How To Spot Hollywood Scams

What To Watch For If You Want To Work In Hollywood

Whether you become an actor / actress or an extra, your dream has always been to work in the Hollywood film industry. But, before you take this journey, proceed with precaution by educating yourself and carefully considering your decisions.

Newcomers Are Especially Vulnerable To Hollywood Scam Artists

Many newcomers to the movie industry are targeted by corrupt people who know you have a great amount of trust and lack of knowledge. So do not become reckless and leave doors open to Hollywood scams.

If your plans are to make it big in the film industry, learn what scams are out there and stay away from them if possible. Your finances and career can be wiped out very quickly if you get involved in any type of Hollywood scam.

Signs of A Hollywood Scam Agent

Fake talent agencies are at the top of the list for Hollywood scams. Take precaution with anyone approaching you in a mall or other public place. If they are a legitimate agent, they will offer their contact information without applying any pressure to you. But, either way, never give out any personal information about yourself.

DO NOT PAY MONEY UP FRONT!!

Another sign that something is not quite right is the agency asking for money from you upfront. You should never have to pay an agent any fees for representing you in the Hollywood film industry, because a true agent will take a percentage of the income from work they find for you.

Choosing Your Photographer

A scam agent may also tell you that you have to purchase your photographs through them. Yes, you want professional photographs and some scouts may give you an option of using their photographer, but most legitimate Hollywood agents allow you to choose who you want to shoot your portfolio or head shots.

The Location May Give Them Away

Beware of companies offering jobs for Hollywood actors and extras who have temporary offices set up in hotels or other places such as a convention center. When you finally accept an interview with an agent and they keep telling you things that sound too good to be true, they usually are. If the agent is not a scam artist, he should act like a professional business person.

Research All Hollywood Agencies To Avoid Being Scammed

If an agent promises work, uses more than one name for their agency, uses the term "Open Call" or "You Have The Look", definitely check them out. Before you go on any interviews, research all companies and people involved.

This can be done by searching the web for the names on Google. Check for both positive and negative reviews. You can also ask other people you may know that are now working in the Hollywood film industry. Researching may take a little time, but it will help you avoid a lot of heartache and maybe find you the perfect agent.

Don't Just Look At The Hollywood Scams - Think Positive!

Believe it or not, there are actually more legitimate opportunities for actors, actresses and extras than there are scams. You just need to know how to find the creditable agents. So, follow these simple tips and make your dream come true of working in the Hollywood film industry.

And remember, "Never Go Alone When Meeting An Agent"!!!

Bob Pardue Photography