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Important information

• Additional Info:

  BBB urges everyone to keep the following tips in mind before committing to an agency, do some research. Although there are exceptions to the rule, be wary of warning signs that a company may not be legitimate, including:
  
  *Non-specific ads in help-wanted sections of newspapers such as: "Wanted: Male/Female with no experience."
  
  *Pictures of famous models on company business cards or office walls that deceptively suggest the company represents or has ties to those models.
  
  *Excessive guarantees. Modeling agencies are not employers; they represent clients and try to get them work, but they should not claim to guarantee placement.
  
  *Advance or registration fees. If an agency has to charge a fee upfront, be wary: there may not be enough money to support the business.
  
  *Pressure to leave a deposit or sign a contract immediately. Legitimate companies should have no problem allowing a potential client to take the contract home to think about it.
  
  *High-pressure sales tactics for photographs. Non-reputable managers may try to pressure clients into having photographs taken immediately through a specific photographer who may require payment in full before the work is completed. Though eventually all models must create a portfolio, remember that reputable firms are trained to recognize potential models and will likely accept photographs taken at home while a model is getting started.
  
  Before signing an agreement, read it carefully and understand what the company offers. Ask about its success rate and ask for references. Verify all claims made by the agency and make sure any oral promises are included in the written agreement.