Photography Scams:

Modeling photography scams are probably the modeling scams most likely to trick model hopefuls. Aspiring models already know or quickly recognize the importance of photos to launch their modeling career. Photos, after all, are what modeling is all about. However, many times the models and their parents know neither how many photos they need to get started, nor the kind of photos required.

Below are comments from reputable sources regarding photography scams:

"Our prior modeling cases were all about photos; you thought you were being selected as a model, but all they were trying to sell you was photos, these expensive comp cards." -- Robin Spector, Attorney, Federal Trade Commission

"The number one problem we see is big money wasted on useless photos that were sold to an 'unsuspecting' model thinking he/she was getting great photos." -- GO International Modeling Agency

"A legitimate agency does not charge money to be a model. You may pay for some test pictures, but it won't be more than $300 for the entire shoot and everything." -- Joel Wilkenfeld, President, Next Model Management, New York

"If you are signed by a model agent, they will recommend 'test' photographers for your portfolio. Test photographers charge a lower rate since they are looking to build their own fashion portfolio." -- Nina Blanchard, The Nina Blanchard Agency

"Consumers may submit snapshots to agencies for review; however, agencies themselves do not produce portfolios 'in house.' Additionally, consumers should always pay the photographer and the printing company directly for any work done." -- BBB

"The agent should not recommend one photographer, and you do not pay the agency, you deal directly with the photographer." -- Nina Blanchard, The Nina Blanchard Agency

"According to talent agents, portfolios are developed over the course of a person's career. Therefore novices do not need expensive portfolios." -- BBB

"Do not get a portfolio before getting an agent." -- Nina Blanchard, The Nina Blanchard Agency

"Beware of photo pushers. They are seemingly legitimate talent agencies who make money by receiving kickbacks from photographers. The agent's advice may sound helpful, but the photo 'deal' will cost an exorbitant amount of money." -- Erik Joseph, Author, The Glam Scam

"If a so-called talent agent sends you to a particular photographer for pictures, hold your wallet tight and run for the nearest exit! Chances are the 'agent' is a phony who makes money splitting the photographer's fee." -- Los Angeles Office of the Consumer Protection Agency of the Federal Trade Commission

"Steer clear of modeling companies that require you to use a specific photographer. Compare fees and the work quality of several photographers." -- Federal Trade Commission

"Never spend money on a portfolio for a baby or young child. In three months they will look different. The pictures in your wallet will do just fine." -- Eve Matheson, Author, The Modeling Handbook

"Don't let anyone sell you a thousand-dollar portfolio. You only need a couple of snapshots to find out if an agent is interested. Then a good headshot is all you need to get started." -- Tim Tew, Photographer, Orlando, Florida