Modeling ScamsBeware!Like I've said, if you want to become a model, I want to help you become a model! I have been working in the business for 20 years now... and have seen a lot of scams. It's difficult to label them all. . . but, here's what I think are the general rules.
Websites:Ok. here’s the deal. If you want to pay to be on a “model website”… to post your pictures for your friends and say, grandmother to see… then, by all means do it! It may feel good to you and you may like the association with it. However, if they promise you that big agencies are looking and you will book a lot of jobs from being on it, be very wary. I have yet to see a website that legitimate agents scout. Why would they if anyone can pay to be on it? Good professional agencies have their own websites for clients to see the girls that are contracted with them. Clients are looking on these websites, not random local sites.
Model Contests/Conventions:I have mixed feelings about these. I began my modeling career at a contest in Hilton Head, SC. I paid the fee and paraded down the runway with hundreds of other hopefuls. I competed in the commercial and photo competitions. I met with the agents there… and walked away with appointments to meet with 5 agents in NY the next month. It was fun and a great experience for me. There are legitimate organizations that run these conventions. They make sure that great agents are there judging… and each contestant has an opportunity to meet with and talk to them during the weekend. However, you do not need a contest or competition if you fit into one of the categories I listed in How To Be A Model! I could have walked into these agencies on an open call and gotten the same reaction… I just didn’t know that… or have access to them! On the other hand, if you don’t fit into the typical model profile, this may be a good experience for you to go and meet agents that you may not ever get to meet otherwise. If you go with no expectation, go just for the fun of being a model for the weekend, then it may be worth your money. MAKE SURE THERE ARE LEGITIMATE JUDGES ATTENDING. Be cautious of ANY organization who won’t tell you who is going to be there… or makes ANY promises to you about the outcome. That brings me to modeling schools…
Modeling Schools/Classes:Again, mixed feelings. Modeling schools can be great. The classes can teach you everything from how to pose, to makeup, to taking a good picture, to fashion and design. However, they can not teach you how to become a model, if you don’t fit into one of the categories! There is value in a good modeling class. But, be cautious if they ask you for a lot of money upfront for pictures etc… or if they make promises of work. Again, know your reality in the modeling world. If you WANT to pay for pictures, then pay to have new pictures. But, NOT because you think you are going to get modeling work. A legitimate agency will often provide a photographer for you and charge you minimal fees to get started.
Check with the Better Business BureauI’m always surprised by people who want to be models but have not contacted legitimate agents. Look them up in the phone book. Pick up the phone and find a way to talk to them. They will want you if they can make money with you, believe me! They will tell you their policy. You don’t need to do anything to prepare. If you fit in one of their desired categories… just go straight to the source. If you are in a small town that does not have an agent, get to the biggest town that does. There is no other way guys. You have to have a reputable agent to have a career in modeling. It does not exist any other way.If you are contacted by an agent that you don't know anything about, check with your local business bureau. Agencies have to operate under the same rules as all other businesses. If there are any complaints or suspicions about them, the bureau will be able to tell you.
If it seems to good to be true...... it usually is. No one can promise you modeling work! If they want money upfront . . . beware! Remember, a successful model MAKES MONEY! When in doubt, QUESTION IT!You can always contact me and I will try to answer any questions I can. Drop me an email at the "contact me" page or upload your pictures for a coaching session!
Related articles:How To Be A Model - The Basic Categories!
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