Casting Director Renee Godbout on how to tell who's legitimate and who's just out for your money

There are probably a lot of people out there that would love to give modeling a try. It sounds like fun to stand in front of a camera and have your picture taken in all sorts of great outfits.

The hard part is breaking in and with so many people wanting to be models, there are a lot of businesses out there ready to take advantage of you. They want you to believe you were chosen because you have the right look to be a model.

But for many, you were chosen because you are willing to write them a big check. Here’s a few thing to think about:

1. Don’t ever sign up with a modeling agency that asks you to pay them to represent you. That’s the first sign they aren’t legitimate. Modeling agencies don’t make money until you do.

If someone claims that for $1000, they’ll get you all sorts of great jobs, don’t believe them. Good agencies get a percentage of how much you make. This way, they have good reason to want to see you succeed. They’re also more picky about their clients because they want people who are marketable and will get lots of work.

2. Modeling schools are just that: Schools. A modeling school does not function as a talent agency. If you sign up to take modeling classes, you are not guaranteed work. If you’re paying the money to learn something new and get used to being in front of a camera, then you may be getting your money’s worth.

On the other hand, if the school is promising this will be the beginning of a great career in modeling, this isn’t necessarily the case. Many modeling schools will accept anyone who can pay the tuition. Of course, there are some talented people in the bunch, but not everyone will finish up their classes and book their first shoot. Remember that acceptance into modeling school is not a guarantee for success.

3. Opportunities are what you make them to be. In other words, some scams have real possibilities for success if you’re the right candidate. Some modeling schools that offer you the chance to get in front of real high fashion agents will follow through on that promise. If you have the right look, body type, and skill you could move up in your career that way.

Just be honest with yourself when you take that step. Acceptance into a modeling school doesn’t automatically mean you’re on the track for stardom. Sometimes the best way to assess your chances of success is to ask a real professional. There’s no harm asking for an honest opinion from someone you aren’t paying.

Renee Godbout - Freelance Casting Director. Renee Godbout recently worked on the first season of The CW's popular teen show Gossip Girl at Grant Wilfey Casting. Some past projects include 2 seasons of Law & Order: Criminal Intent, the pilot for Dirty Sexy Money, and the upcoming Jonathan Demme-directed Dancing with Shiva.

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