your own.

Steer clear of modeling companies that require you to use a specific photographer. Compare fees and the quality of several photographers before deciding which one would be best for you.

Be suspicious if a model agency that requires an up-front fee to serve as your agent.

Be cautious if the school has a special referral relationship with a specific modeling agency. The two could be splitting your fees, or the agency may not be suited to your needs.

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 anywhere from $45 to $100 an hour, but the work is irregular.

Ask for names, addresses and phone numbers of models and actors who have secured successful work — recently — based on the company's training.

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. If two modeling agencies say they are the biggest - one of them must be wrong? 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.

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, Consumer Affairs Department or State Attorney General. Make sure the agencies license is current.

Ask your local Better Business Bureau, Consumer Protection Agency, Consumer Affairs Department or 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 and keep copies of all important papers, such as your contract and company literature, in a safe place.

Realize that different parts of the world have different needs. For example, New York is recognized for fashion modeling; the Washington/Baltimore area is known for industrial or training films. Sydney, Australia is more recognised for high fashion, video clip and movie production and promotional modeling, whilst the Gold Coast has a large swim suit, promotional and commercial modeling market. Other areas of Australia have mostly promotional work, amateur photography, commercial and print modeling.

If you've think you've been scammed by a bogus model or talent scout, contact your local Consumer Protection Agency, State Attorney General, Better Business Bureau, or Consumer Affairs Department. You can find them in your local telephone directory or by calling directory assistance.

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