Hey guys, I recently submitted a photo to a site called UK Models and two days later I received a call from a worker there telling me that they liked my photo and that they wanted to give me a free photo shoot at one of their studios in London in order to A: build me a portfolio, B: see whether I was cut out for modelling and C: see what kind of modelling I would be suited for. The guy on the phone came across as incredibly nice, although of course that could have been an act, and he sent me a few emails laying out the details of the free shoot. The following are a few excerpts from the email they sent me:
"Our studios have offered us a limited number of 4 hour photo shoots for applicants that are serious about breaking into the modelling industry. On the day you will have 3-4 hair and makeup changes to see how versatile your look is. You will have indoor and outdoor location shoots (depending on the weather) to see how you perform in a professional environment, as well as in front of the public."
"If you are successful on the day and our team feel that you have modelling potential and believe that you could go out and get paid work, you will be invited to have a consultation with one of our image consultants. They will go through all of your photos and help you work out which area/s of modelling you should pursue. If you wish to take the next step, we will then look at building you a suitable portfolio. A portfolio is your visual C.V. and will be tailored to your chosen area/s of modelling and your budget . We will then give you direction as to which agencies to forward your images onto and ideally, in a matter of 3-4 weeks you should be signed up to an agency and getting some work coming in. All of our packages include advice and guidance about agencies, contracts, & castings, etc."
"As you have been shortlisted, we cover the cost of the photo shoot for you. This will include a personal makeup artist, a hairstylist and a professional fashion photographer for that day, as well as the cost of studio hire. The portfolio service is only offered if you are successful."
"We will send you a confirmation pack through post once the appointment has been confirmed with yourself and the studio, containing a letter giving you your appointment date and time, a full written receipt of the booking deposit and a directions/map to the studios. You will also receive a confirmation email as soon as your booking is confirmed.
Once you have read this email, please call me on 0207 135 2076 to book your appointment. Please note: anyone under the age of 22 will need to attend with a parent."
I never thought in my life that I would fall for such a scam, and I feel incredibly angry with both myself for being stupid and angry at this company for being so evil. My subsequent research into the matter has left me convinced that this must be a scam, as the way that this business has operated does not seem in accordance with how modelling agencies are supposed to work. I will be cancelling my shoot and I am sad to lose £50 for nothing, but these b*stards will not get another penny from me. I urge all who read this who are interested in advancing into the modelling industry to BE CYNICAL AND BE CAUTIOUS. Look at how these things are supposed to run before you get suckered like me.