I went to what I thought was an agency the other day to possibly be represented. The person who I thought was the CEO was actually a very young man (about 17 or 18) working out of a pricey office in downtown Scottsdale. Although he seemed very believable, I think I may have been scammed. I am not trying to ruin this business but be warned. This fiery young CEO makes you believe you are in good hands, then hands you a contract, and then pretty much says if you don't pay for pricey photos, you can't be represented. He also has many claims about his "clients" and "other agencies". Not so true, the website only allows you to view one office and has no other affiliates listed. He also spelled "Los Angeles" wrong, spelling it "Los Angelas", his website changes layout or addresses often, his craigslist ads don't coincide with his website information and he has no valuable clients... Or any proof of having clients at all. He also said he has high standards for his models... I signed up for an interview on a whim because I want to be an actor (NOT MODEL). I am nowhere near physical shape to be a male model but he told me I should do the photoshoot anyway because that's where "he makes his money", whoa... Why did he tell me that? I do not mean to be defamatory, this is simply a warning, do not pay for a photoshoot through your agent, always pay the photographer directly.
Ask for references, proof of clientele, a catalogue, and any other proof/documentation that this agency is registered and legally allowed to represent you. You should never have to pay for anything upfront to be in an agency and even if they say the will pay for it after you pay them, do your research on the company, any of its affiliates, history, and CEO history. You don't want to shell out 800 dollars for something you can do from your own home (like signing up to a casting network... Anyone can do it from their home, don't let him make you think you need his agency to sign up!) Just be warned, thank you.
0 comments