Silver Models is a scam

Getting Scammed by Silver Models

My daughter is 12 years old and she always wanted to do modelling, So I decided to have a look into it. I came across Silver Models and registered with them, they phoned me back within 3 hours of me doing registration form and was really friendly and helpful. They said the best way to get my daughter Olivia into modelling was to attend a photo shoot which they would organise but for them to do all this and registered Olivia with their agency I needed to pay a fee of £300, they said they would then said me documents containing receipt of payment and booking of Studio. I reluctantly paid the fee it was a lot but i knew it meant a lot to my daughter, i paid via card and received the promised email within minutes so that made me relax. We attend the shoot and took our booking form but once the shoot was over I had the shock of my life, they asked me to pay the bill for shoot and for any images we wanted, the shoot was £500 and images £800, i knew i would be buying images but i thought Silver Models organised the shoot, the photo studio was very kind and allowed me to ring silver models. On calling silver models they explained that all the details was in documents they had sent and I had signed, in small print it said silver models take a payment for advice and organising of shoot but do not pay for any shot costs or booking of jobs, it was in the paperwork all along but in very small print. So I had been scammed on the phone they said much different and in documents said alot different, i was stupid to not have read paperwork but Silver models had been so helpful and had rung me several times with advice and support, i just didnt doubt doubt their honesty. They are liars, they cost me a fortune and really ruined what was a lovely day. DO NOT pay them anything or work with them, you are only paying for some basic phone advice and that is it, they do nothing to help you. Word of advice never pay anything without researching and always read any contracts!! There are some great modelling advice companies out there but Silver models is not one!

People Models is a scam agency avoid them

Scammers- Whole people Models

I’m Brandon and I am 23 years old from Cornwall. 6 months I ago I got scammed by a company called Whole people models, they are true scum bags and the word needs spreading.
I hadnt even thought about modelling, till a guy called Liam contacted me who was an apparant model booker at whole peoples models, we exchanged messages via facebook for a couple of days and he told me about loads of male models he helped and who are all earning loads of money while travelling etc it sounded ace if i am honest, I am 23 years old so earning good money while having fun is my idea of a perfect job. He said he he had job which would be perfect me and send me some info via facebook messenger, it looked like a client brief of job and contained the pay etc he said because i wasnt on whole peoples books i would need to pay a fee then he could get me this job, the fee was for £200 but i would then be on books and first job was in another three days time where i would earn £1500, so £200 didnt seem a big deal at the time. Liam said time was precious and i would need to pay cash into their account, so it was instant then i would get confirmation of job. I paid the fee the same day, then within hours the person i had been talking on facebook had disappared, no profile picture, nothing. i knew then i had been scammed by whole people models, i panicked and was gutted, i researched and couldnt find anything on them, i had well and truely been scammed out of £200 all because he filled my head with idea of being a famous modelling and earning loads. I am so embarassed i listened but whole people models said the right things, they are definately good at being liars and scammers. If anyone gets contact from whole people models, avoid them, they are liying, cheating, scam artists. I was foolish but i have learnt never believe what you get told before doing research, never trust someone who contacts you out of the blue and never just had over cash. I am out of £200 and i want others to be aware of these scamming companies. do you research!

New York Fashion Photography and UR Models review

Are they a Scam?

For any aspiring model you need to know about the industry and know what it takes to be successful, without direction from industry experts its hard to enter the modelling world and maintain success. Ur Models doesn’t work like an agency who want gain as much profit out of you as possible, instead they have created a platform designed by industry professionals that enables an aspiring model to move into the industry with knowledge, confidence and support, this in my eyes is very refreshing.

 

I of course was still very wary when i approach UR Models and this was purely based on horror stories you read online, it was hard to think they weren’t just trying to con me out of loads of money but when talking to them I immediately felt some confidence that they were just a way of gaining help. They said they cant make any gurantees but would work with me to create a portfolio with the help from new york fashion. They said both theirselves and NY would be honest if I had what it takes and if was successful would help find suitable agencies who would then get me work, it was obvious they just wanted to help.

 

There was a deposit that had to be paid straight away which made me very anxious and put some doubts in my head but as the whole process continued it was apparent that that deposit actually gets refunded off your package if you choose to go a head and if you don’t choose to do anything yu still get it back, so either way you don’t lose out and have a lot to gain. It was clear the initial deposit was to cover theirselves from booking studio time and be not showing up, it also show commitment from serious aspiring models.

 

The meeting and studio time itself was based in London, easy to get to and the moment I entered I felt comfortable and looked after, everyone who worked there was very professional and went out their way to help. Everyone was so great and set up professional, there was a full hair and make up department (Obviously not my area) and all the photographers I met with had so much knowledge on what poses to do, what makes a perfect picture etc After my shoot which was a great laugh and I really enjoyed they asked if I would like to buy a portfolio package and I have to say there was no pressure what so ever but they did explain the benefits of having a great portfolio as this is what you ultimately need to get paid work and that’s what I want! It was decision and I decided to buy a portfolio from the studio and I was so chuffed with result.

Ur models kept there promise and worked me after I had my portfolio, they pointed me in the right direction of agencies they best suited my modelling type and gave me contacts that have been so beneficial. Since that day with UR Models and New york I have thankfully broken into the industry and im already finding success.

 

 

UR Models

UR Models – Modelling agencies and how they work

Knowing how modelling agencies work will not only benefit your knowledge, help you crack into the industry but also give you all options then you can decide which is best for you.

UR Models often get asked What is an agency? They are a company who represents a model and works to get them paid work. They earn a commission from the job they get you on, so it’s in their best interest to work hard for you

UR Models Who do big agencies work with? They work with big budget advertising agencies and companies, this means more income for you and commission for them

UR Models What will they offer models? Agencies invest into the models and increasing there skills as this ultimately works for them and you. They will get you training, test shoots, portfolios, create you comp cards and printed material. They do all this by deducting it out of models final pay as well as their commission, so you both are equally investing

UR Models Who does the agency approach for work? They present you to designers, photographers, ad agencies and casting directors.

UR Models What are they responsible for? They book the jobs, they bill for the jobs and then pay the model. By them handling everything you as model gets the time to concentrate on the job at hand and developing your abilities.

What is an agencies business hours? They generally work 24 hours a day as the modelling world is not your typical 9-5 job, if they are not in office most agencies will have an operator or an out of hours service.

 

UR Models – Investigation

UR Models – Investigation

Investigated – A step by step review on our findings

 

1) UR Models  – Application & Website

A easy online application done and submitted through their website

www.ur-models.co.uk

Was informative and form itself was very easy to follow and complete

2) Phone Calls, Emails & Deposit

My first contact with Ur Models was with a guy called Tom he firstly was really appreciative for me choosing UR Models and also said he loved my photo and would like to know more about me. We chatted for some time bout my hobbies, interests, aspirations etc then we discussed the modelling industry and told me about different areas of the modelling world which if I am honest I didn’t know existed. Tom was without a doubt clued up, he knew is industry well and this gave me a sense of confidence in the whole process.
Tom went on to tell me that UR Models are not a agency and don’t think of them like that, they work closely with aspiring models and give them the platform to succeed and eventually get paid work. So a advice and guidance service basically. He offered me the opportunity to attend a photo shoot at a real professional studio, he said it would be good for me and an industry expert could then determine my direction in the modelling world. To secure this I had to pay a deposit but a deposit which is fully refundable, he even left me with an authorisation code that I could use to track the payment with my bank, and all of our conversation was then backed up with an email from Tom.

3) Test Shoot

My shoot was a week ago and it was brilliant, it was a completely worthwhile trip. The Makeup, styling, hair and team were amazing, it was friendly vibe but professional beyond words. They organised 5 photo shoots in total, three which took place in their studio and three outside on the street of London (Slightly scary all dressed up) but were all equally great fun, the team also made me feel at ease whenever I got anxious or unsure. The photographer guided me through everything which was so great as I had no clue what I was doing.

Once the shoot ended I went to get some lunch as I was starving and this gave the team a chance to assess the images, this prospect did make me nervous. When I returned I was so pleased to hear I had passed their requirements and had great potential!! I then saw my images and even I thought I looked great, we talked over the industry some more, my direction etc and my consultant when through portfolio packages I could buy if I wanted, there was no pressure. Obviously this was an investigation, I had no dream to be a model so I declined the offer. The deposit was then refund into my bank within 3 working days which is standard banking.

4) Getting Modelling Work

The day after my shoot, Tom the guy I had first spoke to rang me, I explained I didn’t purchase any images but he still wanted to talk and give advice. He gave me advice on agencies and who to contact and also gave me some great advice on working freelance, he told me I would need a portfolio to gain work, so to contact him if I need any more advice.
I am overall very satisfied with the service ur Models gave me, they done exactly what they said they would and all their advice was amazing. I would recommend them to anyone wanting to become a model, you can’t go wrong with help like this.

 

Male Models

Male Modelling

Over recent years and especially now Male modelling has become of the most lucrative segments in modelling, they are in huge demand and work is offered throughout fashion, skin care and products.

There are many areas within the Male modelling industry so the doors are open to a variety of male models, all ages, shapes and looks are considered.

Some areas of modelling have requirements such as High fashion and Catwalk, you would need to be a model of a certain look and meet height standards of between 5’11 – 6’2

 

Below are the areas of modelling Male models can go into:

  • Fashion models (Clothing).
  • High fashion models (Designer Clothing).
  • Editorial (Magazines)
  • Runway (Catwalk mostly for designers).
  • Commercial (Adverts i.e. razor blades or health insurance).
  • Catalogue (Online and mail order.)
  • Promotional (Live male modeling work i.e. a trade show).
  • Extras (For TV and film).

To be taken seriously in this industry you portfolio is must, any model needs this important tool to gain work and a reputation. So make sure the images you include are of a high standard, this is the first thing potential employers see before meeting you, so first impressions count. Show diversity as every client wants to see you can adapt to different visions. Also always get a model release form signed by a photographer this enables you to use photos as you wish.

 

If you are serious about becoming a male model and want the best shot at it then look at the below sites, they have all the info you need and are a great support when entering this daunting industry.

www.become-a-model.co.uk

 

www.ur-models.co.uk

 

 

Freelance modelling

Modelling Jobs

Advice and Guidance on getting Modelling Jobs

 

We firstly want to cover the myth that you can only getting modelling work through agencies, this not true at all and you need to remember this when entering the modelling world.

When you enter the world of modelling do NOT rely solely on agencies if you get signed to one, there are other options that could gain you huge rewards.

The secret to more work is UR Models  – Freelance modelling!

There are hundreds and hundreds of freelance modelling job opportunities out there and anyone can apply for them on their own without agency help or direction. You will obviously need a portfolio to apply for any work and the more professional the better.

You can find modelling work via searching online, not to mention the numerous modelling sites out there that you can register too.

When you begin modelling the more exposure you get the better, so get as much work as possible!

If you are seriously considering becoming a model then we suggest contacting one of the following services which will be able to give you the best guidance and advice on getting your first modelling jobs.

www.become-a-model.co.uk

 

www.ur-models.co.uk

 

Posing tips – by UR models

Posing tips – by UR models

Posture

  • Posture is everything in a photo it can create the best image or the worst- Keep shoulders back, tummy in and back either straight or slightly arched depending on what is best for you personally
  • Elongate the neck, not have correct posture with this can again ruin a perfectly good photo
  • Keep in mind whatever is closest to camera can come across the biggest and this can destroy a image and proportions – Having your hips side on to camera and shoulders point front ways with make you lose your waist and give you a more triangular body shape
  • When you need to pose leaning on something make sure you use your muscles to fully lean, you just want to give the illusion you are leaning. If you lean properly you will ruin your body shape or obstruct the camera from picking up your whole body shape and putting pressure on certain body parts will make you look bigger than you are thus ruining the final result.
  • When posing your eyes say a lot about the image, your eyes give emotion so it’s imperative to try and absorb yourself in the shoot, get into the character you’re playing and evoke emotion through your eyes. If this is hard for you try to ‘Smize’ which is a tip by top model Tyra banks, its smiling through your eyes. The method is basically squinting by only by using you bottom lid, it will create drama on your face and show through on your image.
  • Always be aware of how your face looks in shots, tilting it the wrong way or not maintaining good neck posture will ruin a image and can make your face look bigger than it is. So our top tip is elongate your neck like we have previously covered and keep your chin down, this was you have good posture but hide any areas that would cause image to look wrong.
  • Catching the light correctly on your face will help show off your best features and shadow the not so good areas for a shot.
  • Pouting ok we are all victim to this when posing for a shot but avoid this when doing professional shots as this will cause the face to tense and look odd. You made me briefed to do so every once in a while but if you are not then keep your face natural and genuine this will add to the perfect shot.
  • When posing for the photography remember your expression is everything, so don’t just maintain one expression, be adventurous as this will show you are not a one trick pony and you are versatile.
  • In portrait shots obviously your only weapon to make a good impression is your face, so be expressive and show emotion.

Clichés

  • Don’t follow suit and use Model 101 poses like hand on hip, pout etc this has been overdone and not something clients want to see, be creative and get into the moment, clients don’t want you making their product or brand look tacky and repetitive.
  • Symmetry is a great asset in some shots but at same time can come across a little boring, for instance in high fashion or catwalk its always a good idea to have a certain angle or body part just off
    centre or crooked this adds dimension to a shot and that’s important, you need to draw people in.
  • Try different angles, experiment a little, you may not feel comfortable at first but moving around and being creative will pay off. PRACTICE PRACTICE PRACTICE
  • Best advice is breathe- pose-click, breathe-pose-click – after a while this will become habit
  • Don’t just completely do as you like the client and photographer are there also to give direction so always be listening whilst thinking

 

Portfolios are any models most important tool, it’s your CV to the industry and no point should this be over looked and standard should never be over looked either, high quality images not only show you off best but they also show you are serious about your career. Do your homework and you will see time and time again this being said and it’s no secret a decent portfolio will cost some money but like any business you have to invest to reap the benefits, you cannot expect photographers, studios or agencies to help you for free, they are ultimately earning a living too just as you want to. Keeping all the above tips in mind when you attend your professional shoot to create your portfolio will help you get the perfect shots and will show the industry experts you are working you mean business!

 

Hope this helps and good luck!

 

 

 

 

UR Models Review

UR Models Review

UR Models Review – A step by step of our ‘Undercover’ experience of UR Models.

1) Application & Website

Their website www.ur-models.co.uk – Attractive website

They had an online registration form which was easy to do but reading through their packages was mind boggling!!

2) Phone Call, Emails & Deposit.

After the form it was long till I got a phone call from a polite lady. She wanted me to come in to studio and I have to be honest was a little pushy and over keen, in any normal circumstance that would put me of. There was refundable deposit which again she was keen to take but I paid via my bank card. I got a receipt for payment which eased some concerns.

3) Test shoot Day

I went for the shoot at a London studio, which was highly enjoyable and the staff were friendly. The quality of the photos were great and I have to say experience was a good one over all. As I was doing a investigation I didn’t purchase the photos and was refunded the initial deposit in a good time frame as well, as I was concerned it would take some time after the lady was so keen to get it.

Even though I am some doubts at the start I have to Say UR Models is a great stepping block for any aspiring model, they do as you they say will they just came across a little keen at first but I think that was my own Human doubt kicking in, when really they just know their industry and are keen to helping wannabe models

 

 

 

model scams

model scams

Scammers and scamming is part of the modelling world, always will be and sadly will continue. These scammers prey on the vulnerable, models who have no clue about the industry then they shattered the dreams, ruin confidence and take a lot of money, all of which hurts anyone. They normally asked for a huge amount of money up front with no intention of delivering any service or product. Others persuade models to join the agency but again for a fee, which is not right and illegal. They could also ask a model to pose in a provocative way and giving the model no rights to image or there use, this can be very upsetting and ruin a models hope of being a professional. To avoid this awful scenarios or being hurt you should research and understand the industry as whole, knowledge is your best weapon.

Scammers/con artists are clever they pose to be agencies or reputable companies, feeling model hopefuls with dreams and hope, so be wary they will appear trust worthy when in fact they are your biggest enemy. If they approach you online, through social media or email again this signals warning signs as any professional company would not do this, so ignore it, block them or report them if it continues. It remains your responsibility to check if you are in safe hands or a parent if it is a child model.

Before accepting any modelling deal or agency contract carry out research and talk to professionals who know the business, the internet is a great source for information as you will find vital contacts and blogs often have people’s reviews. A legit legal document will give you control of where you images are used, so always ask for this after shoots, it’s your rights as a model after all the images are of you. There are some great advice companies out there and most who are free, so talk to them and be confident you are in good hands.

Your safety and safe guarding your career is imperative to success and sub staining a great path in modelling. Do not put yourself in situations where you feel anxious, scared or pressured, this should never be the case, professionals act professionals and work with a model not against them. Remember missing out on a opportunity you are unsure of is not a opportunity in the first place!

Continue reading model scams