The CuteKid’s Blog

Some of the warning signs may indicate a scam or a less then legitimate or poorly run modeling agency. It does not necessarily mean that they are not legitimate operations but be sure to ask lots of questions.
*Newspaper classified ad or display ad looking for any kind of model or talent other than nude glamour modeling. Modeling agencies have plenty of people coming to them so they don’t have to advertise for models.
*Pictures of famous supermodels on the walls since it is obvious that small modeling agencies have never represented Cindy Crawford.
*Any up front fees. This might be signing fees, new account fees or evaluation fees. If an agency has to charge money in the beginning, it means the agency does not have enough modeling work for the agency to survive on jobs they are able to get for their models.
*They want you to pay for test shots. Legitimate agencies will provide you with a list of photographers that you may go to. You should be free to go to any photographer you want to. If the agency tells you that you must use their photographer, it’s a bad sign.
*They want you to take classes with their agency before offering you work.
*They say they can guarantee work. Modeling agencies are not employers. They can only represent you to try and get you work. Most of the time they don’t know for sure what type of jobs will come in or what look may be needed, thus there is no way they can guarantee you work.
If you live in Texas, Florida or California make sure you see the Agency license displayed in the front office! If you live in any other state, check with your state’s licensing office to see if talent agents must be licensed in your state. You can also check with Screen Actors Guild (SAG) and the Association of Talent Agents (ATA) for a list of franchised agents in your state.

If you are approached by someone in the mall, on the street or at the beach claiming to be a representative of the business-BE LEARY!!

While there are people that do legitimately scout on the street (look for talent on the street) , YOU MUST check out their company before you ever get involved. If you do get approached by someone that seems legitimate but they ask you to sign a lengthy contract, ask you to pay for them to get your child involved-DON’T DO IT!! (Regardless of how pretty their office looks)

These companies may offer you photo shoots by professional photographers, guaranteed exposure and classes, exposure to casting directors…BUT THEY CANNOT GUARANTEE YOU CHILD WILL GET A JOB .The casting directors choose your child not the photographers unless it is a photo contest.

YOU SHOULD ALSO NEVER PAY A CASTING DIRECTOR…THEY ARE THERE TO FILL THE JOB FOR THE CLIENT. NEVER PAY TO GO ON AN AUDITION!!

There are cheaper ways you can get these things yourself!

If you want to get your child professional photos, look into photographers in your area. Also , look into child workshops and classes offered in your area.

There are accredited management companies you can find online. Though, not every manager or agent that is legitimate is listed. There may be a smaller agencies that are not listed and

Very legitimate but DO YOUR HOMEWORK.

YOU SPEND THE TIME CHECKING INTO A BABYSITTER OR CHILDCARE IN THE BEST INTEREST OF YOUR CHILD…DO THE SAME THING WHEN IT COMES TO THE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS!!

Talent advice and casting info! Read here to get the scoop! Lights, Camera ACTION!