How do you know what acting agencies are not a scam?

Question

im interested in acting and i see alot of things online like holywood profiles and stuff. and im tempted to send my information in. but they ask alot of of questions like adress, how do i know if it is safe?

Answer 1

as a general rule of thumb, i don't do that stuff. i once went to one of those mall castings where you could sing, act or model. i made it through to the second round, but i had to go 50 miles out of my way and pay out of my own pocket about $400 to stay one or two nights at the hotel that the second round of auditions were.. the worst part was, not everyone was guarenteed an audition. they are mostly all scams. subscribe to some magazines (the name is slipping me right now.. backstage? stagedoor? something like that) and look at the advertisements there for agencies. or just go to new york/la/major city and do it! this will take a lot of work and determination, so i wish you the best of luck!! don't give up!

Answer 2

if they ask for money, it's a scam.

Answer 3

Go directly to an agency, do not go through mail.  A real agency will learn what your talents are and help you develop a profile. A real agency will not charge you for  ANYTHING!!  They get paid when they find you work.  You should come in with a head-shot and resume or if you are doing voice-overs come in with a professional 'demo' or have some 'demo's on video to show your abilities.

The real ones will give you tests to see what you can do, but will not charge you for anything because, again, they get paid a percentage of what you get paid.  Contact information is important, so don't let that bother you, but do not give any financial information.  You should also join "SAG" (screen actors guild if you want to go into movies) or "AFTRA" (American Federation of Television and Radio Artists - to do radio/television spots).  From there you can find reputable agents, but to join you need work under your belt.

The key points to remember:

1. If they charge you for anything (application fee, audition fee, head-shots, make-up, costumes, etc) it is a scam.

2.  If they "Love you" right off the bat it is a scam.

3.  If it's advertised in "Classifieds" it is a scam (most auditions are under "auditions" and are for actual productions and if they accept you they will not charge you anything/ even extras get paid, but do NOT have to pay out)

4. If you feel pressured or it seems too easy, it is a scam

5. Check with SAG, AFTRA to see if the company is on a list (good or bad) they will be honest with you.