You’ve
probably been forewarned that you will encounter scams pursuing your career. It
is a sad reality of this business and because of the lack of coverage on the
topic many eager models/actors continuously get scammed out of their time and
money. Here are a few pointers on how to avoid scams.
The first is
one of the commandments of the business: never give money up front.
I know
you’ve heard it over and over again, but you’d be surprised how many people
still make the mistake. One reason is that many scam artists post fake casting
calls on reputable sites. When you attend the casting, they tell you that you
have what it takes but your portfolio/reel needs further development. They then
claim they can help you advance your career and they just happen to know
someone who can shoot you for a certain amount of cash. This is the most common
scenario for a scam. The person will sound very convincing and even tell you
that the amount of work you will be getting will make it worthwhile for you to hand
over your money right then and there but you have to walk away from this
situation. No one can teach you anything that will make breaking into the
industry any easier. If you really want to develop your material and get
yourself valuable contacts you might as well work for free. You’ll be saving
yourself money and networking without getting ripped off.
Another
safety tip that will keep you from being conned is not to go to a casting in a
residential place, unless you actually know the person holding the casting.
This A) a scam or B) a psychopath. Of course I am aware of the age old argument
that some well meaning independent designer or film maker who can’t afford to
rent a studio may be holding a casting in their apartment and their movie might
be the next Slumdog Millionaire. If that is the case then they could just as
easily meet you in a coffee shop. If you can’t be dissuaded from attending the
casting then at least bring someone trustworthy and intimidating with you. Do
not go alone to a casting or a shoot in a place that you have never been to
before.
Most
importantly, research the people you will be working with. If they have a
website that lists their credits, contact the other talent they have worked
with to see if they felt safe, comfortable and had an overall good experience.
Most
importantly, use your best judgment. If you learn to go with your gut feeling
and leave a situation as soon as you feel uncomfortable, you will avoid making
terrible mistakes.