Here’s the BLUF (Bottom Line Up Front): DO NOT Pay upfront to be “accepted” into an “agency” or for representation.
This acting scam is so old I can’t believe the lines for it remain so long. The dream of acting stardom can be so intoxicating that it literally makes you a gullible target for scamsters
Here’s the line (usually in the form of an ad):
“Want to be a star??!! Come audition for the XYZ Talent and Model Agency! SATURDAY ONLY!!” Of course, your dream is so big that you think “There’s my chance!!” You go and “audition,” the “judges” hem and haw and tell you that although you are a little rough around the edges, “You’ve got the raw talent we are looking for!” You are thrilled! You’ve seen some of their “famous actor success stories” and now they’ve picked YOU!
And then comes the rub: In order to be “represented,” you need THE PACKAGE. The “agents” then proceed to sell you some concoction of headshot sessions, acting lessons, ‘guaranteed’ time in front of casting directors (usually in paper form), and “representation” by their firm.
The cost? It’s usually $2,500 or more. One supposed “non-profit” even charges $4995!! The bottom line, unfortunately, is that these people are not out to find talent and represent you in the industry. They are out to find gullible would-be actors (and parents) and bilk them for thousands. Many times, the actors don’t realize they’ve been taken until weeks later: no real auditions show up and certainly, no offers to star in anything ever appear (which honestly was never really promised in the first place). All they are left with is mediocre photos, shotgun acting lessons, and a lot of wasted time and energy.
In a rush?
Order our Acting Reference Guide. Easy to read. Bullet points. Resources. Companies to avoid. Download and access at any time.
Did the “agents” do everything they said they would do?
Theoretically, yes, which is why this scam is not illegal. They took your photos, sent them to casting directors (whose assistants likely promptly threw them out or deleted the email), and provided “acting lessons.” What they didn’t do is actually get you into THE industry – they got you into THEIR industry. These people give real talent agents a very bad rap. The scams come in all forms – as “talent agents,” “casting agencies,” or simply “Model and Talent” companies. Many even pay real talent agents big bucks to come to posh resorts to watch “showcases” of their talent. Some even think these showcases make them an “honest” business. Now, some might be reading this saying “There is nothing wrong with a company that makes money helping people get their start in the industry, provide them with good tools, and even put them in front of real agents and casting directors.” And that is true – to a point. The problem is, there is really no reason for it when you can do it all yourself and for a lot less than they will take from you! The main difference is they try to do it all in less than a month and drain you of thousands in the process. Point is, you can’t rush this and try to be an instant star. It just doesn’t work that way. And if you try to rush it, just know you are a likely candidate to be ripped off.
3 tips to avoid the ripoffs:
- REAL agents don’t use TV, print ads, highway billboards, or shopping mall “auditions” to attract talent. Don’t respond to ads touting an audition for an agency, period. Some reputable agents in Atlanta area Click Models/J Pervis Talent, People Store, Houghton Talent, AMT, Jana VanDyke Agency and several others. Some do have (and post) their open call times on their websites, blogs, or Facebook pages. They also give specific instructions on their websites on how to submit yourself (at any time) to be considered for representation. And guess what, none of those instructions include a payment plan!
- REAL agents NEVER ask for money up front to represent you. Agents get paid only if you complete a paid acting job they helped find for you. If an agent auditions you and wants to represent you, they will coach you on what you may need and who to go to (better headshots/portfolio, casting websites to join, reputable independent photographers, acting schools,etc.). And the total starting cost for these things is almost always less than $1000.
- Take. Your. Time. You can’t be an instant gourmet chef, a professional photographer, painter, or any other kind of artist. Professional acting is no different. Get good advice from real people in the industry. A great place to start is a reputable acting school that trains working actors like The Company Acting Studio.
Remember the old cliche’, “If it’s too good to be true [like becoming an instant star in one month], it probably is.” Now that you’ve avoided the rip-offs, what now? Here’s my advice on Getting Started.
UPDATE (2017)
We’ve been receiving a lot of emails and comments about the legitimacy of specific companies. Unfortunately, we cannot validate every company in the US. We highly recommend you go to the SAG/AFTRA website and search for the company in question. Research is the key!
Due to the overwhelming response to this post and the hundreds of comments we’ve received, we have placed all the information in an easy-to-read, downloadable Acting Reference Guide.
This guide includes:
Dear Larry,
Hello Larry, thank you for all the tips. Last night I took my daughter to a casting that was said to be for Disney Shake it Up but was in reality some people called The Event. I noticed they are wanting us to pay from $1950.00 to $7900.00 for a weekend is to be sure to get call backs and celebrity entertainment. I have been puzzled all day on if these people are the real deal or not. Please Please Help! Help me, my first mind is saying “run these people just want your money” I need some real advice so that I wont waste any more time.
Thank you,
Heather
Hi Heather. Thanks for your question. If it were me, I would walk away – fast. Here is an article about this company I found on a local news website: http://pittsburgh.cbslocal.com/2011/05/19/disney-reacts-to-kdka-investigation-on-talent-scouting-event/
Remember, real talent agents do not advertise themselves on mass media (e.g. radio, TV, etc.). And, more importantly, they do not ask for any money up front in order to represent you (or your child). As you’ll notice in the article above, “The Event” organizers apparently told the reporters that they “don’t promise anyone anything” and that they “have no affiliation with Disney.” They also said they “are not an agency, casting company or management firm.” Point being, they can’t do much for you except take your money. Stick with the tips in my article and steer clear of these organizations.
Hope that helps.
-Larry
I had an audition yesterday they came to el paso Texas they said I had to take classes and they want me to go to L.A or New York but today if I get chosen . The name of the program is LA Talent Show Case . I want to know it that company is real or not! Add me on kik my username is idntcareashly
Ashly, like a shady traveling salesman, I would not give them a dime and stay away! What you describe has scam written all over it.
Have you ever heard of bravo talent management ?
Have you ever heard of Lord’s Talent Management? I was contacted by them through backstage.com and went through the audition process and got in. They want me to pay for head shots, a cast set up, and one other thing–all which comes to be less than a hundred dollars but still a considerable amount of money. I need to know.
I’m not familiar with them. As a new talent, you do need headshots and casting website profiles created. But you should be instructed to get that done on your own (with maybe some recommended photographers by the agency), not pay the agency for that. I’d be wary.
My son has been “training” with 321 Shine in Louisville, Ky. We paid several thousand for one month. He now has been “invited” to LA to iPop! In July. But we now have to pay almost $7k. Is this on the up and up?
Unfortunately, we have had several people complain about this company. Training does not cost thousands of dollars per month, neither does auditioning for an agent. Please trust your gut if it does not feel right and save your money.
Lisa
Larry’s assistant
First off Larry you are correct, Agents you do not pay. However marketing company’s do require it. Nothing is free. Plus conventions that have over 100 different legitimate agencies, managers and casting directors are looking for new talent. Does anyone think the hotel it is happening at and the staff and the security and the people helping the performers know what to expect to do while they are there doesn’t cost a thing? If anyone thinks it doesn’t cost money ! Then you go to L.A. N.Y Miami and across the globe to get auditions in front of these amazing people. See how much you spend on flights, hotels, food and transportation and hope you get an audition with these people. I took my son to one of these events and they were on the up and up. Most people complain because they can not afford it. I understand these are not for everyone. That doesn’t make them a scam or not worth it. You get what you pay for.
We completely agree, there is a cost to everything, including acting.
So I signed up for John Casablancas Houston tx but now they want me to pay 2,200 to get acting classes then get an agent. Is it worth it?
No. Acting classes do not cost that much.
Hello Larry- do you happen to know any legit agencies in the Dallas TX area? We were almost victim to the modelandtalent.tv scam but caught it just in time (they are actually CastHub) anyways my son got all hyped ho to act and model so I wanr to go about it the proper way but don’t want to risk being scammed again :/
Sadie,
Glad you were able to avoid the ripoff. Follow my video tutorial here to find resources in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hello Josh!
Have you heard of LA Talent Search?
Yes. I’ve not heard a single positive thing about them. From what I’ve seen and heard, they are like many other talent ripoffs out there. I would avoid them.
Hi Larry,
Thank you so much for what you’re doing here! I was wondering if you know any legite agencies here near Stamford ,CT.
Go to the SAG-AFTRA website and search for agents in NY – that’s the closest market. Obviously, in NY there are many, many legit agents. The ones listed there here legit. https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
But if you are new to acting and just getting started professionally, read my Seven Steps blog post. Since you’re near a major market, it will take a lot of experience to get an offer of representation there. These seven steps will show you how to get started in the industry properly without getting ripped off. https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Larry
I have a thirteen year old daughter with Lords Talent Management. She is a SAG credited actress and is walking runway at Gaylord Resort in Nasheville. Although it does cost start up, it’s no more then what you need to get started in the right directions. My daughter has been with Toni since she was 8 and the promises did come true. It just is a lot of follow up on the child and the parents :-). I hope this helped.
Hello Larry
Have you heard of manikin modleing agency out of Jacksonville Florida? Are they a legit company?
Thank you
Teya,
Unfortunately, we are not familiar with every agency in the US, especially the modeling industries. Many of the modeling companies we do know about are connected with an affiliated SAG/AFTRA agency. Research them and if they ask you for money in order to represent you, walk away.
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hi I’m Josh I went to audition at this on call agency in Boston, MA, it wasn’t for an immediate part or anything, but the people I talked to didn’t want any money for camera time or agents, at least not yet, I’m really new to this and I’m 20 so I’m on my own and clueless in this work field. Anyway they did want money for acting classes $600 in payments originally $1200 for 8 wks every Saturday from 12-2, does that seem right, because everything went like this they called me and had me come in on a Saturday to audition, they are open 6 days a week. Naturally I’m both nervous and excited but I haven’t paid any money yet and they’ve only asked for money for classes which it was my idea to take these classes. Please get back to me when u can I just wanna make sure I’m not getting scammed. Thank you
Hi Larry sorry for being vague. Ya I know about the money 100%. I’m putting my son for baby modeling. And I read a post about future faces nyc with Nina L. But I’m in the Cleveland area do u no any agencies their. Thank u really appreciate your fast responses!
Summer,
I do and I’d love to work with you and your son to get started right. I am now doing individual coaching due to the frequent requests I’ve been getting for it. You can schedule a discovery session with me in the link at the top of the page. -Larry
Hey Larry I’m extremely new to this and would like to kno if this nine9 company is legit I have already had photos taken and they stated i would have to pay 500 and keep my profilie up it would be 40 a month I haven’t paid anything but I’m wondering if you had any advice for me so j can get started pursuing my dream and not wasting time
Terrence,
Nine9 is the same as 321 Shine (they’ve renamed themselves – which happens all the time for these ripoff companies). Consider getting on Actors Access and start self-submitting to projects in your area. If you want help on setting up a profile for that site, I made a course for that. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/125373
Avoid the “agencies” that charge a monthly fee.
Hope that helps.
Larry
I have been scammed by barbizon and am losing hope. Any real agencies you suggest?
There are lots of real agencies out there. Sorry to hear about your experience with Barbizon. Try searching the SAG-AFTRA website for a legit agent near you: https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
Hope that helps.
-Larry
You are spreading false rumors about companies just so you can sell your information and your own classes. You are a bottom feeder. You literally tell people not to pay for things then sell them the exact same things! It’s funny really. It will become know very quickly that you are the real scam artist.
This is just funny. Yes, selling false hopes of “fame” by those other companies for thousands is exactly like the classes I sell (which clearly state what they provide and at prices under $30). I don’t tell people “not to pay for things.” I tell them not to pay for companies that promise fame and put themselves out there as talent agencies. I very clearly tell people that any career (including acting) does take some investment in yourself – but in legitimate classes from reputable, established acting schools and headshots with professional photographers (not talent companies who hire their own and mark up the prices). And let me guess, your anonymous post is so we can’t see that you are in fact someone from one of those “talent companies”?
Hi Larry
Do you know anything about david mogull and the mogull talent discovery center? He has open calls and chooses certain people who then have to pay $3500 for a weekend showcase where they meet top agents in NYC. The concept seems like a good one, i.e. bringing talent together with agents. But the price seems quite high. It does include headshots. He was the head of model search America years ago. Is this legit? Should I do it or walk away?
Emma,
The price is outrageous and you should walk away, in my opinion. Sounds like it’s the typical ripoff company I warn about.
Larry
Sir, do you have any feedback on Evolution Talent Agency (Charlotte NC). Director does not ask for money, but does have a suggested schedule for training through a preferred school. It appears he is the director for the school. Should I be wary?
Jason,
It’s okay for agencies to make suggestions, but ultimately you have the choice of where to get training. If they are requiring you to use their school in order to be represented, then that is where I question their integrity.
Hope that helps!
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hello Larry.. All this is very helpful. I have a question. Is La Talents the same as NYLA talents? Because they just held an audition for modeling,acting,singing and dancing an stated that certain people would be selected. Also had me and my husband select a package and we already paid 600.00 out of an 2442.00 total. This has me in tears because my 8year old is looking forward to it. We were told to come to Richmond Va for rehearsals and performances with his resume and headshots. How does this sound to you??
Unfortunately, we cannot vet all US companies. You can find information in ourActing Reference Guide. However, it seems you already know the answer to your question. If you are in doubt, you are probably right.
HI Larry I’m a dad of a 10 year old daughter.There is a program here in Los Angeles Glendale.called actors giving back .my daughter had to auditionalready.can u please let me nkow is your familiar with these program.they want us to pay l from 79 to 96 $ /hour for acting class please reply daughter has to go back tommorow and she’s so excited thank you
That is a known and reputable acting school in LA. But because it is run by Disney star David Deluise, they do charge more than other acting schools. If you’re ok with paying that price, that’s fine. The training she gets there should be pretty good. Just know that becoming an actor doesn’t happen over night. So be patient. Hope that helps!
-Larry
Hi Larry ,
I have an audition for glitter talent agency next week they said that if I get picked and signed up I will have to pay $100 for a year. However, I have read bad reviews on them saying that people have paid 100 dollars and haven’t gotten any jobs booked.
According to the SAG/AFTRA site, there is this company:
Glitter Talent Agency
Full Service (All Ages)
400 60TH STREET WEST NEW YORK, NJ 07093
2017587272
If this is them, they are legit. Not sure what the $100 is for, but ask them. Remember, booking jobs depends on talent, not paying an agent. Agents only get paid when you book.
Hope that helps.
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Thanks for the information.I took .my daughter to a casting with next star.Its sad that will lie to the kids.I’m surprise disney don’t get mad.Well I thank u for the advise
Hello I met a guy through my photographer who work in New York the place is called MMG talent is it the real deal or a scam?
Thanks
Alex,
Download my ripoff guide and decide for yourself. The red flags of the ripoff companies (and people) are pretty universal. Unfortunately, I don’t have time to research each individual company that people mention. That’s why I created the guide.
Larry
Hey I signed up for the show survivor about a month ago and recieveed a voicemail and a email today ! So I called back had a phone interview and then they asked me to send them 7 photos of myself via email they said they would call me between 10-1 tomorrow to let me know if they 100% want to follow through with me. The company is called realitytalent.net when they sent me the email it says something about paying 295$ if they follow through with me? Does that seem legit I’m not aure
Brianna,
What you signed up for is not the actual show. They do not charge their potential contestants to be considered. It’s a company that acts like they are a talent agency for reality shows. I’d walk away. You can submit to the show yourself by following the instructions on the network’s website.
Larry
Hi Larry,
I was just wondering about The Celebrity Experience? I am thinking about it but I need a second opinion.
Lana,
Unfortunately, we are not familiar with every agency in the US. If they are asking for money, please do not fall for it. Look at the SAGAFTRA.org website and search for an agency in your area.
Hi Larry,
My husband and I took our daughter to a “LA Talent Search” casting call here in Salt Lake City, and I was skeptical and still skeptical about them. What didn’t make since to me was how they only introduced themselves with their first names and no last names. there was a presentation in the beginning and then a women named Emma, was a guest and supposedly a agent from LA looking for talent. When it was our turn to see her, first thing she asked was will we be able to pay first thing tomorrow if she decided to choose our daughter to work with. And their were levels of different categories ranging from $1295-$7900. We said sure, we will see how this goes. So then my daughter went and stood in line to be recorded with a script we had her memorize. They called us yesterday and told us a time and emailed the confirmation with the scripts attached to it. During the presentation they named of a few actors that they put through who are not known. Like The actress who played “Lava Girl” in the kids movie, “Shark Boy and Lava Girl.” We took our daughter for experience and an opportunity for her. Please let me know if this was a joke and to fully walk away. Thank you!
Poppy, I think by the price tag, you already know the answer. These places are what I warn against. They aren’t illegal, but they are a ripoff in my opinion – a giant ripoff. Instead, take a look at prices at a known acting school in SLC like http://www.suerowestudios.com and you’ll see why LA Talent Search’s prices are astronomical. By the way, I have no affiliation with Sue Rowe Studios, it’s just an established acting school in SLC with a good reputation.
Hope that helps.
-Larry
Is Preview Models a scam?
Got seen at mall
made it through the 1st audition
only 50/500 made it through the auditions
then out of that 50 the only way they would follow through with you is if you paid the $ upfront that same exact day
$1800 total or we had to make monthly payments of $600
for tuition & fashion show in LA California
Yikes! That is quite the pressure to put on someone to pay same day. If someone is making you make a decision on the spot, always say no. My tip: find local talent agencies that represent actors, call them up and ask if they represent models as well. If they do, ask how to submit yourself to be represented.
Hi Larry! Same thing happened to us , we went to audition from a lady name Emma and paid her $8,595 😢, then realized that all they said were a lair, they said their acting school been around since 1977 and so many famous actors are actually from their school but when we checked their fb and youtube we realized that their account is created in May! We called the very next day to cancel and have not been any classes yet ( everything was so rushed) Emma said there is $4000 non refundable because I signed for 2 kids (each kid signed up for training in Colorado and LA so total is 2 contracts /kids . Which is They will keep $4000 ! That is such a ripped off ! We are so stressed and trying to get our money back in full. Btw, my daughter is only 3 but Emma said she would be great thats she wanted us to sign up for our daughter eventho the audition for 4-18yr . Do you think I can get my money back in full or can you please tell me know to ? I got no help! That is alot of money to our family!😢. Please help! Thanks Larry!
Larry
Have you Heard of Us Talent Sources based in California? Chvecking to see if they are legit or scam
Chris,
I haven’t but that doesn’t mean they’re legit or not. Download my free guide to rip off companies and decide for yourself after looking into them.
Larry
Have you heard of 321 shine?
I have heard of them and they are one of the companies that I get the most complaints about. I’d avoid them if I were you.
Hi Larry, so my boys got a contract From
323 Talent/Eleven Talent. The agent is Tamara Thorne (Bella thorne mom) and Kazembe Jumbe (Zendeyas dad) they want to represent us..they are not SagAftra, but they say that all their paperwork is legit and that they are licensed and just waiting on the green light from SagaAftra..what should I do? They seem to be having a lot of movement. What do you recommend? Have you heard of them? Are they legit?
Juliet,
We haven’t heard of them and unfortunately, we don’t know about every agency in the US. The question is, are they asking you to invest money to be represented? Legit agencies do not take money up front.
Larry, have you heard of AZ Star in the Phoenix area? I received an e-mail from “Backstage,” which seems perfectly legit about a casting call at Scottsdale Fashion Square. I had acting class that night with my wonderful and totally legit acting coach. I showed him the e-mails; and he immediately said very firmly, “DON’T GO!!!” So I tactfully cancelled my appointment. After
reading your warning signs, this “audition” fits. It is in a shopping mall, they set you up with their own “coaches” for a fee and tout their “success stories.”
Do you know anything about AZ Star in the Phoenix area? “Backstage” seems totally legit, so I am surprised they would promote this sort of
“talent search.”
Patsy,
Backstage offers some great information, but like all publishing companies, they offer advertising spots. Some of these spots are for email lists. They most likely don’t vet every company. Be cautious anytime you get an unsolicited email. If it sounds fishy, it probably is. So glad your acting coach guided you away from the “audition!”
Lisa
Larry’s Trusty Assistant 🙂
Hello, I recently signed to Eleven Talent Agency (just changed from 323) in LA and they are also in GA. I saw that someone else brought them up too. You said you haven’t heard of them. How can we find good reputable information about agencies. Would Facebook be a good source since so many are on them. If their Facebook page doesn’t have anything on it should I be worried? ………Second part of my questions: I asked to sign a Client Funds Sub Saving Account/Agreement. This would set up a savings account in my name that they could withdrawal funds from and deposit. I am very new to LA and just recently started my career about a year ago, and just want to make sure I am doing everything correctly. Let me know if this is “industry standard” or if this is something I should be concerned about. Have you heard of this? Should I post the verbiage of the contract? All the best! Thanks for doing this!
Good, reputable information can be found on the sagaftra.org website. Anyone can have a Facebook Page so you need to do your research. The way Larry gets paid from his agency is that he signed an agreement that they can accept checks on his behalf, then they issue him a check minus the agency fees. At the end of the year, he receives a 1099 for taxes. I haven’t heard about the savings account you mention, but we are also not familiar with the LA market and their practices.
Hi, Larry I recently joined Talen Pages to search for castings. After I created a profile I was contacted by Marco Galdos offering me a paid opportunity. He even sent a contract saying he was a Boss at Ample Productions. I was kind of concerned because he kept putting more emphasis on a check that was to be mailed for booking and fashion designer cost. I have never modeled for Bershka before so I am confused because by photos are clearly viewable on Talent pages but when I looked on there site the largest clothing size was large.Plese, advise me on what to do. If it is a scam who doI report it to.
Lisa,
You should NEVER have to pay a producer, director, or photographer for a job they want to book you for. Period. It is always a scam, no matter how legit their website or photographs/videos look. If it is a legit job, they ALWAYS pay YOU, not the other way around. No matter what they say the money is for (“fashion designer cost” etc), you should never have to send them money.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi Larry my name is Jenny and I was wondering what your thoughts are on undiscovered talent group?
Jenny,
Yes, I have. Not a fan. Typical company I warn against.
Larry
Hi Larry, my name is Rebecca and I am 19 years old. I live in Rio Rancho New Mexico and I was wondering if you could tell me of any reliable agencies or acting companies in this area. I have been contacted by agencies like IPop and LA talent auditions, but I have a feeling they are both unreliable agencies.
Neither of those companies is an agent. They are the ones I caution against. Go to the SAG-AFTRA website and search for agents in NM. The ones listed there are legit. https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
But if you are brand new to acting and just getting started professionally, read my Seven Steps blog post. That will show you how to get started in the industry. https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hi there Larry. What a great service you are providing!! thank you dear!!!
Can you tell me anything about “David Mogull”.
My 16 year old and I were “picked” to be in an agency showcase thingie 6 months from now. They want 3500 per person but told us to think it over. When I said I can’t afford two of us David told me he would send me for free. I want this to be real for my daughter.
Can you tell me anything about “David Mogull”?
Thank you so much.
~ Christine Elizabeth
Chris,
Real talent agents don’t charge up front. Walk away. Read my seven steps blog for how to get her started in the business. actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
Larry
Hi Christine!
I went to the same Mogull Talent Interview today but in Connecticut. I’m 25 yrs old. David and his 2 other colleagues really liked me and accepted me today. I am hesitant about it though. Did you make a decision yet? I am so stuck on if it’s worth it or not. $3500 is outrageously a high amount.
-Kody
Kody,
It is an outrageously high amount. That’s not how to get into acting. Real talent agents don’t charge up front. Walk away. Read my seven steps blog for how to get started in the business. actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hello Larry. I am working with this company called Reality Talent and trying to get in the reality show survivor. They asked for 7 photos for them to submit to casting. They said that if they decide to move forward with be I need to be ready to pay a $295 membership. Does this sound like a scam to you or have you ever heard about this company? Thank you for your time.
Angel,
I’ve heard of these “Reality Agents”. The fee is not as outrageous as the other “talent” companies out there. But my question is, “Why pay for a company to submit you to something you can do yourself for free?”. These companies do not have a magic system to get you into reality show castings. Submit yourself to the shows you want to get on (via the shows’ websites) for free and save your $295.
Now, there is an argument that says that these people are very familiar with what reality show casting directors want and they will help you make your submission more competitive and therefore make you more likely get cast. The question is, do you feel competent enough to submit yourself, or would you rather pay them to do it for you? If you choose them, be sure you are comfortable with their success rate in their submissions.
But if it were me, I’d do it myself.
Larry
Hi, what was your outcome?
I have the same company that am questioning. What was your outcome?
Hi my name is Andreia and I had an audition for my baby yesterday she’s 8 months old and they sai she’s been selrcted but they need 250$ for her fotoshoot it’s with next star production what should I do? Thank you
Andreia,
Please do not spend the money on this. A legitimate company would give you the option of finding your own photographer and submitting professional photos. Getting babies into modeling and commercials is not easy. Save your money.
Lisa
Larry’s Trusty Assistant
Hi Larry,
Have you heard of Dennise Johnson with NEXT International Talent Director/Owner? They were here in Laughlin, NV for casting call, I took my daughter, we got an email that she was picked to the 2nd casting call tomorrow they choose 40 out of the 80; tomorrow they will be choosing 10 to attend they workshop/training then showcase. The email said to review the cost for the next step and be prepared to pay tomorrow if you are one of the 10 chosen. It’s costly so after reading the above questions and responses you have given, I believe this to be a scan. Do you know of this company?
We get multiple questions daily about companies. Unfortunately, we cannot vett every company. Many companies offer training/classes and then an opportunity to attend a showcase. Some come at a reasonable price, others at a high cost. Our purpose is to inform and educate people on the ability to do most of these things at a much lower cost. Preferably, we recommend you research acting companies/classes in your area and get training and experience that is in your budget. Spending excessive amounts with no experience is unwise.
Hi larry whats your advice on bravo talent management in south Barrington,illinois the photographer is george papaduski I think I spelled it right..they want to take photos of daughter she is six months old.they said she has neutral look and charged 445.00 for four sets of 50 photos a session
Marie,
Do not spend that much on your six month old. Babies are really difficult to get into an industry.
Here is a comment from a reader:
Hope that helps,
Lisa
Larry’s Trusty Assistant
Hello Larry is reality talent.net legit??
Unfortunately, we cannot know every agency in the US. We suggest that people be wary of companies that are requesting several thousands of dollars to train and represent you.
Hello Larry,
I have a quick question do you know anything from Lauch Show case do u think there a scam or legit and how about the Nine9 agency?
Thanks for your comment. You can find information in ourActing Reference Guide
Hi Larry,,
I’m a mother of an 8 year old who loves to act.an addition was held in New Orleans a week ago they were looking for talents who wanted to be in the Disney show and other channels. My daughter has never had any acting experience but she gave her all and she made it. The company was called model and talent we were all so excited that she made it. We did not have time to even go through all the paperwork it was a whole lot of money but they supposibly sponsored some of it just to get her to join which for me was still a lot of money. but I did whatever I could to make this dream happen for her now. I only pay them a parcel down and I’m supposed to pay the other half I’m a little afraid I’m not sure if I made the right decision because we got caught up with such excitement at the moment can you please advise . Their website is modelandtalent.tv please let me know . They said she would have would have a chance to post pictures videos of herself and apply for jobs. Im very curious. They made me sign a 3 month contract on top of it.
Lorena, if they are asking for money, run!
I’m a mother of an 2 year old boy ,I’m always want to be a modeling and actriss .I take a class modeling at john Casablanca modeling agency Boston MA and I moved to Miami Florida and I stop paying for my class because I didn’t have a job .and February 26-14 I have a a phone call about a casting 360 agency they need extra modeling actriss know experience needed but you have to be a member so I said OK and she said membership is 1,98$ .I pay for the memberships so she said a casting director going to call me. I never get a called from them .I need our help to find out if they real Mr Larry .please god bless you.
When they didn’t call me ,I call them .they guy ask me .if I need a job he said they have job and my area I need to applying for job I said OK .after that I hangup I received a text message I get charge of 59,89$ on my card .because they first time I give my card number for 1,98$ so they keeping the card number so I call back to ask why I get charge so she said is for a membership for a one year .I said I don’t need it she said know refund .I ask my bank to help me to get the money back they can’t help me .so I never get know job from them I keep asking for my money or job I even graduate to casting 360 .because they offered classes .all those thing is a scam.
Rabinoue, never ever ever again give someone money upfront. These people are ripping you off and taking advantage of you.
Thank you so much Larry..
What about agencies like Backstage, Casting360, and Exploretalent, they want you to pay a monthly fee. Are all of these scams?
Hi Meg. No, those websites are not scams. I’m especially a fan of the free Backstage articles and you’ll see me posting them on my Twitter and Facebook accounts. The big difference with those is that they don’t claim to be “talent” companies that will “get you discovered”, etc. They say what they are – simply sources of information, not unlike a magazine subscription. They don’t charge hundreds and thousands of dollars and they don’t have to pitch you their product in an “audition.” So, spotting the ripoff involves looking at all the red flags, not just one. Hope that helps!
-Larry
Listen everyone these are legit talent agencies in the Los Angeles/Hollywood area 1:Osbrink Agency 2:CTG (Clear Talent Group Agency)
I went to an audition with nine9 modeling for my two children they called them to come back and so we did they wanted to sign them but said they would need me to purchase a 350$ package for each child which would be head shots portfolio etc,. They also offered acting classes and auditions etc. in the paper work they said they charge 34.49$ a month for their services is this abnormal and do you think it is a scam????? Could use your help
Yes, it is abnormal. Talent agencies do not ever charge to represent you. Once you are signed, they may recommend photographers and acting classes, but you are able to choose the ones that fit YOUR budget. Walk away from them very fast!
Hi Larry, I heard about an agency called “Hollywood Dreams LA” (http://www.hollywooddreamsla.com/) on Facebook. I auditioned as a singer and actor and they really liked me and invited me to a showcase they do in LA. But, I’m supposed to pay them copious amounts of money in order to attend. The “president” of the agency is Mark Grundy and the other scout there was named Bridgette who said she was an actress and had appeared on shows such as Gilmore Girls and CSI, but we haven’t been able to find her in any cast list. I’m 19 and fairly excited but I just want to make sure they are real because I’m losing hope.
Heather,
Real talent agents don’t charge up front. Walk away. Read my seven steps blog for how to get started in the business. actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
Larry
Run….they are going by the name Premier now…Shame on them playing on the dreams of the innocent.
Hi I’m wandering if anyone has heard of future faces new York with Nina, my daughter is currently with LOOK models in Bethlehem, future faces wants her to represent but they want 450$ for a photo shoot I’m seeing bad reviews on backstage but everywhere else is good reviews can someone please help me out ?
Nikita,
Sorry for the late response. We have had a high volume of comments in the last month.
Unfortunately, we do not know about every agency in the US. I do know that modeling companies should let you choose your own photographers for professional work, but companies also offer “test” shoots where they can get shots with a fee. If she is already represented with a legitimate company, I would ask them their thoughts on the one in NY.
Hope that helps,
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hey Larry!
I’m a young woman looking to become an actress. I understand that it doesn’t happen over night, and I am willing to roll with the punches in this industry. My only question is this, do you by chance know of any reputable agents around Syracuse, NY. I’m a college student so money is tight, and well time is also limited. But I am very interested in delevoping a career in modeling, and acting.
Thanks for the tips! I’ll be sure to follow them 100%
Sarah
Hi Sarah,
Sorry for the delay in replying. For the Syracuse area, here are two agencies that are reputable. There may be more, but these are the ones I’ve found: AMS Models and Talent; and Wilhelmina Rochester. Links are here:
http://www.amsmodels.com/talent_agency_faq.php
http://www.wilhelminarochester.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=189&Itemid=212
Also, if you’re having trouble finding good headshot photographers in your area, call one of these agencies and ask them for a quick recommendation.
Hi Larry,
I am a 17 year old female and over the weekend i was in six flags with my friends and i was approched by a guy in his 20,s and they had a tent set up and a quite a few people doing the same thing he was.But anyways he asked me if he could just have my basic info and i said yes.I got a call from them yesterday but didn’t know the number so i didn’t anwser they called me again today and asked me if i could come in and see them.They told me that they would.
love to meet me and to make sure i wear the right clothing as in
no jeans and sneakers she told me that i need to have both my parents there and to make sure i bring in three pictures of myself.I am so confused and i am seeing them tomorrow day….but i have a feeling it is all fake….what do you think?
Hi Esilda!
You didn’t give a name or company so I can’t comment on the legitimacy of the specific organization you are talking about. However, as I mention in the post, mass “scouting” at places like the mall and other public places (like theme parks) are calling signs of these scam “agencies”. They also tend to target teens with parents, knowing their plan is to prey on the ignorance of the teens and willing parents to shell out the money. I would not go to this meeting. Agents do not go out looking for new talent; they have plenty coming directly to them. They DO NOT need to advertise or scout at a theme park.
If you go, expect this order of scamming tactics:
1. They make it seem very “Hollywood” – i.e. pump up the “status” of the “casting”
2. They don’t ask for any money or talk about many specifics of their “program” up front – only general “auditioning” to see if “you are what they are looking for”
3. They make the audition process very drawn out to get you (and your parents) very emotionally invested in the “audition”
4. They make it seem like you are “raw” talent and might make it with some “help”
5. They WILL eventually (and it may be after several appointments) ask you and your parents for money for their “package”, “training”, and/or “headshots” – and it will likely be thousands!
Feel free to walk away now or at any time in the process above. REMEMBER, this is NOT how real agents work!!!
Also, if you don’t go, I guarantee they will contact you to ask what happened and try to reschedule. This is another thing a real agent would NEVER do. If you don’t show to a real agent’s audition/interview, they assume you weren’t really interested and move on – real agencies don’t chase talent.
Hope this helps and beware!
Larry
Im 16. And i tried out for LA talent showcase and they said i made it but after i made it for acting they said i have to pay 1295 dollars for training but later said that if i can come up with 500 they pay rest. Is this fake?
Becky,
Run away. They are not talent agents. Talent agents do not do business that way. -Larry
Hello,
I’ve started the process with realitytalent.net for americas next top model. We just did a phone interview and I am to now send 7-10 pictures. Their last email states that if I’m selected I’ll have to pay $297. Their words “As per industry standards, if we decide to move forward with you, you must be ready to proceed with the membership fee of $297. This membership fee will cover our services, including your online portfolio, only accessible by members of the Reality TV casting community, unlimited casting opportunities, access to our casting support and so much more.” what do you think about this?
I think you should walk away. I’ve been hearing about this new type of “process.” When you audition for any type of casting there should be no fees. Companies like these get you emotionally invested by having you fill out a ton of info, interview, etc and then say it’s “industry standard” to charge a membership fee. Most reality tv shows announce via their website, blog, or even during the show when they are having legitimate casting calls. In fact, many of them have an “Apply/Casting” link.
Hey, was jsut wondering if you ever went through with this?
hi larry
i am a 14 yera old girl I went on the web to look for ways to become a model/actress i found this website called OST(one source talent) i filled out an application for the agency and they called today and asked to speak with my mother because i am a minor my mother called them back and they told us to come in on wensday for an interveiw/audition
I was really excited to go before i read this article because i really want this shot and I dont want it be a scam. I was wondering what do you think i should do and wether or not you think this is a scam? please help!
THANKS
Alana
Hi Alana,
I’m from Atlanta and apparently OST has an office here. I’ve never heard of them. I also checked out their website. I’m sorry to say I can’t recommend them.
No real talent agent only asks for your basic contact info (OST doesn’t ask for any pics, sizes, reel, or even resume) before calling you for an audition. OST apparently only needs to know you’re interested. THIS IS A HUGE RED FLAG. Here is my talent agency: http://www.jpervistalent.com for an idea of what a legit talent agency website look like.
Last, if you want some recommendations on where to go for legit agencies, go here: http://www.sagaftra.org/agency-relations/sag-franchised-agents and search for your city/state in the drop-down box. You can choose “Franchised Agents” or “ATA/NATR Non-Franchised Agents” – both are legit.
If you decide to go to this OST “interview/audition” (I strongly discourage that), you will definitely find out if they are a scam when they ask for money. The second they do that, walk out and don’t look back.
I hope this helps! All the best to you Alana!
Larry
thankyou larry
For all your help it means alot ill go to the sites you recommend and hopefully i get an audition =)
Hello Larry, my name is Sue and I wanted to comment on this particular post to the young girl asking about OST one source talent. I am very sad to say after reading your articles that I believe one source talent is a scam.
I wanted to become an actress so I did the same thing and looked online for talent agents and OST came up. I live in Birmingham Alabama so I drove 3 hours to an interview, in which they didn’t audition me, they just asked me about 4-5 question and said that I was a fit. Me not knowing anything about acting or agents of course I was excited! They stated there was a fee, a package that I had to purchase. It would include a website with my name, being submitted to audition and directors and so on and so on.
I feel really stupid because I paid them $180 for the package. I had a second interview driving another 3 hours 2 weeks later. And now paying $39 a month. Now a month later, they stated they have submitted me to 3 edition, and they scheduled me for a headshot photo shoot, costin for 2 looks. I had to make payments on because I don’t hsve it all at once. I have yet to go on any auditions anywhere after becoming their client, and its going on two months.
So with all that being said I’m very sad that I fell for this. I will be cancelling my account with them and looking for a legitimate agency in my area.
I thank you for all the information and educating us!
Sorry to hear about that, Sue. Thanks for your story – it will help others! Hope the other info on my blog helps point you in the right direction.
Larry, thanks a bunch. This is a major help!!! I too can piggy back off this young lady’s story with OST, but I will be on the phone with them shortly to cancel all activity. Greatly appreciate what you’re doing for people!!
Have a blessed day!
Thanks for your kind comment. Glad you found it helpful and were able to save your money! -Larry
Yes Nine9 aka One Source Talent is a huge scam
They charge $500 or more to “model” or “act” and they get you no jobs. They hire people and make them lie to get the sales of these pictures and a website. They act like they are being selective and only choose a couple people from a huge cattle call but they chose everyone and if you can’t pay they treat you like dirt. Their employees seem to leave a lot and that’s because they can’t hide the scam for long. Anyone that’s been scammed by them should report them! Nine9 used to be called One Source Talent and it’s owned by Anthony Toma who used to have another modeling scam before that. They should be shut down but they keep closing their offices and opening in other locations to avoid the authorities. Nine9 should be ashamed and anyone that works there should know they are scammers.
Hi larrry! im a highschool student wanting to model or act. thank you so much for the tips. Do you know any LEGITIMENT agencies in georgia? let me know please. thank you
Hi Lauren!
Thanks for stopping by. All of the legit agencies I list under #1 above are in Georgia (specifically, in the Atlanta area, which is where I am located). These agencies send their talent out for roles across the Southeast.
Let me know if you have any other questions!
Larry
Hello, Do you know anything about the company XXI Century entertainment in Atlanta Ga. My daughter went to an audition at their office. They said they loved her style and asked a lot of questions about us and gave her a call back on the spot to meet with Talent Scout Tia Talley. I took her back she recited the monologue they had give her to memorize and Tia loved her and said she would love to work with her. She had me to sign her up for a 4 hrs acting class to be held at their location in two weeks by Lance from Acting out studios which I had to pay $89 for. Tia says she needs to start taking acting class to start building a resume to present when she takes her out to try to get booked. After the class she’s supposed to come back to see Tia so she can see what she learned in class. It scares me cause they did the whole look who we scouted that’s famous now like Austin North. Personally that doesn’t impress me because I don’t even like that Disney show and neither does my daughter. I just need to make sure their legit they have an A+ ratings with the BBB which doesn’t mean anything either because although they don’t have any complaints they also don’t have any reviews at all and I’ve searched all over the web. Please help!!!
I have heard of them. I don’t know what they charge, but I am familiar with their person that does Headshots who is very good. They also do have good relationships with a lot of legit agents in Atlanta. If their pricing is reasonable for the acting and industry training, then fine. But remember that average pricing for that is about $100 a month. Anything more than that is likely a ripoff you should avoid.
Thanks for your input Larry, really appreciate it. We’re going to give this a try and see where it goes. I’ll keep you guys posted
Thanks for keeping me posted on that, Candace. I’m curious to hear what they charge. Thanks!
Hi Larry i also have wanted to be an actress my whole life i have ans have learned my lesson wit scamers and fake agencies i am 21 and attend college so yes money is tight. how can i find a legit agency here in Atlanta, GA?
Hurit,
It’s important to follow the right steps when jumping into acting professionally (i.e. for pay). So, take a look at my posts “Getting Started” https://actingcareerinfo.com/getting-started/ and “The Seven Steps” https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/ and that will point you in the right direction. You’ll need a decent amount of ON-CAMERA experience before an agent will consider representing you. That experience can be independent films or small segments for non-profits, but it does have to be on-camera. You’ll also need some training from a good acting school. That’s just the start – again, check out my Getting Started and Seven Steps posts and you’ll be well on your way.
Thanks for stopping by!
Larry
hi larry i was wondering if you knew any places in atl that i could take my daughter to audition for baby/infant modeling, such as pampers, huggies, ect. i have been doing pageants with her and she always get photogenic, prettiest hair/smile. thanks please email me
Hi Niecy,
Because babies change so quickly, agents do not really represent kids under 3 years old. They typically will announce publicly an open call for babies if they have a need…which, in Atlanta, is not that often.
But, I would recommend you take the best photos you have of her and register for a free http://www.TalentSoup.com account. TalentSoup is a great way to get print work and is ok for any age. You might get lucky there.
Once your child is over 3 years old, simply call a few agencies and see if they are taking kids. By the way, no need to get expensive pro headshots for babies or young kids. Agents don’t require them because, again, the kids change so fast.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Larry Herring
Hi larry, i want to act sooo but i need a legit agency.. can u Helpp…..??? Thnks!
Hi, see my recommendations in the post above.
Is one source talent a great talent agency. They stated that they only get paid i am paid. I paid $495 for the photo shoot charged $40 a month is that OK? Or a scam?
If fees are required for representation, you should walk away. Also, real talent agencies to not offer services like headshots. When they say the do RUN! Last, $40 a month is also a RIPOFF. They say they only get paid when you get paid? Why are they charging you $40/month? Real talent agencies DO NOT do this. Hope that helps.
Sorry for the typos in my last
post. My phone is messing up
Hello
I submitted my daughters pics to future faces NYC with Nina lubarda, she called me the following day to set up a meeting with us for the next day. I’m stuck because online some people say she is a scam and some people say she is great. Have you heard of her?
I know she is also a photographer and some sites say she wants to take pics but charges. Any feedback would be helpful, running out of time, yikes.
***UPDATE – 12/17/2013
Nina Lubarda Model Management contacted me and stated two very important things in their email that should put your mind at ease. First, “We only receive our commission from bookings and we do not charge any fee.” Second, they said “We are modeling agency not acting agency so this is the only reason that we are not listed as SAG.” That makes sense and know that if your child needs acting representation, you’ll need a separate agent that reps actors. That said, I would feel comfortable engaging Nina Lubarda in discussions about representing your child for modeling.
*************
(old response)
I do not know Nina or Future Faces. But I am not very well versed in the NY agencies. I looked at her site and there aren’t any big red flags to me. However, I did notice that she has 100 kids listed as her talent and only a handful of Men and Women. But that does not mean she is not legit. She may well be known for representing kids and is just starting to rep adults. The litmus test for scams is how they engage you and if they want money upfront. Is Nina asking for money upfront (aside from reasonable headshot fees)? Has she been vague or evasive about her fees for the headshots? Are they more than $500? Does she want to charge a monthly fee? If the answer is ‘yes’ to any of these, be skeptical. Last, real talent agents rarely have time to do a side headshot photography business. If I were you, I’d find a few reputable headshot photographers in the NYC area that do it full time and price it out.
Don’t do it! She says that she does not charge monthly fees but she will deduct from your child’s pay and then your child will never get paid.
Did u ever go through with Nina? I just sent my sons pictures also. Would like advice please
Summer, I’m going to need more than just a first name. I don’t know what “Nina” you are talking about. If she’s asking for money to represent your son, run away. -Larry
I went through Nina at Future Faces for my daughter back in 2014. There weren’t any up front fees but then again my daughter was never booked so I can’t comment on getting paid or not. What I can tell you is that I went to an open call, she wanted to represent my daughter and suggested she do her head shots more exposure, etc. (they were beautiful) but cost was $900. That was a “bargain” she gave me (my face must have dropped when she originally priced her photos at over $1,000) mind you the $900 I paid did not include comp cards, etc. Just her pic on the “last page” of her website. If you want “more exposure” on her site you can pay more $$ to be on the first 2 pages of all the children she represents. I know she gets great reviews, but I should have known something was not kosher when she scheduled an appt. with me for head shots and I sat and waited for her for almost an hour and a half…not cool. Plus sends me on a go see the same day & time as our pic appointment… I don’t know maybe bad timing that year as it seemed like there was one superstar child getting a lot of attention booking every week. I am looking elsewhere – not impressed. Good Luck 🙂
Hey My Name is Brittany And I’m 16. I’ve been trying to get a real acting agency to help to pursue my dream in becoming an actres but I’ve had no luck. I’m 16 5’6 and I have A Twin. We can model act and sing… Do you have any agencys in mind that our willing to help us??. Oh And Another Thing. I signed up With OST it was a huge scam. We paid over 1000 dollars and we had to keep paying each month just for our resume to stay on their website and they didn’t have any listings for teens only grown ups and little baby’s!. Wishing i would of found this site a long time ago
Hi Brittany! Glad you found the site helpful. Since you didn’t mention where you are from, I can’t recommend a local agency that is legitimate. But, I would recommend you use the SAG agency finder. Go to this site http://www.sagaftra.org/content/agency-relations and click on the “Find an AFTRA Agency” and “Find a SAG Agency” banners on the right hand side of the page. Any of the ones that come up under those two searches are legit. (You’ll notice you won’t find OST anywhere there!)
I hope that helps. When submitting to the agencies, be sure you have current, quality headshots and a resume’ that follows proper format for actors (see this post which has a link to an acting resume template: https://actingcareerinfo.com/seven-steps-to-a-professional-acting-career-part-2/ ).
All the best in pursuing your dreams!
-Larry
Can you please recommend a local agency, here in Austin TX or any legit agency. We already paid $1590 to LA Talent showcase for my daughter. And something about it puzzles me
Cinthia,
Run away from them! Watch this video on how to find legit agencies in that area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Have you heard of Discovery Spotlight? I got an email from Nine9 Talent about them and am currently at the audition for modeling and acting. Would just like to know if I’m wasting my time or not, thank you! 🙂
Liz,
I haven’t’ heard of Discovery Spotlight. But I have heard of Nine9 and am not a fan.
Larry
I’m interested in becoming a model/actress. Its hard to find an agency because I live in Virginia. The other day, I put in an application for Step 3 Model & Talent agency and someone contacted me today. I have an appointment next week. Based on the website, what do you think about this agency?
DeeDee,
They state on their “About Us” page that they are a “scouting and development company in Virginia”. They also state that they are a “full service modeling and talent agency”. So, this tells me they are likely more along the lines of those “companies” that charge a ton for “development”. The reason I say this is because most legit agencies don’t call themselves “modeling and talent”. It’s either one or the other. Also, I don’t know of a single legitimate agency that does regular acting/modeling classes or “development”. They don’t have time for it. Last, they are not listed in AT ALL in the SAG/AFTRA agency lists (http://www.sagaftra.org/content/agency-relations). So, I would be VERY cautious with this particular “agency”.
-Larry
I’ve actually had the privilege to be a part of the Step 3 Agency. They’re not a scam at all, they’re not a school, they don’t offer classes or development, and they’ve currently walked NYC Fashion week for 3 seasons and have sent me on a ton of really amazing bookings. The staff is amazing and friendly and they are a very put together booking agency. Hope this helps clarify things! 🙂
Martin,
I am so glad to hear it. It is certainly refreshing to hear a good story about people’s experiences. Also, it looks as if they’ve changed some things on their website for the better making it clearer what they do.
One thing however, Step 3 is clearly primarily a modeling agency and while they mention that they rep actors, they are still not listed as a SAG-AFTRA franchised agent or ATA/NATR non-franchised agents. If they want to be taken seriously on the acting front, this is a must for them.
Thanks for your clarification. I am very glad to hear they are not a scam agency.
Larry
Bravo talent is a complete farce and a scam of the highest degree. They claim to be a talent management company but they are far from it. They have no legitimate ck tact in TV and film and false advertise with fraudulent misrepresentations of claim to fame with no real credentials. They lure you in with false promises of opportunity and then spin you into 3000 worth of necessary comp cards and he’s shots or a portfolio that is outdated and unnecessary in today’s market of electronic submissions. They spin you into Papadakis photography which is owned by by the same married couple as bravo talent.
Thanks for the comment Joe. Glad you were able to avoid the ripoff.
I applied to Step 3, and received a call back. I have an appointment for tomorrow afternoon, and apparently if you are a no-show, they charge you $40 (I assume by mail, as they don’t have my bank/credit card information, of course.) Is this normal?
Although they say they pay for all marketing and are only repaid through any jobs they find for a client, they also claim that they take a deposit for any makeup/photos that they may set up after the initial interview. This deposit is a “minimum of $50”. I’m uncertain about this agency-do you have any thoughts about this, before I drive out to meet with them?
Thanks so much!!
Anna, I would run away and no it is not “normal”. If you haven’t signed anything, you don’t owe them a dime. Follow my seven steps to get into the industry and avoid the rip offs (www.actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps). Also, Here are the legit agencies in the Mid-Atlantic area:
Capital Talent Agency, LLC
Full Service – Adult
1050 CONNECTICUT AVE NW STE 1036 WASHINGTON, DC 20036
202-429-4785
Kids International Talent Agency
Full Service (All Ages)
938 EAST SWAN CREEK RD., FORT WASHINGTON, MD 20744
301-292-6094
Stay away from Step 3 Entertainment!!! They will do nothing for you but take your money and justify how they’ve done all they were suppose to do even if the quality is poor and unacceptable to the agencies they “say” they submit you too. I know for a fact they did not submit anything for me because I was NOT given the “comp card” they were suppose to send to these agencies. And I was disappointed in the photos. The quality was awful and I was promised another shoot, which never happened. I should have had my 2 year old nephew handle the shoot, they could not have been any worse. I’m sure the photographer was someone’s boyfriend. The photos were to be sent out. But sent out where? They could not even give me the list of where they were suppose to have been sent. My file was put on hold until this was rectified. So I got ‘duped’ and ‘hoodwinked’, as if I lost my money on the street in a strange town. Life intervened and I lost the use of my legs, so there went all hope for a refund or representation. I didn’t even ask for a complete refund, just the photo part that was unsatisfactory. Sure I would be satisfied to have another shoot, but they don’t even have handicapped access. Being a disabled Vet now, I feel I should have known better at my age. But hopefully I will help someone find a reputable agency. STEP 3 ENTERTAINMENT is NOT the one. Anyone that says different…is obviously an employee.
Thanks for sharing your story. And thanks for serving!
So , I emailed a agency a week ago and they emailed back asking for a photo (unprofessional) and a video , so I sent them one and they called me interested in representing me and wanting to meet me in Chicago. They are called “Bravo” I can’t remember if there’s more to the name but should I be worried that it’s a scam or no? They never asked for money, or anything .
Although I’m from Chicago, I’ve never heard of “Bravo”. Apparently, they are only 4 years old. I can tell you this, they are NOT listed on the SAG-AFTRA site as a talent agent. HUGE RED FLAG – especially in Chicago. They advertise themselves as a “talent management” company. This also appears not to be true. Talent managers promote you to casting directors and other “door-keepers” to get you known and they DO NOT charge you upfront. Like real talent agents, real managers get paid a commission AFTER you’ve booked a real job. So, BRAVO appears to be neither a talent agent nor a manager in the legitimate senses of the words. The ‘nail in the coffin’ for me regarding BRAVO is that they have a “deal” on Yelp to ‘save’ money (here – http://www.yelp.com/biz/bravo-talent-management-south-barrington ). This proves that they ask for money up-front from talent – the calling card of rip-off talent agencies. If I were you, I’d walk away. Ignore their flashy website. They won’t ask you for money initially (they aren’t that dumb), but watch what happens if you go to Chicago for your “audition”. As I say in my posts, you need experience and a decent resume of on-camera work to get represented by a legit agency. Hope that helps and thanks for stopping by!!
Sooo Very thankful I just saw this post, I have also being doing some research on Bravo Talent Management, I was suppose to go to their office in Chicago Thursday morning, ( I live in Indiana) so I am very glad that I just didn’t pack up and make the trip up there if it was a waste of time, I mean, I am willing to travel to places to get work and get noticed, but I am not willing to waste my time with scam companies.
Thank you!!
Glad you found the blog helpful, Amber!
Hi Larry! My boyfriend recently auditioned for AMTC CHRISTIAN AGENCY IN Augusta ga. They say if you get a call back you come and they discuss getting you noticed by scouts and you have to go to some shine event.. they say their a non profit organization but he has to pay $500 upfront and all together this stuff is going to cost him 4,000
Bria, AMTC is one of those companies that I am talking about. Lots of cash up front. It’s simply not necessary. If it were me, I’d walk away. The fact that this company uses the name of Christ to attract people makes me ill. It sure would be interesting to see the salaries of the executives of this “non-profit”.
I attended AMTC in both 2008 and 2009. One of the most organized, well-run, encouraging and inspiring organizations I have ever been a part of.
It would be silly to go to a ballet studio and say “I would like for you to provide me with the resources to become a professional ballerina, but you should not charge me, because professionals ballerinas do not have to pay to perform.”
Talent should not have to pay an agency for representation, that is correct. However, AMTC is not an agency and has never claimed to be one. They train performers, and provide them with connections into the industry. While they offer tons of scholarships and financial aid, of course there are fees associated with this.
Does AMTC guarantee that everyone who goes through their program will become an A-list celebrity? Definitely not. This would be a silly thing to promise, as the success of talent is widely determined by the performers themselves.
Does AMTC guarantee a faith-based curriculum, VIP workshops, top-industry training, a supportive community, and connections to some of the top agencies/managers/record label producers/casting directors in the industry? Absolutely. AMTC goes above and beyond what they (genuinely) explain to performers.
Please do not make an assumption about this company based on your own interpretation of a billboard, radio advertisement, scam reports (from people who have not been through the program), or hear-say. Visit the website for yourself, attend a (free) information session and audition, or speak with people who have walked through the program. Give Actors, Models and Talent for Christ the benefit of the doubt 🙂
Maggie, I’m glad you had a good experience with them. The bottom line is that AMTC, like many other similar programs is way overpriced in my opinion. Anyone in Atlanta could attend many many months of solid acting training and get all of the same benefits for a fraction of the cost at acting studios that train working actors like The Company Acting Studio or Drama Inc. And I disagree with AMTC’s marketing approach. They absolutely infer that they are a casting/talent agency organization. Maybe they clarify that they are not in their seminars, but that doesn’t excuse the advertising. Two quick questions, are you now a working actor or model? If so, what agency are you with?
You do realize J. Pervis attends Shine, right?
Yes, and I also realize that people can submit to JPervis for free. The fact that legit agents attend those events does not make them any less of a ripoff. But, “ripoff” is a subjective term. I’m sure there are people that attend those things and think it’s money well spent. But many people think that’s the only way into the industry (and the companies sell it that way). Its not and the traditional way is thousands and thousands less and way more successful.
God is doing some great things through AMTC. Would love for you attend an audition weekend in Atlanta. You might be surprised, you might not. Pray about it.
Thanks for your heart to serve actors, Larry. God is good!
Jim,
I’d be happy to attend one. But I have to tell you, if it ends at any time where AMTC asks a parent or any talent to pay thousands of dollars or a payment plan, I’m going to come to the same conclusion. The $4995 fee that AMTC charges is a ridiculous amount – especially to parents of kids too young to need professional headshots (under 10). Plus, an adult talent in Atlanta could take YEARS of professional acting lessons (at schools like The Company Acting Studio or The Actors Scene), SEVERAL professional headshot sessions and learn everything they need to get into the industry and STILL not reach that amount in cost. Bottom line, the acting lessons, headshots, and “showcases” that AMTC provides are, in my opinion, a giant ripoff. If AMTC wants to change their business model and become a straight-forward acting school that charges a reasonable amount, then I’d be happy to change my opinion. I just know too many new actors who have gone through AMTC and other “talent development” companies that charge new actors thousands, rush them through a process in 6 months, and are left without an agent, any industry contacts, or knowledge of where to go next. And doing it in the name of Christ as a “non-profit” doesn’t make it ok. I’m sure there are stories of actors who have gotten agents and made it into the industry, but AMTC’s success rate is no where near that of traditional acting schools in Atlanta that train working actors every day. And even if it was, AMTC still charges thousands more than it should.
Thx for being so kind, honest and available!!! How dare that company say they are “christian”. They take scam to another level. Horrible.
My four year daughter was accepted to one source talent I asked them did I need to pay anything upfront at first they said no but after her second audition they asked for 495.00 I paid 200 upfront now I feel like I shouldn’t have please let me kno more about this company
Modelmom,
One Source Talent (or OST as their often known) is one of these companies I do NOT recommend and encourage you to avoid. As you’ve seen, they are asking for hundreds upfront.
Follow my instructions in my “Getting Started” and “Seven Steps” posts. You’ll save money and be taking the right steps to get her into the industry.
Larry
Im am looking for one day to become a model or actress. I am 14 years old an am wondering if you know of any agencies, i live in Raleigh north Carolina
Nala,
I would start with finding opportunities to act at school or in a local theater. Once you have done some acting you can start thinking about getting an agent. It’s too soon to look for an agent before you’ve started acting. Also, to model, you’ll need to be at least 5’8″.
Last, be sure your parents or guardians are aware of your desire to act and are supportive. But remember, school and good grades come first.
Larry
Hello Larry,
I am also based here in Atlanta, and finding an agency is tough especially with limited experience. I am to meet with XCEL Talent agency next week. I tried to do some research and I know that they are not SAG. However, I am not sure if this should raise a flag since SAG is not a requirement and that Georgia is a “work” state. Any advice?
Thanks!
Hi Jay,
You are right that XCEL is not a SAG-AFTRA franchised agent. It is also not a ATA/NATR agent. This would normally be a huge red flag. Not because of the state laws regarding unions and “right-to-work”, but because those designations are strong signs the agency is legit.
Nevertheless, Xcel appears to be a legit agency based on what I could find. It looks like they entered the talent scene through representing dancers and now are representing actors too. This is all ok.
They are a small agency but that is ok too. If you are new to acting and the talent industry, this agency might be a good place for you to get represented – especially if you are also a dancer.
One warning: This analysis is just my own quick search on XCEL. As with any new “agency”, If they start to ask you for money and hard sell you “their” headshot photographers, “acting lessons”, or “showcases”, walk away.
Hi, I am trying to find out if John Casablanca is a legit agency to get representation from and if you know of any legit agencies located in South Georgia? I am near the Valdosta area.
Laurie,
I recommend you check out First Coast Talent (http://www.firstcoasttalent.com/) if its acting you are looking to be represented for. If it is for modeling, check out Izon Models and Talent (http://www.izonmodels.com/). Those are both legit agencies.
The John Casablanca company seems to be focused on selling model training, not representing models and talent as a primary source of revenue.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Larry thank you for the help and advise!
Hello. I looked on the link you provided but can not seem to find how to search agencies. I live in the tidewater region of virginia.
Lauren,
Sorry the link didn’t work. SAG frequently updates their website.
Here is a link to the document on SAG-AFTRA that lists the agencies in the mid-Atlantic region: http://www.sagaftra.org/files/sag/documents/franchisedagents.pdf
Hope that helps and thanks for stopping by!
Larry
hello I recently heard an advertisement on the radio for an agency looking for kids for tv, singing, modeling etc, I took my daughter down and they loved how she sang, I don’t know if this is a scam and I signed a contract for her but they are requiring $1,900 for a 5 week workshop and said they would be having agents come after the 5 weeks. She’s very excited and I would hate to be wrong and think it is a scam and be wrong and ruin her chances. The auditions were held at a pricey hotel and the workshops are to be there for the next 5 weeks. They also signed my stepdaughter for modelling, I took 4 of my children and they only picked 2.
Jennifer,
Unfortunately, this is not a legit agency you “signed” your girls with. Real talent agencies don’t charge thousands of dollars upfront. Kids especially don’t need pro Headshots upfront, especially super expensive ones. Run away.
Follow my steps for getting into the business starting here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hey Larry,
I just moved to Atlanta from LA so I don’t know too much about the market other than it is growing exponentially. I was offered rep by 2 agencies and wondering if you had an opinion on either. First is Stewart Talent with Christy Clark and 2nd is Real People Models & Talent with Margo Gabriel. I am a SAG member and I know Stewart Talent is SAG/AFTRA franchised but not sure about Real Models. All they said was they can submit me for union and non-union. However, I thought I could only work union but then again I’m from LA so not too familiar with the rules here. Thanks for your help!
Hi Meg!
First, welcome to Atlanta. I think you will find an amazingly welcoming and friendly community within the industry here. We are very tight-knit and look out for each other.
I have a long answer to your question so I will email you directly. The ins and outs of union status in a right-to-work state like Georgia can make the whole issue of being Union a tough decision.
Larry
Dear Larry, I so appreciate your comments. I’ve been offered rep by Real People in Atlanta but am concerned that they are neither SAG franchised or ATA. I’m SAG eligible.
Are they legit? I know someone who’s with them and has never booked a single job!
Perhaps they are primarily for kids since they also run Kiddin’ AroundL
Heather, if you are SAG eligible, I would keep submitting to the agents you know are SAG/AFTRA/ATA. You will likely get picked up by one of them soon. SAG eligible is huge because it means you book work (and Sag work, no less!). That speaks volumes to an agent considering you to be rep’d.
Hello, Thanks for the info. But http://www.talentsoup.com fee is $5.
Milaluv,
Yes, for Pro accounts on TalentSoup, it is $5 a month. For entry accounts, it is free. However, if you have a free account, TalentSoup takes a 20% commission on any job you book through them.
Here it is directly from their site: “*Pro ($5) accounts keep 100% of their rate when booked.
Entry ($0) talent are charged 20% of their fee upon booking.”
I think the Pro Account is the way to go because if you book a $1500 job, you get all of that! If you have an entry account, you only get $1200 (but it cost you 60 months worth of $5 fees). And that is just one booking.
Hope that clarifies things.
Larry
Hi Larry, I recently sent in my sons pictures to Kiddin Around Models and Talent in Atlanta. They called me in to meet him but charged me $35 initially to see my son. A couple days later they said they would love to represent him but I have to attend a mandatory parent seminar called “The Business of the Business” where they will be teaching us how to work in the industry however there is now a $115 charge for this seminar. I have feeling apprehensive about this and unsure what other costs they will spring on me in this process. are they a legit agency? and should I be wary of them? Please help
I should say we are trying to get him into print modeling mainly not acting at this time. He is only 2 years old
Denise,
Your instincts are right. Run away. You’re wasting your money there, in my opinion. First, with a 2 year old, there isn’t a lot of work. There just isn’t. I recommend going to TalentSoup.com and trying their free account. Post some well-lit, home snapshots of him there and see what happens.
Once kids turn 3, the agencies start to consider them for representation. Contact J Pervis Talent or Hot Shot Kids (part of PeopleStore) and ask about their process for submitting kids to be represented.
Also, kids that age change so fast that professional headshots are a waste of money. If anyone tells you otherwise, they are just trying to sell you Headshots.
I hope that helps.
Larry
Hi Larry, just to update, I went with my instincts and did not attend the seminar yesterday evening. I actually called J Pervis Talent and someone there also told me that I should not have to pay upfront for anything. I will wait till he is 3 and try sending his shots out again. Thank you for your recommendations and for solidifying for me that I did not make the wrong move yesterday.
Ustalentsourse is a big ripp off run like hell if u here from them
hi i am jacqueline i went to a modeling/acting place they are charging alot of money it is called one source talent im starting to think it is all just a ig scam
Jacqueline,
One Source Talent is one of those that use the “Talent” title and try to look like a talent agency. But they are not what I recommend for the reason you cited. I would walk away if I were you.
In the words of Obi Wan Kenobi, “your instincts serve you well.”
Larry
Hi!
I went for an open call to Wilhelmina Rochester. And they are legit, but it’s an affiliate, and in this location(rochester) they do charge you for a “pack” which is 2.5 thousand $. What is your opinion for this one?
Vlad,
I’d be highly suspect of a 2.5k price tag. For that, you could get your own Headshots, 6 months of acting classes, and still have at least 1k left over.
WR is a legit agency but if they are asking for fee like that, it sounds like the profitability of charging for “packs” was too tempting for this “affiliate.”
I’d walk away at this point, Vlad.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi, Larry!
I’m 16 years old, and I was looking at trying for J. Pervis in Atlanta or Jana Vandyke Agency in Atlanta. I live in Alabama, so Atlanta is close, but Nashville is closer. So, I was wondering about legit talent agencies in Nashville. I’m a singer/actress and I’ve been thinking about auditioning for The Voice or the X Factor. I know that you’re an actor, but do you have any preference on that as well?
Thank you!
Hi Jessica!
Atlanta is a larger market than Nashville as well as a hub for talent in the SE, so it’s probably better to get rep’d in Atlanta (more auditions). But I would submit to all of them and see what doors open up. Both J Pervis and Jana Van Dyke are legit.
Regarding the reality singing shows, it certainly doesn’t hurt to audition for them and if you make it, great! But they are not really an avenue to get into the entertainment or music industry.
But, I don’t claim to be an expert on the music side. All I know is that who you know in the music industry is essential to success.
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hi I am a 14 year old male … I also have a meeting tomarrow and after reading this I do not think it is real this is the site … Can you check it out and if it is fake can you reply with good agencies in Grand Rapids michigan …thank you 🙂
The name of the site is http://www.talentapplication.com
Harrison,
Thanks for stopping by. The agencies I recommend in the GR area are listed on the SAG/AFTRA website. Use this link (http://www.sagaftra.org/agency-relations/sag-franchised-agents) and then choose Michigan in the drop down box to find the ones near GR.
Regarding talentapplication.com, it says on their site that they are not an agency, just a marketing service that sends your info out to people that they screen. So there’s no way to know who you are actually meeting tomorrow. I don’t know about you, but giving my info to send out to strangers makes me VERY nervous. And I’m sure it would make your parents nervous too. Lastly, this method of finding talent is NOT how the industry works. Huge red flags with this site.
Whatever you do, make sure your parents are involved in the process. Be careful and stick to the known organizations like the ones listed on SAG/AFTRA.
Larry
Thank you so much I was unsure anyways and was not going to go … Thank you so much for helping out . Hopefully soon I will find a real agent
Hello Larry,
I live in the LA county in California.Today I responded to a missed call from an agency I had signed up for online and they told me about potential jobs such as movies and modeling. Then they asked me for a payment of $119.00 for the whole year so that they can represent me and i told them i would call them back because something didn’t seem right about this payment thing. I searched about it online and found you! and thank goodness I did. Well anyways I was wondering if you could recommend some agencies. I have no idea where to start.
Billy,
I’m so glad you found the blog in time! The first step to searching for a legit talent agent or checking if one is legit is to use the SAG/AFTRA agent search tools. The links to these are above in the 1/10/2014 UPDATE just below the original post.
Also, since you live in the LA area, it is essential to follow the Seven Steps (https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps) because you have so many other actors trying for the same agency representation you are. You have got to be competitive and the only way is to work the right process.
Last, a great resource for actors in the LA area is Amy Jo Berman. She has a ton of free videos on Youtube (http://youtu.be/Ficd-bPAvwk) that are tremendously helpful. She knows her stuff and has a heart for helping actors without ripping them off.
Hope that helps and all the best in your career.
Larry
Larry, I feel sick. I wish I had found your site yesterday (before I dropped $4,500) on a talent development agency for my daughter. I’m in Kansas City and heard a radio ad for a talent company hosting auditions. The company was called Talent Development USA. I took my 5 yr old daughter because we had nothing else to do that day and I was kind of curious. (My wife and I always thought our daughter was a little actress but we had never planned on taking any action in that direction – yet here was a seemingly innocuous opportunity to look into it.)
I called the number from the radio ad and agreed to go to one of the 2 hr meetings the following day. They sent me an informational email with a few commercial scripts to practice before the audition. There was also a website (talentdevelopmentusa.com which redirected me to latalentshowcase.com) where I could see some of their success stories. I combed the site pretty well, watched some of the videos they had posted, saw all the agents and directors they were going to put my kid in front of, and It all looked pretty legit to me – not knowing anything about how the industry worked.
After the first informational meeting they explained that they wanted to get our kids in front of LA agents and casting directors. And if our kid was selected to go to LA for this showcase event we’d need to take classes to prepare in advance. Again, this made sense to me.
After the 2 hr long presentation each of us got to spend about 1 minute talking to the head talent scout “Monique” (no last name), where she asked if we could afford any of the packages they had listed. They ranged from $1,000 to $7,000. I said we could and then she asked my daughter to repeat a line and make some faces and she seemed genuinely pleased with her. She then had us go into another room where another lady was video taping people saying the lines they had memorized from the night before. My daughter did her lines and we went home with instructions to wait by the phone for a call.
When we got the call she said my daughter was one of the 20 or so that were selected to go to LA. We just needed to come in to talk money and sign the papers. Keep in mind this whole time, ever since I got their email and website, little red flags were going up in my head. But because of the story, the number of people involved, the money spent on radio ads, websites, rented conference rooms, number of people in attendance, and grandeur of the whole production I was able to justify those worries and be persuaded it was legit. But after signing the papers and forking over the money I had enough of a bad feeling about it that I started to dig a little deeper. Now I’m almost certain it’s a scam.
I believe they actually give courses in auditioning and acting and photo modeling, etc. And I’m pretty sure there’s still a trip to Hollywood where they get up and audition in front of a large room of people. So technically they’re not lying about any of that. But now I’m starting to think that the “casting directors and “agents” in that room can’t really do what they claim they can. And the more I look into it, the more I realize the money I just spent was completely wasted.
My question for you is, what can I do about it now? I’ve already written their head office (in New Mexico) asking to cancel my contract and for them to refund my money (all but the $1000 non-refundable registration fee) in accordance with the contract I signed. I’ve come across one or two stories online where people haven’t been able to get their refund or receive any communication back whatsoever. What happens if I can’t get my money back? How do I alert others to the idea that this company is not legit?
I feel ashamed and physically sick with myself for letting them take advantage of me. Normally I’m much more skeptical and cautious. Is there any way I can turn this around and make the best out of the situation? Do I ride it out and hope it’s not as bad as I think it is. Can I alert the media and BBB and try to get them shut down? Or do I just have to chalk this up to a terribly expensive lesson? Any advice you can give would be much appreciated.
Thanks, Dylan
Dylan,
I was so saddened to read your story. My blog is trying to prevent exactly what happened to you.
First, don’t feel stupid or guilty. These people are professionals in what they do and have developed a sales method that is precision. It gets you to dismiss those red flags and sells even the smartest people because they know the psychological buttons to push.
Second, I think the steps you’ve taken to recover the money are the right ones. These contracts that you sign don’t often allow for refunds (I know you mentioned a $1000 non-refundable registration fee, ugh!). Hopefully they will voluntarily give you the rest back. They often do because they want to avoid trouble with states Attorneys General and the FTC.
If they don’t refund the money according to the terms of the contract, you should definitely file a complaint with the FTC (http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0341-file-complaint-ftc) and with your and the NM Attorneys General. Let the company know you are filing a complaint against them. That might get them to move.
Again, so sorry this happened and I hope you are able to recovery the money.
Also, here’s the article from the FTC about these kinds of operations.
http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0071-look-out-modeling-scams
Glad you found the site and hopefully this is some help.
Larry
Thanks so much Larry. Sorry for the long post… it got away from me. The advice you gave and links you provided are exactly what I needed to help put my mind at ease. Again, I really appreciate it.
Dylan
Id also make complaint to the BBB so others can look there too
Dylan,
I read your post above. I have to say that Talent Development USA is a VERY legit company. They do bring in top casting directors, managers and agents to the showcase to see the talent. Agents and manager do sign kids from these events and begin relationships with important casting directors. When you sign up to be a part of this, it is not guaranteed. It all depends on your child’s abilities. You are paying for the opportunity to be seen in front of these top industry people. Many of the talent do move forward in their career because of exposure and opportunities at Talent Development USA Showcases. – Wendy Alane Wright Talent Manager WAW Entertainment, Los Angeles.
Wendy, thanks for your comment. What percent of the talent that have gone through Talent Development get signed by agents and have booked union work?
Hi Larry, somehow I stumbled back by here! I would say over 1/4 of the talent seen in those rooms are good enough to progress at that time. The rest are not ready to work on a professional level. I feel any showcase that is charging thousands of dollars is over charging parents.
Legit acting classes range from $250-$500 a month depending on how many times a week class meets. Good Headshots are $250-$400 and most showcase companies arrange awful headshots.
Thanks, Wendy! I completely agree. You can’t rush the process like these companies try to do. Legit classes can be found even cheaper than that in many instances, too. At least that’s the case in my market (Atlanta).
Larry
Those are ridiculous amounts of money! No one should charge such fees. Even if they are legit, you pay such high fees in order to have a small small percentage of a chance. No one should have to pay that much.
I am so glad I did some research today and found this site. Dylan, I just took my daughter yesterday to an audition with the Talent Development USA / LA Showcase. It is literally word for word what you described all the way to Monique asking her to make some silly faces and repeat a line. She said she wanted to get her on camera and I was supposed to call today to see if she has a callback, I’m not even going to bother. Should have known in the beginning that this was a scam but like you said, they make you feel like they are all legit right down to the commercials on the radio enticing you by saying they scout for Nickelodeon and Disney. Don’t get me wrong, I am sure they have had success stories, but I think paying up to $5,000 for “talent development” for a 4 year old is a little ridiculous. I’m not going to call them back.
Amber, it is ridiculous. Glad you found the site! Thanks for your comment.
-Larry
Larry,
I noticed your from the Atlanta area and was looking to start my 15 month son into modeling the agency’s I’ve noticed on this site does not take children 4 or under. I was wondering if you knew of any that are legit that do? Also I was looking into William Reynolds agency are they legit ? http://www.williamreynoldsagency.com
Thank you so much for your time 🙂
Chris
Hi Chris,
First, regarding William Reynolds Agency, I have not heard great things about them. While they are not a scam (to my knowledge), I am not a fan.
Regarding your son, baby and toddler modeling is a rare occasion here in Atlanta. You are certainly welcome to contact some legit agencies here and see how they respond. The issue is that the jobs are not very frequent here in Atlanta and a child’s face changes so fast at those ages, the talent they used 6 months ago can’t be used today.
So, I would recommend taking some well-lit snapshots of your boy and get a free account on Talentsoup.com. That way, you can give it a try and see what turns up as far as his look right now. Of course, you’ll have to frequently update those snapshots as he grows. Once he turns 3, you can start talking to agencies again for representation.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Thank you for your advice!
Definitely helps out alot. 🙂
Hello! I was wondering if you have ever heard of Pro model and talent management located in akron/fairlawn ohio?
No I haven’t Natasha. Check the sag/AFTRA link I provide above and see if you find them there. If not, beware.
Hello Larry.
I just auditioned and received a callback from AMTC. The next step is to pay $4, 495. After reading this, and a few other articles, I don’t believe I’ll be doing so.
I also went ahead and used the link you provided to find credited agents in my area. Thank you very much for that!
However, I quickly learned that all those agencies are mainly for acting and modeling. I was wondering if you would be able to help direct me to any credited Music agencies? I tried out for AMTC for acting but mainly for vocal talent. I have been having a very hard time finding any in the Dallas-Ft. Worth area.
Thank you for Any help or advise that you may be able to provide.
Nadia.
Glad you were able to avoid them, Nadia. For music, it is a totally different industry and you need to find a successful singer or producer in your area for advice. I am not familiar with the music industry and only know that you don’t get into that via acting agencies.
Thank you. I appreciate your input.
Hello Larry,
I noticed you stated The Williams Reynolds Agency is not a scam but you do not recommend them. Can you elaborate? I took my 13 year old daughter to an interview and told them I would contact them after I made the decision to pay for the pictures (he is paying the photographer but I have to pay for the prints). I would love to hear additional feedback on your experience with them.
Thanks
Angel,
All I’ll say is that WRA doesn’t have the best reputation in Atlanta. But here are two other points to consider:
First, 13y/o girls change VERY quickly, so the use of those photos will be very short lived. The cost for prints should be no more than $100. That’s because you don’t need that many in today’s digital casting world. Second, 13 is a very hard age to start with an agent. The reason is, it is not that hard to find an 18y/o that looks 13 but don’t come with the issues that casting kids does (parents, special work requirements, etc). As a result, it is crazy hard (and rare) for a minor teenager to book roles.
If I were you, I’d get your daughter into local theater/independent films and acting classes and prep her for entering the industry with a good resume full of local theater and indy film credits. Then when she’s 18, she’ll be ready to sign with an agent. That’s when to get pro Headshots done.
Just my opinion and I hope that helps.
Larry
Thanks for the feedback Larry! It really helped – we are going to take classes first to see if it’s REALLY something she wants to do before forking over any money.
I have a friend that is represented by East Coast Talent – have you heard of them?
Also – I was looking online and we found a bunch of different schools. What is a decent cost to pay for classes?
Thanks again for all of your help!
Angel
Hi Larry,
i should it read your article yesterday, i signed a contract for $1295.00 dollars to this people from the talent development usa. my daughter and I meet them at the Austin double tree hotel. We drove from Corpus Christi texas, to Austin. The lady who was in charge her name is Alison she said to be from New York, she asked me right away from the money, and told us after contract gets done that somebody else will tell us more about the orientation and workshops and they will work out with us with the days of the classes since we live in Corpus Christi which she didn’t know how far was Corpus Christi from Austin Texas, she said since she is from NY she is not familiar with Texas, when they supposed to be everywhere in towns trying to help children with talents. I found that kind of cheesy! Any way I kept asking her if this was a scam, she said No and they been a business for over many years blah blah, anyway, later she took us to the next room and talked to this guy name Taylor, He again was nice but again i had already made my payment and signed a contract, I asked the lady Alison if she had a business card, which she didn’t. I should it walk away, but they seemed very good about it and they are the right people to guide kids with talents. Well today Taylor was supposed to called me to give me information about the orientation which he wanted us to skype since he said lots of kids were from all over Texas, which didn’t make sense what the lady Alison responds, Well today since i haven’t hear from him, I called him the number was in his business card and his voice mail says if full so i couldn’t leave a message, and sent him an email and i got back in returned email address doesn’t exist. I Can’t believe they pick us to scam us… And what are they teaching to the youngesters nothing but play wrong to others.
Marlen,
I would call your bank and put a stop payment on that check. Hopefully they haven’t been able to cash it yet.
Sorry that happened to you. Glad you found the blog. I hope it was in time for you to stop that payment.
Larry
Hello readers! I’m a reporter working on a story about AMTC, and would love to chat with anyone who has experience with this company. If you have a brief moment, please email kelseykloss@yahoo.com. Thank you!!
Thanks for stopping by, Kelsey! I hope some of my readers respond to your request. And could you post a link to the article here when it is finished? I’d love to read it and I’m sure many of my readers would too. Thanks!! -Larry
I appreciate this page and all of the comments. my son and I had a scheduled I thrives with LA Talent Showcase, which I would have tried to rearrange my schedule or call in for the day. I am so glad I found you before I did that. Both http://www.latalentshowcase.com and http://www.talentdevelopmentusa.com have the same success stories, are located at the same address in NM, and have the same “About Us” page. I am so glad I did some research!
So glad you found the page, Michelle. All the best! -Larry
I have a 7 year old daughter who wants to get into acting (might i add she has an amazing personality and sense of humor) I was almost scammed. Do you know of any legit agencies here in Phoenix, AZ to represent her.
Thank you
Angelica
Angelica,
Here are a couple that are legit. Call and see what their instructions are for considering kids for representation.
Leighton Agency, Inc
10049 EAST DYNAMITE BLVD SUITE #D125 SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85262
480-704-8800
Signature Models & Talent
5743 E THOMAS ROAD STE 1 SCOTTSDALE, AZ 85251
480-966-1102
Hi, Larry do you know anything about Step3 Model and Talent Agency in Williamsburg Va. My daughter has an interview with them on Thursday and they asked for 50.00 to know she is serious.
Hi Brenda. I haven’t heard of them, but if they are asking for money upfront, run away!
What they are really want to know is “Are you serious about giving us your money?” Their “if she is serious” nonsense is just an emotional ploy to get you to ignore the glaring red flags you know are there.
They don’t ask for $50 just to “know that you’re serious”, Larry. The $50 fee is a no-call, no-show fee that is charged, should the potential talent not show up.
And it’s a ridiculous fee, Tee. Real agencies don’t do that. It’s just one more red flag for me to highlight. Run away from the companies that charge these fees!!
Larry (and people writing about step 3) … If you read through all of Larry’s posts (quite a bit!) You will see that they have tricked somebody once again. I have many friends who were ‘affiliated’ with them, and I was closely duped. Someone quickly stood up for them more than once on this blog. I am calling 100% bullshit, from personal experience. They ARE NOT legit and DO NOT produce jobs for talent. They dont need their 20% commision on a few $100 job … THEYLL TAKE SEVERAL THOUSAND FOR A PROFESSIONAL ‘S’ card … aka a comp card … of which are of POOR QUALITY. They tell you to bring your whole wardrobe(yes), their ‘master scouter’ picks out what you should wear. You come back and they have their own makeup artist and photographer (one of the agents boyfriends!) And you shoot in their glamorous basement!! All in all … the staff is simply living off the money that people are dropping in their laps on the daily. They have supposedly opened an office in vietnam and oh, dont get me started on ‘international fashion week’ … just check out step3mt.com …. oh and by the way, only 2 of the faces listed as their talent are actually ‘theirs’ and one is the head agent/scout herself … if that doesnt prove my point!
So … Larry … WHAT DO WE DO TO PUT THEM OUT OF BUSINESS?
Keep on telling your story. You also have the option of filing complaints with the Federal Trade Commission (http://www.ftc.gov/complaint), the BBB, and your state’s Attorney General. Your single complaint won’t necessarily put them out of business, but enough of them might in time.
Hi Larry,
I recently submitted my information to a bunch of talent agencies because I want to do print modeling magazine and some acting. I got a call back from About faces Models and Talent in Atlanta Georgia. I just went to the interview and for 33 hours of acting (15 weeks) and professional head shots it will be $1825. They also offer $800 down and $30/wk until the classes are done. This is more of a modeling agency, but they are also doing acting now that the movie business has come to Atlanta. Do you think it is a legit agency. They have been around for 20+ years.
I have an 9 year old daughter that is interested in acting/modeling. She has the personality for it and as reluctant as I am to look into it I want to at least do some research to see what our options are. We are in the Kansas City area (Kansas side). Do you have an good resources or know of agencies in the area I could look into? Thanks in advance for you help!
Hi Amy. Go to this website and search for your area (Missouri Valley in the drop down). http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/aftra-franchised-agents
These are the only agents in your area that are legit. Find a couple that are close and call them and ask what their process is for kid submissions.
I’m sure your photos of her will blow them away! Hope that helps!
Larry
Thank you so much for taking time to reply & bonus for the compliment.
So this management company “official glam girls” offered me a contract promising photos, submissions for auditions, reality tv castings, 3 published magazine features, branding, development. .. to be seen, get known , stay relevant is their slogan.. all for $1500… they will accept a payment plan split in three payments at the most. No development will begin until payment is received in full… the owner is mike styles.. who has a few other casting companies and photography company. Says he has a hood relationship with a lot o f big names in the industry. .. I never paid him because I didnt have the money.. but I wonder if I ever did was it legit and do they really turn their girls into stars? Is thst too much? And whats the difference between a model agency and a ma management company? Dont agencies provide you with a manager? Or just strictly book jobs?
I would walk away. Agencies don’t provide you with a manager and typically, management companies are for established talent, not people new to the industry. But, like legit talent agencies, legit management companies get paid a commission after you book a job. So if they are asking for cash up front, run!
I’m 17 and I just did an audition with a company called Preview Models. They said they would call back those tomorrow to see more of them and if they want to work with us, then we will have to be ready to I guess “sign up” then. I heard about them online and they seemed alright. They were saying that if we are accepted then we will get to go to Hollywood for a production with them and we will be able to meet celebrities like Chanel west coast, and a few more. They said there would also be multiple agencies there so we would maybe get noticed. Those who make it need to spend about $1500 for the stuff to get there. I haven’t seen anything on preview models before so I would like to know what’s up. I have a callback tomorrow but I’ve been reading about them and idk. I’m skeptical. Your site seems very beneficial so if you could reply with what you might know about them, or if you could help me out that’d be great.
I’m not familiar with that particular company, but it sounds like the rest of them that I warn about. The promises of being in a production are false. What they are referring to is a “showcase” where they have you perform in front of people they say are influential. All of it usually results in nothing for the talent. I’d walk away.
Dear Larry
i live in the United Arab Emirates and an agency came called the CELEBRITY EXPERIENCE. they arrived today and explained that they wanted to look for talent with regards to disney. they even showed us disney actors talking about celebrity experience like Adriane R’mante and Debby Ryan and Phil Lewis. and we had a guest celebrity show up called Jonathan gold stein from drake and josh and some work on the walking dead. and he told us what to do in an audition. now when i did my part i fumbled on a word or two but then got back my composure. they said they’d call if i landed the audition to spend 6 days with disney celebs in universal studios and they did call me back knowing that i fumbled which is a tad bit odd. so i got the call back by the american lady called Merrik a big time talent scount agent who found BEX from scream and arrow. i forgot her last name. but she said to come tomorrow to decide what program to choose ranging from $220-$15000. now i clearly know you dont pay for an agency upfront but since a legit american actor came from america and stood before me and talked along with a video of other well known actors standing in front of the CELEBRITY EXPERIENCE boards doesn’t that seem real. i’d hate to think so many of my favorite disney actors are scamming us. please please reply. tomorrow my mother and i are going to go see what they require of us but worry not we wont pay a single DHM but we want to find out if they are credible or not but can you also kindly help me it would really help me reduce my stress. please please please check if its a scam. thank you ever so much and god bless.
I have no idea how the industry is in UAE, but it sounds like the typical ripoff to me.
Hi Larry, my name is Sofia. I live in Los Angeles and I am 16 years old. I am an aspiring actress and I am not sure how to contact agencies in my area, or what standard protocol would be towards that. I have many talents such as swimming, diving, and speaking a multitude of languages, but no one seems to care to. I just don’t know what to do. I haven’t gotten work ever because all these scams keep approaching me.
Hi Sofia!
It’s sounds like you are just getting started, so there’s a lot to do and learn, especially in LA. I recommend you start with reading my Seven Steps posts which start here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Regarding getting an agent, it might be premature for that unless you have a resume full of on-camera work (see the seven steps for getting that experience without an agent). As far as their protocols, each have different quirks to how to submit, so after you’ve found the legit agencies, check out their website or call them for the procedure for submitting.
Hope that helps! Oh, since you’re 16, be sure to get your parent’s/guardian’s agreement & support as you do this adventure. It will be critical!
Hi,
I am from Atlanta. I met someone on perimeter mall and they signed me something and I end up meeting a modeling and acting agency name italent.com (http://italent.com). They ask money for the photo-shoot (headshot and make composite card) of my 7 year old daughter on sunday and I picked their lowest package which is $795 then I talked with the senior director and down the payment of $595 and said I can make monthly payment for the photoshoot as I asked. I already paid $50 upfront. The lady(director) I met , force me to pay and I don’t like that. Can you please check they are scam or real company please.
Annette,
I think you’ve already found out your answer. If they haven’t done the photo shoot yet, ask for your money back. I’m not sure what you signed, but you might be on the hook for the whole amount.
Tell them you will file a complaint with the FTC, the attorney general of GA, and the Better Business Bureau if you don’t receive a refund. As I say in my article, talent agencies DO NOT scout for talent at malls or theme parks. Run away from those people that do.
Hope that helps!
Larry
Thank u so very much. Thank god i found you. We have doubt first, then we trust them but then we think to take a little more time to check them that they are real. That is why iI I change my photoshoot shedule to next sunday. Thank you that save me and my money. And guess what, we already talked with them about scamming! Can’t thank you enough. God bless.
Hey Larry! I’m an aspiring young actress here in the LA area, and as you know being in the hub of the film industry, there are many scams out here. So many in fact, that its almost impossible to weed through them and find the real agents out there! I was wondering if you could give me any real agents contact info or how I can go about finding them in this area. That’d be so appreciated!!
I almost signed up with AMTC this last weekend, but in my head I knew the money amount was just too much for me. However, like in your article, I was scared that I’d miss out on my only opportunity and that if I don’t pay the money I might not get the opportunity to meet with real agents at all ever again! Reading your article really helped me and gave me encouragement that going through something like AMTC is not the ONLY option. I’m still trying to decide on if I should do it or not… but after seeing what you said I’m thinking I shouldn’t! Thank you again for this eye-opening read, look forward to hearing from you soon. 🙂
Lynn,
I would avoid them for sure! Here’s the link to search for legit agents on the SAG-AFTRA website (http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents). Go there and use the search function at the bottom of that page. As you would expect, there are A LOT!
As far as getting started in the industry, I recommend following my 7 steps (https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/).
Hope that helps!
Larry
These people call themselves model and talent I’m a little skeptic about it they did not ask for any upfront fees or anything the only site there is this http://modelandtalent.tv/login I’m trying to see if theyre legit
Stephen,
It’s hard to tell with that little information (like location). Ripoff companies don’t always ask for money right away, but they eventually will when they hand you something to sign.
Here’s the link to search for legit agents on the SAG-AFTRA website (http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents). Go there and use the search function at the bottom of that page.
As far as getting started in the industry, I recommend following my 7 steps (https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/).
Hope that helps!
Larry
Also they advertised on the radio too as well
Yeah, then it is definitely not an organization you want to engage. Real talent agents don’t advertise on radio.
Hi Larry ,
So glad i found you page I just got of the phone with One Stop in ATL. Based on your feedabck I will skip the appt I have with them tmrw. Thank yo so much 🙂
You’re so welcome. Glad you found the blog!
Hey Larry , I want to become an actor but have no experience but I think I have what it take , what can I do to see if I can act? Also do you know any legit agencies in Oklahoma city?
Armando,
You’re going to want to follow my Seven Steps to get started (www.actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps). After you get some experience, you can start submitting to agencies.
-Larry
Hey Larry do you think this place is good to get some experience. ? (www.actorfactory.net)
Armando,
Yes it appears to be a great place to get some training. While I do not have personal experience with The Actor Factory, based on their website they appear to be a legit training center that is reasonably priced and has solid training programs. They even have a “Scams” link on their website that shares many of the same tips as my blog.
Let me know how your experience is there if you decide to use them.
Larry
Hi
Have you heard of Model and Talent. Sounds like one of the scam groups you talk about.
Bill, I have heard of “Model and Talent” and do not recommend them. With such a generic name, though, it’s hard to be sure it’s the same company. But if it looks and smells like a skunk, it probably is. Hope that helps. -Larry
Unfortunately me(aspiring teen model and singer) and my mother fell into a scam Barbizon of Hollywood did teach me some skills but they were INCREADIBLY unorganized and at times unprofessional very few teachers knew what they were doing. I feel like we wasted a lot of money and time.ESPECIALLY after they reeled us into doing Hollywood Showcase. they make it seam like its close to impossible to not find an agent once going through the full showcase that included runway, singing, commercials, and monologues. IM NOT TRYING TO SOUND CONCIDED but I am a tall, skinny, mixed race girl with long curly hair that I cant go a day without getting one complement about. I got so many complements and kind words saying that there was no doubt I would be recognized by the modeling agencies at the showcase and I didn’t get anyyyy call backs! they make a big deal about how important it is but you get to go to open calls either way. even when I get the chance to talk to the “agents” personally they took my headshots and said IF they are interested they will call me in two weeks. it has been two months. i met some wonderful people through it but i wish i didn’t have to be robed at the same time. Im from LA so i know surrounded by the industry and can simply go to FREE open calls(my mother doesn’t believe it) but i feel bad for the talent who travel all the way to LA from all over the country and have to pay even more money and might walk away empty handed
Glad the blog was helpful! Models need to be at least 5’8″ to be considered no matter how pretty they are. If you are not 5’8″ that may be why you didn’t get call backs. But you can do acting. Follow my Seven steps to get started: http://www.actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
hey i answered an ad from craiglist about a waner bros casting and i met with a guy and and i did a reading for him that he wanted me to read. he didn’t ask for money but he did say my headshots are not legit and i need it to be done professionally. so he referred me to this lady in broklyn and its gonna cost me 100$ cuz I’m getting a discount. And he gave me a script to memorize
Run away from these people now. Agents and casting directors NEVER post castings on Craiglist. It’s a con and is extremely dangerous for you. Don’t have any more contact with them, period.
Hi Larry, I’m 15 and I’ve been looking in to find the real and rip off agency differences, And I’ve finally got it down path, but I was wondering if you could please help me with acting headshots. I cant find any great photographers to take my head shots. I live near Atlanta so that’s the location I need it to be in. Do you know any great people to take my headshots??
Hi Larry, Do you know any good headshot photographers in Atlanta??,I’ve been trying to find one please thanks
Absolutely Austin! Tracy Page at Babycake Studios is awesome and has competitive prices. http://www.babycakestudios.com/
Let her know I referred you. I don’t make any money from referrals, I only refer to companies that are excellent in their craft and priced properly. Tracy is definitely one of those people.
What are thoughts on Kids International Talet Agency In Maryland? Iv’e read in different post that they charged a fee. Any insight into this company?
Hi Lee. Kids International is a legit agency and are a SAG Franchised agency. This means they abide by SAG rules and don’t charge talent up front. You can submit to them by following the instructions on this page: http://www.kidsinternationaltalentagency.com/contactus.php
Hope that helps and thanks for stopping by!!
Larry
Larry:
I’d love to get your opinion on Stewart Talent. Would you recommend signing with them?
Thanks!
A,
Yes I would. I’ve met a few other actors from Stewart, and while their Atlanta office is newer (they have Chicago and NY offices as well), they are a legit agency.
Larry
Hi my daughter went to Disney premiere and did a slogan ins Saturday .we got a call back Sunday to do a one on one with Michael David ,CEO from premiere and he told her she mad it trough to go to Disney premier in Florida . We have to pay for everything trip there ,food,hotel,and for dru west to be her agent through face time till December . Is this a scam??
Pamela,
I guess my question for you is what are you trying to achieve for your daughter? If it is to get into the acting industry, then my opinion is that the event is a colossal waste of money – money that could better be spent on actually developing your daughter as an actor and getting her into the actual acting industry, not David Michael’s industry. Also, I’m not sure what is meant by “to be her agent through facetime through December”. Agents don’t work that way.
By David’s own admission and video (https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=4KuB6M2R5cE) he provides an “experience”. And that’s all that trip will likely be. It will not get your daughter represented by a legit talent agency. And even if it does, it is an immensely expensive way to do it. Bottom line, it is not necessary to send your daughter there to get her started in acting.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello,
I recently got an audition with a company called talent development usa, but im not sure if they are legit or not. Please help, this is their website.
http://www.talentdevelopmentusa.com
Estefany,
Know that they are not a talent agency (and don’t claim to be). They seem to offer classes and “development”.
Whether you want to pay their fees for those classes is up to you. They don’t list their fees on their website which is a little suspect (I.e. Likely very high – >$500 upfront).
If they approached you in a mall or you responded to an ad (billboard, craigslist, etc.) for this audition, I would avoid it.
If you do go, be wise and willing to walk away – especially if you’re feeling pressured. And remember that “talent development” companies don’t get you an agent or real auditions.
Last, reputable acting schools list their fees on their website and are upfront about what they are. The ones that “showcase” and have “success stories” are almost always the ones to avoid.
Hope that helps!
Larry
I’m a mother of an 11 years old who loves to act and sing. The addition was held in Maryland today they were looking for talents who wanted to be in the Disney show and other channels. My daughter has never had any acting experience but she read a 3 lines sentence about Post Raisin Bran cereal. The company was called model and talent . Their website is modelandtalent.tv please let me know if it’s a real deal or not because in their boooklet show a amount of $1900 for 3 months be in a private website where agencies will see your profile and you will call you to book casting or a job. And $5900 for 9 months to be in their website…. I really don’t know what to do…
Run away from them! Take some good pics and send them to a legit talent agency.
Thank you… Actually I did not take my daughter to the second round because I saw it was something wrong after I read your posts.
Run as fast as you can away from those people. See the other stories about these people in the comments above.
Hi Larry! I am a 20 year old female, I love acting. Do you know of ANY legit acting agencies around Colorado? Thanks!
Ashley,
Here are two in CO:
Baldwin Talent
Full Service (All Ages)
2237 WEST 30TH AVENUE DENVER, CO 80211
303-561-1199
Mattas Talent Agency
Full Service (All Ages)
1026 W. COLORADO AVENUE COLORADO SPRINGS, CO 80904
719-577-4704
Hope that helps!
-Larry
can you please check the above website? i just wonder if Steve Dutton is a legit talent scout? i just read review about this guy in http://www.complaints.com/directory/2005/november/29/18.htm
i took my daughter went for screen test two days ago in ontario, canada. we know it from the local news paper adv. which now i doubt after i read your tips. i got phone call today from him saying that he wants to take photo shoot of my daughter this coming saturday.
should i go or not? coz i have doubt in my mind after reading your article and also complaints from some people i read in the internet. although mr. steve made replies to all the complains.
looking forward to your advice asap.
thanks.
Never heard of him and his website is does appear to have some red flags. He is not a talent agent.
sorry i mean this website http://www.castingconnectionscouting.com
We just went to an audition with our child in Denver (Double Tree hotel) on Saturday. Advertised as described several times here. The ‘boss’ was Gloria Gloria Giacomoni. The thing was called model and talent “http://www.modelandtalent.tv/login”. The same thing as mentioned here on day one : very psychologically guided presentation (which made me very nervous). Then call back Saturday night that my child got selected. Should bring more stuff and ..don’t forget the credit card ? (that was like a sharp pain in my frontal lobe). I said what would be the price ? She said: Did you not read the booklet ? I said oh, you mean the two options 2000 vs 9000 ? Well, she never really confirmed anything. She was talking about national vs regional platform and about unrealistic salaries my kid would make…..anyhow I guess I do not have to feel bad if I never tell my child that she called back……
I have to comment on that just to show people the link:
http://www.auditionsfree.com/about/child-acting-scams/
From that site:
Hi Saddened Dad! I feel your pain. We just fell victim to this company this past Saturday. Unfortunately they’ve changed their name from “Casting Hub” to “model and talent” so all scam warnings didn’t come up on the Google search. Friday, our 9 year old daughter heard their add on the radio and called with our permission. Like you, we bought into the short haired lady’s authoritative speech and felt like we’d be holding our kid back by not taking advantage of her offer. Dan Benson (Zeke Beakerman from Wizards of Waverly Place) was also at our seminar. His performance was so engaging. I was just as entertained by him as every kid there. We happened to come across him in the hotel lobby on our way out of the audition. Our daughter wanted to meet him so we went and talked to him. He congratulated her on her first audition and took a picture with her. Afterward we uploaded it on Instagram and tagged him in it. (His username was conveniently plugged after his exciting performance.) To our surprise, he reposted it on his Instagram and Twitter. Our daughter got many followers because of it. Cool beans! We were so blinded by an actual Disney actor’s presence at the seminar and his sweet and encouraging interaction with our daughter that we didn’t even think to suspect the legitimacy of this company. Why would a famous actor link himself with a company that fuels itself off of children’s dreams and doesn’t follow through with it’s promises?
Duped. We got a callback (which was actually just a text) at 10:50pm Saturday night. We were so excited and immediately got ready for our early morning appointment the next day. Their late night notification did exactly as they planned. It left us little time to question anything. We went the next morning to the audition and our daughter diligently practiced the new script. Our judge, Jonathan, applauded her abilities and complemented the photographs we brought in. We were assured that our daughter would begin booking auditions the next week. Fortunately, we couldn’t afford to invest as much as many others have lost – but we would have had we been able. We were also offered a 50% sponsorship for the $2900 six month membership if we paid the same day. We’d already been considering that membership so we jumped at the opportunity to save so much money but still couldn’t afford to put down the full cost that day. They let us make the first month payment of $833 and were going to let us pay the remaining balance two days later when my husband’s paycheck came in. We left excited about our daughter’s future and couldn’t wait to see her dreams come true.
Sunday night we began going through the packet they gave us. We knew we wouldn’t have access to the website until later that week but we figured we’d still be able to Google and find some of the actors and models that had been successful with “model and talent” bookings. That’s when the new name comes into play. You can’t Google “model and talent” (their all lowercase name) without pulling up thousands of companies and agencies in the business. We jokingly thought “what if we got scammed” and searched for casting audition scams. That’s when we found many warnings about a company called Castinghub. We started reading the stories and discovered how similar their audition process was to what we’d been a part of. We got scared. I sent Dan Benson a direct message on Instagram asking him to verify that “model and talent” was a legit business. While waiting and hoping for a reply we kept searching. The social media sites listed on the back of the brochure don’t exist. We checked our bank account and saw the charge of $833 for MAT Entertainment, Inc. We knew that if they were actually incorporated we’d be able to find them listed. Sure enough, they were. Also listed was every other name their business goes by, “Castinghub” included. We were devastated. Two hours after I sent my message, Dan replied saying “I would spend my money elsewhere.” He knew!! We found many horror stories of the Castinghub auditions that included appearances by him and Matthew Underwood (Logan Reese from Zoey 101). It was too late. We immediately called our bank and changed our cards so they couldn’t process the remaining $617. Since we never actually received the sponsorship we figured that it would null and void the waiver. We called and emailed every contact we had for them and sent the cancellation agreement. No response for two days. After the final payment wouldn’t process on the card they had on file they called to verify our information. We tried in vain to get our payment back since we were cancelling before the three day deadline but they were unrelenting. When speaking to the customer service representatives it was clear that they had been trained to respond to unhappy customers. When my husband calmly claimed that they had conned him into signing this form, the rep robotically replied “Due to the harassing nature of this phone call I’m going to get off the line” twice (weird) and clicked off. The money we lost was a big hit for us but more than that, we had to sit our daughter down and explain to her that all the hard work she put into her auditions this past weekend was a waste and that a Disney actor she admired, knowingly took part in luring her into a trap that wouldn’t bring the results promised. A model\judge sat in front of my 9 year old kid – asked her what her dreams were and claimed they’d be coming true the following week. DISGUSTING!
We found out that they are doing another casting call on September 6, 2014 at the Jacksonville, Marriott in Jacksonville, Florida at 11:30 am. We contacted 11Alive to try and get them to cover the scam so others wouldn’t be victims. They said that they were aware of this company and that they get reports of them every time they come to town. Because of the elaborate nature of the companies scheme they think it would take a lot investigating to prove that they are doing something illegal. Their business practice is unethical and their product is a ripoff to be sure but if they can’t prove it they could get sued for talking about it. Hopefully, they will decide it’s big enough to investigate soon. It’s so discouraging and I feel helpless not being able to do something to prevent others from being victims. I hope replying to this will at least let help “model and talent” to come up in a search other parent’s make. I honestly don’t know how these people live with themselves after manipulating hundreds of children into believing their dreams are about to come true.
Thanks for sharing your story, Tobias. So sorry you went through that. Hopefully your experience you chronicled here will help many others. Thanks!
Larry
Thank you….This does help us a great deal as it seems like we might have been part of a similar scenario.
Glad it helped, Tom! Thanks for stopping by!
I so agree with your statement “I honestly don’t know how these people live with themselves after manipulating hundreds of children into believing their dreams are about to come true.” We went to a casting call yesterday, had a call back last night but chose not to go today due to all the research I did on-line including all these posts. Thank you for sharing your story!!! Now I just have a sad 10-year old granddaughter because she thought she could have her dreams come true of being on Disney Channel. And a Very Angry grandma! The hardest part was having to tell her that the adults (including the Disney star) were all part of a scam. Does a 10-year old need to hear that at such a young age? I applauded her for her success at memorizing her lines for the commercial, at singing for the “talent scout”, and just putting herself out there. I told her that I would help her with making her dreams come true but that we should spend our money on a photographer of our choice, theater groups, classes, etc. Hard lesson for a youngster but I was very proud of her yesterday and told her so. Thanks again for all these posts to prevent us from throwing away our money and ultimately dashing her dreams.
Diane,
It is a sad and frustrating thing. Glad you were there to protect your her. Way to go grandma!
-Larry
Thank you so much for sharing your story. My 8 year old son just had an audition today at the Sheraton Resort, where we also met Dan Benson. Tonight, I received the same text message for a second audition and reminding me to go over my booklet, prepare myself in making a commitment financially. If my son makes his second audition I would immediately sign that day with company and choose type of “marketing”, “professional or career” ranging from ($1950-$7900)!!!! After contemplating I decided to look online and now am even more convinced this is a scam! Like you, very disappointed these people make a living giving false hope to children! Luckily for me my son doesn’t really care either way. I’m so sorry this happened to you. I almost want to text them back and tell them to shove it.
Glad the stories here helped! Thanks for your comment!!
this is to support and confirm the scam:
http://www.auditionsfree.com/about/child-acting-scams/
Hello Larry,
This morning I had an “evaluation” as they called it with kidding around modeling agency in Atlanta on Defoor ave. I sent in 2 4’6 photos of my son they sent me a letter saying there where interested and an evaluation would cost 35$ and to come in during a seminar/evaluation which we did. Seemed fine spoke to my son and said that they would call us back my Tuesday if we are picked. But said upon being picked we would have to come to a Thursday class parents only to teach us about the business and price is 115$. Should I run for the hills or is this typical business.
Shanelle, I am not a fan of any agency that charges for an “evaluation” and charges for shotgun acting classes. This is not how agencies nor legit acting schools behave. If you are looking for a good acting school for your son, try The Company Acting Studio.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello,
I was just wondering about a talent agency in Lancaster, PA called I.T.S. Talent Management. I made an appointment for an audition and went in and everything seemed legit, it’s one of the only places near where I live. The only thing that bothers me is that they require a mandatory seminar for all actors/models that is $75. They have people who have been in stuff before in this is the only thing that bothers me. This is the description of the seminar, “We want to provide you with the proper guidance to get you started in the Entertainment Industry, so
Our seminar is ideally for beginners and parents. During, this seminar you will learn how to navigate though all the markets of the Industry. We will take the mystery out of getting the perfect headshots and comp cards, proper representation, what our clients look for in auditions, what photographers seek in models, how and when to join the unions, differences between contracts, kids; permit information and child labor laws, hitting your mark in auditions, and how to successfully get paid!!! There will also be a questions and answer session following the seminar. We do not recommend children younger than 10 years of age attend.”
I’m going to paste the URL to their web sight and you can let me know if it looks legit to you or not that would be great. Thanks. http://www.itstalent.net/
Peyton,
I’m not familiar with them and they are not listed as a SAG/AFTRA franchised agent. This does not mean they are not legit, though. $75 is not an outrageous fee for a class like that. I would say go and then if they start asking for more money, you’ll have your answer.
Okay thank you!
Hi Peyton,
Did you end up signing with I.T.S and is it legit?
I got this txt message and was wondering if i should go is it a scam? Hi this is Staci with Angel heart entertainment. You recently responded to our Facebook ad for TV is for me auditions in Reno, NV for actors, models, singers and dancers. I just forwarded you an email regarding the audition. Everything is in the email, location, time, attire and what to bring. Please check your email asap. It’s going to be exciting and I look forward to meeting you Saturday! Please let me know what time you will be attending the 11:00 AM or the 1:00 PM
Sounds like a scam to me, Victoria. “…responded to our Facebook ad” screams ripoff. This is not how legit agents work. I would ignore it and don’t respond to ads about “talent searches”.
Ok thanks hows the best way to start a career in those fields plus singing?
I had received the same exact text message! I didn’t reply back, then ended up receiving this yesterday: “Hi it’s Staci with angel heart entertainment! I was recently in Reno auditioning kids, teens and young adults. For upcoming pilot season. I did not find all the talent I wanted to so I have decided to come back this Saturday. Will you please come and meet me this Saturday at 2pm? Let me know ASAP”
Hi Larry
My family and I just moved from LA California to Clayton North Carolina. Before we moved my son was with agency coast 2 coast. but before we got any casting calls we moved, Now I’m wondering if there are any agencies In North Carolina. We did go to a casting call from a agency called Model and Talent, but from what it looks like they can be a scam. Please help.
Tozziana, here are two that are legit in NC: Mad Talent Agency http://www.madtalentagency.com and Carolina Talent http://www.carolinatalent.us
Hi – Wilhelmina Philadelphia is run the same as Wilhelmina Rochester. My child has paid for a Backstage subscription for acting. Through Backstage, Wilhelmina Philadelphia invited her to an open call. We went to the open call, she did a cold read and I got paperwork, which states about $2,200 in fees (covers three 6-hour acting lessons, photo shoot (but NOT actual head shot photos – those are extra), website representation and a business seminar. Two days later, she got an email saying they wanted to represent her. I called to verify that these fees are paid before anything happens.
So glad you are running this site – we really didn’t think this was legitimate. Thank you!
I have an appt. with Br ago in south Harrington, il. After reading this I may cancel. Any good agencies for modeling in Chicago? My daughter is 11 years old!
That was Bravo Talent in South Barrington, IL. Sorry for typo!
Janine, 11 y/o kids are not usually cast for print work from modeling agencies. They are usually cast from talent agencies. Check this website for a local legit agency to submit your to. http://www.sagaftra.org/locals/chicago/sag-franchised-agents
Larry,
I am SO GLAD I found this thread!! I signed up for Model and Talent’s radio call auditions a few days ago and I was SO fortunate to be informed before the event. My roommate also signed up, and after I informed her that it was a scam, we resolved to actually go to the auditions and tell everybody we could, as quietly as we could. I showed them this exact webpage, and highlighted the posts about Zeke from wizards of Waverly place, at the SAME TIME the SAME EXACT GUY was speaking onstage!! The lady even convinced most parents not to google the company because “you won’t find anything!” But I’m so glad I did, and I’m glad I was able to share the reality of the scam with as many parents as I could. The whole event was rather sketchy but it happened EXACTLY as others have described it! The seminar and “judging” were even in the SAME ROOM. There were 5 judges and people simply lined up behind the tables watching the person before them go! Real auditions do not happen like that. Even though some parents were aware of the scam, they STILL decided to go through with it, even after the one “judge” asked them to pay a minimum of $1500 down. I suppose the truth hurts and some people will just have to learn the hard way. But I can’t thank you, and everyone who has exposed this scheme, enough for helping me to see the truth, and for preventing me from getting wrapped up in this hairbrained scheme!!!
Simple question. Is LA talent Showcase a scam? We are in Denver and my daughter (10) was interested in acting for commercials.
Brian, The name alone sounds suspicious. As the saying goes, “If it looks and quacks like a duck, it’s a duck.”
Hello! I live in Rhode Island and can’t seem to find any reputable agencies in the area. Could you recommend any either in RI or MA?
Hi Caroline. Here are two:
Maggie, Inc.
Full Service – Adult
35 NEWBURY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116
617-536-2639
Model Club, Inc.
Full Service – Youth
132 BOYLSTON ST SUITE 2 BOSTON, MA 02116
617-247-9020
Hi my Names MariaElena im 20 years old i live in San Francisco im currently in school at the art institute for digital filming and video production. I’ve always had a dream in becoming apart of the acting industry since i was little. Ive tried looking up website on agencies but always was confusing if they were a scam or not. I signed up for explore talent and they asked me to pay a certain amount I’ve read if they ask right away for money its a scam. I took my chances and went along with it. I registered for a lot of roles but never once got and audition i wanted. Instead i got other auditions that i was not even interested in. I just got a phone call today for OST and they want me to go in for an interview and idk if i should go. I always signd up for actors access but you have to pay $2.00 to apply for a role idk about that. I stay up all night on the internet looking for websites that can help me pursue my dream. And i would really appreciate if you can help me with some legit websites. All these scams that steal will get discovered. And be put down. i will be Actor soon even if i have to to a bank and get a start that way.
Had an audition with Model and talent in Maryland/DC today and received a call back text about 6PM tonight. I heard the radio station and was excited. Had an audition te next day. Wasnt so sure about the whole booklet with the financial things in there (I know that they shouldn’t ask you for NO money up front) but once I got home from work tonight, I googled them and I’m soo happy I came across this website forum. I was actually so excited but I see all there are is people trying to rip us off and take advantage of our dreams. I will not be going to thr call back tomorrow. Stay away from radio station auditions
Larry
I would like you give me your opinion about a company named ACTORS GIVING BACK in California, is that a reputable company? My child is really exited about his dream. Do you recommend it. Thanks.
Claudia,
Yes, that company is a reputable acting school. It’s not an agency, but a good place for your child to learn the ropes of acting, auditioning, and the industry.
I’m curious, what are they charging for classes?
Larry,
Both of my daughters had an audition with Model and Talent in Buckhead, Ga today. My oldest did great, got a txt later saying she got a callback for Sunday. To be ready to fill the rest of the forms, complete a 2nd interview & decide what package I am financially able to take care of. Then, a few hours later I got the same txt for my other daughter that did terrible. Couldn’t remember her lines or even look at the judge.
If you are looking for an acting school for kids in ATL, try The Company Acting Studio. You won’t get ripped off there and the training will truly prepare your eldest for the industry. As far as your younger daughter is concerned, it sounds like acting isn’t for her and that’s ok.
Hi. Our child just got a call back for a second audition from a company called “Model and Talent” in Atlanta. Do you know about them? Has any one had any positive or negative experiences?
I don’t recommend them. And I’ve heard many many unfortunate stories of people who have dealt with them. If you are looking for acting classes that will prepare your child to get into the acting industry, I recommend The Company Acting Studio. They are located in Atlanta as well.
Larry,
I got out of the military a yr ago. I was wondering, did it help prepare you better for a job in acting? Also I received a call from One Source Talent and was wondering if you’ve heard any information on them. I would really like to get in to the acting business. More film than anything. Any suggestions?
Thank you for your time.
Gabe, yes it did. I would avoid One Source. Check out my seven steps to an acting career post for advice on getting started: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
This weekend I went to an audition for Undiscovered Talent Group. They only picked 10 people out of 200 that auditioned. I do have to pay almost 2000 for pictures, classes, and the showcase in front of real talent agencies. In the contract it does say I am not guaranteed to be signed. I was wondering if you have heard of people getting scammed though them. I have meet a family that signed with them and they are very successful now. Please let me know what you think!
Marie,
As I mention in the post, these kinds of organizations charge a ton upfront and there’s a reason for that. You can’t rush the process of becoming an actor. Follow my seven steps (https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/) and avoid these companies.
-Larry
Hello, I live in Rhode Island and was wondering if you knew of any acting agencies in the area!
Hi Marissa,
RI is a small market but there are legit agencies that serve the New England area in Boston:
Fish & Richardson
225 FRANKLIN STREET, Boston, MA 02110
617-521-7820
Maggie Inc.
35 NEWBURY STREET, Boston, MA 02116
617-536-9818
Hope that helps.
-Larry
hello Larry,
please help me before I make a rational decision. first im in Nashville tn this agency is in franklin tn called advantage talent or 180 talent. I submitted my kids pictures to a talent agency they replied and wanted to meet in person then they said we’d love to work with them they have a lot of potential (like they always say) but anyways this is the thing they want me to pay $695 and get 20% off the 2nd child fees include:
Children’s Professional Course (12 weeks)
Children have fun learning acting and modeling skills, auditioning technique and manners. Includes a professional photo shoot.
This course is guaranteed, which means children can repeat training at no additional charge until they are 12 years old.
•Posture
•Walking the Runway
•Stage Presence & Charisma
•Photo Posing
•Acting Technique
•On-Camera Skills
•Manners & Etiquette
•Two-look professional photo shoot
•Photos featured on 180 Talent site for 1 year
•Advantage T-shirt & Bag
Please tell me what you think
http://www.advantagetalentdev.com/
Total ripoff in my opinion. I would never front that much money, especially for modeling training for kids which is totally unnecessary.
Read my wife’s post on our journey with our daughter. It has tips on getting kids started properly in acting. https://actingcareerinfo.com/acting-children/
Hope that helps!
-Larry
Thank you for your response. Do you know of any “legit” places in Nashville, brentwood, or franklin area in TN?
Sorry to bother you AGAIN but I did find this agency apart of SAG franchised agent. So I’m a little confused as I saw in a post previous that this is reputable? Unless I’m confusing myself but I did find this agency on the sagaftra.org website I’m still unsure about this as she told me I’m not actually paying the agency it’s the talent development part but please let me know what you think I’m sorry to bug I’m just trying to make my decision by tomorrow!! Thank you!!
Advantage Talent Agency (the one on the SAG website) is not the same company. It’s not uncommon for these “development” companies to name themselves to sound like real talent agencies. The real Advantage Talent Agency recommends acting schools at this link: http://advantagetalentagency.com/recommendations/
You’ll notice the one that wants $700 from you is NOT there.
Hope that helps, Krystian!
Larry
Hi
My daughter went to this agency that stated they have the “access” to casting directors etc. They keep you there for 2hrs for an audition after 2 hours of them telling you about a couple success stories of kids doing commercials and some spots on tv. They show copies of pay stubs with confidential info blacked out. After all this they call you back the next day if you are good enough.. Everyone probably is. Then they didn’t lie, but they charge up to 2900 for 30 weeks of classes. They have 10 weeks for 1275 and 20 weeks for 1950. They train you and give you the opportunity to meet casting agents and do auditions with no promises of work. While this is all legit, it is so shady and i thought the classes might be good for my daughter anyway, but they want payment that night. I am trying to get a refund because I was so stupid even when I knew I shouldn’t. HOwever they stated the class was 1950 for 20 weeks and they would give a $500 scholarship. That was the class price. Well later it is written in the contract as 950 and 500 as a non refundable deposit. You can cancel in 72 hours but lose that 500. With all the talk and paperwork that was missed as the first form and discussions told me it was for lessons. This woman used to work with John Robert Powers years ago. I wished I had googled her name early. I searched the company but found nothing wrong. What do you think about this…. they prey on your love for your child and always make sure the child hears all the good things so you give in. I am so educated but got screwed.
So sorry to hear about that, Diane. They do prey on those emotions and often skim over the fine print. Find the legit agencies near you and see if they have recommended legit acting schools to check out.
Thanks
They didn’t like my emails I guess and send me a very lengthy email explaining themselves and basically degrading me. They said after discussions with their CPA and attorney they no longer will or EVER work with me daughter or get employment. Funny since they never promised employment. Just by the length of the email and statements I know they were lying. They felt like they had to defend everything I said. Very disgusting email. But a company demanding payment that night and then lies is shady. I hope some parents that they sucker into it with no money realize it before they have nothing left. However, since they broke the contract they have to issue all the money back. Guess that is a good thing and I can work on real schools that are less cheaper and get head shots to an agent that works with children. Thanks for your advice. I have learned so much in these websites. I wish I could post her email here but it is sooo long.
Take care and thanks again
Glad you got your money back, Diane!Email responses like those just have to make you laugh.
I have an interview with step3 agency on Friday and they told me on the phone that they fund your marketing and everything and they ask for A $50 deposit of good faith on your behalf. I spoke with a Caitlyn Candon. Larry is this a legit company.
I forgot to mention they are located in Williamsburg, VA.
Jason, I would avoid them. If they pay for “marketing and everything” why is there a $50 deposit. And if it’s just a deposit, how much more will they ask in the future? Run away.
We met with Step 3 today on behalf of my daughter. There was NO deposit if any kind. They told us what types of photos we needed for head shots and comp cards and suggested we use our own photographer (the one who took the initial shots I provided). The ONLY payment they asked was 20% on jobs. The contract they offered was not in any way onerous.
Perhaps they have changed in recent months????
We have not signed with them yet as we have one more appointment with an agency next week.
Glad to hear that, Melanie. I hope they have. You’re the first to report that to me.
Hi Larry,
I am 15 years old, soon to be 16 and I am an aspiring hip-hop dancer, I’ve been to a few dance classes for a couple of months (I’m mostly self taught) and I’ve done a couple of photoshoots. I live in Mississippi on the coast area and I’ve been searching for a legit talent agency. Since I enjoy both dance and modeling, I’ve been looking at Xcel for dancing and Step 3 for modeling. I wanted to know if you had any advice for me and/or opinions on those agencies. Thanks!
Alix,
Xcel is legit and I would contact them on how to submit. I would avoid Step 3, however. Start with Xcel and see who they recommend for modeling in that market. Also, since you are a minor, you’ll want to be sure you have your parent’s/guardian’s involvement and support in all of this. Hope that helps! -Larry
Hello, I’m a soon to be 15 year old boy. I live in New York City and attend a performing arts public high school (where Alicia Keys, Josh Peck and many more celebrities have attended) I have lots of training with a company called Waterwell, through my school. We are taught voice and speech, movement for actors, acting classes, and intro to theatre. I would really love to begin working professionally but I don’t know how to start. Many kids that go to my school are already working: they are in the new Annie movie and on Broadway already. I want to apply to an agency and get an agent but i don’t know which agency to begin with since I have no work on my resume. Please help. Thanks
John,
If you’ve been in any of your high school productions, you have something to put on your resume. It doesn’t have to be a Broadway credit to go on there. Any performance can be put on a resume, especially when you’re starting out. Regarding getting an agent, it sounds like you have friends that could be great resources in telling you which agencies are legit. There are many in NYC. You can search yourself on the SAG-AFTRA webpage here: http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
If you’re looking for professional theater casting notices, check out Equity’s page http://www.actorsequity.org/CastingCall/search_auditions.asp
Since you are a minor, be sure you have your parent’s/guardian’s support in all of this.
Hope that helps.
-Larry
Hi Larry,
I’d like to ask a question on behalf of my son, Patrick. He is currently attending Ohio State in their Master of Fine Arts in Acting program. He will be graduating in May and is disappointed that they don’t provide an agent showcase or any opportunities for representation for the students as they finish the program. He will have a bachelor’s and master’s in acting which will enable him to teach, but what he wants more than anything is to find an agent and do what he was meant to do. I’d like to know if there are any reputable agencies that you would recommend in the Denver/Colorado Springs area because he plans to come home before venturing to LA or NYC. I know this area is up and coming for film so if you have any knowledge of agents to work with, we’d very much appreciate it. Thanks!
Hi Christy,
It’s good that he’s not heading out to LA or NYC right after school. It’s incredibly hard to get an agent in those places without some professional credits on a resume. He’ll need some good, current headshots and a resume that follows the proper format (instructions here: https://ucs.byu.edu/files/handouts/ActorResume.pdf). There are a few legit agencies in Denver. Two are:
Maximum Talent Agency, Inc.
1873 SOUTH BELLAIRE STREET, Denver, CO 80222
303-691-2344
http://www.maxtalent.com
Donna Baldwin Talent
2237 WEST 30TH AVE., Denver, CO 80211
303-561-1199
http://www.donnabaldwin.com/submissions.asp
I would have him submit to both once he’s back in Denver. He should call the agency to verify the submission instructions.
I hope that helps!
-Larry
Thank you so much for the information! I will pass things along to him and he can work with his adviser at OSU to make sure everything is in order to submit this spring. He has such a bright future as long as he is careful and takes the advice of professionals who’ve “been there.” I appreciate the quick response and wish you all the best!
Christy
Thanks for this site and all the other comments. We went to the audition at Crowne Plaza hotel Dallas downtown hosted by company called “model and Talent” this Saturday. They are really good at what they do. They also sent us text for the second interview but thanks to this site, we did not go. The main lady who runs the whole show goes by name Gia. I also found out her real name is Gloria Giacomoni. So, looks like “Gia” is her alias. At the audition they all mentioned only their first name. Except Dan Samonas – not sure he is fake or real… I wanted to alert authority but Texas Attorney’s office was closed. This is probably they operate on Saturday and Sunday and they disappear. Hope we can alert other folks from getting victim. #ModelandTalentScam #ModelandTalent.TV . Again appreciate you for running this site.
Glad you found the blog in time, Jose.
How do you know the talent co run by Gia is a scam. We are about to go to the 2nd audition in Park Plaza hotel in Boston in an hour. Please let us know. We are not sure what is real and what is fake. Surely there are honest people out there. Right? It is going to be heartbreaking for our son.
It is hard to tell what is a ripoff, especially when they are so good at selling and seem so “hollywood”. That’s why I wrote this blog and why it’s my most-viewed page. They know that people ignore warning signs because of their intense desire to be “discovered” and pursue their dream. But don’t be discouraged, there are honest people out there. Watch my video post on finding the right people and resources. https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
That will point you in the right direction. Hope that helps!
-Larry
And they way you know something is a scam is that they have all the signs of a ripoff, especially the one of asking for hundreds, even thousands of dollars up-front. You know for sure when they offer a payment plan! Run away from these people.
Yes!!!!! It was close but we did run away! Thanks you!
Hi! I was wondering, I lived in NY and moved down to Virginia Beach (for the warm weather and beach…though right now its snowing…go figure). Anyways, I have been looking for casting/agencies here, and I have attempted to find Ross Reports, but alas the bookstores no longer carry it. I did see a listing for Jaderlung agency but not sure about that. Is there any insight on where I can go to submit myself?
Jon, Usually the agency’s website has instructions on how to submit to them. If you don’t find anything on their website, just call them and ask.
Also, watch this video for finding other legit resources in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hello. I just found a website for an illinois talent agency. It is called BRAVO talent agency in Illinois. I was wonder if that is a scam or if its legit. Thanks!
Im sorry. I meant BRAVO talent managment
Is it in Chicago? Follow my instructions in my video on how to check: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hi Larry,
My daughter also just got a call back from Model and Talent. Sucks that they want sooo much money up front. Glad I did my research. I feel bad for all of those that will fall for this scam.
Would you have any recommendation for anyone in the Tampa, Orlando area? My daughters are 4 and 2
Thanks for all the info
Sindy, glad you avoided the ripoff. Watch my video for how to find resources in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Can you give an update on future faces nyc?
Jill, what do you mean by “update”?
Hello Larry,
I need some more info on premier event that host in Orlando. Are they legit. They ask $1950.00 as first package. And on and on! It’s not a talent agency but they host a global event that draws a lot MFN agencies to pick models,actors and talented kids! Please you input.
Thx
I think you got your answer with that price tag! Events like that are almost always an enormous waste of money. Follow my recommendations for getting started. actingcareerinfo.com/gettingstarted and actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
Larry
Hello Larry,
I was looking to get my 15 month son into modeling. So I paid $35 to set an appointment with Atlanta Young Faces. Then I paid $100 for a 1 hour class to teach the parent (me) the business of the business. I have been with them for 8 months now. My son has not gotten any bookings but they do remind me to update his photos (not professional). Now I have looked into William Reynolds Agency, Babe’s and Beau’s, and Houghton Talent to see if they were interested in my son. I haven’t received a response for Houghton Talent yet. William Reynolds Agency and Babe’s and Beau’s are both interested in my son. Babe’s and Beau’s did not ask for any money. William Reynolds is paying for professional photos of my son and a 10 hour class for me but I do have to pay for the prints ($249). They both state you can NOT be represented by more than one agency. They both sound legit but I would like to know your thoughts.
Thank you
Niki
Hi Nikki. I think the first issue is in your first sentence. Your son is 15 months old. The misconception that there is a lot of work out there for cute babies and toddlers is totally false but very common. There is an occasional job that needs kids that small but it is EXTREMELY rare. So, first, NEVER pay for an “appointment”. Second, any “agency” that charges you up front like that is one to avoid. Third, take a look at BNB or Houghton talent’s websites and see how many 15-month olds you find in their talent pages. None. The reason is that most agencies don’t rep kids until they are at least 3. That’s why you haven’t heard from them and why you haven’t booked anything. The “agency” that took your money likely knew that but took your money anyway. So, for now, I would just let your son be a toddler until he is 3 and then get some new snapshots and try resubmitting to the legit agencies (BNB, Houghton, JPervis, AMT) but not AYF.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Thank you so much for your advice. I have signed a 12 month contract with BNB. They did not ask for any money at all. Thank you again.
Niki
Is it legal for talent managers in Illinois to charge money for lessons and coaching? Management by Morgan charges their clients for lessons and coaching.
Hi Kiki, yes it’s legal, but the question is,: Is it a giant ripoff and will it help you in the industry? That company is brand new and based on their description that I found, they sound like just one more of the ripoff talent” companies. Hard to be sure with such little info about them online. What do they want to charge? Whatever it is, know that they are not a traditional talent agency so beware!
My daughter was with a model/talent agency in Fl (where we live). We recently have decided not to renew her contract with them. Can you suggest some agencies in fl that are reputable? My daughter is a very beautiful and talented young women. She is currently at a performing arts high school for musical theatre. She has an amazing voice. She has done a few commercials but no principal work. She can act, sing, dance, speak in accents, and she can sound like so many different characters. Example.. She can do any Disney princess voice and sing as they do. She’s a teenage female robin williams( as in his talents). If you could give me a few ideas or suggestions I would greatly appreciate it.
She has also auditioned and been cast in out community theatre since she was 5.
Amanda, watch my video that guides you through finding legitimate talent agents (and other resources) in your area. Video is here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Have you heard of the industry network? They are having auditions tomorrow at a nearby city. They have been advertising on facebook for a couple of weeks now. They don’t ask for money upfront, but say to bring your own head shots and if you’re chosen, you need to have professional photos made either by their photographers or one of my choice. What do you make of this and have you heard of this company? Thanks in advance
Becky, real talent agents don’t advertise to find talent. If they are advertising for talent, they are not a talent agency. Run away.
Hi, I am so glad I found this website.
I have booked an audition tomorrow for my 6 year old son, and he is exited.
I will not go there based on all the information I have read here.
The company is Model & Telent (MODELANDTALENT.TV).
First of all I hear the ad on a radio station. Then after calling them, they sent me an email with an unprofessional word document with information. No header or footer, no name of the company, no logo etc.
There was a list of lines to read for various ages, and I have recognized some of them in this blog.
It is sad that they use kids for a scam. shameful actually. If I would have gone tomorrow, then it would be so much harder to say NO to my son after they say that he would be selected, then they will ask for the money to be part of their website.
At least now I can tell him that it was cancelled or something like that.
Thanks for making ppl aware of this. Also sad that they are allowed to run those adds on the radio.
Will check out your sevensteps instead.
all the best.
Glad it was helpful!
Listen point blank if you want to be an actor your gonna need training.. Real training from actual Actors in the business I mean on shows now!!! I have one in Atlanta with and you can google him GregAlan Williams Oh my God the
Real deal and very reasonable… No games
Looking for number can’t find it
ACTORS Breakthrough actors film Training
Institute. Got it Call Sophia tell her I Derrick Dee sent you. (678) 814-5212 You won’t
Be disappointed
Derrick, you are right. Greg is the real deal and I have some good friends who have been trained by him. He’s legit and a good place to get some professional training. Thanks for the info.
Any information on Liquid Talent Agency in Richmond and Williamsburg, VA? Any help would be appreciated.
Any info about Liquid Talent Agency?
Based on their website, they appear legit to me.
I came across your site while searching for Liquid Talent in Virginia. I submitted my info and was told I would need to pay a $25.00 fee to meet with them to ensure I was serious. I filed a complaint with the labor dept, the BBB, and Ripoff Report. Tonight, I get a not-so-happy call from Liquid Talent because they had received a call from the BBB.
Libertad,
They are not listed on the SAG-AFTRA website, which is one of my red flags to watch out for. I would ignore them and find another agency. SAG-AFTRA and ATA agents don’t charge a fee for their representation interview/audition.
-Larry
Hi, it is glad to know that exists honorable person like you. I have a 13 years old daughter and we are living in Washington, we will appreciate if you can give us some model agencies or representatives serious around this area.
Thank you very much
Nicky, Watch my video on finding legit resources in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
About three months ago I being the naive 14 year old girl I am heard a radio ad for John Robert Powers and that they were having an audition. I have had no experience and thought this could get me started. I went and they told me they would call me later if I got a callback. They did and said I got the callback. When I went the next day they asked for a fee for four classes and we would have to pay each week. I think the total was around $3000’or something like that. We also had to get a head shot and they recommended and photographer that they worked with and it was about $400. We of course did it and the head shots looked pretty good but still. After four classes there is a showcase where there will supposedly be talent agents and casting directors. I must admit I have learned a lot in theses classes but I am very skeptical it is a scam and I feel sick just thinking about it and how I probably wasted my parents money and I feel horrible. I feel like throwing up just thinking about it.
Today I got a call from LA talent showcase asking me to come on Sunday and how they are looking for new talent. They said they will send a script for me to practice and use at the interview. I asked how she got my number and she said she didn’t know. We told her I was taking classes at John Robert powers and she asked her supervisor and they said it wasn’t a conflict of interest or a problem. Is it a scam? Did John Robert powers give them my number? I feel really sick and confused and guilty.
Kimberly, I’m not sure how much money your parents have put into JRP, but if they can stop, they should. And don’t engage with LA Talent showcase. It’s more of the same. Take what you’ve learned and your headshots and try submitting to a legit talent agent in your area. Watch my video on finding the legit resources near you. https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Don’t feel bad, these people are professionals at luring impressionable kids and teens (and their parents) into their process. You’re not the only one. The key is to now take the right path into the industry. Don’t give up.
Hope that helps.
-Larry
So I got an email from The industry Network. We went to an audition an hour away. The woman there loved my daughter. they chose 16 out of hundreds of kids,. we were one of those 16. So we go back tomorrow for a call back. Of course they gave us the little booklet…and inside were prices. For this 4 session training thing and then the showcase. As a single mom I can not afford to be scammed., but after reading these other stories I am worried. My daughter was so excited. I did so much research and nothing negative came up about them. But the stories are so similar. the commercial to practice. the success stories. Making the facial expressions in the interview. Please help! Is The Industry Network a scam
Latoya, what area of the country do you live in and how old is your daughter?
Larry, I am in Louisville. And the event was in Lexington Ky. And my daughter is 7 years old. We returned today. She did a commercial for them…she learned the commercial in like 10 minutes. Alana Knowles was the interviewer. she said she was amazed at her. Loved her. Invited us back for this 4 day event over the next month. 3 training days and a showcase at the end. Even gave us a half off scholarship. I told her I did not have the money today but gave her my card number so they can run it Friday…..if I decide not to do it I could call her to cancel. So what is your opinion?
Tiffany Rochel of The Industry Network has been affiliated with John Robert Powers (an organization I strongly warn about) and charges large fees (as you’ve discovered) for a “showcase”. This tactic is exactly what I warn against. Now, Ms. Rochel’s company may well be able to bring and pay real agents to attend her showcase. But that does not mean your daughter will be represented by any of them at the end of the showcase. Also, if your daughter is very young (under 5) you are being ripped off. Watch my video to find legit agents in your area to submit your daughter to. Legit agents don’t charge up front to represent you. https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hi I went to the LAA. talent showcase today and they wanted as much as 8 grand is this a scam?
Victoria, as I say in the post, if they want money up front and offer “Showcases” and “Packages” to choose from, it is a ripoff. I don’t know how else to say it. So, is $8000 a ripoff? I would have to say, YES!
Is LA talent showcase a scam?
It’s not an organization I recommend. They do charge thousands for their “packages and showcases” and I believe it is a ripoff.
So, I have read all through this article and its comments and of course I am very worried about my decision. We went to the 3 day workshop and showcase for “The Industry Network”. My daughter was chosen to go to L.A. for a showcase and opportunity to perform in front of “80-100” agents. The cost is approximately $2,500, but that includes hotel for the length of the stay. I reached out to a parent that I found on GoFundMe, that was raising money for her daughter to go (summer 2015) and she said that her daughter had multiple callbacks with agents, but they chose not to stay in L.A. to attend the callbacks. She spoke very highly of the experience and said that they ended up getting on with a local agent in their home state. I cannot find any real reviews, good or bad, for the company. They are not a part of the BBB.
When we went to the local 3 day class & showcase, the class was taught by Steven Scott. The mother of Lucas Adams was there and stated that going through “The Industry Network” is how he got into his career along with the father of Abigail Hargrove. (you can view all of these on the IMDb website, I tried to include the links, but it would not post me comment) So…. In saying all of that, I would love to get my daughter in front of a bunch of agents to get her started… but I don’t want to get scammed either.
Do you have any “hard” evidence FOR or AGAINST this company?
Valerie, the story you told is your own “hard” evidence. None of what they do is necessary to get a child into the acting industry. You can find your own legit resources in your area and submit to the agencies yourself. (Video for finding legit companies here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/).
But if you’d rather pay them thousands of dollars to do that for you, and “showcase” your child to “agents” you’ve never heard of, checked, and are a plane ride away, that’s up to you. Know that in LA, your child will be competing against young talent who already have resume’s with credits.
My point is this: there is no short-cutting the process which is likely why your friend decided to start out with a local agent.
But as I said, the choice is up to you. Hope that helps.
Hi,
you wrote that “if they want money up front and offer ‘showcases’… it’s a ripoff”.
First, this might be a stupid question, but I thought that you HAVE to pay for showcases and actor workshops? You pay for an “audition” in front of talent agents, talent managers and casting directors?
Second, I wonder if you know about Wendy Alane Wright and her WAW Entertainment (Talent Managment)? I feel a little unsure about what to think right now.
http://www.wawentertainment.com
http://www.secretsofahollywoodtalentmanager.com
She has a showcase, for 500 dollars per child: secretsofatalentmanager.blogspot.se
She also offers “winner’s circle”, a “career changing event” for 179 dollars per actor who wants to attend: 2.bp.blogspot.com/-LF5hkVn5WjA/UwaXkWgv5AI/AAAAAAAAAkc/L4LwFL8KVm8/s1600/dfd13d63aa479950fa0ac32848279ba7.png
She also has a “winner’s circle” for 300 dollars for a year.
Thankful for a response! Thank you in advance.
Hi,
you wrote that if a showcase costs, it’s a scam. This might be a stupid question, but I thought that you HAD to pay for showcases and workskops? You pay to “audition” in front of talent agents, talent managers and casting directors?
I also wonder if you know about Wendy Alane Wright (WAW Entertainment), and what you think about her? Her websites are secretsofahollywoodtalentmanager.com and wawentertainment.com.
She offers a “winners circle” workshop for 179 dollars per actor, a showcase for kids for 500 dollars per child and a “winners circle” membership for a year – for 300 dollars.
I’m not sure what to think right now… I feel unsure.
Thankful for a response. Thank you in advance!
River,
WAW is a talent management company. Talent managers are common in the LA area and are different than agents. Talent managers generally take a more active role in promoting an actor than talent agents and also do some scouting for new talent. However, talent managers (like agents) take a commission from the actor’s earnings. They do not charge up front unless they are offering acting classes or workshops. They often open these up to talent that they do not currently represent.
One thing you’ll notice about WAW that separates her company from the ripoff companies are the prices. Those prices are more in line with what you’d find from other acting classes in LA. The ripoff agencies usually charge thousands.
If you’re comfortable with WAW, I think those prices are reasonable for acting classes/workshops for the industry.
I hope that helps.
-Larry
Thank you for your response! I’m sorry for posting twice, I thought it didn’t work the first time because of the links.
Have you Heard OF UDTG
Lupita,
I’m going to need more than initials to say.
-Larry
Hello, I just had an audition today in Kalamazoo, Michigan for a company called “The Industry Network”. Have you ever heard of them? Are they legit? The called me later and told me that I was talented and that they want to see tomorrow about paying arrangements (in total $2,500) for a big regionals showcase. I’m not quite sure what to do. Should I pursue? Is there any legit talent agencies near Kalamazoo Michigan? Or any that you suggest?
I’m 20 years old, but been told I look 15 plenty of times. I don’t know if I should pursue this or not. What do you think? I really have a passion for modeling/acting/singing. But in still a student and don’t have thousands of dollars to spend. Any places that are more reasonable?
Nicole,
You don’t need thousands to spend. Looking younger but being an adult is a huge asset because a director can cast you to play a teen but doesn’t have to worry about the labor issues that go with hiring a teen. Follow my seven steps to get started right: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
If they are asking for a payment like that, as I explain in the post, run away fast!
Watch this video for how to find legit acting schools and agents. https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hi ,my sone recently had a interview with inspire talent from Denver, Colorado, He was called back the next day and we were told that they were not an agency and agencies should never ask for money. They told me that they would provide my son with classes for 2 months and it would cost me $500 and and i could get head shots done either with or without them. so i signed him up, I have paid 250 and i have two more payments of $125 and he is there having classes this weekend. They told me the fee was non refund able and i signed for all this. After reading your blog i feel my son and i are being conned but if its non refundable there is nothing i can do about6 it is that correct, I am so sad for my son he is a very excited about this and it has brought his personality out and given him some confidence that he lacked.
Hi Joanne,
It sounds like you are stuck with them for 2 months. Here’s the good news, while $500 for 2 months of acting classes is on the expensive side (about 4x as much as it should cost), it’s not as high as most of the ripoff companies I have seen (who usually charge thousands). Inspire Talent’s website also seems pretty straight forward with what they offer without making it sound like a talent agency. But it is very expensive. So, I’m not endorsing them at all. But it could be much worse.
Here’s what I recommend: When the 2 months is over, leave Inspire. An acting school in the Denver area that I can recommend is Actasana (http://www.actasana.com). They charge about $100 a month and probably have better training for your son. But your son will have to audition for them as well to get in. Best of luck. -Larry
Have you heard of Next Star Productions? Are they legit or scammers?
Thanks
Neil,
Based on what you read/watched on this blog and what you’ve been told by Next Star Productions, what do you think? I’ve never heard of them, but their website looks like they are like the rest of those ripoff “showcase talent” companies. How did you hear about them. Was it an advertisement? That’s your first clue right there.
Larry
These Scammers have been flooding the southern market. Be very careful for the “MALL Scouts” aka commissioned salesman.
I see these “Talent Agencies” keep getting new fresh leads from aspiring models/actors everyday on social media. A legit agency do not need to constantly look for new talent daily. Their too busy working with the talent they currently have
Exactly. Thanks for the comment, Aja. You are right on.
Found this place and took our son to go check out. They want anywhere from $1900-$6900 for acting/modeling rehersals, celebrity “meet and greet”, and agent/manager showcase, and 3+ months of professional marketing. Is this for real or a scam?
Run away!! That has ripoff written all over it!!
Dear Larry,
My grandson, age 19, who we have raised for 10 yrs, was contacted by “The Celebrity Experience”, through a radio advertisement, and offered an “audition” in Savannah, GA yesterday, to which he was told that he was one of only 8 “picks” out of 300 who showed up. I was very concerned about the $1,250-$9,995 price tag for packages to go to Hollywood. With a little research and your blog here, you saved me the $9,995 for the best package that he was convinced he needed to “get noticed” by a talent agency. I can only say a HUGE THANK YOU!!! for this forum which helps shed light and protects innocent people from being taken advantage of!! You’re the best and I appreciate your testimony for Christ, and dedication to help others!
A fellow Army Officer and Christian.
Shannon,
First, thank you for your service to our country. I’m so glad to hear the blog was helpful and that you were able to guide your grandson towards a better route, avoiding the ripoff. I really appreciate you taking the time to post your comment. Thanks!
-Larry
Hi Larry,
Thank you for creating and managing this site!
Was wondering if you heard of the International Music and Entertainment Association (IMEA)?
The association is touted as a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and serving as an advocate to individuals and organizations within the performing arts and entertainment industries.They host an annual awards ceremony where they judge nominees in various theatric and music categories provided you are a current member, Membership fees are low $50.00-$100
What bothers me is, the organization is only in its third year, was created by its CEO who is 17 years old and the IMEA doesn’t appear to be affiliated with any professional theatrical or music industry organizations.
They claim their annual awards are developed to honor and recognize worldwide the best in independent music, live entertainment, and community theatre. One has to question, how much weight do these awards truly hold given they never define who it is that recognizes the winners of these awards nor how they become an advocate and to who?
Not sure if we should pursue membership with this organization.
Thank you!
Regards,
Bonnie Franscisco
Hi,
I posted a few days back but it appears my post was deleted?
Just trying to find out if the International Music and Entertainment Association (IMEA) is a legitimate talent organization.
I am skeptical because the organization is relatively new, the CEO is 17 years old, requires an annual membership fee for recognition and eligibility as an awards nominee and hosts an annual awards presentation show.
Nowhere is it defined what these awards do for the recipient. The IMEA does not appear to have any professional music and theatrical affiliations so are their awards simply self-esteem boosters that will encourage the recipients to invest their money into recommended bogus services? i.e.: you won so now invest $10k for a potential contract???
Please let me know so myself and others will know if the IMEA is something to avoid.
Thank you.
Regards,
Bonnie Francisca
Bonnie,
I have not heard of them and they do look like a VERY new organization. I would avoid them and find more established and reputable resources in your area. Watch my video here on to find them in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi Larry,
Yes, your feedback helped and thank you for confirming my suspicions regarding the International Music and Entertainment Association (IMEA). After reading through their site I just didn’t get a good feeling!
Also, thank you for the link to that video, it is helpful information.
.
Sorry for posting my message twice. For some reason the first one wasn’t displaying then it appeared.
Regards,
Bonnie
Hi Larry,
I’m Josh I’m 20 completely new to acting. I left an earlier question on your comment board but I didn’t explain enough I don’t think, so I filled out an application at newenglandoncallauditions.com they called me the same day and set me up an interview/audition at open call model and talent for that Saturday, I went yesterday and they had me bring a resume and a photo of myself, with my basic info and license, my resume wasn’t good my interviewer even said its all wrong but it was my first written resume and my photo was from my junior year of high school I told them I plan on getting professional photos, she interviewed me first, then I went into the audition room, they told me I they liked me they would call me back on Monday tomorrow, i asked them if they had any classes I could take, they said they offer 2, i went w the cheaper of the two, which was still $1100 originally for 8 wks on Saturdays for 3hrs, she applied a scholarship towards, marked it down to $600 on payments w/ $200 down. She said they wanted me to think about it and also they would sign me with the agency. What do you think of these and do u have any other recommendations for me
newenglandauditions.com
opencallmodelandtalent.com of open call talent management
backstage.com
Josh,
Those fees seem really high for acting classes – even the discounted price. For reference, I’m taking a class over 6 weeks (one night a week for 3 hours) and it’s costing me $225. Follow my guidance on this page to find legit resources (including acting schools) in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
I know there are tons in the Boston area.
Hope that helps!
Larry
I got a call from latalentshowcase for an audition for my daughter. after reading your site and stories, I decided not to go.
My daughter is interested in acting on TV and I would like to know of any legit reputable agencies in Phoenix area. If you know some, please post.
Watch my video here to find resources in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/. Hope that helps! Glad you were able to avoid the ripoff!
-Larry
Hi Larry,
I submitted a resume to Take 3 Talent Agency in New York. Can I trust them?
If not, what are some Talent Agencies in New York or New Jersey that don’t scam?
Hi Victoria. YES! They are legitimate and you can feel confident in corresponding with them. They are franchised with SAG which is my primary test for determining legit agencies. You’ll find them in the list for NY at the SAG website: http://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
Best of luck!
-Larry
Okay. Thank you so much Larry!
Hi! Took my daughter for an audition for NEXT , i was told she made it for the second audition the next day . Got the email with the info and it says some may be eligible to do the meet n greet with talent scouts but some will pay from 150 to up.800 dollars. Is this company legit or not? Has anyone heard of the?
Wendy,
If you have to pay, RUN AWAY. That is not how to get into the industry. Watch my video for finding legit agents to submit her to in your area: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
My daughter is going to turn 18 in February. She would like to get into acting, preferably Christian movies. We live near Tyler ,Texas. Do you know of any agencies we could check in to? Willing to drive.
Hi Cristal. A couple of things. First, overtly “Christian movies” are very few and far between. And unfortunately, most of them are not great, even downright bad. Even if they were all awesome, here’s the problem. Acting is not a profession where you decide which employer you want to work for for a year or more at a time. And even the “Christian” movies don’t go out looking for “Christian” actors. They cast the roles the same way every other movie casts their characters. They look for actors with a solid resume of work and hopefully have some name recognition. That only comes through being in the industry and working secular projects (because that’s what’s mostly out there) for several years. That DOES NOT mean that your daughter has to work projects she finds offensive, vulgar, or against her values. For instance, roles in The Hunger Games movies or on the TV show Parenthood are neither Christian nor (to most) offensive. But neither of those were filmed in Dallas (that gets to my second point below). Point is, if she wants to act, she’ll need to broaden her horizon beyond “Christian” movies without compromising her values.
OK. Second – All that said, Tyler, TX is 1.5 hour drive from Dallas. Dallas is a large market and a good place to get started. But you’re still 1.5 hours away. That’s going to make it tough. But if she’s willing to make the drive for auditions/classes/work, here’s how to find an agent in Dallas. Watch my video that walks you through it: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
If she’s just getting started in acting, she’ll need to do some things first before submitting to an agent there. Follow my steps here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hi Larry, my name is Chris Rakowski and I am currently a senior in college. I have a burning passion to pursue a career in acting, but I am terrified because I don’t know where to start. I currently go to school in Kansas which I know isn’t anywhere close to where I want to live to become a successful actor. What do I do? Do I pursue my dream and move to a bigger city? Is there anyway of submitting video auditions?
Hi Chris,
Graduate first.
Now, what was your major? Was it theater or film production? If so, you’ll be further along. If not, you’ll need to start at the beginning. Either way, go through my 7 steps (https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/) and determine what step you are on. If you were a theater or film major, have professional headshots and a resume of work you’ve done, you may be already at step 4 (where you probably would want to move to a major metro area like Kansas City, Chicago, or Atlanta – I don’t recommend NYC or LA to start out) and submit to some legit agencies. IF you do decide to move, be sure to follow my method for finding legit resources in that area (https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/). You’ll avoid the ripoffs that way.
Hope that helps Chris! And remember, focus your passion into a clear strategy with a business-like approach (because acting is marketing a product – you) and you’ll be ahead of the rest.
Keep me posted on your progress! Best of luck.
Larry
Hi Larry,
I am looking for open casting call opportunities to be an extra on sets in and around Atlanta, GA. I found your site here because I gave my info to Nine9 and, now I’ve blocked their phone number. They called me 5 times and, I know that’s not the sign of a company that actually has anything to offer. I’m not looking for a professional acting career. I’m looking to get some income on the table and, if I get lucky like Harrison Ford; that would still be cool.
Pamela,
Here’s a great article from local Atlanta news on how to find extra jobs via legit extra casting companies on Facebook.
http://www.11alive.com/story/entertainment/2015/02/18/extras-casting/23607327/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hi Larry,
I recently got an email for representation from an agency that is currently in Atlanta and opening an office in the Midwest. I currently live in Chicago. I submitted my resume and headshot but they didn’t bring me in for an audition.
They are saying that they charge $50 a year to be featured on their company website. Is that legit? I’ve never heard of paying the agency so they can put my headshot on their website. The agency is YJB Talent.
YJB is a legit agency. Although, I wouldn’t pay them anything until they actually offer you representation with a written agreement. But, many agencies do ask their talent for a small fee to be listed on their website (including my own), however, it is usually optional. I have a friend represented by YJB. They are not a large agency in Atlanta. That does not mean they are bad, only not as well known as others. That can actually be good if you’re trying to get into the industry as many agencies that are large and well known are harder to get into and require more experience. So, if you’re new, then yes, YJB is probably a great option for you. Hope that helps! -Larry
Hey larry…I wanted to no if you’ve ever heard of talent inc..are they a scam!!!!
That name is so general, it’s hard to know if we’d be talking about the same company. If they are asking for money up front, run. Here’s my full post on how to spot the ripoff companies: https://actingcareerinfo.com/scam-agencies-vs-real-talent-agencies/
-Larry
Tell me what you know about Angelheart Entertainment. They sould like the type of company you are warning about.
Bob,
I’ve never heard of them. But, follow my steps in the video to see if they are listed on the SAG-AFTRA website as a franchised agent. If they are there, they are legit. If not, watch out for the red flags I talk about in my post here:https://actingcareerinfo.com/scam-agencies-vs-real-talent-agencies/
-Larry
Hello Larry
I was just wondering about the acting school my son just started attending. It’s called John Casablancas. First I tried Premier and found out it was a fake when they pick my son to come back a second round but when you go back you will need to pay almost 3000 dollars! I did not return and did my research and then decided to get a agent for him. I got a call from John Casablancas agent and school and they told us to come for auditions. When auditions was over they said we will give the people that did not make it a call and the ones that made the cut do not need a call. We get a text saying when to come in that following day. Well we didn’t get the call and had a time to come back but once we got there it was a price in order to remain there like $350 for start for a spot in class and have only a couple spots left. After that its $70 a week but only $2200 for 3yrs. I think it’s reasonable of course and 2hrs every Saturday. My fiance is the main person kinda skeptical about it because of so many scams out so we just need a peace of mind from scamers.
Charla,
I tell people to avoid both of those companies. You’ve got to find a legitimate acting school in your area. Watch my video on how to find them: https://actingcareerinfo.com/find-legitimate-talent-agencies-resources/
Hope that helps!
-Larry
Hello, I was just sent an email from someone representing Lens Magic Photography saying that they want to use me for a commercial shoot and ad and that they were working with “KupiVIP” and they were going to pay me $7500 for the shoot ($500 upfront and $7000 afterwards) they sent me the contract and it was pretty straightforward and they made it clear that I won’t be paying for anything so I signed it and sent it to them. They also said that they would send me the wardrobe and send additional money (besides the $7500) to cover the cost. This seems like an awful lot of money for my first shoot. They told me that they will give me additional info on the location (allegedly near me). Does this seem legit? What are your thoughts on this?
Miquan, RUN AWAY! Do not deposit ANY checks they send you and DO NOT give them your banking information. Also, do not send them (or wire them any money)!! This is not how legit photographers work.
Do not reply to any of their messages and block their calls. They are very likely scammers who are not even located in the US. Dangerous people.
Hi Larry,
My friend banked in the check but she has not transferred the money yet. What should she do?
Its from the Lens Magic Photography
She should IMMEDIATELY go to her bank and notify them that she now believes the check to be fraudulent. Also, do not transfer ANY money. Go to the police to report the scam.
Are these people Dangerous? Kinda afraid for her safety now.
I’ll get her to call the bank and report it to the police.
What does she do with the money she has received, since it belongs to them?
Why do they want her to act as the middle man to transfer the money to someone else?
Glenn,
They are likely overseas, so usually not dangerous for for her physical safety, just online and financially. She should put fraud alerts on her bank accounts and be keep an eye on her social media for “spoof” profiles. If you’re not sure what a spoof profile is, here’s Facebook’s instructions on it: https://www.facebook.com/help/174210519303259.
Hope that helps. -Larry
Thank you so much for sharing this information Larry. I came online to check out 321 SHINE as we heard the advertisement on the radio for a “talent and model” agency looking for kids/teens who might want to pursue a career on Disney shows. I gave them a call regarding my two sons and daughter who are all interested in modeling and/or acting. They set us up an appointment but the more Ive read, the more Ive found that they are a potential scammer company. I asked the lady 3 times if they would require money to get started and each time she found a way to skirt the question.
Do you have any suggestions for strong modeling agencies near the zip code 72401?
Thank you so much! You are a gem!
Hi Larry,
I have a talent agency that is interested in signing my child. They have a good score on BBB and from my research they seem to be legit. Their website provides links to a page per child that they represent. So the only fee they require is $299 for the web designer to set up his page. They do not require any classes or other things that seem to be where money is. I’ve always been told “no money up front” but a small fee to set up a web link seems reasonable especially from a company that seems to be legit. Please let me know what you think.
thanks
Hi Keri! I can’t comment on the agency without the name. But you can download my free ripoff guide (see the very top of the webpage) and see if their name is listed with the companies I mention in it. Regarding the website fee, some legit agents do charge for you to be on their website (mine does) but it’s only $60 a year. So $299 seems really high. If you want more in-depth help with your starting your child in acting, I am now doing individual coaching due to the frequent requests. You can schedule a discovery session with me in the link at the top of the page. Best of luck! -Larry
Thanks, Larry! I just signed up for your guide. The company is BNA kids in Nashville. It is a one time $299 set up fee and then $60 a year to maintain it.
Larry,
I appreciate that you are one of the few that looks out for people. It is horrible that agencies try to back a scam, especially when real agencies and/or SAG AFTRA will do nothing about this. Anywho, I am in the process of signing with an agency called PCG Talent and they are SAG franchised. I have been trying to rule out the fact that most agencies, who are legit, do not charge up an upfront fee. I have also heard that agents of legitimate agencies DO NOT force acting lesson upon you. Thing is, the agent who is wanting to represent me says she would coach me for $35/ half hour and I had to pay $100 to be on their website, probably to submit me for auditions. I have even asked a casting director (extras), who I have known, and he says that it would be pretty normal to as for that. In the contract it does specify that they would not charge this if I was SAG AFTRA and they would only take out 10%, for being union and 20% non union. Would you have anything to say about this? It seems like a legitimate agency; however, it has the makings of being shady.
Arvin,
The coaching fee is a pretty reasonable rate, actually. The website fee is on the higher side (hopefully that fee is yearly), but not uncommon and should be optional like the coaching. Although if you’re a new talent with them, it’s a good idea to be on their website. And in a smaller market like Ohio, it’s likely that most of their work is commercial and frequently booked by clients viewing their talent database.
If you still have concerns, have an attorney look over your contract.
-Larry
Larry,
Thanks for your quick reply.
Well it is good to know that at least I am getting a good price for what I want done. The web fee of $100 is yearly, yes. The funny thing is people keep saying that you should not pay upfront and this would technically be upfront, would it not be? The only way they are offering me to NOT pay it is if I am union. Additionally, I would pay 20% off whatever the acting gig pays me, if I get it, instead of 10% if I am union. Clearly, you can see that the agency is making some kind of extra profit of here as well. Why would they do that, if they are SAG-AFTRA franchised? I checked with SAG AFTRA and they are, in fact, AFTRA franchised.
Additionally, this agency, when I found them; they were referred to me by the extras casting director that I personally know; however, it came as a surprise that this new agency was looking for new talent (another red flag)? I keep seeing that usually true agents never look for new talent because they would know where to find them. That is what makes the industry a bit hazy for me. It is so referral based, you would not know what is true.
Anywho, I paid the $100 and am willing to go for the acting lessons. I will update you on how it goes.
Yes, keep me posted, Arvin. And, if you want a more in-depth opinion and discussion about your situation, feel free to schedule a telephone consult with me. Happy to answer those other questions/haziness for you. Link is in the top of the page. Best of luck!
is “the celebrity experience” a scam or not i need to know fast. Yesterday my daughter auditioned they picked her and they want us to pay money today for registration for the “experience” in L.A.
Download my ripoff guide (top of page) and see if they have red flags. Sounds to me like they do if they are already asking you for money.
I need some help. I was contacted by Casting 247, a woman named leena reid called. They want me for a kohl’s print ad, but required me to make payments for the website subscription, in order for them to make my submissions to casting directors and etc. The payment is only 80cents a day but I don’t know if I am running into a scam.
It’s a scam, Daniel. Run away! That’s not how they cast for print ads.
Oh my God! I thought this company was legit and I put my trust in them. Fortunately, I did not give them a lot of money but now I am going to dispute the charges they made against me to my credit card account from my bank. I did everything that they asked me to do including posting a profile with photos and I submitted to literally every casting on their website that I thought was a good fit for me, but I started to become suspicious about them after several weeks went by and not a word from a single casting director. Now I’m a good looking guy with prior acting and modeling experience prior to opening up an account with casting247, and I have a difficult time believing that I would be rejected by all those casting directors if not at least offered any auditions. Whenever I contact the staff of casting247 about my submissions, they would make excuses such as “things take time” , but I have been involved in the acting/modeling industry long enough to know that if a real casting director was interested in me they would have contacted me right away. I also find it funny that whenever I call their direct line there as always an intern answering a phone and never an agent available. Theses so-called agents always email me. Just a couple of days ago I emailed them an ultimatum telling them to help me land work before the next billing date or I would cancel my subscription and dispute the charges they made to my CC account. It looks like after seeing this post and reading about complaints from other clients about this company that I will be doing this right away whenever possible. I’m glad a discovered the real truth about this company before letting them take any more money from me. I really now want to report this agency to the proper authorities and have them shut down. I do not know how people like this can live with themselves taking advantage of and ripping other people off.
One more thing: They (casting247) have people who have submitted video testimonials. I bet now these people were paid by the casting247 staff to do these fake positive reviews in order to fool other people to believe they are legit. Whom can we check with from now on to make sure if such an agency is legit or not, because I thought at first that casting247 was legit?
Chris,
There is no one place to check. But you can download my ripoff guide for free (top of the webpage) and watch out for the red flags I mention in it. I also listed the companies I am aware of and tell people to avoid.
Larry
Hello!
Im am 13 years old and i just recently got signed with wilhelmina CO, modeling agency and i just want to know if its legit? would you know anything about them?
thanks! -Sadie
Sadie,
I’ve heard of them and have seen mixed reviews. Download my rip-off guide and see if the one you signed with have any of the red flags I mention in the guide. -Larry
Do you know anything about East Coast Talent Agency in Georgia? They are interested in my son. We are in Nashville but can’t seem to find an agency here that doesn’t involve money up front or required classes.
And is a 2 year contract with an agent sort of standard?
thanks, Bob
Hi Bob! Love getting a comment I can give good news too (which is unfortunately pretty rare). Yes East Coast Talent is a very legit agency and yes, a 2 year contract is standard. Best of luck to you and your son! And congratulations on getting rep’d by a great agency!
hello Larry i got an agency interested in me and i’m not really sure if they are legit the website is filmcomm.ca by the way i’m in Toronto
Kyle,
They look new, but reputable to me. Download my ripoff guide (top of page) and see if they have red flags.
Larry
Can you tell me if Launch Model and Talent Academy in Metarie, La is reputable? They are BBB accredited, but would like advice begore signing my child up.
Thanks
Download my rip-off guide and see if they have any of the red flags I mention in the guide. I did notice that they are not a talent agency and won’t get you any auditions. So be aware of that. -Larry
Is this all the information that you have on Launch Model & Talent in Metairie? I am very new to this and would like to know your opinion if this is one of those scams before my child is signed up. Any information is greatly appreciated. I downloaded your guide but since they aren’t advertising themselves as an agent it is really hard to tell.
Jessica,
My list is not an exhaustive list. See if they have the red flags I mention and if they do, RUN! Their name itself sounds questionable to me. The word “Launch” sounds like they are advertising to new people trying to get into the industry which, to me, is a red flag. Hope that helps.
Larry
I went to an talent agency in D.C. that a friend of mine used. We had to pay 1800 dollars after they said after meeting our daughter that they were interested in her. I thought the agency was legit because there were 10 one on one classes which usually go for 150 or so in this area. The additional monies were to go towards the showcase where casting agents would come from LA and NYC to see my kid perform. Well they did come and are from very reputable places. She got to audition for the 5 or 6 agents all at once, in a room with just them. She also got to do a meet and greet with them the night before which lasted about 3 hours. But once my daughter did not get picked, though she had signed a contract to have this company be her talent manager, they didn’t have time for my daughter. Three months went by and we heard nothing. So, I ended our contract. I felt royally screwed over. A few kids “made it” and got some really good agents with a great history. But they were mostly younger kids and were used for print. But my point is, 1800 is a lot of money and though my kid had maybes from all of the agents, the manager refused to let her go through the next showcase unless we forked out all of the money all over again. It was really dumb because my kid wowed the agents, but because she was older and wasn’t as experienced, it was more of a gamble. I read the agents remarks weeks after and that is basically what they said. But for this manager to ask for more money? My kid got cast in a production a few months after this, and then another and another. She just needed a resume and he probably could have lined his pockets the legit way by getting a percentage instead of just demanding more money for “acting lessons” His mom was one of the teachers and she was absolutely terrible. My kid took lessons after that for 400 dollars for 6 weeks and learned more in a class setting than she did with these clowns in a 10 week one on one.
And, the agency’s name is MDM Talent. BEWARE…
Sorry you had that experience, Gina. That’s the outcome they don’t tell you about when it’s all over and nothing happens for your child. Thanks for helping other people my making them aware! -Larry
Hi, my daughter is a preteen actress in DC, and MdM Talent is advertising all over the DC area for these showcases. I was actually going to contact them to set something up for my daughter who has been begging, but now – after reading this – I think we will pass. I have read other things about them that aren’t very favorable, though at first glance they do appear to be legitimate and claim they are responsible for discovering talents such as Jessica Biel and Kerri Russell. I would love to get in touch with you to hear more about your experience. camibrowneactingmom@gmail.com
Thank you for sharing your experience and helping others avoid such pitfalls!
Thank you for posting your experience with MdM. I had the exact same, myself. I took out stock for the chance to work with this company. I was so convinced by their legitimacy and the encouragement they gave me. I was fresh out of college and initially showing in their first adult showcase. After a few sessions, I was encouraged to instead participate in the children’s workshop because I look much younger than I am. I was assured by both Michael and Diane that I would soar through and that one agent in particular would love me. After months of “training,” I finally had the showcase and was not picked up by an agent. I was called shortly after and Michael told me that the agent did want to meet me, but was hesitant because I didn’t live in New York. Michael then told me he’d arrange the meeting, knowing I was moving to New York. Well, months went by. I had to call Michael many times before finally getting a date for this meeting. As soon as I shook this agent’s hand, I knew he wasn’t really interested and this meeting was merely a favor. It was a waste of time and I was heartbroken. MdM promises that they’ll work with you regardless of showcase results. They tell you they’ll do their best to find the right agent for you because they believe in you. After the meeting, I called Michael trying to get more answers and to review comments from the showcase. After days of nothing, I got a single text from Michael simply confirming the obvious. I never heard from them again. It’s been two years now. I’m an educated and street smart person, but I was played. This isn’t the way to break in.
Hi, im wondering if nine9, casting360 and explore talent legit. Im in Houston and finding a step up before getting a legit talent agent is very hard and almost impossible. Tyra Banks said that you don’t suppose to pay, your agents make 10% off you. If they want money, they help you catch jobs so that they can make money. So please let me know. I can act but I have nothing to back it up. I just want to be more than prepared before I go into an agency and signing a contract.
Dontrell,
Download my rip-off guide (at the top of the website) and see if they have any of the red flags I mention in the guide. I am aware of 9Nine and Explore Talent. They are not talent agents. If you’re looking to get started immediately, I just released a short course that teaches how to set yourself up today on a legit and widely used online casting website. I’m offering it for under $10 right now with the promo code VIP999. Here’s the link: https://goo.gl/WPIK75. I also have free articles on the blog that might help point you in the right direction in starting your career. Specifically, check this one out: https://actingcareerinfo.com/getting-started/
Hope that helps!
Larry
Hello,
I’m trying to get into the adult entertainment industry, and I came across an agency called Velvet Touch Talent Agency. I received an email back saying that I was a good candidate for their agency, however before they can consider me I have to pay $178 for testing. Which I get its the porn industry, they have to make sure everyone is clean and what not but does it make sense to test an individual prior to actually accepting them? Could this be a scam?
Tiffany,
As a father of a daughter, I am praying you reconsider this choice. Your heavenly father is crazy about you and has given you gifts that will bless you and this world, not harm you or it. I encourage you to watch this video about the porn industry. https://youtu.be/sZTKLFvDglE
If you want to get into acting, you can and I’m happy to help. Start with this post, Seven Steps to an Acting Career: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Blessings to you, Tiffany. And remember, you are valued and have a lot to offer that is truly fulfilling and blesses people.
-Larry
Hello Josh!
have you heard of nine9 modeling and acting houston?
I just wanna make sure I’m not getting scammed. Thank you
Yes, and I don’t recommend them. Download my free ripoff guide to learn how to avoid the ripoff companies. Just enter your email in the top of my webpage. -Larry
Larry, this is SUCH a great resource!
For those who need more background on One Source (now Nine9), Explore Talent and other fee-based talent services, read some of the heartbreaking stories in this recent LA Times article (link below). Thankfully, the Krekorian Act (AB1319), a law supported by SAG-AFTRA, the Casting Society of America, and major studios and actor advocacy groups, is working to take down those who can’t follow the law. I helped develop portions of the law with the LA City Attorney’s office and am happy to offer informed advice on possible scams in CA.
As someone who has been casting for three decades, I’ve seen every kind of scam aimed at eager actors. And yes, there are some great services out there. But the one piece of advice I can give every actor in California (or parent of a young performer) – if considering using a talent listing service (like One Source or Explore) or a talent counseling or training service offering acting and modeling classes or career counseling courses – is DO YOUR RESEARCH. Ask if they’re following the provisions of the law – AB1319. Are they bonded by the state? Do the have a contract and refund policy as required under the law? If they do not, and are operating or advertising without these things, they may be breaking the law and should be reported to the proper authorities. At a time when there are serious investigations going on, and even more hard hitting news stories about to emerge, the time is now to report scams to keep yourself, and your children safe. We all benefit when we help each other to call out the scam artists.
And Larry, so sorry I didn’t get a chance to meet you when I was in ATL a few months ago! I was there speaking to a group of over 200 local actors in a FREE seminar with Atlanta CD Jessica Fox-Thigpen and teachers and actors Jason MacDonald and Crystal Carson!
Next time!
All the best,
Billy DaMota CSA
Hi Billy! I’m so honored to have your endorsement of the advice here. You are a champion of this cause and I’m very grateful you came by. Your comment is spot on, of course! This will be a never ending battle due to the nature of the business; but it’s worth it and it’s the right thing to do!
For those who don’t know who Billy DaMota is, he is a very courageous Casting Director who is speaking out about the kinds of ripoffs and abuses that take advantage of actors. In many cases, he even calls out people in his own industry (Casting). That’s courage, folks. Follow him on Twitter at @billydamota!
Thanks again Billy! And yes, we’ll definitely have to meet up next time you’re in Atlanta. The folks at Drama Inc. are friends and great people. Sorry I missed you! Thanks again for checking out the blog.
Larry
Oh and thanks for the tip on One Source. I started getting comments on Nine9 and recognized the MO but didn’t realize it was OneSource rebranded. Great info!
Larry
Hi Larry, I just found your site and what a blessing it is for new actors were trying to find their way!
Have you heard of this site or this young woman? I don’t want to say the name of the site here because it’s got a bad word in it but have you seen this Larry and would you suggested for a new actor?
She says she’s an independent casting agent I can’t find many credits on the IMDb or on the Internet. I’m in Utah and my friend told me I should check it out,but I’m not sure, and I have to be careful with my money for my move to Hollywood.
I know that everyone can say there an expert these days. What do you think?
It wouldn’t let me post the URL so I put it under my website. Just click on my name to see the site (there’s also another link on the Facebook page to her website)
Carly
Glad you love the site, Carly. Thanks! I have not heard of her and apparently not many people Hollywood have either. Given the profanity and spelling errors all over her site, I’d question the quality of what she provides. There is no such thing as an “Independent Casting Agent” – at least that’s not a title anyone else in the business uses. So, if it were me, I’d walk away. Too many red flags.
Oh, be sure to download my free ripoff guide at the top of my blog to get the list of red flags to watch out for and a list of known companies I tell people to avoid. -Larry
Hello,
My name is Liv and I have a few questions, as I read your responses I find them very helpful:).
Okay so question number 1 is I live in the Syracuse New York area but I would prefer to sign with an agency in NYC, is that possible at all?
and my 2nd question is have you ever heard of ATNY is it a scam for money, and have you heard of Take 3 Talent, they see legit but I want to be sure before I send in a submission?
Thank you and I hope you can respond
Hi Liv,
It is possible, but if they sign you they will have, and expect you to be available for, auditions in NYC, not Syracuse. If you can get a NYC agency to sign you, great! Of course, NYC is like LA in that it is a top market for talent. So, you had better have a full resume and amazing headshots if you want to be considered and signed by the legit agents there.
Download my free ripoff guide to see if the ones you mentioned have red flags I warn about. You can download it at the top of the page.
-Larry
Hi Larry if I bought your book would there be information that I can help my daughter just get into commericals?
Hi Jennifer. I have two courses on my training page. They aren’t books, but rather consist primarily of training videos. Which one are you referring to? Also, how old is your daughter? If she’s older than 3 years, the “Find REAL Talent Agents NEAR YOU!” course would help point you in the right direction towards legit agents. If your daughter gets represented by one of them in your area, then yes, it would be helpful.
Hi, my name is Dan McGettigan, if you don’t mind I have a couple of questions. My daughter will be 20 this March [ I know you hear this a lot] but she has a great voice. Some History: She has been a cantor at our church since she was eight years old. She was invited to audition for Annie in NY we were going to let her but after giving it some thought we determined let her be a little girl first. When she was 16 We partnered with Children’s Hospital Of Alabama Cancer Division and produced a CD Titled Christmas Memories it is on iTunes. Children’s was supposed to recieve a portion of the money, so far we have given them all but a few hundred dollars that I keep to update the CD. She and a friend took a trip to NY a few months back her friend talked her into doing an audition she did an open auditioned,they thanked her said godbye. About an hour later she recieved an e-mail from one of the largest Casting Companys in NY asking her would she be interested in auditioning for the understudy role of Alfaba from Wicked. To make it more interesting they changed all the rules for her: you had to be local and equity, she was neither, the auditions were scheduled for Monday, they put her in with five girls who’s agents had scheduled audition times she was the only one called back to read. She did not get the part it went to a 29 year old actress. She has been invited to sing The NA to open the largest Vetrans day ceremony which is here in Birmingham, and has been invited to sing it at several other events.The reason for my telling you all of this is because to show that I am not just a bragging father, but a very proud one. Also, she wants to work for Disney in Orlando she has made it known that she would sweep floors, because she wants to help make people happy. I tell her she just needs to sing and people are happy. I have never looked into getting her an agent, because first I do not want to be one of the unfortunate parents writting you about their bad experience too I did not want to feed her to wolves at such an early age. So finally getting to my question can you advise me where and how to find a honest reliable agent for her? thank You for your time. Dan
Hi Dan,
Sounds like she’s really talented. The first question is, does she want to act or does she want to sing? If it’s the latter, I’m not familiar with the music industry as that is a whole other animal.
If she wants to act and you want to find a legit talent agent for TV/Film/Commercial/Theater that she can submit to, then I can help. I get this question so much that I couldn’t do the research for every person. So, I created a really inexpensive video course (just 7 bucks) that shows you exactly how to find agents wherever you live. You’ll have legit agent names and contact info in less than a half hour. You can get it here – https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
If you get the video and feel like you didn’t learn how to find legit agents near you, I’ll refund the $6.99.
Hope that helps!
Larry
Larry:
What about areyounext tv. They are making “auditions” in Puerto Rico. I have a feeling they are not legit. What’s you’re take on them?
Melissa,
Unfortunately, I don’t have the time to research each one people ask me about. Sadly, there are just too many. Download my free ripoff guide to see if it has red flags I warn about. You can download it at the top of the page.
Hope that helps.
Larry
hollywood-talents.com
any insight on them?
Hi CC,
I wish I had the time to research each individual one, but unfortunately I don’t. Download my free ripoff guide to check if it has any red flags. You can download it at the top of the page on my blog. (www.actingcareerinfo.com)
If you want to find legitimate agents in their area, you can take my short video course that will teach you how to find the real agents and acting resources in your area. The course is cheap and you’ll quickly learn how to find the agents that won’t rip you off. Here’s the link to the course: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello, I filled out one of those forms in the mall for my 10 month old son. A company called me named “Model & Talent Inc.” also known as “M & T inc.” located 110 SE 6th st. STE 1700 ft. Lauderdale, Fl 33301. WEBSITE: http://www.ModelandtalentInc.com. #954-593-3401
I took him to the runway walk and was notified he won 3rd place in the baby division. The only thing I had to do was get photos taken which were $150. for about 40 different poses and i got the DVD with them all on there. Now they stated since he won 3rd place and won a year free contract. I need resume cards and casting cards which I can get them myself or order through someone they recommend which is $1.00 a card. They recommended to get 50 color casting cards, 50 black and white casting cards and 50 resume cards. which will be a total of $150. I need to send them 20 of each card then send 2 of each card to them monthly for the year. They say this amateur modeling contract is non-exclusive,and the agency will NOT take a 20% commission on the jobs that are booked through the amateur casting board and pay less than $500. The agency will only take 20% on professional jobs booked thru the booking department that pay over $500. they claims they are regulated by Florida, title XXXII, regulations of professions and occupations, chapter 468, part VII. Thy state if we earn over $700 a 1099 tax form will be sent out. The last thing I really didn’t understand this in the Contract : I understand that I am not liable to pay Model and Talent Inc. any ting as long as I am the Amateur Board. When I book a job off the casting board, the client will mail my paycheck to my address below. I will then be responsible for sending M&T a work voucher, casting card and updated resume to be reviewed by the booking department. Quarterly Model reviews will be held by the bookers to determine which amateur contract models resumes are strong enough to be bumped to a professional board contract. I have to send back by 3/30/2016. Please advise me if this is legit or a scam!!!
I’m not a fan of that company because they usually charge much more than that. What you are paying is not exorbitant but you need to know this: Babies (less than 3 years old) are RARELY needed for acting and modeling jobs – especially in Florida. Most legit talent and modeling agencies won’t even take new talent less than 3 years old because they change so quickly and the need for them is so rare. Are there some jobs out there for babies and toddlers, yes. So, if you do it, don’t expect much and you may find the $300 grows as they request more photos and the jobs don’t come in. Any company that recruits through mall sign-ups is suspect in my opinion, because that is NOT how legit agencies find their talent – it’s how ripoff companies find parents who are unaware of how the industry really works. But it’s up to you.
Hi Larry,
Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge and helping those of us trying to break info the biz from falling prey to scammers! I’ve learned so much reading your blog!
I have a pre-teen who has had a few paid acting jobs in the DC area through self submissions on backstage and actors access. We are now in the process for looking for representation. Do you have any feedback on Huston Talent Agency in VA / Sylvia Hutson? Also, Liquid Talent, which I saw is mentioned earlier. Liquid Talen has asked for a $25 up front fee for a meeting. Hutson is not requesting any fees. Also, do you know anything about a manager in MD called Camera Ready Kids / Suzi Young? I have read on blogs including Backstage and other casting websites locally that she is THE go-to person for kids acting in the DC area, but she charges a $30 fee for a preliminary information session so you can get an audition, then a $10 fee at the audition, and then a $75 fee to represent your child for three years, and she makes you sign an exclusive three year contract on top of taking 15%.
I have read everywhere that you should never pay any fees and that it’s a huge red flag, but Camera Ready Kids has been recommended all over the place, including on legit sites. Any advice? She claims it is to weed out the individuals who are really committed to doing this because it’s such an intense time commitment. But that’s over $100 before even getting started!
Cami,
Keep up the submissions on Actors Access. The more work she does will build her resume and make her more attractive to legit agents. I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area and there are several in the mid-atlantic area that are great. Those nuisance fees usually mean that they are not a SAG-AFTRA franchised agent. I’d keep looking. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
One bit of free advice is to look up casting director Erica Arvold. She does great free video blogs that are also very helpful.
Hope that helps and best of luck to you and your daughter!
Larry
Hi Larry,
I’m so thankful I found your site. I avoided a scam last month – same as some others who posted about hearing an ad on the radio about Disney! I signed both my kids up (16 yo boy & 12 yo girl) who both enjoy modeling/acting. My son couldn’t attend because he had to work but I did take my daughter & like the others, she auditioned at a table in front of literally hundreds of other kids… when I saw this & I knew something was strange… needless to say, my daughter got a “call back” the next day to come in later that day… we went & the minimum we were asked to pay was over $3,000 because she is “too talented & beautiful not to get the best representation & opportunities”! I ran like heck that afternoon, but couldn’t bare to break my kid’s heart because she really wants this. So when we got home, I talked to my husband & we only told her that I would make some calls to make sure she gets with the best agency for her.
She participates in pageants & has won two queen titles as well as several modeling & acting titles. We keep up with one website that posts legitimate jobs across the country, but those for her age group are few & far between. I have yet to actually find a real agency to represent her. I’ve gotten emails & letters from Nine & Quick Books – both claiming to be amazing, but I’ve learned not to trust any of these people! I want my daughter to have a real opportunity to do what she loves – are you able to recommend any agencies in the Southern region or anywhere really (we are in Baton Rouge, Louisiana but are willing to travel).
Thanks again for such an informative site – you are saving so many parents from being sucked into lies that could hurt our kids – be blessed!
Alarice,
In LA, the main market is in NOLA. I’d look there. I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area (NOLA). My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello Larry
I live in Northern Virginia. I took my kids (4 and 3 years old) to the agency this month for audition. Have you heard of kids international talent agency?
I just want to make sure I’m not getting scammed. Thank you
Pam,
I haven’t heard of them. Your kids are old enough to get representation and do it without spending money on professional headshots. And there’s certainly no need for the ripoff companies that abound.
Also, in general, legit talent agents don’t require pro photos when considering kids – they know they change too fast to make that a reasonable investment before they’re signed. They typically just require well-lit closeup snapshots to be considered – and you shouldn’t have to pay a fee to submit them. I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area and there are several in the mid-atlantic area that are great. I’d keep looking. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
Hope that helps.
Larry
thank you Larry for taking your time to reply to my message.
I just bought and downloaded the guide, it is very useful, thank you.
pam
Hi Larry,
My daughter is 2 years old and on Sunday we have an interview with Hollywood Talents. Have you heard anything about them? If so any advice or feed back will be greatly appreciated
Hi Jenny!
I haven’t heard of them, but if they pretend to be agents that will get you auditions then ask for money, run!
Also, in general, legit talent agents don’t require pro photos when considering kids – they know they change too fast to make that a reasonable investment before they’re signed. They typically just require well-lit closeup snapshots to be considered – and you shouldn’t have to pay a fee to submit them.
I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi,
Have you heard of Next Star Productions? Could you tell me whether or not they are reliable? Thanks.
Hi Rachel!
I haven’t heard of them, but if they pretend to be agents that will get you auditions then ask for money, run!
I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello Larry,
I saw an advertisement for Next Star Productions on Instagram. They claim to develop talent in actors, models, singers, and dancers. I went to the audition, said a couple of lines to Denise Johnson, the owner, and got a callback email a couple hours after. They want anywhere from $450-$975 for training in the industry, but you get a spot in their showcase in front of many agents. I’m not sure if this is a scam.
Thank you,
Jenya
Hi Jenya!
I haven’t heard of them, but that’s a lot and if you don’t have a resume with credits on it already, the agents are VERY unlikely to sign you. It’s not just about talent, it’s about proof that you are an actor. Real agents require some kind of experience unless you are a kid.
Once you get some experience (see my blog on that here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/acting-for-free/).
Also, once you’ve got a resume with some credits, I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello believe its fake the peolpe suspose to have come from Nashville Tennessee called 321 shine want1900 up front tryed to look up in bbb didnt see them tryedto search web for businesses i. Tennessee didnt see anything they are fake and they had kids audition somean mean
Lillian,
I’m familiar with 321 Shine and I’m not a fan.
Also, in general, legit talent agents don’t require pro photos when considering kids – they know they change too fast to make that a reasonable investment before they’re signed. They typically just require well-lit closeup snapshots to be considered – and you shouldn’t have to pay a fee to submit them.
I have a class on finding the legit agents in your area. My class is not expensive, but I do charge a little for the cost of making and maintaining this site. That class is here to download: https://actingcareerinfo.dpdcart.com/product/126609
I wish I could give personal advice for free to everyone that comments on my blog, but you can imagine how time-consuming that would be. So if you want detailed personal guidance, I do that via my “Schedule a session” link at the top or here: https://actingcareerinfo.com/schedule-session/
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi, do you have any information on NYLA Talent Agency and iPOP? I’m new to this stuff so I don’t really know and the scheduled audition is on 14th of May (Saturday). I have looked them up and they do seem legit but I just want a proper confirmation.
Thank you. 🙂
Hey Larry!
Have you heard of a company named The Celebrity Experience? I auditioned for them today and just got a callback but I’m not sure about it, I feel it might be a scam. I auditioned for an actor who appeared on Drake&Josh which made me believe it could be legit but idk.
Hi Larry,
The other day I had an appointment with a management company called MDM. I auditioned for them and they talked a lot about their company and how they started Jessica Biel and Keri Russell. They said that I had to pay $2500 for 10 sessions where they would coach me on acting skills and voice lessons and things. Then at the end there would be a showcase where I met with top agents in the country who they had great connections with, and they would see if they wanted to sign a contract with me or not. They talked about clients that they’ve had sign contracts with these agents, fly to LA and NYC, and shoot movies and tv series and stuff. Is this legit or a scam? I need to know soon. Thanks so much.
Hi so I am linked up with a talent agency called VIP Talent Connect. The CEO is Alycia Kyback. She claims to worked on many Broadway shows including “Gigi” currently. I’ve been offered a position at her talent conference in New York in June 25th. They tell me I’ll have a day to sit with casting directors from all over and network, then hopefully be cast in something. I’m not sure if it’s a scam or not. They did ask for money upfront but not to represent me, they say it’s for the my spot in the conference. The entire ticket costs about 1200 bucks.
I’m really worried I’m being scammed.
They are asking you to pay a fee into a conference where you may or may not get anything from it. Doesn’t sound good. Take that money and invest in acting lessons, books, courses from legitimate actors. I always say, “Find out what someone else has done and do the same.” I have several recommendations throughout the website. The Scene Shop and Training links are good places to start.
Hi there… I put a search in google and this page came up so I believe you talked about Bravo Talent Management but I cannot find it in all these comments….
Are they legit?
I did fill out a little form on their website a few months ago but they are based in Chicago and said they have a female who comes to New York to see the applicants and they will keep me on the NY list. They emailed me yesterday and I called them today. They want me to come in Tomorrow morning and said Saturdays are the main day. I said I wasnt really available so the rep is contacting the interviewer to see if she can do another day…
I am 25 but my mother said it sounds familiar and she’s hoping it’s not a scam. I really don’t want to waist my time. But they don’t have that much followers on social media(twitter) (I don’t know if that matters but..) the website has a lot of information although its basic/outdated being that I am a web designer for work.
Your answer is greatly appreciated,
Thank you in advance!
Nik,
I believe they are on my ripoff guide. Here is the link. http://eepurl.com/bYtxpL Pop in your email and it’ll be sent to your inbox!
Hi My name is Bobby and I’ve been looking into two talent agencies lately. The first is Gage Models and Talent out of Knoxville TN. I sent in photos and a brief description of myself and was asked to come in for an interview because they loved my look. I went in sat down the girl was very nice we spoke for a few minutes and she handed me a contract showed me OPTIONAL acting classes and said that I should get the package for the head shot/ 3 quarter, and full body shot from a contracted photographer they have for professional photos. That package is $395, and signing the contract is $175 with $150/yr for 3 years. She also said to take a week and think about it, as well as ask any questions (which i did after reading the contract) and she answered them making things more clear). Does this sound like it’s legit? Also I have a meeting with Dan Talent Agency in Brentwood, TN Friday to speak with them, I did the same thing, sent pictures, quick info, and was offered an interview at 2pm Friday, do you know anything about them as well? I really could use some help here.
Bobby, any “talent agency” that offers “packages” and their own acting classes is suspect. The legit talent agencies out there do not do this. And a 3 year contract is VERY long for a talent agency. Most offer a 1 year contract because they want to see if you can book work and don’t want to be tied to talent that doesn’t book. Last, those contracts do not require a monthly or yearly fee if they are a legit agent. Really, the only fee they should get from you is through commissions off of projects you book. Some charge a small annual fee (less than $100) to be listed on their website, but that should be optional. Hope that helps.
What do you think about John Casablancas in Charlotte or even in Atlanta? I know they’re more of a school than an actually agency but I know that you’re supposed to run away from anything that asks for money upfront. 6 month classes for modeling/acting cost 2,195 and a contract for 3 years. It seems legit because you get “free” photoshoots and they’re supposed to help build your portfolio/resume… but I’m just stuck on spending all that money for something that I’m unsure of.
Acting/Modeling classes vary depending on the place you are taking them. In ATL, one of our acting studios offers classes in 4 to 6 weeks increments varying from $140-$220 depending on the type of class you want to take (ie Intro to acting, acting 1, acting 2, intro to film acting, etc). If you were to take 6 months of these classes at the highest rate that is approximately $1300, almost half the cost of what they are asking.
Rather than spending the money for something you are not sure about, research local acting studios, start with the basic intro to acting and move on from there. That way you are in control of your training and money. Here is an interesting website of reviews: https://www.consumeraffairs.com/modeling/john_casablancas.html
Hi Larry,
I’m fourteen and really want to be an actress mainly because I’ve been in theatre and fallen in love with it. Although I haven’t been able to find any agencies here where I live. Do you happen to know of any agencies in or near Spokane, Washington?
Hello Stella,
Your best option is to research on the sagaftra.org website. I bet most of them will be in the Seattle area. If you really want to act, find a local community theater and audition for their shows. Good luck.
Hi Larry,
have you heard of Seattle Talent and they have come to my area for auditions. Can you tell me if this is real or not?
Unfortunately, I do not know about every agency across the US. My suggestion is to see if they fit any of the criteria that I have listed on my guide and in the following emails. Research the company and follow your instincts. SAG/AFTRA Agents do not (and should not) ask for money to represent you.
Hope that helps.
Hi Larry,
I am almost 14 years old and I live in the Washington DC area. I do all of the school plays at my school, and also participate in an out of school acting company; I am a very experienced actress. My dream is to become an actress, but I would really love to find an agent and be in a commercial for now. Could you please recommend me to a few acting agencies where I live so I can start on my acting career path? I’ve looked online but I can’t find any; could you please help me with this? Thanks!
Hi Ellie,
Check with your acting company, they should have some insight to local agencies. You can also check sagaftra.org. Make sure you get your parents involved in your search, you will need support and guidance from them.
Hi Larry, have you heard of jw23 casting out of Los angeles? I cannot find any reviews, good or bad about them. They posted on Craigslist and we are given the chance to audition either by person or by sending in an online audition video. I’m gonna email them asking if one would need to drive to Los angeles or submit a video audition. But was curious if you had ever heard of them. I suppose they could be new hence the lack of reviews. I’m sorry if you’ve already answered this but do you have any recommendations for me, who lives in Orange county ca for places to submit my head shots to (don’t have head shots yet)? Thank you Larry!
Hi Sophie,
Unfortunately, I do not know about every agency, however, I would be wary about castings from Craigslist. To find legitimate agencies, go to sagaftra.org. There you will find agencies affiliated with the Screen Actors Guild. Hope that helps!
Hello, I was wondering if you knew anything about The Studio Group. This is their website: thestudiogrp.com They are asking for $2000 in 9 payment plans, which include different acting classes. The classes are going to be every three weeks on a Saturday and you make a payment then.The guy I auditioned for has done commercials and they offer to get us professional headshots and a showcase with talent agents at the end of the whole thing. Do you think this might be legit? Please let me know. I gave them $200 because they said I had to reserve my spot but they want $200 more to fully reserve my spot by this Sunday.
Unfortunately, I do not know about every company that offers this type of “service,” however, I do know that everything they are offering you can be done on your own and for MUCH less:
Acting Classes- approx $100-$200 per month or session depending on what class you are taking and the experience of the instructor
Headshots- $150-$400 Again, price range depends on the experience of the photographer.
Talent Agents- Look on sagaftra.org and find a local agency, contact them and ask if they are accepting submissions (FREE)
Personally, I am always wary of any company who wants me to put money down and hold my spot for anything because I do not like feeling pressured. Trust what your gut is telling you.
Thank you very much for your information! This has helped a lot. Have a good one.
Good afternoon I was wondering if you knew anything about the William Reynolds Agency, I have an audition with them in Atlanta and there offering to pay for headshots and lessons if they see beginning talent that needs a little push, and they have a A+ on the BBU
Antonio,
I have not heard of them or of any talent agency that pays for headshots and lessons for potential talent. They are not listed on the sagaftra.org website. If they ask for money to represent you, then walk away.
Hello Larry,
Im a 31 year old female from Akron Ohio i went to the agency that is here for an audition well i got accepted it was free for the audition but once they accepted me they told me i would need to take a class that was 14 weeks and it cost $1,396.00 and i dont have that kinda money period. I was so excited to mnow that someone in an agency thought i was beautiful and could be a model even tho im a big girl see us big girls dont get no where but i figured i would try because i always wanted to be a model but my body type well it just wasnt happening but i found Tess Holiday and shes a plus size model and i seen how pretty she was even though she was a bigger girl and she recently signed to a modeling agency herself about 2 years ago. Every since i seen her i wanted to try but the agency like i said is gonna charge me i know i got wat it takes i just dont know how to go about starting like the who and what part Larry please help me make my dream my reality.
Cynthia,
Classes do cost money, but that seems exceptionally high. Ask them for several recommendations or go to the community theatre and see if they offer classes. If the agency insists you take that specific class or they won’t accept you, then you need to find another agency. Look on sagaftra.org to find agents in your area.
Hope that helps.
Larry,
I know you are in Atlanta, and I saw the agencies that you recommended. Do you know anything about East Coast Talent? My daughter got a contract offer with them. We had to do a fairly extensive submission process, and I don’t see any “red flags” at this point, but do you have any insight into this agency? Thanks!
Kristina
Hi Kristina,
I am not familiar with East Coast Talent, but they are very clear on their website that they do not take any payments for classes or headshots. The costs they mention are normal costs associated with entering the acting industry. The 800casting account (about $40/yr) is a must for submissions. Most agencies use it to submit their talent. Sounds like the only thing you need to decide is if you like the people you have met there. A good relationship with agents is very important.
Good luck!
Hi Larry,
I went to a modeling audition today with preview models. The auditions were advertised on Facebook and I registered through there well the site (preview model). I went to the audition at a hotel and I received a call back today at 920 telling me to come back tomorrow for “call back”. I researched this agency and I see both scam then not scam. I’m just not sure what to think. Today they brought Top Model Don Benjamin who spoke with us and answered questions. Before leaving I was handed a brochure with information inside explaining the company and the cost. Cost is 1500. What I auditioned for is 3 day televised production in LA. What do you think and have you heard anything really true about this company. Should I go to the call back with my hopes up or run away?
Hi Shannon. Sounds like a typical modeling ripoff to me. If you were truly auditioning for a “televised production” you wouldn’t have to pay anything. You wouldn’t have to pay anything to get seen and represented by a real modeling agency too. Run away.
-Larry
Hello Larry,
I’ve found very interesting your blog. I’m an actor, not from U.S. and just landed two months ago. I’m living in Miami. I came to this country with the intention of making the crossover in my career. The first week after landed, I went to the one and only agency I’ve ever been to and intent to keep it that way. You incredibly described the scenario:
-we are an un-agency(definition I haven’t heard in my life!)
-we need 40 usd per month for our services (the same bullshit you mentioned)
-and now, for the modest amount of 499 usd, I pronounce you member of our scam…
thank you very much for this web page. My name is Tomas. If you are still updating the site, I will appreciate some feedback if possible.
Once again, I show my gratitude…
Thomas,
I’m glad the information helped and that you recognized it was not a legitimate agency. Take a look at the sagaftra.org website and search for agencies in Miami. Hope that helps and good luck to you!
Hi larry I have a question regarding why some pages like this http://www.KidsCasting.com. charge you to get you an auditions and if is normal? that people charge I live in L.A and i don’t know how to support my daughter she never been in acting school do you know any agent or call auditions are safe to join here in LA thank you!!
You should never get charged to audition! If they are trying to charge you, then it is not a legitimate audition. Take a look at the sagaftra.org to find legitimate agencies in LA. Also, there are plenty of acting schools there; get recommendations from other actors or agencies. Acting schools will charge and that is normal. Good luck!
Hello,
What about realitytalent.net? I did research and nothing popped up as far as scams but I am not too sure and want to be very safe.
Courtney, They apparently are a niche talent agency only for “reality” shows. I have never heard of this and can’t imagine how they would be profitable with that tiny of a niche. I’d beware. If they are legit, they should not ask you for any money at any point. That would be the giveaway that their business model is built on taking money from talent up front, not from productions after a casting has been made. Hope that helps.
Hello Larry,
I got a call from RealityTalent.net, I was looking into it because they had a casting call for America’s Next Top Model, I submitted my application, and a guy by the name Mel Hyatt emailed me and told me to call him. I returned his call and he told me that he was going to go over my application and ask me some questions, yes he also said that the call was being recorded. So after that he told me to email, 7 photos of me and that his team were going to have a meeting and were going to call me and let me know if I had what it took to be on the next cycle. He called me the day after and told me that they chose me. Of course I got excited but then he told me that I would have to pay $297 so that they could send me a passport and handle anything I needed. I haven’t paid anything because I wasn’t sure if this was a real scam, but by the other comments I’ve read on here, it clearly looks like that is the case. What do you suggest?
Complete scam. Run away. This is not how these shows cast their contestants. He is just trying to take your money.
Hi Larry, My name is Danny, I live in San Francisco and I was wondering if you knew about any Legit agencies down here?
Danny, there are a bunch. Search for one on the SAG-AFTRA website: https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
Hope that helps.
Hi Larry,
I got a call from someone to audition for Disney. I went there and the person who called himself a director of the event speak and explained all with so many fancy words. My kid was so excited and they present everything so nice, I do fall into that. I paid $10,000 for the upfront fee they asked me. After that, the event should happen in Florida. All the expense need to spend it from your own pocket. With all the shopping, trip, everything included I end up paying $30,000. There were all the performances and everything. When they were signing my kid they promised my kid will get the chance for sure but my kid got no callback. I and my whole family are very disappointed as we went with so many expectations. Now I don’t know what to do. Like you said, they don’t give time to search or think. I feel really bad as I spend this big money and got nothing in return. There is something that you can help? I need help really bad. My kid is very disappointed and feels like she is not good enough for everything. I’m supporting her but we got nothing after doing that much. I even quit my job to take my kid to Florida. The audition I’m talking about is really huge and ppl come from all over the world for this. Please help me if you can.
I’m so sorry to hear about that. That is an enormous amount of money. Once the money is paid, there is usually very little you can do except to learn to never do that again. Read my blog on how to get started right: https://actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps/
Hope that helps.
Have you heard of TN Management? From a quick search online, I found out that they’ve also gone by the names Showcase of America, Canadian Showcase for Models & Talent, Just Models, Murray Talent Scout, etc. My kids got invited to an audition with them, after getting their pictures taken at an outside booth at a New Years fair. We went in and had a chat with the CEO, she had them repeat some lines and asked about their personal skills and aspirations. At the end she concluded that my daughter would be the one more suited for this (my 3 boy didn’t mind, as they weren’t very into it anyway) and asked if we could bring her to a photo shoot in two days, for a cost of $900. We pay the photographer and in turn get makeup, wardrobe, hair and 200 shots done, with 5 blowups for our daughter’s profile and comp cards. I’m just wondering if this is something legit or not, or if I should ask if I can get the photo shoot done myself somewhere else? It seems pretty costly to me, especially since it wasn’t something we were planning for or anything, and we don’t really have room in our budget for big extras like this. But after the audition, my daughter is very interested in pursuing this, so I would like to find out if you think they’re legit and if it’s worth the money or not. Thanks.
That is a ridiculous price for headshots. Run away. Total ripoff in my opinion.
Has anyone heard of Catrina mccullough with dreamtouch talent agency?
Have never heard of her or Dreamtouch. But that doesn’t mean much. There are thousands of legit talent agencies out there and as many ripoff ones. Use my ripoff guide to gauge which it is.
Hi there!
I’m in south Florida and I just received a call from realitytalent.net. I applied for Americas next top model and they called me and had a short phone interview. Said to send them 7 pictures and that if I get picked I will need to pay a fee of $297 which covers my portfolio and access to their casting. I haven’t sent my pictures yet because I think 300$ is a ridiculous amount for a “membership”
I’ve heard of these “reality show” talent agencies. Sounds like a total ripoff to me. It’s free to self-submit to those shows through their individual websites. I’m sure these “agencies” will tell you that they “know what the casting directors are looking for” and will make sure your submission is more likely to be seen. I just think that’s a lot of money for what they are offering and, ultimately, totally unnecessary.
Hello Larry,
Well I just recently received and email for Us talent Resources that said they were casting for the Beats Earphones Commercial and in order to be considered you need to interview. SO I called the line Thebes’s guy explained the whole thing said you would be flown out to New York paid round trip, paid for doing the commercial and receive royalty payments when it airs. So after he told me and another lady submit your bio and modeling pictures. So after the call I did, 2 days later I received a email saying I got the lead in the Beats commercial, they wanted to know what agency I was with so they can send the contract. I said I don’t have an agency, they said okay the client will cover the insurance for you being on set and everything else but you will have to pay a company that they use for your National Background Check $150. You will have to deposit it into the account they have at Wells Fargo or wire it from your account to them. After that you will call the Lady over the project and she will work out everything you need and your accommodations for this project.
Total scam. Don’t send them anything. This is not how commercials are cast. Talent NEVER sends money. They are just trying to get your money. Ignore them.
hello Larry do you happen to know about southwest modeling and acting agencies? I got a call to come in and meet them but I need to know if they are real or not.
Briana,
I haven’t but that doesn’t mean they’re legit or not. Download my free guide to rip off companies and decide for yourself after looking into them.
Larry
Larry,
My daughter has an audition with John Casablancas. Have you heard of them? I don’t want to scamed.
Yes, I’ve heard of them and none of it has been positive. Ripoff company in my opinion, sadly.
Are you aware of any real talent agentecys in the Seattle area? And if not, could give me any tips on where to start? Thank you !
Tramm,
Check the SAG-AFTRA website for legit agencies in Seattle. https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
You’ll find only legit agents on that list.
Larry
Hi Larry! Do you know if Amy Lord is a good agent? Also if Salt model & talent is a good agency?
Joe,
Yes, Amy Lord with SALT is legit. I have some friends with Salt.
Larry
Hi Larry-
First of all thank you so much for your valuable time and advice. It is really helpful for all aspiring actors wondering where to begin with. I am from India. I am so passionate about acting. I have a full time IT job that i really need to take to pay my bills simultaneously i am working on my passion too. I want to start with my native language which is Bollywood and then move on to Hollywood. This is my dream. I have been submitting my applications to few agencies online. But i am really not sure if i am doing the right things. Could you tell me where to start with? Can you suggest me some agencies in India that i can relay on? And any additional suggestions in general? Thank you so much for your time, Larry!
Divya,
Thank you for your kind words. I do this blog as a service and make no profit from it. So, I’m glad it’s helpful. Since I am in the US and have never been to India, I can’t really advise you on that market. Clearly, there is a huge market for talent in Bollywood. So, I suspect that it may be a similar process in the US, but maybe not. But, there are probably a lot of ripoffs as they are everywhere. My general guidance is to start with local theater and get advice from trustworthy people you meet that are actually in the industry with real Bollywood credits. My limited search found this page that might be of help for resources there: http://bestactoracademy.blogspot.com/2013/05/top-actor-model-casting-agencies-in.html (I can’t guarantee these are legit, so inquire carefully).
Hope that helps.
Larry
The link is really useful. Thank you so much Larry. Have a nice day.
Is Seattle Talent legit or a scam? My kids have an audition in town but I am afraid that it may be a scam and I don’t want to take them if it is!
Debbie,
Seattle Talent is not a talent agency, they are a talent development company. They apparently have a new division that is a real talent agency called “Seattle Artists Agency”. Although it is not listed with SAG-AFTRA. Also, there are several “red flags” to me about Seattle Talent. Knowing they are a “Talent development” company, nowhere on their website do they specify what training or development classes they offer, nor do they list any pricing. BIG red flag to me. Any legit actor training studio will list their classes, the schedule, and their pricing.
So, in short, Debbie, I can only advise you based on what I saw online, but it looks to me like they are the kind of company that I warn against. You’ll know for sure if you go and they want to sign your kids up at a cost of thousands of dollars.
Seattle is a big market and there are lots of legit agents there. Here’s the link to SAG-AFTRA website that where you can search the legit agents in Seattle: https://www.sagaftra.org/professional-representatives/sag-franchised-agents
Hope that helps.
Larry
Thank you so much! I was a little concerned and just wanted confirmation to my suspicions!
Hi, My daughter recently was at a dance competition where she and 4 others were picked out of hundreds of others and recognized with a $1000.00 scholarship for a weekend expo called Discovery spotlight where they claim the kids will build confidence, enhance resume and make top industry connections. They will meet face to face with prestigious agencies, clients and casting directors. They call this the ultimate platform for regional and national exposure. With the scholarship they still want $1795.00 to attend and it does not cover hotel expense. Have you heard of this type of operation? Can you give me your opinion please? Thanks!
AT,
This is one of those companies that try to “fast-forward” an acting career at great expense. These are exactly the kind of companies I warn against. That’s my opinion. There is no short-cut to an acting career. I recommend you find a local acting school or theater to get her involved in and talk to working actors in that community on how to get started properly with a legit agent in your area.
Last, how do you know that she was one of only 4? Many times, they will tell you that to make it seem like that is the case, but in fact, they are offering what they offered your daughter to many more. Their business model can’t really survive on such few selections. But they make it seem that way to raise the “you are a star” feeling. All part of the sales process.
Hope that helps.
Larry
It does help! Thank you!
She was one of four at this particular dance competition based on her solo performance. I assume they are doing this at many other competitions. They are based out of Charleston SC and the company putting on the competition is also from Charleston.
Thanks again for your time!
Hi Larry,
My daughter heard over the radio about some auditions for the Disney channel. Since there was no money for that audition I took her. She got a call back and I know that if she now passes that they will want us to for workshops. I’m already assuming that it’s a scam but let me ask you anyways. Is IStar in Miami a scam? https://www.istarmiami.com Thanks!
Clarice,
It’s not uncommon for these companies to use Disney’s name and sound like they are casting for them. They are not. They are like the other companies I warn about. Yes, they will ask you for money. Hope that helps.
Larry
Hello Larry; Thanks for all the information and tips that you are giving about those Rip-Off agencies. Last Saturday I saw an announcement in Facebook about some auditions for singing, acting and dancing in Edmonton, Canada. The agency is called “The Undiscovered Talent” My daughter did one sketch and sang a bit. She got a call back for another audition the next day. For the second audition they have 5 tables separated on a conference room. Each table had parents and kids that were back for the second audition as well. I was paying attention to the others and I saw how they were paying those packages offered. The cheapest one was 1990; the middle one was 2990 and the luxury one was 4000. As they were pushing us hard to buy those packages, I said “No Thanks, I have no money”. But I was feeling terrible because my daughter’s dreams. Today thanks to you I was able to explain to her better about this company and relief that heavy charge represented on my daughter happiness. They even have a website with some actors referrals. I know they are Scammers because the money they were asking for.Best regards
Glad I could help, John. It’s going to be hard to find legit agents in Edmonton. Biggest market near you is Vancouver (which is not really “near” you, obviously). Consider finding a community theater with acting classes to get her involved in. That’s the best start and a good way to hear about legit agents from actors in that market. Hope that helps.
-Larry
Dear Larry,
Do you know by any chance if “NEXT” is NOT a fraud?
Lizzy,
NEXT is one of the companies I do not recommend.
Larry
Do you know anything about Seattle Talent (seattletalent.net)? They “waived” the 6-week workshop fee for my child but are requesting headshots/portfolio at the cost of $495. They say that’s it and they want us to sign a 1-year contract and we said we would think about it. Thoughts?
Jessica,
Those headshots are on the high side. You can find lots of headshot photographers in Seattle for less than that. I would especially caution against paying that much for child headshots because you’ll need to get new ones in a year when they grow and their look changes. Plus, a legit agent shouldn’t even have a fee that they need to waive.
Larry
Good evening, my sister has suggested that she and I should attend an open call held by Mogull Talent during the weekend. I have researched this website and they state that if the person being being interviewed might be a candidate for their showcase with modelling/talent agencies then pricing will be discussed. They have also stated that consulting workshops and professional photography will be of no extra cost. I have already read one comment from your website concluding that this might be a scam considering the exorbitant costs but I would like an answer of my own to see if this is an isolated incident or not. Thank you
Mikee,
I just received an email from someone who took his daughter to an open call with this specific company and he said, “The lady told me it wouldn’t cost me anything to take a picture, but we attended a session and found that we needed to pay $3500 for the “package.” The reason there is “no extra cost” is because they want a large fee. Please save your money and skip this one.
hey Mike I went to Mogull Talent meeting last Sunday. Wasted 2 metrocard subway rides smh… this is a total scam trying to rip people off 3500$ with nothing in return. Typical scam scheme I have done some research about that guy and it seems every couple of years he does it under different company names so people wont find bad reviews online!
Hello! I live in Ohio and it’s impossible to find a good agency. I found one called New View Models & Management but they almost seem too good to be true. Are they reputable or do you know of any actual agencies in Ohio?
Brittany,
Take a look at the SAGAFTRA.org website. There may not be one in Ohio, so check other states surrounding you. I believe there is a SAG-affiliated agency in Pittsburg.
The Studios at Michigan (aka The Studio, aka MAC Entertainment) seems to be just the scam you are describing in your blog post. Thank you for this info on your blog.
They came to my child’s school and tricked them (ironically with an antibully skit) into filling out address cards WITHOUT PERMISSION and then solicited everyone to attempt to scam them. We are now suing them for damages.
The Studios at Michigan is a 100% scam!!! DO NOT TRUST!!
More information about this scammer can be found here:
https://www.facebook.com/thestudiosatmichigan
More information about this scammer can now be found here:
http://thestudiosatmichiganscam.com
(Do not trust fb since fb can obviously be bought or tricked to prevent truthful negative stories.)
It should be noted that the hook for filling out the address cards in the post above was that they could win a gift card. The targeted victim of The Studios at Michigan were ages 11-13 and they clearly did not have parents permission. As far as I know, this is illegal.
Larry, I would like to thank you for spending your time educating people that may be enticed by these types of business practices.
Have you ever heard of an agency called Jess Andersen Talent and Model Agency? They are located in Lakeland, FL although I’m closer to the Tampa area. They supposedly have been in business for over 30 years and it’s a husband and wife and the wife is also a photographer. They want to meet with me and get pictures done for my composite. I asked how much the pictures cost and all they told me was they had several different packages depending on what I wanted to spend and was on my budget. They even continued to tell me that if I couldn’t afford the package that I could bring like $100-200 for a “down payment” and I could make payments. Once the pictures were paid in full they would send me my composites and such then. I just don’t know if it is a scam or not and I’m very skeptical. Most reviews I can find on them seem alright but there are mixed reviews which also scares me. I also know that they are not on SAG/AFTRA website.
The moment an “agency” starts talking about a payment plan, you should walk away. That’s not how legit agents work. Legit agents make their money from helping talent get auditions, booked, and then getting commissions from that, not from charging their talent up front.
Hope that helps.
My son is interested in becoming an actor. He has recently attended a Mogull Talent interview at a local hotel.
They have something coming up in August that would open him to agents and other opportunities, as I understand. They are looking for $3500 to help him get prepared for this, not sure what you call it my brain is stuck.
Is the Mugull Talent a scam or not?
Could you help?
Cathy,
Real talent agents don’t charge up front. Walk away. Read my seven steps blog for how to get him started in the business. actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
Larry
i have a friend interested in this david mogull or mogull talent and she is considering giving him this $3000 which she does not have and i am liiiiiike THIS HAS TO BE A SCAM. anyone in the nyc area know who these people are? help! sos
Andy, You are right, $3k is a ridiculous fee. Tell your friend to walk away. Real talent agents don’t charge up front. -Larry
Hi Larryy daughter was picked by Images Agency in St.Louis,MO. After we got done paying the agent a close to two thousand dollars we were then asked to go to Los Angeles California to attend the IN Industry conference in June that will cost from 4 to 7 thousand dollars to go. My question is have you heard of them?….are they reputable? Please help!
Anthony,
I’m so sorry to hear this. Real talent agents don’t charge up front. I would walk away. Read my seven steps blog for how to get her started in the business properly (actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps). It’s not a quick process, but that’s because the concept of “being discovered” is not real life. Some might say, but “so and so” was “discovered” through that company. And while that may be true, people also win the lottery but that doesn’t mean you should choose the lottery as your plan for your finances.
Hope that helps.
Larry
Hi, Larry. My daughter has just gone to a 321 Shine audition and was asked to come back tomorrow for the callbacks. They gave us a booklet that sounds a whole lot of what you described; such as packages, picking her for one of the people to come back, and telling success stories. Our concern is that they are not legitimate, but they did seem to have a fair amount of statements. They brought in an old Disney star, Daniel Benson, and told us that they don’t send talent out expecting them to “get big” right away and that some have just made a lot of money from national commercials and a few appearances in some pretty well-known shows. We also heard them tell the girl that went before us that she needs to work on a couple of things (we couldn’t hear what they said to work on) and that she should come back next year. With all of that being said, part of me believes what they say and another part believes it is just a scam. Please let me know right away what you think. Thank you!
David,
Sorry for the delayed response, we have a high volume of comments in the last month. We have heard of this company and recommend that people walk away before they take a large chunk of your money.
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hi Larry,have you heard of Images Agency in Frontenac, MO????? Or the IN Industry?
Hi, Larry. My daughter has just gone to a 321 Shine audition and was asked to come back tomorrow for the callbacks. They gave us a booklet that sounds a whole lot of what you described; such as packages, picking her for one of the people to come back, and telling success stories. Our concern is that they are not legitimate, but they did seem to have a fair amount of statements. They brought in an old Disney star, Daniel Benson, and told us that they don’t send talent out expecting them to “get big” right away and that some have just made a lot of money from national commercials and a few appearances in some pretty well-known shows. We also heard them tell the girl that went before us that she needs to work on a couple of things (we couldn’t hear what they said to work on) and that she should come back next year. With all of that being said, part of me believes what they say and another part believes it is just a scam. Please let me know right away what you think. Thank you!
David,
Real talent agents don’t charge up front. This is one of the companies I caution people about. Read my seven steps blog for how to get her started in the business. actingcareerinfo.com/sevensteps
My seven steps are not a “get big quick” process. No artform, or business for that matter, is.
Hope that helps.
Larry
My granddaughter said she has a modeling contract from a company in LA called L Jones talent agent. WE told her it’s a scam but doesn”t believe us.
She said they are paying for everything,
Nancy,
Unfortunately, I am not familiar with modeling companies in LA. However, agencies should not require any money from the talent up front. I do not know many agencies that pay for things. If that is the case, she may be accumulating debt that she will owe once she does start making money.
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hi ! I would like to know if Next Star Productions is a scam. Last night my daughter auditioned with them and we received an email of a call back, but they said that we have to pay for the training since she has no experience. She needs 3 trainings of $195.00 per each rehearsal for the final showcase. I appreciate your help, thank you very much ! Cynthia.
Cynthia,
Please walk away from this. No training cost $195 per session. If she has no experience, go to the local community theatre and see if they offer theatre camps/classes this summer.
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
I haven’t gotten a chance to read all of the posted comments but do you know if there are any legitimate agencies in Ohio? There are so many scammer companies it’s hard to tell who actually wants to help people.
Ness,
These are the ones for the Ohio-Pittsburg region on the SAG/AFTRA website:
Docherty, Inc.
Full Service (All Ages)
109 MARKET STREET PITTSBURGH, PA 15222
4127651400
Talent Group (Pittsburgh)
Full Service (All Ages)
2820 SMALLMAN STREET PITTSBURGH, PA 15222
4124718011
Hope that helps!
Lisa
Larry’s Assistant
Hi there, have you heard of Rick Cochrane with ruby bird studios. The email I received on behalf of my daughter was very detailed on a date and location for a photo shoot for Top Man & Top Shop and infact paying for all travel expenses and setting up an agent, but one of the emails is pampers4luv@yahoo.com that and the fact they asked for my address name and phone #? Help is it a scam?
That sounds fishy if you got an email from a yahoo address. I wouldn’t give them any personal info.
Hi Larry,
Is “Actors Giving Back” in Glendale a good/real company for acting school? I want to sign up my son but i want to make sure is not a scam or fraud since it is a bit expensive.
Ana,
Apparently, this company is a legitimate school, but it’s more expensive due to it being affiliated with David DeLouise. See if they offer a class audit to see if your son would like the company. Another option is AMAW which is owned by Master Acting Coach Antony Meindl. I know that here in ATL they offer an audit of the class. http://www.anthonymeindl.com/
Hope that helps!
Lisa
Larry’s Trusty Assistant
Larry Is the company Actors Giving back a good/real company? My son was picked for the program with David DeLouise Disney channel but i want to know if it’s real. Please let me know what you think about this company.
Hi! Please help! Do you know anything about The Industry Network?? I’m supposed to get back to them today after my audition yesterday and being accepted. They gave me a pamphlet that gives me options. 500$ for acting which includes 4 rehearsals and an agent audition they say. Also 200$ for a photoshoot. To eventually train me to go to their Los Angeles Event. My sister and I both were accepted and given this offer after an open casting call, and it would be a lot of money for the two of us. The Industry Network?? Please help!
Hi Iliyana,
This is Lisa, Larry’s assistant. Unfortunately, we do not know the legitimacy of every agency in the US. However, if the price makes you uncomfortable, please do not do it. The acting class price is a bit high, but the photo shoot cost is reasonable. What I bet is going to happen is once you dish out that money, they are going to come back with more money you will have to pay to go to the event. In this case, it seems they start with a lower cost entry, but they are banking that you will invest and then once you’ve put money in, you’ll invest more into it since you’ve bought in and don’t want to lose your initial investment. Does that make sense?
Lisa
Hello my son was offered management with TB talent in PA and Future faces in New York City. Both companies emailed the photo shoot package rates upon excepting my son. Both allow you to submit your own professional photos but future faces charges a website fee of $29 and has a bad rep online. I have no info on TB casting. Any advice?
Korie,
We are not familiar with every agency in the US, but the fact that they allow you to submit your own professional photos is a good sign. Some agencies do have a website fee, but if the company has a bad reputation, then I would avoid them. As long as the company is not asking you to pay upfront for representation, that is great. They get paid after you get booked. Listen to your instinct and ask others who have been represented by them for feedback.
Hope that helps!
Lisa
Larry’s Trusty Assistant 🙂
Larry please reply to me, is Actors Giving Back a real/good company or is it a Scam?
Adriana,
This is Lisa, Larry’s assistant. Sorry for the delay, we are receiving an unusual amount of emails. Unfortunately, we do not know the legitimacy of every company. However, many companies use actors to promote their products. Acting classes do cost money, but you need to choose one that fits within your budget. There are many classes that offer a way to audit a class so you can see if you want to actually work with them. Anthony Meindl’s company tends to offer this. If you are in LA, check them out here http://www.anthonymeindl.com/.
If the company is asking for a lot of money or promising roles, etc, I would be very cautious.
Hope that helps,
Lisa
Hi Larry.
My husband heard an ad on the radio in Miami, FL stating an audition was taking place for a Disney show. He took the phone number and called them. They gave him an appointment, lines on “lifesavers” for our 7 year old daughter to memorize and when he asked if it was a legit audition he was told that a pilot based in Miami was going to be filmed and they were looking for new faces. So we went to the audition where an ex-Nickelodeon Zoey 101 actor told us his story… and blah blah.. our girl delivered her lines to one guy then to the Nickelodeon guy (Matthew Underwood) and we were given a booklet with packages for rehearsals and training. The cheapest one was 1950 and the most expensive one 9900, which gave automatic acceptance into iPOP Los Angeles and a leading role in I AM A STAR tv show pilot + interviews on camera with Disney and Nickelodeon Stars. Sounds to me like a scam, but I’m giving them the benefit of the doubt… I’d like to know if you know about them… they’re website is http://www.istarmiami.com
Milena,
Acting classes and training do cost money, but not at the rate that you are seeing. What is most concerning is the promise of a lead role. No one can promise that! Please do not give the benefit of the doubt and walk away with your money. Look up local/community acting classes for your daughter if that is something she is interested in. There is no short cut to fame.
Lisa,
Larry’s Trusty Assistant
Hi Larry, I’m a 14-year-old girl living in LA and I wanted to know what agencies are recommended for teen modeling jobs that are not scams. Your help would be greatly needed. Thank you.
Hi Gloria-Rose,
This is Lisa, Larry’s assistant. Unfortunately, we are unfamiliar with modeling agencies in the LA area. Our recommendation is to go to the sagaftra.org site and look for acting agencies that also have modeling agencies.
Good luck!
Lisa
A friend of mine fell for one of these “showcase weekend” talent searches years back. Overall ‘package’ costing $2500… marketed as the equivalent of the old Star Search. She was forewarned that it was a scam, but unfortunately fell gullible to the raw of getting her face and vocal talent, out in front of the L.A. judge panel.. Well, the experience naturally, was anything from enjoyable. The staff were over-controlling, rude, and disrespectful .. from headshot looks to audition pieces… even if a piece was all wrong for a person. They made her wear her hair pinned up, and then pose at a weird face angles for her “headshot”. And yes… it looked terrible. Like a horrible glamour shot. Her “talent” was star-vocalist, and the ‘recording’ copy they sent home with her, was a crappy semi-edited version. Not at all the final, cut she was proud of.
Sadly, wannabees seeking this stardom get suckered into these scams every day, because so many are yet uninformed about how the industry truly works. As stated … Talent Showcases are money-making pools… similar to the age-old John Casablancas and Barbizon Modeling scams “Be a model …. or just LOOK like one”.
Is nine9 unagency in stroville,OH a scam?
Here is a comment from a reader:
We got solicited by a company calling themselves “Premiere” here in Bangkok. Apparantly they are hitting the big cities around the world with their so called talent search. They filled up a pretty good size conference room with families and get the hopes up for these poor kids. The head guy dropped a slew of child actors names and used Disney and Nickelodean as implied targets they were working to provide talent for. We passed the first audition with the presenter/auditioner. Earlier he gave us a hard lecture to turn off our cell phones and not as parents get in the way of our child’s road to success. Keeping the cell phones off it dawned on me keeps anyone from looking them up, standing up and spilling the beans about their scam. I have to say the guy presenting and casting was a pretty good actor himself. At first he took a very forboding sinister personna, reminded me of Count Olaf. In the casting he joked around and made it look quite real. It dawned on us that it was a scam when he said, if you are called back for a second audition, be prepared to pay. We were then given a colorful pamphlet with instructions and had the prices which started at 1950 to 7900 US dollars.. We were at dinner and I told my wife I could verify if it is a scam in 5 minutes by looking on the internet. This was the 4th or 5th website showing it was a scam. A few websites said it was real but were probably put there by Count Olaf’s assistants. We had to process with my daughter that there are greedy con men in the world like count Olaf but real and thankfully we didn’t spend a dime on them. Thank you to Larry for creating this blog and outlining these warning signs. I feel bad for all the kids whose dreams get dashed and parents who get robbed and humiliated. Be forewarned so you don’t have to live a real life series of unfortunate events.
Thanks for sharing your experience! We hope other parents are as aware as you were!
Hi Larry,
Do you have any knowledge or information about “Hollywood Dreams California”? Their offices are in Las Vegas, USA. They have started a facebook page and are advertising auditions to be held in South Africa. If a person posts any warnings on their facebook page, the post is deleted and that person is blocked from doing any further posts. Rather suspicious behaviour which tells one that they cannot be trusted. I see the amount of people posting on their page wanting to audition and it scares me that they could all be conned out of their hard earned money. How does one stop this?
Take care
We have not heard of them and it is very unusual with auditions in S. Africa. May want to report it to Facebook.
Hi, is NYLA talent the same as LA talent? We just went to an “audition” with them and their range of fees is $1950 to $5900. Who can afford this? Are these people real or is it just another scam? We live in MY so not much of an opportunity here.