You are entirely free to respond to all calls on our site, but use your common sense. Not all people who post casting or extras calls are equally trustworthy. We try to screen calls for unwanted messages, but sometimes it's not easy to spot when someone is up to something dodgy (and is of course pretending to be different). So please read the text below carefully and stay alert at every step in the process to make sure it feels 'ok'. Always keep the following warnings and tips in mind: DO NOT PAY REGISTRATION FEES AND DO NOT PAY FOR 'COMPULSORY' WORKSHOPS Bear in mind that every good agency or production needs people. If they really see a future in you as an actor or model, it's logical that they are willing to invest time in you and at least register you in their database for free. Agencies that never reject anyone are essentially suspect from the start. Having to pay a lot for casting photos can also be a bad sign. The same goes for expensive trainings, coaching and guidance. You should never have to pay a 'registration fee', or pay for a training or workshop in order to actually be cast! ACCEPTANCE OF YOUR OWN PHOTOS A trustworthy agency accepts your own photos if they are good. They will not force you into an expensive photo shoot. Trustworthy agencies often offer to make casting photos, but this is never compulsory. WARNING ABOUT FAKE PHOTOGRAPHERS In addition, there are also various reports of disturbing scams committed by people pretending to be photographers. They approach people with a strong wish to be in front of the camera; an easy target. They also do this via dubious digital channels such as chat or email. The aim of the scammers: money and erotic photos that they can then use for all kinds of things. Afterwards you are left with expensively paid photos that are of poor quality. In addition, you can be blackmailed if it concerns nude photos. So do not put yourself in such a vulnerable position. Again: always be on your guard and bring someone with you if you don't trust it. RECOGNISING SOPHISTICATED FRAUD Some 'casting / model agencies' have a beautiful website and pretend to be a well-running company. Individuals also sometimes use an impressive (false) CV as a theatre teacher. Some scammers very cleverly create the impression of being a trustworthy and renowned photographer. Scammers sometimes promise to guarantee you a role in a well-known or new soap. They set conditions such as: following an expensive acting course with them. MILD FORMS OF FRAUD Also bear in mind that there is a grey area. Casting agencies that ask for money, do something but actually cannot do much for your career as a model or actor. DOUBT? DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH! Before you sign up with a model or casting agency, it is wise to search the internet to see if this agency may have been in trouble before. Note that some scammers regularly change names. If you find almost nothing about the agency, that can also be a bad sign. If in doubt, try to call them and ask as many questions as possible. Or do research in another way. Employees of model and casting agencies work from an office and during office hours. Professional agencies will not have a private email account such as Hotmail or Gmail. Do not be tempted into making webcam photos or films. A professional agency or photographer does not work via webcam or chat. TAKING ACTION AFTER FRAUD Have you paid too much for casting photos, or paid registration fees and now there is no trace of the casting/model agency? Let us know by email: [email protected] . We can at least remove the relevant ad so that there are no more victims. Furthermore, we advise you to really go to the police where necessary. We will also cooperate with any police investigation when needed. Also read: Tips for beginning actors and extras GOOD LUCK! The Filmpeople team