In numerous instances, the potential models did not even receive the photographs they had paid for. The companies simply packed up and left town. It may not be easy to recognize a modeling scam because many of the advertising claims and practices may resemble those used by legitimate modeling agencies. However, listed below are some common advertising claims that should make you suspicious. If a modeling 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 models' 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. Make sure you pay only your portion of the printing costs. But before you pay any money, ask to see a copy of the agency's previous books and the list of clients to whom they were sent. Most legitimate agencies will provide you with this information. It is a good idea to check with some of the agency's clients to determine whether they have hired any of the company's models.