Scams in Modelling: How to Protect Yourself Against Modelling Fraud

Making it in the world of modelling is always tough – especially on your own. As a representative of many talented females and males, Girls of Glam always wants to ensure the safety of their models, and also those who are not part of our team.

We have seen many cases of fraud on websites such as ModelMayhem, and other model / photographer sources. No model ever wants to be misled, or caught up in a scam that could end in a very dangerous situation. Some of these model / photographer sources are great for networking and getting work, but you always have to ensure your safety.

Our blog this week was inspired by an event where someone under the name Bryan Jacobs stated he was representing Girls of Glam and offered a model a job. Of course this was a scam, but convincing a model that she was being scammed was difficult – and under no circumstances do we want any model to be misled into fraud - whether they are pretending to represent us or any other agency.

Here are some tips on how to do a background check on a photographer:

• ·         Google the name. Do they have a website? Do they have a portfolio? Are they represented well online? Do they have a physical location? Check these items to show the person offering you the gig has some authority built behind them.
• ·         If they don’t have some or any of these, ask if you can bring an escort – a friend, a make-up artist, a stylist – someone who can be there with you. If they say no, don’t go. No photo is worth your safety.
• ·         Ask around. Ask other models on Model Mayhem or other sources where you can contact others who have worked with this person. Find out what they were like to work with, if they made you feel comfortable, if they were forceful or not. These will help you decide whether you should work with them or not.
• ·         If you are ever unsure or uneasy about working with a photographer, or someone who has tipped you off to an agency – always trust your gut. 

In this business, you can never take any chances. Starting out can be tough, but by working with Girls of Glam you can eliminate some of the stress of finding work because we find the jobs for you. But for the girls who are out there on there own, use these tips to make sure you are safe. When an agency contacts you for work - email them at their general email address to confirm your booking. If you hear nothing, call them. Then you know for sure.

Stay safe!