Whether you’re interested in a modeling career, want to earn some extra cash or think your child might have a future in acting or modeling, be on the lookout for scammers. The Better Business Bureau warns that some modeling agencies try to make a fast buck and don’t deliver on promises of fame and fortune.
In the last three years, would-be models researched agencies with the BBB more than half a million times. Unfortunately, the BBB also received more than 2,000 complaints from people who feel they were misled into paying large upfront fees — often for headshots and portfolios — and received little or no modeling or acting work in return.
Before signing up with a modeling or talent agency:
- Do your research – Always check the company out with your Better Business Bureau. Some states may require a talent agency or modeling school be licensed and bonded; confirm the company meets those requirements if applicable.
- Beware of big promises and high-pressure sales pitches – In the modeling world, income is never guaranteed and jobs can be sporadic. Consider it a red flag if the sales pitch promises a lot of jobs and big earnings or uses high-pressure tactics to get you to sign up without thinking it through first.
- Read the fine print and get everything in writing – Take your time and read the agreement or contract carefully, paying close attention to details regarding refunds and your recourse if you are dissatisfied. Make sure that all verbal promises are in the agreement.
- Get references – Ask for references from other satisfied clients who have a similar background and qualifications.
- Complain if you’ve been ripped off – If you feel you’ve been misled by a talent or modeling agency, file a complaint with your BBB at wynco.bbb.org, State Attorney General and the FTC.
Don’t go a day without your BBB. Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Flickr. For more consumer information or to check out the BBBlog, visit wynco.bbb.org or call 970-484-1348 or 800-564-0371.
About the BBB
The Better Business Bureau, founded in 1912, is a champion for ethics and trust in the marketplace. Only businesses that meet the high BBB standards are invited to become BBB Accredited Businesses. Today, 123 BBBs across the United States and Canada rate more than 4 million local and national businesses and charities with scores ranging from A+ to F. Only a BBB Accredited Business may elect to participate in BBBOnLine, one of the most trusted and recognized Internet seal programs in the world.
The BBB serving northern Colorado and Wyoming topped 1.1 million instances of service to consumers and businesses in the last 12 months. These services include reliability reports on local companies and charities, access to companies that can be trusted by industry, help with dispute resolution, and trustworthy information on consumer and business topics.
Luanne Kadlub, BBB media relations manager, 970-488-2044 lkadlub@wynco.bbb.org