Expert: Kitty Kavey - 10/29/2006

Question
Hey there!

I am an aspiring model however, since I don't meet the height requirements for runway, I'd like to do some commercial and catalog, etc. modeling. But, I don't quite know where to proceed from my standpoint. I have a guy friend with a great look and on the website ModelMayhem, he created a profile and was approached by an agent. However, can you please let me know if you find this website legitimate or not? Or maybe give me tips on how to determine who is a scammer and who is real? Thanks so much in advance.

Answer
Model Mayhem, One Model Place, and similar websites are all public forums.  Anyone can contact the people listed there, and say anything they want.  You can check to see if an agency is licensed by the state it is located in.  A lot of states do require agents to be licensed and bonded, although states that don't have much of a modeling/talent market do not have the same requirements from those who profess to be agents.
You could use one of the modeling agency directories, such as the Ross Reports, or online you can use the Screen Actors Guild list of franchised agents - www.SAG.org, under Resources, Agent Information.  Those agencies marked FS (full service) are those who represent commercial print models in addition to representing actors.  The SAG agencies not only have to abide by state laws, but also have to follow union rules as well, so they are usually the most reputable.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty