Avoiding Modelling Scams

If you want to be a model then you need to be on the lookout for scam artists who are just waiting to prey on your hopes and dreams to rip you off – or worse.

There are a few signs to look out for to make sure you avoid the dangers.

Adverts in classifieds

No reputable modelling agency would advertise in the classifieds of a magazine. Modelling agencies get hundreds of applications every day, they do not need to advertise for new faces at all. So when you see page after page of adverts saying models are needed urgently on things like gumtree, craigslist and loot, you can be sure that they are not genuine.

Jobs that don’t have a casting or require a portfolio

If you get offered a modelling job before they’ve seen you in the flesh, it’s very unlikely to be a real job. All professionals that work with models know that it’s very easy for the camera to lie, so they would never hire a model based on a single photo. The model could be lying about their height or the photos could be very old and not representative.

Jobs, castings or new faces events that take place in hotels

Professional, reputable modelling agencies have permanent offices, and they will use them if they want to meet with new potential models. If an agent wants to meet you at a hotel or similar than the chances are they are hoping to take advantage of you and you have to be very careful. The safest thing to do is not go, but if you really think it might be real, then take someone with you and make sure they don’t let you out of their site!

There are plenty of horror stories of dodgy people luring young girls to hotel rooms under the pretence of being and agent or offering them modelling work – don’t let it become your nightmare!

Find out more about top modelling mistakes