Modelling Agencies

How to protect yourself.

• Ask yourself: was I chosen by the agency because they believe I can make money for them -- or just because I can afford to pay money to them?
• If you cannot verify the agency's credentials and the agency is asking for money in advance, you are better off saying no.
• Check out all claims made in agency advertisements, sales presentations, and literature. For example, if they say they are the largest modeling agency in the country, contact other modeling agencies and ask if this is true.
• Ask for the names, addresses, and phone numbers of models who work through the agency and clients who have used its models. Contact the models and clients to verify the information.
• Ask if the agency is licensed or bonded as an employment agency, if that is required by your state. Your local consumer protection agency can answer this question or direct you to the proper agency to get an answer.
• Keep copies of all important papers, such as your contract and agency literature. Be sure to get all verbal promises in writing. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency.
• Be suspicious of agencies that require models to pay fees, including fees for agency books, by cash or money order only. This is a strong signal that the agency is interested in taking your money not in representing you as a model.