How to Spot a Modeling / Acting Scam
There are too many marketing companies that prey on a persons quest for fame. These companies and their affiliates post casting notices, auditions and ads on Craigslist, and other free classified sites that refer to fake auditions and non existent castings for jobs that sound real. Some also use ads on the radio and newspapers to entice people.
Here is why they do this. Money!
There are many different scams praying on people trying to break into the industry. Here are just a few.
There are many companies claiming to be agencies that will claim to find you work… if you pay them. They don’t just come out and ask for money, they first get your confidence and reel you in slowly. Often times they schedule a ‘fake’ audition (they don’t ask for money here to put you at ease), then they call and tell you ‘you are great’ come in for a 2nd audition and sometimes a 3rd. Once there, they tell you ‘you are perfect… but…’. This is where the salesperson kicks in and tries to sell you on photos, portfolios, online portfolios, classes, conventions and anything else they can push on you. The audition was not actually for a real part in any production, it was to evaluate how much you will spend and how much they can sucker you out of.
Then there are companies that don’t sell any services themselves, they get paid to sell your information to companies that have telemarketers and salespeople.
The companies / individuals involved are paid to get “leads”. Leads are people of a certain demographic such as child, teen, man, etc. that have a interest, such as acting or modeling, that they can later exploit by way of email spam, telemarketing, etc. After you answer a “fake” casting (much of craigslist was fake when I tested it), you will begin getting offers through email and sales pitches from telemarketers, all aimed at getting you to sign up for some service.
Many times they call you and say they have an audition for you. They pose as casting directors, agents, etc. They try to get you excited and pump up your ego with flattery. Real agents and casting directors do not just pick a name ‘out of a hat’ and offer a high paying acting job to someone they never met or seen perform.
When the telemarketers are done with you, your info gets sold to the next company and the routine starts again. Some internet marketers go as far as responding to your inquiry with a message that “you are perfect” or “will send the audition details”, but first… please go here and do this.
This is a different type of scam and not that obvious to most.
Those affiliates get paid to funnel people to other sites, usually sites that deal with background checks or security of some kind. Age and citizenship verification are a common ploy. I answered one Extra casting (sounded very real) that sent me to a site that does ssl certificates. Most people would not even understand that ssl certification is for online shopping carts and has zero to to do acting or auditions. The marketer just used that because it went along the lines of “verify your identity” for the fake casting call and he gets paid 30 bucks for every FREE lead he sends to the company. He is scamming them too! I was looking for an audition, NOT a shopping cart! I am useless as a lead to them, but he still gets paid ’till caught. Then he moves on to the next company looking for leads.
Here’s how to spot the real castings from the fakes.
Remember, real casting directors will always want a headshot, resume, acting reel, and for modeling things such as height, weight, size, etc. If all they ask for is an optional photo and contact info than beware. The scammers need the photo because the sales pitch involves a lot of flattery. The sales pitch is honed to make you feel special and chosen.
Beware of anyone looking for “new faces”. Everyone has a new face! You can walk out your door and find dozens in a minute! The word “new faces” is a red flag for scam.
Beware of general needs such as “any ethnicity, ages 15 to 75″ thats almost EVERYONE! Real castings have specific needs (with the exception of extras).
Beware of “no experience necessary” acting, dance and modeling takes experience and training. Really, who is hiring actors who can’t act or fashion models that can’t walk? The only exception may be neighborhood fashion shows and student films.
Beware of ads with large pay. Ads that read like “models and actors needed for ‘put in any large brand here’ pay is $1200 daily and job is 4 to 5 days….” Yeah right, budgets that large get pros from agents, Not Mary and Jane off the street. Keep in mind that the SAG daily rate is around $750 and that is to experienced pro actors in a union that pay dues.
Speaking of union rates… Beware of ads that quote union rates such as $752 a day without mention of union. They are just pulling union jobs knowing you have ZERO way of getting the gig or worse, making them up and quoting union rates.
Beware of anything that asks for lingerie, topless, etc. and request pics from you to be considered. Use your imagination on what someone will do with those. Real casting directors will want head shots, full body shot(clothed) and measurements and ask you to try on their clothing at the audition, once one is scheduled.
Beware of Extras casting calls. Generally, large productions go through a casting company. Anyone posting things like “Extras needed to make scene look ‘real’, ’Insert big movie name here’ pays $300 daily” is a scam. Large productions in small cities will post notices, but in large cities, they already have all the extras needed, unless there is some specific needs the extras agency can’t fill.
Small productions will post calls but an extra does not make close to $300. Think more along the line of min wage or less. $50 to $100 may be more realistic. Do not sign up for any background or age verification site. Those are 100% scam, even though it seems free for you to do it, the scammer is selling your info to an unsuspecting company and you will never hear back about the audition.
Beware of anything that says call some number, casting agents are waiting. Casting directors look at headshots and resumes than call back who they like. They do not sit by a phone waiting for everyone and their mom to call without even knowing if they fit. Basically, they call you if they like you.
And lastly, beware of anyone selling anything. Remember, you applied for a JOB! Means, they pay YOU!
How to protect yourself:
Get an email, an anonymous one for casting calls that you respond to. That way if it gets spammed, you can change it easily.
NEVER, follow a link to another site asking you for any info that you got in a response.
Do your homework – Google company names. If you want to see any bad press you can Google ‘company name scam’ or things along that line. Check consumer report sites. Many try to hide the bad press and small operations change names often. If you can’t find anything about them, that’s a red flag.
You can check how long their website has been around by doing a ‘who is’ search. I just ran into a agency that looked fishy the other day. They claimed tons of credits and offered promises of fame.
I checked them out. Their company website was created a few days back, hosted in the Ukraine and registered anonymously. Unless the Ukraine is the new Hollywood, I’m thinking, this may be a scam.
Remember, if it sounds like a dream, it most likely is just some low life trying to pay his bills off yours. Real jobs take commitment, training and diligence. You begin at the bottom with low paying jobs and castings in small productions, then work your way up as it is in any industry. Once you get some training, a resume and experience, then you get an agent to go after the larger jobs.
With all the above said, there are great opportunities available. You just need to learn how to stay away from the scammers. With practice, you will learn to spot the real from the fake. Even I still get fooled by some. Luckily, the readers normally catch those and leave me a comment to remove the spam.
Also, comments are taken and will be posted on this page. Add your own tips to avoid modeling and acting scams. I will moderate and post.
You can also read child acting scams for more info.
Check out the following related pages and articles
Comments
Comment from anonymous
Time 06/02/2010 at 6:07 PM
These people asked to to call castings usa com
When I responded to this post:
http://houston.craigslist.org/tfr/1760421270.html
They sounds a lot like what your post describes. Thanks for the assistance. I will keep my “80cents per day” in my wallet now.
Comment from tenesha
Time 01/25/2011 at 2:55 PM
what are your opinions about one-source talent? They contacted me and asked me to trael to nyc…once there i ws informed that i was selected for the company and that when i came back, i would need to bring 500…and not only that but i would also be required to pay 40 a month for a digital fee…what is up with that?
Comment from free audition listings
Time 01/26/2011 at 9:06 AM
Don’t do it. You should never have to pay to get a job and actually new laws have made such practices not legal, such as the “paying for a chance at an audition” and other such vague, now illegal, practices. If you want a FREE profile, create a Facebook, MySpace, etc. Telemarketers are notorious for playing on dreams (and words) in this industry. If you listen to the sales pitch carefully, you will see they are selling you on very expensive web space, pictures and conventions. None of which include getting you work because they ARE NOT agents or casting directors and have zero to do with casting anything.
Comment from anonymous
Time 02/26/2011 at 12:53 PM
this man named frank emailed me talking bout a tommy hilfiger modeling contract that i wouldnt have to pay anything and we would be able to work with you in your area close by so no traveling would be necc.he told me to chose my rate for 2 hours nd my information is needed to get the cashupfront i wont pay for the photographer hairstylest nothing everything finacially would be takin care of by the company so what do i do is dis a scam?
Comment from free audition listings
Time 02/26/2011 at 9:34 PM
If you recently sent in a portfolio for a gig then maybe, but if someone emails you out of the blue then it is some sort of scam for sure. They ALWAYS tell you it’s free at first, then they get you in there or on the phone and talk you into stuff. Watch out for that. Fashion houses do not email people offering work. They use agents.
Comment from Tricia
Time 03/14/2011 at 4:44 AM
Is PRO SCOUT a scam?
Comment from free audition listings
Time 03/15/2011 at 1:02 AM
easy enough to find out http://www.google.com/search?sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8&q=pro+scout+scam
Comment from Christina
Time 04/05/2011 at 1:59 AM
Hi. So yeah I signed up for webiste so they can help me get auditions so a few days later they called me talking about all the thing that they can do fro me and etc. And after all the sweet talking the man on the phone said yeah you will just have to pay like 90 dollar for three free months or something like that. and then he’s like how would you like to pay using a check or credit card. and it seemed like he was rushing me into like I couldn’t get a chance to think. But something told me no this is a scam. And when I said no I have to think about it, he’s like don’t miss out on this opportunity, everyone’s gotta give up something and etc. he was just very anxious to make me pay. Scam isnt it?
Comment from Ellen
Time 04/25/2011 at 7:49 PM
Have you heard anything about HNE? A $300 profile set up fee? I did fill out an application a few months ago for the amazing race. Could that application information be sold?
Comment from free audition listings
Time 04/27/2011 at 12:18 AM
It is free to apply for Amazing Race . It is free to apply for all reality shows. If you want to apply for any show, you gotta do it directly, i.e. use the shows contact info. That is the only way to know if the application was sent.
Comment from Amber
Time 05/20/2011 at 9:00 PM
I found an ad on craigslist about an upcoming reality show that I responded to, I sent him a few pictures of my face and stated why I wanted to be in the reality show because that’s what it asked for, I then got a reply saying
“I feel that you would be perfect
for the new tv series! After
viewing over 500 photos,
I am leaning towards choosing you.
I need you to convince me a little more.
Write me again and tell me from
your heart, why I should choose you!!” I then sent back a response and informed him of some drama that may be useful for a reality tv show and he responded “Amber:
The new television series details are confidential. If I decide to choose you, your smmer adventure & relationship, will be a welcomed change in reality tv.
I will be in Wilmington soon, we can grab dinner together and discuss your desire to appear on the new reality series.” obviously I don’t want to meet with someone if it’s a scam and end up being kidnapped or killed, so what is your opinion on this.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 05/20/2011 at 9:46 PM
Casting directors do not normally take someone they never met to dinner, they schedule a casting call in an office.
If you go, do not go alone! Take a boyfriend…or 2.
Comment from Diana
Time 07/20/2011 at 1:31 AM
I recently went on http://www.seek.com.au looking for work. I came across an add looking for people for modelling and TV by a agency called Spy Model Agency, which said to go on their website and fill out an application form that only asked for details like name, age, hair/eye colour, height and address and phone number. They didn’t ask for a photo. I did that and a few days later received an email telling me that my application is being processed and they will let me know. I received another email after that saying that my application has been approved and that they would like me to meet with 2 talent manager in an inner city cafe so that hey can decide whether to sign me. They also said if they do decide i will have to pay $95 deposit to book photographer and later on for the portfolio or if i have one i might have to doit again if it doesn’t fit their image. I checked their website and it looks kind of legit. I am just a little worried so if u could help me i would greatly appreciate it. 
Comment from free audition listings
Time 07/20/2011 at 6:05 PM
A model agent / agency does NOT advertise. Legit agencies have models knocking on their doors daily, they do not run ads.
Their application does not ask for a photo or weight… 2 very important things. If you read their terms and conditions they tell you they are a photo company and sell portfolios.
Agents make money AFTER they get you work, not before.
Comment from Cynthia
Time 07/23/2011 at 12:59 AM
Thanks so much for this article beacuse i was going to a audtion for acting and it turned out he was a scam!
Comment from Aaron
Time 07/23/2011 at 10:44 PM
I got a CALL from OneSourceTalent, I scheduled an appointment. After waiting for just a few minutes, a group of us were called. I went into an office, they took a picture and said that was it. Scam ?
Comment from cristian
Time 07/24/2011 at 10:57 PM
Is it possible to find a legit movie or t.v show audition online and what web site would you recommand, and is explore talent fake.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 07/25/2011 at 3:08 AM
yeah, there’s plenty open castings for movie extras – look at home page of this site. As for Explore, I know they list auditions but not much more.
Comment from xia
Time 07/26/2011 at 6:37 PM
I wanted to know if exploretalent is real or fake??????
Comment from free audition listings
Time 07/26/2011 at 10:48 PM
Not sure what you mean by fake. Exploretalent is a website that lists notices but charges a fee to see the contact info. They are not an agency.
Comment from Myron
Time 07/27/2011 at 8:15 PM
Can you guys get mii a disney audition or a website to get one or even a talent agent source im in michigan
Comment from free audition listings
Time 07/27/2011 at 8:31 PM
Disney does hold open calls a few times a year. They are announced a few weeks prior. Other than those, the only way to get an audition with a Disney Channel show is through an agent. There is a list of acting agents on the site as well as the union sites.
Comment from Anon Usly
Time 08/18/2011 at 4:16 AM
I went to this casting call for talent and they said not professionals and stuff like that and then they said it costs. So like 6 months later there was another one but a different company name? But the funny part was i talk to the same guy!! I couldn’t believe it and that cost to! I was wondering if you have ever heard of the company name TAI? I tried looking it up after about 6 more months and I can’t find it!
Comment from free audition listings
Time 08/18/2011 at 8:30 AM
Scams change names often, as soon as any bad press comes along, they switch company names. NEVER pay to audition. An audition is just a job interview for actors, if you were a cook, you would never pay to interview at some restaurant! Also, it is not legal and any company asking for money at a chance at a job is breaking the law. They know that, that is why most of them have a paragraph in their TOS that states “They are not an agent, an employer or casting director and have zero to do with getting anyone a job”. Sales people can tell you anything on the phone to get their commission, once the money is paid, you never hear from them again and they are protected because their scripts are written in a way that skirts it all. i.e They say so and so casting director is very interested in someone “just like you”. You hear “you” but that is not what they said, it’s what you wanted to hear.
Comment from Kayla
Time 08/23/2011 at 11:27 PM
There is a modeling company in my city called agency 89, but I am skeptical as to whether or not they are recruiting for talent or money….I’m not sure what to look for.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 08/24/2011 at 3:12 AM
well, their website says:
“Agency 89 is a full-service preparation, training and placement agency. ”
that looks like they offer somekind of training service, i.e modeling school. Are you are looking for modeling classes? and yes, I would imagine you must pay for those.
Comment from Haley
Time 10/21/2011 at 8:22 PM
Okay, this ‘Hickory Pictures’ is coming to my school for a casting call, they have specific in what they want, it asks for a non’returnable photo, and left a number to call for questions. But doesn’t ask for info, thought it does say in this contract thing, that i will have to evetualy of course give it to them. Do they all have these little contracts on the back?? Or what idk, jw if it was real and worth goin to.
Comment from Richard
Time 11/07/2011 at 5:45 AM
Hi. I have tried 5 times in the last 3 days to submit an audition notice. Your site says within 24 hours. Can you answer my previous emails asking why my ad has not yet been posted?
Comment from free audition listings
Time 11/07/2011 at 5:55 AM
There is criteria that needs to be met for it to post. Your ad did not meet that criteria.
The criteria is as follows:
I do not post auditions that have high fees attached (those are basically ads and not a job offer)
I do not post any ads that require photos be sent other than the standard headshots
I do not normally post ads that require videos be posted publicly
I do not post anything I am uncomfortable with
Hope that helps
Comment from Amro
Time 11/07/2011 at 6:22 AM
Hi my name is Amro i want to act am not going to say am the best actor in the world but i can show you that am good and am Egyptian i live in AZ TEMPE am 17 and am brown hire 5.5 ft brown eyes and i have an nice accents and i talked to Steven Spielberg,Adam Sandler,Shia Labeouf managers and a lot more and they all side to me your good to goo i just need to start and it would be an honor to work with you.
Comment from wendy
Time 12/02/2011 at 2:13 PM
Hi, my daughter applied to fear factor on the official website and got a call back and an email. He said that hes looking at her to be on an episode. She doesnt live in LA so she would eventually skype with a producer. She needs to send pics in to set up a profile. If she gets picked and she goes on the show….she gets paid even if she doesnt win the big money. She needs to send in $300 to have a profile set up so she would have it if she wants to apply to other reality shows. She would get the $300 back when she goes on the show. Shes excited but i wanted to see if this is a scam.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 12/02/2011 at 11:21 PM
The official site would be part of the NBC network – official site http://www.nbc.com/fear-factor/
There is no charge to audition and they should not ask anyone to pay to create a profile. You did not apply to the official fear factor, seems like you applied to something that may have tricked you into thinking it was.
You will NEVER get the 300 back and the REAL Fear Factor casting directors will most likely never get her info to even cast her on the show because you have to submit all your info on their site. Casting Directors in California are NOT allowed to charge talent for auditions period.
here is the fear factor casting link http://www.fearfactorcasting.com/apply
Comment from neha devi singh
Time 12/23/2011 at 8:26 AM
hi,
ive been reading this forum and would seriously appreciate a quick response!
I am an actor based out of India. I think i may have been roped into some scam. A few days ago, some man named steve hodgson messaged me on whatsapp saying hes seen my profiles online and would i be interested in international projects? the profiles he mentioned do exist online and any determined individual can track down a number so i gave him the benefit of the doubt. after a brief chat and exchange of profile he put me onto a well known hollywood director, again on whatsapp. Out of sheer curiosity, i decided to communicate with this director, now, after various legitimate conversations, he has scheduled a screen test on skype.
the funny thing is, i dnt know if any well established director would communicate directly with an unknown artist (building rapport or not)
also, everytime i would try and dig deep they would stonewall or beat around the bush but when i try to politely apologise for wasting their time and walk away they came back with legitimate responses and made noises about how i simply fit the role and thats why they are taking all this trouble.
points to ponder:
- no trace of this steve hodgson online in any capacity as a casting agent
- the film in question is in the news but barely so
-why would a scam artist go to such lengths and then offer to come on skype?
- when i tried to ask for proof of identity and creds, the director threw a fit and claimed to be insulted. so i said ok sorry and bye bye
-he came back two hrs later saying something about not letting ego get in the way of work and set up the test again
- when i offered to fly in for a live audition , he said come at your own expense
- is it true that production teams would look at screen test scores based on various stages and then validate and call back and issue tickets for those needed to be flown in for live auditions?
- are most agents and directors borderline rude and almost using bullying tactics like going off in a huff iif you dnt respond in 5 mins
-i believe if its really a big budget film nd they r so so keen on me then they should wait or show some creds.
even as i write this i am beginning to feel silly. I dont know and am quite confused. please help
Comment from free audition listings
Time 12/24/2011 at 3:48 AM
None of what you said is common practice nor will casting directors use bully / hard sale tactics. Sounds like a sales pitch for either some kind of service or worse, a check cashing scam. Both are very common and scammers use online profiles to find victims. Sometimes these scams are so long lasting that they wait a long time before asking for money or asking someone to cash a bad check.
Comment from neha devi singh
Time 01/11/2012 at 12:42 AM
Hi!
Thanks so much for your response.
It means a lot to me. Also, for those who have been following. I thought i’d give fate a chance or for the sake of calling their bluff, and therefore got prepared for the audition and waited on skype, and waited some more. No one turned up. Now I could argue that something came up or my phone had decided to act at up at the same time so there was no final confirmation. But i had left messages on skype and text messages on the numbers so they i was there.
Im just relieved nothing wierd happened. Perhaps it was an opportunity missed though im more inclined to believe a disaster averted.
I just wanted anyone reading this and hopefull to please refer to the cardinal rule above all else…when your gut tells you somethings off…first run a mile in the opposite direction! then take 5 mins to rethink and re evaluate everything; and dont be afraid to ask for advice from anyone you think may help.
Its what i did. Guess it was a game of chicken and they blinked first.
Todays interconnected world offers many opportunities and equal measures of perils. please be careful
I am very thankful i found this site. thank you so much for your input and help.
still hopefull but ever cautious.
Comment from Chels
Time 01/24/2012 at 2:15 AM
PLEASE HELP! How do you get experience for modeling or acting? I have done runway and photo shoots before and love it! I’m just wondering how do I find jobs with little to even no pay of course lot’s of money would be great! Although experience is well worth it. As you said you need experience to get an agency for the bigger jobs. Right? I say this because I am willing to help a new magazine or someone starting out a clothing line because I know they don’t have the funds yet to pay for a know model. Also I love helping others with there dreams to! I’m getting to do what I love to do! I love the camera its the time I get to play a different person! If there’s anyone that could PLEASE take some time to help me with any advice or answers, It would truly mean the world to me! I know there are models/ actresses that have the same true passion for this field as I do! Thanks! “May all your dreams come true!”
Comment from Chels
Time 01/24/2012 at 3:07 AM
neha devi singh
Thank you for the inspiring words! I am very grateful to have found this site to!!! The fact that this site is taking the time to help others without a $fee$ is so rare these days!! This world is all about money!! People only care about themselves and fame. It’s really sad! It’s feels really good to be reminded that there are still good people out there!! Thank you again!!
Comment from amy
Time 01/29/2012 at 7:59 PM
hi there. i recently heard an add on the radio for a company called seattle talent owned by a man named hank ritter (we met him yesterday). they were looking for models, singers and actors, ages 2-24, first 100 callers only… that sort of thing. we made an appointment for my 10 year old son and attended the first audition/presentation. they claim to have discovered karan brar (diary of a whimpy kid), vlad ivanov(international model), josh duhmal(transformers), alexis sanches(grown ups) and many more. they came to carson city nv claiming that they generally do these things in reno, but they wanted to get some of the smaller surrounding areas. my son got a call back (from the owner himself) and they would like us to come back tonight. there didnt seem to be a lot of pressure. he said if things didnt work out we could try again in 6 months or a year. i believe what they are doing is selling classes. hank suggested a 5 week class for my son at the cost of $2900. i dont know if we’ll be asked to sign a contract or not. i have googled both the name of the company and the name of the owner. there doesnt seem to be anything bad about them on the internet, but there isnt much about them at all outside of there facebook page, blog spot and website. it appears that maybe the owner is/was affilliated with jrp. any information you have would be most helpful. thank you for your time.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 01/29/2012 at 10:27 PM
Its a bait and switch sales tactic. Yes, they are selling classes but they did not tell you that originally to get you in the door. The ad never said ‘acting classes being sold now’. The ads usually say ‘Looking for new talent for Disney, Nickelodeon and other brands’. These companies find people at malls, through ads, etc. they always claim to be talent scouts looking for people to cast for Disney etc. Once in their offices they try to sell you on classes, photo shoots, portfolios etc. These types of rackets go city to city renting conference rooms and temporary offices.
They can not find anyone work because they are NOT agents, they are sales people selling very expensive acting classes. The classes are normally taught by unqualified people and most people who have been taken by these claim that they wasted their money. If you want your son in a class, contact a real acting school. These classes are also worthless on a resume.
You can’t find anything out online, good or bad because they change locations and names often to fly under the radar.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 02/11/2012 at 3:24 AM
sent by a reader
DO NOT FALL FOR THE CASTING QUOTED BELOW AS IT IS A SCAM:
Male and Female Models Urgently Needed -
Casting notice posted on auditionsfree.com, casting location: UK
The Indulgent Show is looking for male and female models for an exciting fashion show in aid-of-make-a-wish- foundation
The fashion show is taking place Monday 29th February 2012, and models will be showcasing 15 amazing collections from designers.Models need to be free both day/evening -Transportation,food and drink will be provided and professional photographers will be at the event.
Work is fully paid for and is a great opportunity for those looking for modelling experience and to expand their portfolios.
Get back to me for more details if interested..
Gregory
Casting Location: UK
Contact email: gregory.dipippo@yahoo.com
IF YOU APPLY FOR THE ABOVE YOU WILL GET AN EMAIL BACK ABOUT A JOB FOR GQ MAGAZINE IN NEW YORK. DO NOT REPLY TO IT! IT IS FAKE
Comment from jennifer
Time 02/13/2012 at 5:16 AM
Is Hickory pictures a real agency? They came to my son’s school and he was “picked” to come for an audition. When I emailed they said all the spots were full and they would be back in this area in March.. The more I think about it the more skeptical I am. So I was just wondering. Thanks.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 02/13/2012 at 10:37 PM
Most scams will never tell you they are ‘full’ and to try back later. As long as no one asks you to shell out money, it may be OK.
Comment from Kenny
Time 02/14/2012 at 3:53 AM
Thank you whoever you are the creators of this page. Any time I notice someone spreading truth and common sense, make sure to say Thanks. So…Thanks!!!
Comment from Kenny
Time 02/14/2012 at 3:57 AM
Just wonder where you are as your time stamp says “3:53AM” yet, here on the East Coast of the US it is now 10:57PM…
Comment from free audition listings
Time 02/14/2012 at 9:48 AM
Funny, the web servers time stamp is way off. Always has been. The time is stamped as the computer is setup and this one has always been a day off. Never felt the need to fix it. This is the west coast, time is just wrong. Maybe you are right and I should finally set it.
Comment from free audition listings
Time 02/14/2012 at 1:53 AM
fixed the time, I hope!
Comment from Jim
Time 02/17/2012 at 2:13 PM
How do you know gregory.dipippo@yahoo.com is a scam? I received from him and the reply is exactly what u said. A photo-shooting in NY. Could you offer more information, pliz?
Comment from casting
Time 02/17/2012 at 2:42 PM
Another user complained about the casting call and posted the comment about it being fake. Guess you had the same experience.
Comment from Samantha
Time 02/19/2012 at 1:48 PM
is I Am fake or is it a real company? They had a casting call on the radio, they say that they give my son 5 rehearsals and help him get ready for auditions. They said in 5 weeks there is an international audition they want to get him ready for. Can you please help? The cheapest package they offer is 2000.00,
Comment from casting
Time 02/19/2012 at 5:30 PM
sounds like they are selling you lessons. There is no such thing as an international audition for unknown kids. Agents do not do radio commercials. 5 lessons for 2k sounds very expensive, real acting classes are cheaper and you will get more.
Comment from dh
Time 02/21/2012 at 11:09 PM
Hello,
Have a free profile on model muse where you can reply to post from casting calls. I received an email from Top castings USA, office number and a new talent division. They told me that the ad i originally sent my pictures for was booked and that they were considering me for another ad. I called the number and spoke to a very professional talent director- she gave me advise and said that they are a casting company not an agency. Also, I have to activate this link for 19.95 per month no contract and it will give me daily alerts on casting. The only thing is she sounds legit but the emails she sent me didnt but I don’t know – what should I do?
Comment from Tara
Time 02/22/2012 at 1:16 AM
dh
I just looked at it…. here is the first casting I saw:
National Toyota Commercial
We are looking for attractive people that can express themselves though subtle facial expressions,
people who seem real. They must be comfortable in themselves, exude confidence and charm.
Ages 17 -40ish all ethnicities and sizes Non Union
Just leave a comment and with the word “Toyota” and upload your best headshot to the comment section
Shoot takes place in North Carolina March 9th, 10th all expenses paid.
______
First of all, National commercials for large brands use agents, they have the budget. They DO NOT troll through 100?s of comments on random sites. Really, who has the time?
Then I looked at the next one for Axe body spray, again, really, think they have a shortage of hot pros so they are looking at comments. The ad was posted by Angela Scafidi Casting. The only place that Angela Scafidi Casting appears is on their site… so this ‘real’ casting director has no Facebook, twitter, business website? All Angela has is her profile there? How did she get the Axe gig without a business?
When in doubt, Google it!
When you Google Model Muse see what you get.
make your own judgement.
Many sites like that are ‘lead generators’ meaning they just want your info because they will have their sales people call you with other services or they are trying to sell online portfolios that no one will ever see because casting directors do not randomly browse online profiles. If they did, they could find millions (500 million+) ‘real’ people on Facebook.
Also, their site description says ‘Models & Photographers sharing what they know with who they know’ which seems like they are trying to get a Model Mayhem type community going – What the site description does not say is anything about booking jobs for anyone.
Another really bad sign is that the domain is registered anonymously and is hiding the owner information. It was created a few months back in October of 2011 and is set to expire in October of 2012. It is hosted by a free service called Ning.com – Not a long term business plan.
Comment from Davina
Time 02/29/2012 at 3:23 PM
This Gregory Dippipo is defo a FAKE! I was told i would be receiving payment for the supposed photoshoot for GQ Mag is New york and it arrived to my home address alright just that its an illegit cheque. Im finding this quite entertaining and wondering how far this guy is gonna go. The only personal info ive given out is my home address could this potentially be risky?
Comment from Jim
Time 03/01/2012 at 7:23 AM
Hi Davina
What happened to you excatly happened to me as well. I received a check title 1895 pound from Gregory Dippipo. I haven’t proved its reality so far. But what r u going to do with this? Can we be in touch? liuchuyhing@gmail.com
Comment from casting
Time 03/01/2012 at 2:58 PM
Do not cash the check. It is a scam. The check is fake, just rip it up.
Comment from Davina
Time 03/02/2012 at 6:03 AM
Hi Casting time/ Jim, dont worry i have no plans to cash this cheque, what this Gregory guy doesnt know is i work for the Ministry of Justice and will be investigating this further, hopefully trace this person. My fear is there will be somebody out there who may be gullible enough to fall for this scam. Jim i’ll email you separately if thats ok. Thanks
Comment from jazlyn
Time 03/02/2012 at 1:36 PM
hi, ive been lookin for a way to make a free profile have any suggestions?
Comment from Denee
Time 03/20/2012 at 8:35 PM
As a challage I posted a ad on a site with some pics that were taken of me. A week later, I was contacted by a guy Bryan in NJ ( I live in New Olreans). He told me he would fly me to NJ for a shoot. I would need to bring a few different style clothing(business, club, casual, bathing suit), do my own makeup and hair (none of these a problem). He stated the pics would be posted to a website for “clients” to look at for different looks. What is the catch here?
Comment from casting
Time 03/21/2012 at 10:32 PM
Guess you have to wait and see if there is one. If he asks you for money before flying you out, guess you’ll know.
Comment from Shawn
Time 03/25/2012 at 8:55 AM
My casting question is very embarrassing. Is there any way I can email you?
Comment from tee
Time 04/05/2012 at 12:50 AM
Audition America Tour? Has anyone heard or have any experience with this company? They are holding auditions at the mall. My son age 2 made it to the second round. This first audition was free however after they told us he passed they wanted to schedule a round 2 audition in which he would take photos, show talent, and walk the runway. They asked for $297 for his photo session, that they would release the copyright on a disk they would be given to me. They would also put together a portfolio for him that I would receive and they will give me access to their website to view the photos. They also will market him to agencies to find work for him. Now I have went to agencies before for myself and they all want money for photos or comp cards, I want to know if this is a scam or waste of my time? I’ve already paid $150 but I look at it as a photo session no different from olan mills, Walmart etc where I paid way more for photos. .as long as I get the photos I won’t be as mad as if I leave empty handed. Please help with your thoughts….
Comment from casting
Time 04/05/2012 at 2:37 PM
They seem to be a pay to play event company. Their site says they go to malls, city to city and put on small shows and what not. Did you ever ask what are you auditioning for? Is it for the opportunity to PAY THEM? You do not need an audition to get a portfolio made, you simply call a photographer. Fake auditions are a salesman’s way of making people feel “chosen” and “special”. A photo shoot and portfolio for a 2 year old is USELESS!!!!!! toddlers do not need pro photos, before the pics are even developed your kid will grow and change. No agent asks for professional headshots from babies. For babies, toddlers and small children a snapshot is optimal because it is CURRENT. Anyone who tries to convince you a baby needs a professional portfolio is a liar!!!!!!
Comment from R H
Time 04/11/2012 at 2:12 PM
Las Vegas Casting Call Entertainment ripped me off. its a scam and stole my money.
crappy work beyond belief done by kids who dont know anything.
what a joke. I am out 800 bucks total and I got reemed. I looked into them later and they are a scam. I should have done my homework.
Comment from Anastasia
Time 04/14/2012 at 1:54 PM
I have been told I’m cast in a film but the whole thing seems fishy. I can’t find any information online other than the casting notice and I’m trying to figure out where to look. Any suggestions? I’m in touch with a lot of the other cast members and we’re all pretty frustrated. I can give you more information via email if you need it.
Comment from nayla
Time 04/15/2012 at 8:18 AM
Hi , i was told to come back to one source talent for another evaluation and they said there is a fee of 400 for the photos their going to take, they seem so real i really want to go but i also dont want to lose money or be scamed.what should i do?
Comment from nayla
Time 04/15/2012 at 8:26 AM
I also want to find out where i can find a real agency were i dont have a fee to pay, i also wanted to know if you always have to pay for the photographers to take your pictures and make a portfolio.
Comment from casting
Time 04/15/2012 at 10:31 AM
You can get a list of agents from the unions or you can check the agents list on this site. Yes, you always have to pay for photos, but you do not pay the agent. An agent should only recommend a photographer and not force you to use theirs. There are many fake agencies that are basically a photo mill.
Comment from casting
Time 04/15/2012 at 10:35 AM
It is not legal for a licensed agent to charge for photos in California, Florida and many states. Make sure they are licensed and read the reviews. Tell them you will find your own photographer.
Comment from casting
Time 04/15/2012 at 10:39 AM
Getting cast as anything other than an extra is a long process of auditions and call backs. If you never auditioned in person, then yeah, may be fishy. If it is as an extra, they will tell you when to be on set when they need you. Just don’t pay anyone any money.
Comment from Cindy
Time 04/15/2012 at 11:55 PM
Do you know anything about About Faces in Atlanta Ga?!
Comment from Noel
Time 04/17/2012 at 11:40 PM
I found About Faces in Atlanta. There are some negative reports about them. The reports claim they are a modeling school and charge money for classes they offer, photos, etc. You can Google them for more info. Remember, an agency will sign you without you needing to take THEIR classes. Agencies asking you to pay high fees in order to be accepted are most likely scams. Agents make their money from commissions when talent is booked, not from upfront fees paid by the talent. Anyone busy pushing their own services has no time to push you, the talent.
Comment from jas
Time 04/21/2012 at 10:41 PM
hello have you heard of Modern Talent Group? they told me all i had to pay for was my photo shoot which turns out to be like 840 and after that they would satrt booking auditions for me. Is this a scam?
Comment from casting
Time 04/23/2012 at 3:41 PM
An agents income should come from booking jobs, not photo shoots
Comment from Julia
Time 04/23/2012 at 4:27 PM
Found this about Modern Talent Group online http://www.yelp.com/biz/modern-talent-group-los-angeles
Comment from clueless
Time 05/02/2012 at 9:47 AM
has anyone heard about audition america? are they real or fake?
Comment from Ellen
Time 05/02/2012 at 2:23 PM
People do not travel mall to mall, renting space, for free. There will be some payment required and they already seem fishy because the website does not disclose it.
I randomly Google’d some of their success stories. One of the girls modeled 12 years ago and has not done anything else in 9 years. Audition America Tour has only been around since 2011. 3 other girls on their site, I can’t even find other than on their testimonial page, and, they share the same success stories with another new ‘fishy’ site, model pipeline which seems to try to sell portfolios. Not sure what you mean by real or fake? If you want to know if they are an agency? They are not and only an agent can find you work.
j also found this about them http://audition-america.pissedconsumer.com/audition-america-20120414312123.html
Comment from Sandy
Time 05/05/2012 at 5:42 PM
I attended a casting call for my daughter today from Casting hub .com
Have you heard of them? We are suppose to go back or a 2nd audition this week but I don’t want to waste my time with a fake audition.
Comment from casting
Time 05/06/2012 at 5:14 AM
their TOS says “CastingHub.com (“CastingHub”) “a social casting search”™ is not an employment agency, school, performing arts academy, management company or a talent agency. CastingHub does not engage in training, procuring, offering, promising, or attempting to procure employment or engagements for artists.” bottom of page. They say they DO NOT procure employment so not sure what an audition would be for.
They basically say they give you info about upcoming auditions, same thing this site does. They may charge a fee. Some services charge for the info. They say “thousands of castings” but only seen to have about 70 at the moment
But no, have never heard of them.
I have heard of IMTA, their affiliate (bottom of home page) you can read about them http://www.crimes-of-persuasion.com/modeling/imta.html and http://bbs.backstage.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/9611031/m/458105332 and http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090608131903AA3wi8o
Comment from George
Time 05/07/2012 at 3:21 AM
Sandy, don’t waste your time. My wife and daughter attended the 2nd session . They wanted the min $2k for a 3 month deal. The only thing they offer are classes and they mentioned they will provide information on auditions. Casting hub does not even want to give you their phone number so you can call back. They did not even want to provide their BBB number.
Comment from Anya columbia mo
Time 05/07/2012 at 8:28 AM
I also want to find out where i can find a real agency were i dont have a fee to pay, i also wanted to know if you always have to pay for the photographers to take your pictures and make a portfolio of makeup columbia mo.
Comment from casting
Time 05/07/2012 at 6:56 PM
There are a few agency lists on this site, also check with the unions. Yes, you would normally pay for the photos, but you should pick the photographer. I real agency may give you a list of photographers they like but they will not charge you for photos. Only the photographer should charge you.
Comment from Bruce Gilbert
Time 05/11/2012 at 5:51 PM
Greetings! Up popped advertising for something called seattle Models/Seattle Talent. They seemed ‘different’ from my previous disappointments in that they claimed–on the ads– that modeling (as opposed to TV ‘star’ opportunity) was their main thing and that they could show you off to ‘national talent scouts’ who might sign you up.
Is this on the level in ANY capacity? I did check consumer gripes pages and already there were two studious warnings. Many thanks for you Xcellent watchdog post.
Comment from Bruce Gilbert
Time 05/11/2012 at 5:53 PM
Greetings –I may not have gotten through; just wanted to thank you AND ask about Seattle Models/Seattle talent, which claims it can link you up with national ‘talent’-modeling scouts.
Comment from casting
Time 05/12/2012 at 1:07 AM
not sure who they are
Comment from casting
Time 05/12/2012 at 1:18 AM
I don’t control the ads. They are served by a third party, same as most other sites. Yes there are conventions that get together lots of hopeful models and have agents attend to see if they like any of the models. Problem is that those places charge large fees for the opportunity regardless of whether they believe you are suited or not and unfortunately, most are not and pay for nothing. There is a small percent that do seem to get signed at these types of things but those are usually people who would have been signed by an agent anyway. read this http://www.modelingscams.org/modelingconventions.html
Comment from Barbara
Time 05/16/2012 at 6:05 PM
Wow. I’m glad I found your site! I’ve modeled before, but have been out of it for about 6 yrs. I’ve dont commercials, tv, print ads, and runway. I was with 4 different agencies throughout Ohio, and never paid a fee or took classes. Only paid for comp cards. Today I sought out an agency in Akron. I realized I made a mistake. I took photos of me currently, and one from a few years back, that was a professional one. I left them there thinking that it would be ok. I gave them my address in our initial talk. I took along DVDs of my commercials and runway experience, but she didn’t want to watch them today – the talent scout. She wants me to come back in a few days for the “open call” that’s going to last 1 1/2 hrs – complete with application, talk and interview???? Did research tonight, and sadly, they charge for classes – upwards of thousands.
My regret is that I gave them my photos, address and phone number.
To others, beware of scammers and do your homework!
Thanks for the much needed site!
Comment from Angie
Time 05/17/2012 at 12:57 PM
Hello, My husband heard a radio add for actors to audition for Seattle Talent, and my husband immediately thought of our 12 year old son who was really excited about acting as he had just finished a play in our community. So this past Saturday I take my son to what we thought was an audition. Upon arrival we filled out paperwork, got a number and waited for the auditions to start. Once it was time to start, we were all seated in a rented space at the Marriott Hotel. The music was on pretty loud, trying to get everyone pumped up! They had a screen slide show showing modeling pictures.
There were 2 women and Hank Ritter who was introduced as the CEO of Seattle Talent. Then there was a big hype about famous people who they claim to have found, and said that they were going to find more people who will be on tv and modeling. They said it was going to take a little work, that they were there to find 10 people to take it to the next level and really go after their dreams.
So I looked around at a room filled with parents and kids all who seemed to be getting pumped up. One of the women there with Seattle Talent catches my attention as I happen to see her glancing at my son, she is smiling and she mouths the words to me “he is so cute!” Then Hank asked for volunteers to come up and sing, just a few kids got up there and sang a little bit. Hank and the other 2 women acted impressed with the kids. Then we were told to line up 1-10, Hank and the other 2 women each had a table where they were doing their “auditions” which were so FAKE! The reason I say fake is because as each person was called up the music was totally blasting in the background, it was hard to hear, hard to concentrate, and yet the people from Seattle Talent were suppose to be listening! So we finally get called up and we speak to Hank directly. He asks my son, “Why are you here? and What can I do for you?” My son tells him who he is and some experiences he has had with media. Hank acts impressed. Hank makes comments on how cool it is! Hank seems to be interested and acts like my son has GREAT potential! (Now I will say this right here…this is a set up for a bad situation. You have a young kid who has dreams that wants to take on something new, and you have a mom –who is older and you would think wiser, but still unsure if this is really the way to go about it—but still she loves her child and she of course wants the best for her child!! So if mom goes against the salesman then it is almost as if she is not supportive of her would be, possible actor, or model.) The audition ends with a “What number can I reach you at tonight?” “I have some ideas.”
Later that evening we get a call, so we think ok even though we had other plans because it was Mother’s Day, I thought well it can’t really hurt going and talking to them, could it?
So remember now supposedly only 10 are getting called back “to take it to the next level” we arrive to find 2 sign in papers with way more than 10 names on it!!
We should have left and gone home right then!
My husband and son have a seat, and we see other parents and children waiting as well. I ended up taking a phone call from my other son and ended up visiting on the phone for an hour, while I kept looking over at my husband and son who were waiting so patiently. We finally get called in by one of the women employed by Seattle Talent, again the music was on, and the woman actually turned it up louder before we sat down to talk about “the opportunity to take it to the next level” which was merely a sales plot to sell their acting classes, a photo shoot, and a supposed audition for an agent. The woman of course, played it up BIG talking to my son, and of course acting like she believes it is worth signing up for the classes, how absolutely adorable my son is and how marketable he is, how he would do so well in commercials or TV. (Again another situation that is a complete set up! What mom doesn’t like to hear positive comments about her kids! But the real question is what mom would go against someone who is claiming to be in the know about talent and saying no to the classes, on Mother’s Day of all days!! Especially when it is one of your child’s dreams.)
It is a lot of pressure. We of course wanted to support our son. So we went back and forth about funding for it. We left and we were going to send her the payment by 8pm by texting. Which I feel like a fool to say that we did!
Then the very next morning my husband feels not so good about it.
I check the contract and it is suppose to have a $500 nonrefundable fee.
I freaked out! I checked online and found out more about this being a fraud.
We didn’t know what to do. My husband ended up calling Hank directly.
Hank knew about our financial situation, and some other circumstances.
Hank offered a cheaper price. We declined. Hank was fair and totally refunded the money. Which was really a miracle cause he did not have to refund the $500 non-refundable registration fee. So thank you once again for the refund Hank! But I am so glad that we did not get sunk on the deal on paying a ton of money for nothing! Buyer beware!!
T
Comment from Emily
Time 04/28/2010 at 4:12 PM
I can’t beleive it! im only ten and ive just been scammed -crys-