I entered this 'competition' online and within two weeks I had several emails from this company infomring me that they were impressed with my photograph and wanted to enter it into a competition held in the USA. There was an offer of my attending this event if I paid for it. I live in the UK so this would not be cheap. I was also offered the chance to items that featured my photograph ie: pictures etc.
I ignored both of the mails thinking like others that if I had entered the competition I would just be happy with anything that came of it. I am not a 'rich' person and would have been content enough for my photo to be recognised somewhere. Weeks passed and I heard nothing in fact I had forgotten all about it until a letter arrived through the post this morning. It looked genuine enough and I must admit to becoming convinced that the letter was real. Contained in the letter was several sheets of paper that included an artists proof which I was to use to clarify that the photograph was my own work and send back - this would cost me nothing except international postage costs.
There was a letter that went on about how good my picture was blah, blah and how I was under no obligation to buy anything etc. My photo had been entered and automatically advanced to the final competition. Contest Rules and 3 Questions we are most often asked sheet. Plus, and here is the catch an Artists Profile sheet that i could use to write something about myself and the picture - for this privilige I would have to pay $25 (12.50 GBP) plus $9.00 per item for S&H ($13.00 outside US) total of approx 17.00 GBP. I was also offered the chance to buy the book in which my photograph would be published Endless Journeys* (which may or may not be called this on publication) for the grand cost of $69.95 (normally $89.95) Your only way of paying for these items is via Credit Card.
I must admit to have been tempted so decided to check this company out on the internet and low and behold I find this site so thought I would add my two-pence worth. Luckily I have not lost any money to this company but I would like to remove my photograph from their website. If this company is known for ripping people off why are they still been allowed to continue to do so and entice people via the internet and mail to do so? This is wrong and illegal whichever way you look at it. If anyone wishes to have access to this letter etc I will be keeping it. Why are people been allowed into making this company money for nothing through their books (if they do exist?)
Clare
Northallerton
United Kingdom
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