Expert: Laura Interval - 6/23/2008

Question
QUESTION: today i went to a casting agency and they charge $500 first of for the acting pictures and my mom was kind of got a bad vibe for this is my second time there for a final interveiw and without pictures they wanted me. I was so so so happy then instead of going to the bank we went home i am so heart broken How do i know if its a legit company or not.

ANSWER: Hi Dominique
I'm glad you came here to ask this important question!  $500 is a lot to invest ... especially if you're not sure you will get work to recover it.  It's impossible to tell whether this particular company is legit without doing your research.  I know a lot of these companies... maybe I can tell you.  What company did you go to... and what city are they located in?
Most companies that ask for that much money upfront unfortunately are scams.  They set up first and second interviews to make it seem like they are selective, but in fact will take anyone who will pay the money.  You might get a nice photo out of it... but, that's about it.
Don't worry.  If you have the potential to model, this will not be your only chance!
Give me more information and I will help you in any way I can.
All the best,
Laura Interval

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: The company i went to was one source talent in michigan can you tell me if its legit or not or is there any legit companies in michgan that is legit that you can refer me to

Answer
Hi Dominque
ok.. .from what I can tell One Source Talent is not so much of an agency as a company that will "prepare you and get you exposure from being on their website".  This is very different from a legitimate modeling agent.  I'm always weary of these type of companies because basically they will take anyone's money to be on their website.  You will NOT get quality jobs from these websites.  Legitimate companies with money to pay are not looking there.  They are going to the well known, well established modeling agents.  If you just want to have your picture on their site... and that will make you feel like a model... then, you should.  However, chances are you will never recover your money.
I took a quick look at your yellowpages.  I don't know what city you are in, but there are a few talent agents who look to be legit.  Mind you, Michigan is not a good market for modeling.  It's not possible to have a lucrative career there.. but, you can start and get some experience.  You will eventually have to get to a bigger city.  Chicago atleast.  
So, I would suggest that you contact a few agents you find in your phone book.  Call them and see what their guidelines are.  
You should never have to put that kind of money upfront without a commitment and guidance from a real agent.
I have a free online service on my website.  If you want to upload a few pictures of yourself to me... I will be glad to look at them and discuss what I think would be your best route to start in the modeling business.  It's honest and free.
Check it out:
www.creative-personal-development.com/express-yourself.html

All the best to you
Laura Interval