Scam Model Agencies & How to Spot Them

There are a lot of scam modelling agencies operating online, sometimes they impersonate real agencies such as Nemesis Models. Here’s how to avoid being scammed:

RESEARCH ANY AGENCY THAT HAS CONTACTED YOU

Always research an agency before engaging with them. Look into their background, check their official website, and review their social media channels to make sure they’re legitimate.

DOUBLE CHECK THE CONTACT DETAILS OR SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLES THAT HAVE CONTACTED YOU

Scammers often impersonate real agencies on social media, so always be cautious.

Look out for new or suspicious accounts, low follower counts, missing website links, and unusual contact details. Legitimate agencies will have clear contact information and official social media links listed on their website - if anything doesn’t match up, it’s likely a scam.

These agencies usually don’t have a proper postal address or phone number. Legitimate agencies will show a business address that you can visit or a land line that you can call - if they do not have one it’s probable that the agency only exists ‘online’ and isn’t legitimate.

YOU SHOULD NOT PAY ANY UPFRONT FEES

A legitimate model agency will never ask you for money upfront. If you're being asked to pay for a portfolio shoot or sign up fee, it's most likely a scam.

YOU DO NOT NEED A PORTFOLIO TO JOIN AN AGENCY

Many aspiring models believe they need a portfolio before applying to an agency - but that’s not the case. Scammers often use this misconception to take advantage of new models by offering expensive portfolio shoots upfront.

At a legitimate agency, all you need to apply are some clear polaroid-style images, which can easily be taken on your phone. If you're signed, your model booker will then help you arrange test shoots to start building your portfolio. These test shoots are paid for by the model, as they’re usually done with freelance photographers not directly connected to the agency - but this happens after you sign, never before.

HOW NEMESIS MODELS OPERATES

You can apply via our website, attend our monthly open day or get scouted.

If you are successful, you will be contacted by a member of our team by email ending in @nemesismodels.co.uk or by this phone number: 0161 228 6646.

Next, you will be invited to attend one of our Model Induction Days at the agency, we will only ever ask you to come and see us at the below address:

Nemesis House, 1 Oxford Court, Manchester M2 3WQ

Stay safe and never attend any locations that are not associated with the information on an official agency website.

We do not charge models any money for joining the agency, signing with us is completely FREE.