Lesson learnt: avoid portfolio packages

Some of the lessons I learnt through experience in becoming a model were painful both financially and emotionally, some of which I share with you on this page, in an aim to prevent you making the same mistakes. Time after time I witness people hoping to become a model being exploited – Please don’t let the same happen to you.

If you have been turned down by 4/5 model agencies then it is time to be honest and true to yourself and I strongly advise that you take this onboard. It is hard to take rejection and the truth does hurt but if you continue to pursue your dream against the advice given from experienced professionals then you are likely to be exploited.

Remember; whilst you are willing to part with unnecessary large amounts of money there will always be somebody willing to take it from you, even if it is not for the good of you and your career!

As a model agent I have seen many girls and boys who have spent ridiculously large amounts of money on a portfolio package, anywhere from £1400 plus and it tears me apart to have to bring them back to reality and tell them the truth, which in most cases is either one, and sometimes all, of the following....

• That the images are not to the high standard required by a model
• That the images are not suitable to market them with
• That they do not have model potential

Please do not let this happen to you, if you want to be a model then please apply and we will respond to you with a truthful answer, and it won’t cost you a penny!

Below is a quote we received from Kirstie age 21 from London who unfortunately spent all of her savings, £1400 on a portfolio package that proved to be unproductive and a total waste of money:

“They gave me the CD of shots that night, no prints though (That was extra) The CD was for a trivial sum of £1400!!! All of my savings!!! Needless to say, I was now broke. I sent these shots to agencies and ALL the agencies have informed me they are not good enough quality to use!

I have NEVER heard from D****** models with work EVER! :(

Don't be a sucker like I was! Be wise and if I were new to the industry, I would talk to Ruth!

You can read Kirstie’s story in full on ‘How to Avoid the Model Scams’ page

Lesson learnt: Be safe!

I have ended up in a couple of dodgy situations where I look back now and think how could I have been so naïve and put myself in such a vulnerable position, the truth is I was so eager to get ahead, like yourself no doubt, that it didn’t always cross my mind to think about my own safety.

Never put yourself in a vulnerable position. If you have concerns
take a chaperone of adult age, a genuine person will not object to a
chaperone being present. Tell somebody where you are going and
give them the exact address.

Never get talked into doing something you don’t want to do, trust your
instinct and take responsibility for your own health and safety.