The Mystery Moderator really can't comment about a specific agent or agency - don't want to face a legal action for libel or some such thing. However, here are a few guidelines (courtesy of the US Government Consumer Protection Agency) that might help you determine a scam artist from a legitimate agency.

Check out all claims made in agency advertisements, sales presentations, and literature.

Ask for the names, addresses, and phone numbers of models who work through the agency and clients who have used its actors/models. Contact the actors/models and clients to verify the information.

Ask if the agency is licensed or bonded as an employment agency, if that is required by your state.

Keep copies of all important papers, such as your contract and agency literature. Be sure to get all verbal promises in writing.

Be wary of an agency that requires you to pay an upfront fee in order to represent you.

Modeling/Talent Agency Scams

The following is based upon a brochure produced and distributed by the Federal Trade Commission, Office of Consumer/Business Education, Bureau of Consumer Protection. The word "talent" has been added to the original brochure text because modeling and talent (usually meaning acting) scams are similar.

How The Scam Works

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recently brought a case against a modeling agency that placed ads in newspapers to encourage potential models, both men and women, to meet company representatives for group screenings. Many of the newpaper ads stated, "No Fee." At follow-up interviews, however, the selected applicants were asked to sign a contract agreeing to participate in classes and to pay more than $1,000 in advance for photographs that were required before they could work as models. In the end, most of the would-be-models received no photographs and no job leads. The company simply packed up and left town.

How To Spot The Scam

It may not be easy to recognize a modeling/talent scam because many of the advertising claims and practices may resemble those used by legitimate talent agencies. However, listed below are some common advertising claims that should make you suspicious:

"No Fee"

If a modeling/talent agency advertises that there is no fee for its services, you should be wary any time you are asked to pay. Most legitimate agencies make money only by taking a commission from their talents' work. An exception, however, is that you may be charged for your picture to be in an agency book that they send to clients who hire models and actors. Make sure you pay only your portion of the printing costs. Also, ask to see a copy of the agency book before you pay any money.

"Earn High Salaries"

Only experienced, top models and actors can expect to receive large salaries.

"Work Full or Part Time"

The hours of a model and actor is uneven and sporadic. You will not have the flexibility to choose your own hours.

"Real-People Types Should Apply"

Some ads encourage people of all shapes, sizes, and ages to apply for commercial modeling/talent work that involves the sale of a product. Opportunities do exist for 'real people' talent, but they are rare.

Watch Out For...

Since it may be difficult to recognize a modeling/talent agency scam only from their advertising claims, watch out for agencies that:

• Charge you money to take their classes before you are eligible for modeling or acting work.
• A legitimate modeling/talent agency may provide instruction on applying makeup or walking, but most do not charge you for classes. An exception to this is when a modeling/talent agency also serves as a modeling/acting school. A modeling/acting school does charge for classes, but that is a separate function from finding you work as a model/actor.
• Conduct an unprofessional photo shoot.
         Once a modeling/talent agency agrees to represent you, you will need photographs for your portfolio. In the larger modeling/talent markets, such as New York or Los Angeles, the photographs typically are taken in separate photo sessions, each using differenct clothing, makeup, and hairstyles. And often a model's portfolio is put together with photographs from more than one photographer. In smaller markets, all photographs may be shot in one session by one photographer, but you should still look different in all your photographs by wearing a variety of cosmetics, clothes, and hairstyles.
• Require a particular photographer.
         If the modeling/talent agency requires you to work with a particular photographer, chances are the photographer is working with the modeling/talent agency and they are splitting the fee. A legitimate modeling/talent agency may recommend that you work with a certain photographer, but be skeptical if they are insistent.

How To Protect Yourself

The best protection against losing money to a phony modeling/talent agency is to take precautions. The following list may help you reduce your chances of losing money:

• Realistically assess your chances for being a model/actor. Ask yourself: "Was I chosen because they believe I can make money for them - or just because I can afford to pay money to them?"
• Check out all claims made in agency advertisments, sales presentations, and literature. For example, if they say they are the largest modeling/talent agency in the country, contact other modeling/talent agencies and ask if this is true.
• Ask for the names, addresses, and phone numbers of models or actors who work through the agency and clients who have used its models or actors. Contact the models or actors and clients to verify the information.
• Ask if the agency is licensed or bonded as an employment agency, if that is required by your state. You local consumer protection agency can answer this question or direct you to the proper agency to get an answer.
• Keep copies of all important papers, such as your contract and agency literature. Be sure to get all verbal promises in writing. You may need these if you have a dispute with the agency.
• If you cannot verify the agency's credentials and the agency is asking for money in advance, you may be better off saying 'No.'

Where To Go For Help

If you have paid money to modeling/talent agency, and believe they are involved in a scam, first contact the company and request a refund. If you are not satisfied, register a complaint with your local consumer protection agency, Better Business Bureau, and state Attorney General's office. Also, contact the advertising manager of the newspaper that ran the ad you answered. For ethical and practical reasons, the advertising manager may be interested to learn about any problems you have had with the agency.

You should also write the Federal Trade Commission, Washington, DC 20580. Although the FTC cannot represent you directly in a dispute with a company, if the Commission finds evidence of a pattern of deceptive or unfair practices, it can take action.

The Federal Trade Commission has regional offices in the following cities. Check your phone book for the most current address and phone of the office nearest you.

• Atlanta, GA
• Boston, MA
• Chicago, IL
• Cleveland, OH
• Dallas, TX
• Denver, CO
• Los Angeles, CA
• New York, NY
• San Francisco, CA
• Seattle, WA

The main office of the Federal Trade Commission is in Washington, DC.

You might find the AWOL lesson on agents, "I GOTTA GET AN AGENT ! ! !", helpful.

I was wondering about the Agency scams. Why is it that you should be weary of being asked to pay money to take their classes before they assign you work? One of my friends had to do that; she had to take 2, 12 hour classes, each $650 each before they gave her any work. What is the deal behind that?

Hi Ally. Let's see...2, 12 hour classes is 24 hours of instruction, at a total of $1200= $50/hour. Now, assume your friend was not the only one in the class. Let's conservatively estimate that there was 6 people in the class. $50/hour X 6 people= $300/hour .

Wow!!! $300/hour. Hmmmmm. I wonder where the "agency" is apt to focus their time, attention and energy; on getting actress wannabees to take their expensive classes or earning 10% of their student's pay?

The deal behind that is that the agency makes money whether they successfully and consistently do their agent job for the students or not. 2, 12 hour classes is pretty minimal instruction. $650 is way too much to pay for such instruction. What kind of work did your friend get "assigned"? "Assigned" work is pretty low-level work. Not the kind of work that counts for much on a resumé and not the kind of work that would actually build a career.

How many jobs does your friend have to do before she recovers her $1200? How many past students stick around long enough to earn enough to pay for the classes? How long will the "agency" continue to "assign" your friend work?

What about new students? They also are promised assignments. The supply of "work" is limited. There is only so much available at any given time. How long will the agency be interested in "assigning" your friend work instead of "assigning" the work to the new students? Seems your friend's "assignments" will get a bit thin as new students get "assigned" that promised work.

If your friend sticks around (few do which is what the "agency" counts on) what else will the agency "require" your friend, and everyone else, to buy "...to take that next step to a professional career..." ? Advanced classes? New Photos? Hair and make-up stylist services?

Once a sucker, always a sucker???

Requiring someone to pay $1200 for minimal instruction to get "assigned" work that actually demands little if any actual acting skill or knowledge takes advantage of people and is unethical. It also is rarely the last time the foolish actor will be "required" to pay upfront for a promise of work and stardom.

Does that clear things up a bit for you?

Dear mystery person,

Recently I went to an "audition" for an agency. They claimed to have picked me out of 400 auditioners to be in the top 40. It was all based on a saying hello to a video camera and slating. I'm 17 years old and am concerned about what is real and not real in agency operations. They called me back, pretty much asking for $2,500 to pay for a series of acting classes and to be represented by them. I found this to be discouraging because there was no way I could come up with the money, and they lost interest. It is obvious that they were not exactly honest and moral , but I felt like I may have screwed up my chances for being a commercial actor. Now John Casablancas is offering me a similar opportunity and have allowed the offer to stand for a very long time. My question is, is it worth going to these acting classes? Not just for the money but for what skills I will be gaining? And-- am I being naive?

Hi Pearl. Naive? Not at all. You are being smart for not losing your $$$ to the come-on's in the business. Pay $2500 buckaroos based on viewing a "hello to a video camera and slating"? Ha! That's a laugh. What a scam. You are not naive. You are very wise. (a note to anyone who might have paid the $2500. Don't feel too bad. These folks are slick. Now you are wiser, though $2500 poorer.)

Pearl, you have not screwed up your chances at becoming a commercial actor. Seek out real acting classes. NOT classes hooked-up with a modeling studio. Are you in the LA area? There are a lot of good schools. Go to the newsstands or library and get current copies of Drama-Logue and other professional trade publications for your area. You will find many reputable and worthwhile classes available to you.

If you are not in the LA (or NY or other large city market) then investigate the local college or university. Often times there are classes available to non-students. Also check out the local news paper listings for possible classes offered.

You should also call your local professional theatre groups and ask if they know of any good acting schools or classes in your area.

Good luck. Good sense.

I am 14 and have been in a few musicals, and I was wondering if I would be better off staying here for a few more years and building up a resumee, or maybe trying to get into commercials, or being an extra in movies, and maybe get "discovered"?

Hi Joann. Where else could you possibly go? No legitimate producer of commercials and movies will hire an underage actress without legal, written permission and supervision of her parents. Commercial and movie work frequently requires that you have an agent and probably be a member of an acting union. Are you and your parents planning on moving someplace else so you can pursue an acting career?

Anyone who would hire an underage actress without legal, written permission and supervision of her parents is a scam artist, out to take advantage of you financially, emotionally and probably sexually as well.

I suggest you study the AWOL lessons on the AWOL Home Page to start learning about the reality of the acting business. Also, stay where you are. Explore the opportunities in your own back yard before you venture out into the cold, cruel world of professional acting.

Keep in touch.

To AWOL: I gotta say this website is great!!!!!!!! I got a question concerning agents. I read in the april Q/A about how an agent that will ask for upront money, is in all likelyhood to be a scam. Well my new agent w/in the contract stated that a $75.00 fee would be deducted from my first check for fees to cover mailouts and whatever expense there is in promoting me. I must admit that this sounds like a pretty good deal because w/out and agent I was spending well over that amount in doing my own mailouts. This fee is for the entire three year contract, meaning that its $25.00 per year. Just curious if this is considered a scam. The agent has been around for over 10 yrs and is not licensed, but unfortunatly I live in TX and there is only a handfull across the state that are. Most people who work as actors in Tx and are eligible for SAG/AFTRA dont join because this is a right to work state. I have noticed that the same is w/ agents here. Please clarify this for me and others out there who maybe in the same situation. Thanx and keep up the great page!!!!

Hi MAASCARDS. Not "licensed"? Or Do you mean not "franchised"? There is a big difference. TX requires "registration" of all talent agencies. If your agent is not registered, then you had best contact the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.

Here are a couple sections out of the Texas Talent Agency Act which you and other actors might find informative. There is a lot more. Check out the agency's site.

Texas Talent Agency Act
Texas Civil Statutes Article 5221a-9
Administered by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation
Latest Revision September 1, 1995

Section 2. REGISTRATION REQUIREMENT; PROHIBITED ACTS

(a) A person may not operate a talent agency in this state without a certificate of registration issued by the department under this Act for each location at which the person operates a talent agency.

(b) A talent agency may not charge, as a condition of registering any applicant or representing any artist, a registration or advance fee and may not require the applicant or artist to subscribe to, use, or use the services of any specific publication, video or audio tapes, post card service, advertisement service, resume service, photographer, or acting or modeling school or workshop.

Section 9. DISPLAY OF CERTIFICATE; CONSUMER COMPLAINT

(a) Each talent agency registered under this Act shall display the certificate of registration in a conspicuous place in the agency's principal office.

(b) Each talent agency registered under this Act shall display in the agency's principal office a sign provided by the department that contains:

(1) the name of the department;

(2) the mailing address and telephone number of the department's main office; and

(3) a statement informing consumers that a complaint against a talent agency registered under this Act may be directed to the department.

Is this $75 fee appropriate? Go to the TDLR web site and ask (e-mail) them the question. They should give you some local Texas insight into this matter.

(According to TDLR,

"Under Texas law, a talent agent may only charge you for reimbursement of actual expenses. The agent will need to show you documentation of the expenses made on your behalf. )

I suspect you really mean the agent is not "franchised", which means your agent cannot represent union talent. Which means that non-franchised agent of yours cannot get you the better paying, contract protected, acting work. You might have to pay your own travel, wardrobe, meal and accomodation expenses, or you might have to work 16-20 hours straight with nary a break and no overtime pay, or the producer might simply run out of money and not pay you at all, or any number of other common abuses.

Is the agent really going to work hard to represent you? How many actors and models does the agent represent? A lot? Well, then how much time do you think will be spent working for you - as opposed to the other 100 actors the agent has signed? How much time can be spent getting 100 people work? A whole lot of people will get nothing or nearly nothing.

What kind of work will you get? Handing out free cigarettes on street corners one day, free detergent samples the next? Extra work for low budget independent films? One of twenty customers screaming and frantically attacking the sale table for "Mega deals in family footwear at Bob and Mickey's Discount Plastic Shoe Source!!! "

Not being franchised also means that you have little to no recourse if a producer fails to pay you all you are due or your agent takes advantage of you - or decides to charge fees for such things like "mailouts" and "whatever expenses".

Yes, you can complain to the TDLR, but guess how much time and trouble and expense you, and you alone, will go through to get what you deserve? As a union member, you have the full weight of the union, its staff and the franchise agreement to support you.

Well, I suppose if you are willing to settle for the second-rate work and a non-franchised agent, and no protection from unscrupulous producers, then I guess you will settle for paying for such agent "expenses" too.

I suggest you contact the Dallas/ Ft. Worth AFTRA/SAG Office or at least visit their web site. Right to work doesn't mean you don't have to join the union. Right to work means only the chumps don't join the union.

Is that clarified enough?

Like many others before me, I first want to thank you for this wonderful web site. I love it. My question for you is this, I am 21 years old and have just recently become interested in acting. I saw an agent and she told me I had the "LA Look" and then offered me a course to take for 600 dollars. She said this course would teach me things I needed to know, like how to eat and drink on stage, and so on. I was under the impression that if an agent really saw you as a potential success, they would pay for everything, including clases if needed. But on the flip side the agency will pay for any photos I need and so on. I was wondering if this is a scam. I really don't want to waste money on this if it is a scam. How can one tell if they are getting scamed? Thank you in advance for your reply

Hi Linda. $600 to learn stuff like how to eat and drink on stage??? Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!

You are wise to be skeptical. Yes, this is a scam. I suggest you read the AWOL lessons, "I GOTTA GET AN AGENT ! ! !" and WHAT ABOUT SCAMS? on the AWOL homepage. Doing so will help you learn what to really expect from an agent (no, they will not pay for your classes or photos) and how to identify other scams.

5:aug01.html: Line #6 From: Ramona

Hello, there! How are you doing? First off, I would like to say thank you so much for this wonderful web site. I am so incredibly grateful that people with experience in this business put up web sites like this where aspiring beginers can learn more about the art of acting. Thank you very much! I have printed out your articles and visit often. I know that this is the place to ask a question, but I would like to actually like to contact one of the people who posted a question on your web site. She wrote a question to you, but I think I can relate to her because I auditioned for the same company as she did. And I would like to discuss this with her. This is for Katie who posted a question about an audition she had with John Robert Powers. Katie, if you are out there and reading this... please e-mail me (e-mail witheld) because I have also auditioned and just like you, I wasn't sure if the classes were a scam. I would love to di! sc! ! ! uss this with you since we both have some experience with that company. So if Katie is out there and reading this.... please send me an e-mail. Thank you very much! -Ramona

Hi Ramona. Sorry, we are not a bulletin board service.

Hello Moderator: I am usually very familiar with scams. However, I recently experienced something wherein I am not quite sure if it is legitimate or a scam. I recently met with a management company and management company that explained they charge and annual fee of $75.00. This fee is due to photo reproduction and to keep our information on profile. That way, as they send my headshot out, they don't have to keep requesting this from me. I was wondering if that is normal or at least legitimate? Trish

Hi Trish. I would seriously avoid this "management" company.

Hi, I wanted to let you know of a scam artist agent in Australia so he doesn't rip off anyone else. The agency is called...(sorry Juris. Due to legal considerations, since I am unable to verify your information, I am unable to identify the scammer)... in Sydney. He's been on current affairs shows as a scam artist, they take your money and don't get you any jobs. They want photos of you in bikinis (if you're a girl), put stars in your eyes and ask $750 for 'their' photographer to do your portfolio. Please post this message so everyone can read it, this information is from personal experience.

Hi Juris. Thanks for the scam tip. Even though I am unable to identify the "agent" scammer, knowing he is activite in Sydney, Australia and knowing the method of the scam is good information for other Australian AWOLers.

AUSTRALIAN AWOLERS. If you encounter an "agent" with a similar method of operation, leave imediately and report the "agent" to your local police for investigation.

Of course scams like that mentioned above happen everywhere, not just in Australia.

Read the AWOL lessons " WHAT ABOUT SCAMS?" and " I GOTTA GET AN AGENT ! ! !" on the AWOL Home Page.

Thanks for the info.

I have read the AWOL sight on numerous occasions. Actually daily. There is one thing I would like to comment about. In the area of scams it is most definitely interesting and accurate. However, I belong to a model and talent management company and would like to share a few things.

1) When accepted with the agency, I did have to take some classes. The cost varied depending on which class you chose. For me, it was about a grand. However, I did not have to come up with it up front. I am on a payment plan for a year.

2) They did not claim a "No Fee, Earn High Salaries,etc." type ads.

3) I am able to get work done before I finish my payment plan. I recently got a part (extra) in a Barry Levinson flick and was paid. Had it not been for this agency, I would not have known about it. Obviously, I dont have an agent, as of yet.

4) They guarantee bookings with at least one or more agencies but do not guarantee how much work you do.

They have their own line of clothing, makeup, skin care products, etc. This is for anyone to buy. However, to the students (us) we receive a 25% discount and can receive a free make-over anytime.

If you're wondering why I am mentioning all this, well, I whole-heartedly believe what you say about there being modeling and talent agency scams. However, there are some agencies that almost sound as though they fall into the category of a scam, yet, really arent. I was unsure at first about this agency. The attributes of the "scam" was borderline. However, I am now convinced that I made a good choice.

I really hope you print this. So that people wont pass up that good chance because they thought it was a scam. But, we all must still be wise.

Hi trish. If you are the trish in Washington, I suggest you call the folks at the National Conservatory of Dramatic Arts and ask them about this company.

Then call some of the franchised agents in your area (these are the people who find out about the good work in town) to ask them what they thought of the quality of the instruction you might receive from this "management" company? Do they find that the students who take those classes are skilled enough and prepared to enter the professional job market? Is their interest piqued when they see this company listed on a resumé?

Call the Washington AFTRA/SAG regional office. Ask similar questions.

Did you call the national consumer affairs office and ask them about this company? Did you call the Better Business Bureau, and your city District Attorney? Did you ask if they have received complaints?

I might be all wrong in this case, but frankly, it sounds to me like you are giving a lot of money to a company that provides acting classes, make-up, clothing, skin care products, etc. (have they hit you up for the photo package yet?)- not true career management services and not agent services. Payment plan? You and a few hundred other folks give them a hundred or so bucks a month for a year - and buy their cosmetics, skin care products, etc. to boot??? Now that's one heck of a way to earn a living. Sounds to me like their primary interest is in selling those classes and cosmetics not in "managing" a career for you.

I have no doubt they will guarantee bookings with at least one agency (a franchised agent? Not likely.) Getting a booking through an agency affiliated with this "management" comany is a far, far way away from a valuable agent/talent relationship. You might actually be sent to more then one or two auditions. However, don't expect much more effort on their part then that - unless, of course, you decide to pay more money for those advanced courses, updated photos, new make-up, etc...

Sorry trish. Seems to me their interest is mainly in your pocketbook, not your career. Which means their time and energy will be mainly focused in selling you more classes, cosmetics, skin care products, etc. Although you are getting something for your money, I don't see the value to you . Getting a part as an extra, although fun and educational, is hardly the kind of career management I would expect. Did they charge a percentage of your income from that extra job? How much? 15%? 20%? 25%? Will they charge a percentage of all your future income? Did you sign a contract of some kind? If you did, what exactly will you be paying them for and for how long?

In my opinion, still sounds scammy to me. If you are looking for someone to manage your career, see if the AFTRA/SAG office has any info on reputable managers in the area. Or contact the National Conference of Personal Managers to see if any of their members work in the Washington area. The most current address I have is:

East Coast Chapter of NCOPM
1650 Broadway, Ste. 705
NY, NY 10019
212-265-3366

Arrange interviews to discuss your goals, what the various managers can help you with, for how much and for how long.

G'luck. Keep in touch.

I have been reading all of your lessons and studying to become an actor, I find the lessons very helpful, I have had no previous experiance, I think I would like to act, in tv seies and movies profesionally, I fing\d that with a little time, I can easily become the part that I am playing, and it becomes very natural, I know when I turn 18 I would like to move to L.A. attend a university, study acting, and robotics, two field which interest me very, very much, the few new years resolution goals, are to,

1. land a speaking part in atleast 1 t.v. series, and audition for at least 1 major movie, I live in utah, but soon will have my drivers license, I plan on calling an agency today. I have been thinking of nothing but acting for at least a year now, I cant get it out of my head, Ive prayed, thought, spent countless nights sleeplessly, and feel so , so stongly, it makes it hard to think or concentrate on anything else, my grades have droped because of it, and unless I do something about it, I will literally go insane, I am so positive this is what I would like to do, that no matter how much I try to say I cant, it always turns around, no matter what, I would like to study these lessons more, I have printed them all out, my computer teacher kind of got mad at that, there has to be a hundred pages here, he'll get over it, my favorite actress is Lacey Chabert, most commonly known as cladia, on party of five, I have written her, about a month ago, I know that even if she does answer, It will take at least a year, I guess it all boils down to this question, I know I have the determination, I know with practice, I can aquire the skill, most of my facial fetures are not common, I have brown hair and brown eyes, Do you think with a determination like mine, That I could make it all of the way, and if so what advice would you most like to give to me.

Hi Jesse. Before you resolutely decide to make acting your profession, contact agents and the like, I suggest you FIRST stop thinking about acting and start doing some acting. Since you have studied all the FREE AWOL acting lessons, you already know how to go about finding auditions for local groups.

All the determination in the world won't pique a legitimate agent's interest unless you can also demonstrat you have consistently and professionally done the work. Of course, all determination and no experience will always pique a scammer's interest. Make sure you read and understand the AWOL lessons "I GOTTA GET AN AGENT ! ! !" and WHAT ABOUT SCAMS? on the AWOL homepage. An enthusiastic, no-experience guy like you would be a perfect mark for a scammer.

Find an audition. Go to it.

Hi my name is chris and i am from australia.i hope to move to los angeles with in the next year or so.i have some questions on acting agencies.

1)who and what is a subagent!

2)when looking for an agency,i understand how to go about looking for one,and what to look for in one,but if the agency has to many off (MY TYPE) then that wouldent be any good, because then there would be to much competition within the same agency for me. how do i know if there are to many off my type-where do you draw the line and say ok theres to many like me here.also if theres not enough of (MY TYPE) then that is not the right agency for me either,because they dont specialise in my area. whats the best thing to do.

3)are professional actors, or well known actors signed clients onley.

4)starting off in LA is it better to look for a freelance agency,than one that is a freelance and signed agency in one,because if i go to an agency that works with both freelance and signed clients, then the priority for the agent is to find work for the sigend client first.i understand in LA if you are freelancing you can have different agencies for different acting work eg- theatre,commercials& film.

5) is it better to gain membership in the unions by work and not by paying your way in, because the casting director will know how you got your membership by looking at the resume, if you pay your way in then you havent had much work.

Hi chris.

1. A subagent is : One who is employed by a person already acting as an agent.
2. You discuss it with the agent. You can also thumb through the Player's Directory. If the agent is really heavy on your type, perhaps you should look for another agent.
3. I am not sure what this question is asking. An agent will sign anyone they believe has a good chance to make them a good piece of money (from commissions) for the amount of time and energy the agent will spend representing them - even if the talent is neither well known or professional (which simply means gets paid for acting).

 

 

A scam artist will sign anyone they can get cash from or convince to start writing personal checks made out to the"agent"or a business interest of the agent.

4. Frankly, at first, most actors are lucky to get one franchised agent to agree to work with them. No point in worrying about two. If the agent is a good agent and wants to sign you, great; if the agent wants to work freelance for awhile, great (in LA, agents have to sign an exclusive. In NY, they can be freelance or exclusive.)
5. Casting directors don't really care if you are union or not or whether you have had a lot of union roles or not. If they like your work and believe you are a good choice for a role, they will try to have the director see you. If the director casts you (for a union contract role) you take your contract to the appropriate union, pay your fee and you are in the union (better have that thousand bucks handy).

If You Are Not a US Citizen or Resident Alien (holding a"green card") The Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), as directed by Congress, sets the visa requirements for alien performers who want to work in the United States. The INS allows performers who are not US citizens or permanent residents to audition on any visa, but they must then get a very specific visa to actually work on a film, television, or electronic media project like a video game, whether it is SAG signatory or not, in the United States. Production companies, and sometimes talent agents and managers, apply for these visas on behalf of the performers. Due to the INS criteria and cost of transportation, living expenses, and legal fees, these visas are typically granted only to major-role principal players. You do not have to be a member of Screen Actors Guild to qualify for these visas. However, the criteria for the most common of these particular visas (the O-1), require that the performer has been recognized for his/her accomplishment of outstanding achievement (as closely defined by the INS) in a media similar to the one for which the visa is sought. Visas are issued by project, not by time period. Visas cannot be applied for until an employment offer is extended to the performer. O-1 visas are not available to performers who seem promising, but are not yet fully"proven". For further information about visas, you will need to seek out and make contact with an immigration attorney. We are not able to provide references.

Except in very limited circumstances, acting work performed outside the United States will not qualify a person for membership in Screen Actors Guild. To be eligible based on foreign work, the performer would have to have been hired in the United States and transported to the foreign location by the SAG signatory production. Membership in the performers unions in England and Australia does not qualify a person for membership in Screen Actors Guild .

My daughter is 13 and we went to audition and it turned out that it was for an acting school and they want her to come with us to talk about acting classes. It will cost $1500.00 includes photo session and it will take 3 months. My question is does this usually happen and it the right thing to do?

Hi Precio. You are wise to question this. It sounds as if you were unaware that the auditon was actually designed to find potential students for acting classes. This is quite unusual. It sounds to me like a scam. That they offered a photo session as part of the deal also suggests a scam. Legitimate schools do not operate this way. If I were you, I would not talk to them and I would not pay them any money at all.

I would, however, report this incident to your local District Attorney. They need to find out about such things so they can investigate and take steps to protect others from such deceptive business people. Ask if they have received other complaints. Do not be surprised if they have some on file. You should also contact your local Better Business Bureau.

You might also want to read the AWOL lesson, WHAT ABOUT SCAMS? on the AWOL homepage.

While surfing the web I came across a site called "TalentFinders". Basically, they offer a chance to interview with them, and if they like you, they'll set up meetings with legitimate agents in New York and L.A. They have an impressive resume of celebrities who have come to them; Sarah Michelle Gellar, Alyssa Milano, Holly Marie Combs, Kristen Dunst, and Melissa Joan Hart, to name a few. So it sounds pretty cool, right? Well, the thing is, it costs $295 for the interview. You've said that it does cost money to kick start your career, but I wanted to make sure that this was okay.

So does this sound like a scam to you? I've reviewed the "What About Scams" and "I Gotta Get an Agent" pages, which were very helpful, but this is a more specific question. I plan on asking them a bunch of questions (are the agents they introduce us to franchised? how many agents do you introduce some one with potential to? what percentage of people actually find success with you?) Would those be good questions to ask? They have an 800 number, so I'll do this before I commit to anything. Thanks for taking the time to answer my questions. :)

Hi Krista. Any service that charges money to evaluate "potential" (especially "immediate" potential) for the acting or modeling business) is providing something of extremely limited and highly questionable value.

After reviewing their site, I can confidently say that I personally would not pay a single penny for their "services".

$295 to find out if "...you have 'what it takes'..." ??? HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! HA! I would never waste my money on such foolishness. As they say numerous times on their web site:

What does this mean? I suspect they want it to mean that this proves they are subjective and impartial. What it really means is that they are unregulated and do not have to be licensed by state agencies. So if you feel you did not get your money's worth, tough luck.

NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER pay anyone to evaluate your "potential" or to see if "you have what it takes"!!!

Frankly, if you want to spend a whole lot less than $345 (the $295 "consultation fee" plus the $50 they want you to spend on their "Industry Resource Guide") to learn how to really go about getting into the acting business - the way it is really done - buy some current books on the subject. There are many fine books available, all of which can provide you with valuable information about getting your children or yourself into the acting business. These books cost between $15 and $35. They are a much better deal.

These books discuss the realities of the business. They also discuss ways NOT to go about getting into the business. One of the ways regularly discussed is to NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER, NEVER pay anyone to evaluate your "potential" or to see if "you have what it takes"!!!

Head over to your local book sellers, see what is available on their shelves and ask them about other books available but displayed on their shelves. Check your local library for current books (published within the last three or four years.) Check out the AWOL Book List.

Also, subscribe to the widely read acting trade publications Ross Reports and Back Stage/Back Stage West/Dramalogue. These would provide you with plenty of important and useful, detailed, current, up-to-date information about casting, agents, auditions, contacts, and much, much more.

If you want to get ahold of an absolutely incredible resource guide, ABSOLUTELY FREE OF CHARGE , simply check out the links and FREE Lessons on the AWOL homepage and AWOL's Hundreds of Great Acting Links page.

They also state on their page, "We do not have a contract with you". This means there is no documented commitment from them re: what they will actually provide to you for your $295. Which means that if you are not satisfied, good luck trying to sue to get your money back.

Another quote, "We do not work with agencies who require portfolios or expensive headshots." What does this mean? You do not need headshots to get an interview with their associate agent? That's nice. But what if the agent they refer you to decides not to work with you ( NOT because they don't like you, but because you simply do not fit into their current mix of talent - which happens all the time?) Well, guess what, you are then on your own looking for an agent; which means you will need headshots, a list of franchised agents, etc...All the things discussed in the FREE Acting Lessons on the AWOL homepage.

Once you do begin to work with an agent (whether it is the one they referred you to or one you found on your own,) you will definitely need headshots. I have yet to see a legitimate agency that did not require headshots - and headshots are not cheap. Headshots are an industry standard. Headshots are regularly sent by agents to casting people. They are widely used. They are essential. And the agents do not pay for the headshots.

So if they "...do not work with agencies who require portfolios or expensive headshots...", then who do they work with?

To quote from their page:

Do agents and managers really look at all the pictures they get in the mail?

Usually, but not always. It depends on the agent or manager.....whether they're having a good day.....or a bad day. Occassionally someone very good will fall through the cracks, and their photo may end up in the garbage pail. However, for the most part, their job is to look at the mail, since agents are very competitive, and they know that if they received a photo from you their competitor must have also received the photo....and THEY want to be the FIRST to call you in if they think you look interesting.

Hmmmmmm. Since photos really are important, where are the actors supposed to get them taken? By TalentFinders? By associates of TalentFinders? By photographers referred by TalentFinders? Hmmmmmmmm. Who knows. They don't say. Hmmmmmmmmm. Perhaps you will find out about a photo package offer after you pay for your $295 consultation. Perhaps along with the other services they might offer - after you pay the $295 consultation fee. You know, all the "tools" you will need to become a success.

Despite all the impressive looking copy about Jane Kronick, President of Talentfinders, her accomplishments, the accomplishments of her associates and all the other hype, it is my confirmed opinion, you should

No matter who they are or claim to be.

Although TalentFinders does not seem to list an address, they claim to have " offices on both coasts" - wherever along the coast they might be. I suggest you contact the LA and NY District Attorneys' offices and the LA and NY Better Business Bureau to see if they have any complaints about TalentFinders, Jane Kronick and Robert McCarthy (the only "associate" actually named on their page.) Also contact the California and New York Departments of Consumer Affairs to see if they have any complaints.

Now let me say one last thing about paying for consultations.

Imagine that 100, star-struck, excited, talented people pay $295 for a consultaton. They are interviewed and taped by the consultant. This might take an hour or less. $295/hour.

The consultant has made $29,500 for a couple of weeks worth of "work".

How many of those 100 people will be deemed as having "immediate" potential (whatever that is supposed to mean?)

How many of them do you think would immediately interest a good, busy, reputable LA or NY franchised agent?

How many would actually be signed by those agents?

How many would start being sent on auditions by those agents? (Remember, agents don't get actors paid work. Agents only send people to auditions. Managers do not get actors paid work. Directors give actors paid work.)

How many will actually become regularly working actors or "stars"? NOT just extras or given occassional work passing out samples on street corners? By the way, almost everyone has "extra potential". To quote from their Q&A page:

Can almost anybody get "some" type of work in this industry?

"Some" is the operative word here. Most anyone can be an extra in a movie. You just need to know who does extra casting. However, the more marketable and talented you are, the more lucrative your job opportunities will be.

Translation: Most anyone "potential" to be an extra. I wonder how many people get referred to agencies who hire extras? One could actually refer ALL of them and claim that getting a referral to an agency that hired extras was worth $295. Remember, they have no contract defining what services are to be rendered for your $295. What kind of referrals might be made. Could be anything.

(Heck, if you want to do extra work, get this book, The Movie Extras Guidebook
How to Make Good Money As a Background Actor in Film and TV . It's a lot cheaper than $295.)

But let us, for a moment, assume that the service provides what they want you to believe they provide. That their manager and agent associates do not simply send the people they accept from the referrals out on extra work, that they really, legitimately work hard to help those referred people to succeed.

How many of those 100 talented individuals who hope to show "immediate potential" will actually demonstrate a level of knowledge, sophistication, talent, persona and ability to get a legitimate "referral"? All of them? Not likely.

50% of them? Not likely.

25% of them? Not likely.

More than likely, only a small handfull. One or two perhaps? The rest are told they need to improve, given some advice about speaking, cold reading techniques, audition tips, whatever, encouraged to buy the "Industry Resource Guide" and sent home WITHOUT THAT MANAGER OR AGENT REFERRAL Ta Ta. Good luck. Try again after you get some experience and training.

Next!!!

Hmmmmm. $29,500/100 - guaranteed??? Number of people who actually succeed? Miniscule. As you can see, getting paid to "consult" with someone about their "potential" can be a pretty scammy way to earn a living. No licensing, no established business standards, no contracts to define services to be rendered, little risk of being successfully sued.

Ta Ta.

Hope this helps.

I would like to become an actress but I don't know where to start. can you help?

Hi Jess. Start by reading the FREE Acting Lessons on the AWOL homepage.

I have not acted since junior high. Is there someplace I could go to see just how much "talent" I have?

Hi Marney. Yes. The only reliable, trustworthy place to go is called "performing in front of an audience". This is most easily accomplished through community theatre productions. After maybe a dozen or so productions, you will have a pretty good idea if you have a certain measure of talent.

I am not kidding. Anyone who claims they can evaluate your talent would be at best self-possessed and deluded, at worst a scam artist; neither are reliable sources for talent evaluation. Trust your audience.

Of course, after the talent evaluation, there is still the "mastering the skills" part. This take a few decades, but if the talent is there - why not start?

Find an audition - Go to it.

I have found an ad in today's paper (in my area) calling for actors and models. It said that the 1997 filming season had begun and that they were scouting new people with different looks (they go on to name every type of person on this planet) for commercials, TV shows, movies, catalogs, etc. They then ask to send in money to cover the audition fee, which is refundable "if you don't qualify" (judging by the preceeding description, that would be nobody's case). They call themselves a "Model and Talent Bureau". They also mention that they are not a school or agency. Being rather new to the profession, I'm not sure what to think of this ad. Is it normal practice to ask for an audition fee? Or are they just looking for naive trusting people to make money off of?

Thanks in advance for your valuable input, Jocelyne

Response: Hi Jocelyne,

Never pay an "audition fee". Legitimate organizations do not charge fees to audition. You're right, this is a scam. If they are not a school or agency, then what ever can they possibly give you for their "fee"? They can't give you training or a job.

Re: returning your fee if you do not "qualify", you are absolutely right, everybody will qualify, and nobody will get anything for their money. Stay away from these guys. In fact, I suggest you report these scammers to your state Consumer Protection Agency and District Attorney Office - right away. Maybe you can save other people from being duped. Even if it is an out of state outfit, the state DA can investigate and file charges to prevent them from operating in your state.

The acting and modeling business is full of these kinds of scams. Some are pretty sophisticated. Keep in mind, they are all designed to part you from your money. Promises are cheap. If it seems too good to be true, it probably is not true. If it don't feel right, then it ain't right.

Sharp eye, Jocelyne.

hi, first i want to say i love your site. i've learned a lot about acting and the business of acting from it. i have a interesting question. my agent wants me to go to a talent expo. the expo costs $695 and boasts of the fact that casting directors/talent agents/and important people in the entertainment industry will be there to possibly discover me. i am curious to know if this is a scam or a legitimate step in furthering my career.

a source from inside my agency reveiled that my agent recieves a kick-back (i.e. cash) for every talent from the agency that attends the expo. this is the third expo that my agency has participated in and so far none of the talent have recieved any bookings/signings.

recently i saw an episode of 20/20 on ABC that profiled a modeling agency scam. attached is the transcript from the abcnews.com website. please let me know if you think any of this is suspect. my agent has to know by thursday if i'm in, so if you could get back to me quick, it would be greatly appreciated. thanks again and keep up the great site!

Hi Christian, I did not post the 20/20 transcript because, although posted on the net, it is copyrighted material and I do not have permission to post their transcript on my site.

Very wise of you to question this "expo" thing. I suspect you already know the answer to your question.

"...a source from inside my agency reveiled that my agent recieves a kick-back (i.e. cash)   for every talent from the agency that attends the expo. this is the third expo that my agency has participated in and so far none of the talent have recieved any bookings/signings ..."

In fact, it might be a good idea to start looking for another agent. Is your "agent" franchised? I suspect not. I suggest you look for a franchised agent. Take a look at the AWOL lessons on agents, "I GOTTA GET AN AGENT ! ! !" and on Scams, "WHAT ABOUT SCAMS?"

Good luck. Do the right thing.

This is in response to the above ob1: You know, there always seems to be that one person who is jealous of success. I have read through every month of different appreciations concerning your advice and comments. This page helped me to find out the agency I was with was a scam. And literally saved me huge bucks.

"Bad Training?" What "Bad Training?" There's no training going on here. This is a site of information, source and advice. If one doesnt like it, they can move on. A true actor knows good advice when it is given. Everything on the site I learned when I was going through training. I come here for good information....not class.

Sorry for the display of anger.............but it is people like ob1 that end up being psychos themselves.....also known as..losers!

Hi trish. You are correct. Obtaining information about acting and the acting business is important and will save a lot of time, pain and, as you discovered, money. Learning something about developing a character, finding an agent and all the other good stuff contained within the AWOL Acting Lessons is helpful. But the web cannot replace actually attending an acting class, auditioning for a role or performing in a production.

Thanks for your comments and support. It has been over a week now and still no response from "ob1", that little rascal. Hit-and-run web surfer I suppose.

I live in Western Australia. I'm not sure if youhelp Aussies as you may not have the kind of info that would help us butit's worth a try. I was wondering where any agents in Perth are situated asI would like to get some prices by visiting or phoning them. I have triedthe pgone books but it was no use. If so could you tell me any agentciesthat are Australia wide so that agentcies in other states can see picturesor get copies? Thanks for you help!

Hi Jenny. You are correct, I do not know anything about how things work in Australia. However, I suspect they work similar to how agents work in the US. It bothers me that you want "...to get some prices..." from agents. In the US, agents who charge fees other then their commission (generally 10%) are not the type of agent one wants to have.

I suggest you search through the various Australian links listed in the "THEATRES" and "TRAINING" sections of AWOL's Hundreds of Great Acting Links page. Contact the various oganizatons. Also see what books are available at the library and bookstores and start learning about agents and the business of acting in Australia before you waste a lot of your time and money on a scam agent.

I know this question has been asked before but I couldn't find it. What is the difference between a management company versus an agency. And yes, I've checked up on this company, it's not a scam. I kind of need an answer ASAP, so a quick response would be greatly appreciated.

Hi Scott. Essentially, agents communicate with casting directors, directors and producers to secure auditions for their clients (actors.) Agents are usually licensed as employment agencies by the state in which they work. You should be familiar with your state's laws re: talent agents. When the actor gets paid for work done, the agents is then paid a percentage of the actor's earnings. This whole paying thing gets quite complicated and you should be familiar with the terms spelled out in your contract with the producer. If you are not familiar with such terms and the various contracts, get familiar with them!!!

"Franchised" agents agree to abide by rules developed by the acting unions. Franchised agents are permited to represent union actors. This means that actors have some protections and leverage when involved in disputes with their agents.

Managers do not provide agent services. They are not licensed by the state and are not covered by the union franchise agreements. They provide whatever services they and their clients agree to (except agent services.) This can include guiding their clients with role selection, image shaping and enhancement, securing private coaches, helping their clients meet casting people, whatever. They are paid by commissions on actor earnings, flat fees or a combination of both. Outside of filing lawsuits (a long and expensive process,) actors have little leverage to settle disputes with managers.

When securing the services of a manager, it would be a very wise thing to find a competent lawyer who is familiar with entertainment contracts. Pay the lawyer to take a look at the contract you are asked to sign - before you sign it. Although this might cost you a few hundred dollars, it could easily save you thousands or even tens-of-thousands of dollars, and a lot of trouble, in the future.

You are seriously considering entering into a legally binding, contractual business agreement with someone who will take anywhere from 5% to 25% of all your future earnings and/or charge you fees that could equal thousands of dollars. You are doing this in the hopes that this person will help you earn tens-of-thousands or even millions of dollars. Wouldn't it be a good idea to spend an hour or so and a few hundred dollars with a knowledgeable lawyer who can assist you to fully comprehend what that legally binding, contractual agreement actually legally binds you to? AND who can help you build into that contract a way out if things don't go as you hope, are led to believe or are promised?

Hope this helps.

My daughter is 13 and we went to audition and it turned out that it was for an acting school and they want her to come with us to talk about acting classes. It will c