Whenever I think of modeling scams I think of an episode of Everybody Loves
Raymond in which a modeling agent approached Robert. He visited the office,
signed up, and paid about $1,000 for pictures. Then the next week when he went to collect the pictures the office was empty and his money gone. Unfortunately the same thing happens to men, women, and children each year. Over a year there are hundreds of people are caught in modeling scams done by fraudulent modeling agencies. It may not be this drastic, just an agent who is after your money and is not really going to try to get your child a job.
The situation might go like this: you are in the mall when someone approaches you and says something like, “Your child is so cute. She has all child modeling qualities. She has just the ‘look’ that we want. Here’s my card. Call me and we will set up a time for you to come in.” You immediately picture your daughter’s face on the cover of a magazine or smiling back at you from the T.V. screen.
When you make a follow-up appointment you’ll probably find yourself in an office with lots of other model hopefuls. When you meet with the agent he will give you a big spiel about how competitive the industry is and that if you want your child to be successful you need to enroll her in modeling classes, get professional photographs taken, or pay a hefty sign-up fee. They are after one thing, your money, and they will say just about anything to get it.
When unscrupulous model or talent scouts say certain phrases read between the lines to see what they are really saying or not saying:
“We’re scouting for children like yours that have that special look.” My commission depends on how many people I sign up.
“Your deposit is totally refundable.” Only if you meet certain strict criteria.
“We carefully screen candidates and only accept a few into our program.” We take almost everyone.
“You can work off our fees with the high-paying jobs you get.” We demand payment, whether or not you get any work.
If the modeling agency does any of the following it is best to walk away:
requires that your photos be taken by a certain photographer.
asks for an up-front fee to serve as your agent.
only accepts cash or money orders.
claims you will make big money - most models in small markets make between $75 and $150 an hour, but it is not regular.
requires professional photos for your young child - for most children a snapshot photo is best since children change so quickly.
Hear are some additional tips to ensure modeling safety for your child so that you are not ripped off by a modeling agency scam.
Always read a document before signing. Ask to review the contract at home. If they refuse get out.
Ask yourself, “Why my child?” If you were approached in a mall consider how many other parents may have been approached as well.
Check to see if they have really placed models with specific jobs.
Require everything in writing. Do not just take their word for it.
Ask if the company is licensed or bonded, especially if your state requires it.
Check with the Better Business Bureau to see if there are any complaints.
