PROSCOUT review: PROSCOUT 187

I am an agent who has attended ps many times in the past. Yes, we get a nominal fee to attend (because we are WORKING) - and it is a very nominal fee. Out of all the searches I've been to I've found more models that I've ended up signing than at any other search. That's why I kept going back. Because it definitely wasn't for the money. They make you pay to attend because it costs money to fly all the agents in, put us up, and pay their costs. You'd end up paying more if you flew around the country to meet with all these agents in their respective cities around the country. No agency is going to fly you in to meet with them. You'd be expected to pay your own way. So the fact that you have all these agents in the same room and can come face-to-face with every one of them at once and know right then and there if they have any interest in you is well worth the money you spend to help make it happen. I have no affiliation with ps. I'm just an agent who's been there and found some of my top earning models there. Some of them are now making over $100, 000/year modeling. Look at it this way - if you get signed with an agency as a result of attending proscout you'll make all your money back and then some from the first gig you book. There are scams out there, sure, but this isn't one of them.

if it was a scam then how would they use famous actors and models right on their website?they would be shut down and sued.I've called Ford models and they do use them and consider it a good deal mostly.Model agencies get millions of pictures a month and they don't get to see the person for real and this is the difference.It is expensive but if someone really wants to meet 39 major agents all together and not have to pay for travel and hotel for all of them it is a lot easier and faster...and cheaper.i would think you might even get paid more as they are competing for a contract with you.I have yet to go, but still looking into it.2 that auditioned me;one worked with Fila and he does look like the same guy on the pictures but i haven't asked yet for a current webpage and the other is an actor with some movies coming out this summer;the killer(s)?(anthony cody)and 2 others I think.It does cost to get that stage built and fly in all the agents and hotels so they can see the people in person.the more the better I think is why.the cost is not maximum for this.I don't know where they get their money but I think it is from the companies they use as it has to be from somewhere.But I have tried using emails and talking to people but still haven't gotten really anywhere far so this seems like it will work a lot better.

I went to a talent convention a few years ago. I did not get any call backs, but a few of the guys I went with are top models now. They appeared on an MTV modeling show a few years ago and have done several print ads.

At the same convention, a few years before the one I went to, Chad Michael Murray met his manager and was discovered. He went to the same acting classes I went to and got lucky enough to meet the right people.

It all depends on luck and looks. Very few people actually make it, and the ones that don't complain.

I took my daughter last week to an event in Pittsburgh and she was one of the few that attended that was asked to stay and receive her packet to go to Philly in Nov. Before I even took her to this event I did some research of my own. First of all, they are listed as A+ in the BBB. Since 2000 they have had 6 complaints. All of which have either been dismissed or resolved. I'm pretty sure that since they have been in business since 1996 I believe, if they were scamming people they would either be gone or would have changed their name a half a dozen times. Besides, if it was a scam don't you think they would choose everyone in the room?

The first thing they tell you is they are not there to take your money. That there will be very good looking people that get turned away and to not take it personal. They tell you the cost to go to Philly upfront so its not a shock if your child gets chosen. Once they interview everyone in the room they show a small video so that you can get an idea of what ProScout does. They then tell you that you are going to need between 10 and 15 photos and they specifically tell you don't go out and spend money on them. Take the photos your self and bring them to the hotel on the weekend you are there.

In no way shape or form do they promise you that you or your child is going to be famous. All they can do is pick out the ones who have the potential.

I was thrilled my daughter got picked to be seen by some of the top modeling agencies and I plan on going. Ive already paid my deposit. My daughter will be 11 in Nov. She is an all-star cheerleader. She is already 5ft2 and weighs a little under 100lbs. While I think my daughter has the potential to make it big I will not go in there nor will I let her go in there thinking she is going to walk about a star. This is all to get you in front of the people who could make it happen.

As for the $795, thats to pay for those people to come and look at your child. You really don't think they are going to spend their time doing it for free do you? If you were an agent, would you give up a weekend for free? didn't think so.

So, heres to hoping something wonderful happens for my child and for those of you whose actually been signed by an agent via ProScout..congrats! Would love to hear from you and any advice you can give would be appreciated! good151@comcast.net!

Proscouts not a scam! You're paying the 200 to attend classes. You go you audition if you're not good enough you're not picked. Thats that, all the agents there are legit if you go on there website you'll see all the people they've discovered. The only people saying its a scam are people that went and weren't good enough so they didn't get picked. Its not a scam take your child but make sure they're ready and good enough because there is a lot of people so that mean a lot of competition.

To everyone who is questioning wether or not Proscout is the right way to go: it is! I went to the phoenix event in July/august and it is the best thing I have ever done in my life. I got 8 call backs, all from top agencies, and sparked some intrest from chambers Stevens a renown acting coach In LA. I signed with JJ Cortez, the #1 modeling manager in America a week later, and only 2 weeks after the event I was flown out to new York to do a photo shoot. I will soon be going on a tour to Singapore, Tokyo, Paris, and Milan, each for three months, and then move to new York. Yes I may be a rarity, and no one can guarantee that u will be discovered, but Proscout brings the best to you, and that's their guarentee, the rest is up to you. The choice is yours, I'm glad I made the right one.

I just got done at proscout in seattle and it is a huge scam! They make a half a million just when you register your child, , , oh and don't forget the money you have to pay for the guest. After it's done and u get callbacks only about 20 people get called back and the u have to do a interview the most that have made it through the end is 3 to 5 people. And all the agents pick the same number over and over again. It is a scam.

Wow I don't know what to believe..
...

Wow I'm still lost Tyra Banks said if you have to pay money for something then its not legit its a scam...I'm trying to get in touch with her an some other agents an photographers I know an get there feedback about P.S.

Well I think I'm going to go to the convention...hey if it'd a scam then I'm sure ill be posting derogatory things as well...but you never know something for sure until you do it yourself
..hey if I don't get picked for a call back ill probably cry but ill get over it..life is full of rejections so this wouldn't be any different...I think I'm hottest ill let you be the judge check me out via Facebook at BrandonimperfectKyle or twitter @Brandonfnkyle...

My daughter was picked to attend the invitational in Dallas last October but after much research we decided that the money we would have spent could go towards other things. Ive learned places like John Casablanca and venues like Proscout is a SCAM. Im not on here to try to convince YOU that they are. I am simply offering insight into my experience with Proscout. I received emails weekly from a PS rep once the date for the invitational was approaching. In these emails the rep was pretty close to badgering me for the money at one point then at other times willing to ' make arrangements for payment.' I am confident in my daughters modeling ability but she will be discovered the legitimate way; go sees. It sounds like there are some individuals on here with low self esteem and they need validating from us the public, that PS chose them because they have 'it'. People like that need theraphy not Proscout.

i know someone who worked at proscout on the phones. talking to potential customers and doing the call backs ect... The people who think this is a scam just don't get it. This place is not an agency, agents get paid by commission. Proscout has to make their money somewhere too and the money it cost to attend one of their events is used to bring the agents to you. Did you pay $800 and get nothing out of it? that's not Proscout's fault. If 500-1000 people attend one of their events and only 10 get interviewed, why do you think that is? it's probably because you (along with the majority of the world) don't have what it takes to be a model or actor. if 500-1000 people had what it takes don't you think every person in the world would be acting and modeling? i would love for all of these people claiming it to be a scam to post a picture of themselves. Most of the people that call are ghetto moms trying make their daughter, Laquantifa, famous. and no mother can stand to think their daughter isn't cute or good-looking so it must just be a scam, right? 60%-80% of the people who call in and go to these things are just looking for their free ticket out of the food stamp line and have no idea how stuff really works. if you're smart, good-looking, well rounded and have common sense then Proscout and their Agents will like you and the $800 would have been more than worth it. but if you don't get chosen that's a you problem and it's time for stage-mom to start finding another meal ticket.

by all means- fly to new york, LA, doesn't matter, and go knock on an agencies door. all the luck to you. but if everyone were cut out to make it in that business, wouldn't everyone be doing it? 0.0001 percent of the world works in the entertainment industry. im shocked they even find 10 people out of 500 to interview.

i would also encourage people to really look at a lot of the complaints floating around the internet saying it's a scam only too turn around and point you to a different scouting agency. competition much?

It's a fake I tell you. The man that was going to interview me and my neice said that they weren't going to judge a person of how they look or how short tall and thick you are. If you really have the heart to act and model he was going to give us a photoshop and invite us over to this one place thing. After all those crap he said me and my neice went up. He asked me how old I was I said 17 and my neice said she was 11. He asked if I ever act or model before. I said yes Acting for four years since freshman year and now a senior and really do have a passion to act but never model before. So he just looked at my neice and ask her what about you WOW! looking really pretty there how old are you 13 he mispoken the age. My neice said no 12 and then he started at my neice saying well your a little too short come next year when your taller but your really pretty. WTF You dumb [censor] an 8th grade female asian (Hmong) being 5'4 is short? You are just a dick. He told us to come back next year so we just left such a waste of 3 hours in our life. Oh by the way I am 6'2

Allow me to play devil's advocate here, if you will...

I've seen plenty of good points made by both sides of this argument here and on [redacted]. Naturally, everyone will have their own bias. My personal bias here is that I've seen people get ripped by ProScout and similar companies. I've also been fortunate to stop people before they made their non-refundable deposit.

Speaking of the non-refundable deposit, that should be a giant red flag right there. The rates are subject to change but, in general, you're looking at a total price of $795 to attend the "ProScout Invitational" and be part of a "once in a lifetime" opportunity. Since most of the open calls are brilliantly held just a month or two before the big event, most folks opt to make the deposit of $295. The little "green form" they provide says very clearly "I understand that ALL fees are non-refundable after ProScout's receipt of this form; however unused fees may be applied to a future ProScout Event for a period of (12) months." Really?

Now, as an industry veteran in the fields of sales & marketing, consulting, and similar lines of work, I can tell you that every other convention, seminar, or similar business event I have ever been to would charge an early registration fee or offer entrance at the door, which would naturally be at a higher premium. If you changed your mind at the last minute, any reputable company would at least refund most of your money. That's how it works with airlines, legitimate conventions, and things of the sort.

To say that you only have 12 months to use the remaining balance for something that supposedly only happens "once a year" is essentially telling you that you'll never get your money back. Where's the satisfaction guarantee? Heck, where is there ANY guarantee? ProScout has created a brilliant business model where the overhead is minimal, they can be as hands-off as possible, they provide little or no customer service, and nothing is promised. They so boldly tell you at their open calls that no one is guaranteed a gig after going to the invitational, let alone any steady work or, heck, even a callback.

So, what ARE you paying for? Let's see... ProScout clearly indicates that they are not an employment or talent agency so, right away, you know they are merely a facilitator, at best. Truly, ProScout is an agent of the agent of the agent. It reminds me of six degrees of Kevin Bacon. Yes, I too can say I know a movie star but how far do I have to dig before I finally get in touch with a real mover-and-shaker in the industry? For that, you're better off investing your money into photos, classes, workshops, books, and other more worthwhile items from reputable companies with proven track records.

ProScout's business revolves solely around the invitational/convention. That's where theytheir "agents" try to peddle their crap to you. It's where they make their money. Where does it go? Is it reinvested in the business of helping their aspiring talents? Certainly not. They should offer something more tangible than a lofty promise of getting possible exposure. Workshops and literature should be provided to all attendants, along with an itinerary describing all the company representatives that will be present as well as keynote presentations and included benefits. The ProScout rep recently told someone close to me that they do not even offer snacks at the event. Again, really? I scoff at the whole arrangement.

Let's do some math. At nearly $800 per attendant, plus $65 per guest (even if you're a minor 13 years or older whose parent really MUST be with you), you're looking at around $900 earned per guest. Assuming the average attendant buys into the "value-added" services, that's a minimum of $1000 brought in by each attendant. If you have a convention with at least 500 attendants,
you're talking about $450, 000 raised for a mere two-day event that, at best, can be seen as an over-priced party or social mixer.

As a business owner, I understand that there are operational costs to cover but the money that ProScout brings in is almost pure profit. It'd only make sense that they pay the industry representatives to show up because, certainly, they're not investing in the talents themselves. It's a shame, really. This is a predatory company that thrives off people with dreams of grandure and a lack of information.

The real kicker is that we parents want the best for our children. Sometimes we want to entertain the dreams of our kids, even when we know that they are not nearly prepared enough and, more than likely, it'll be a passing phase. Far be it for any of us to be wet towels with our reality checks and horror stories, right? So, when our children get excited about this really great ad on the radio about talent scouts in the area, we have no choice but to go, right? In that manner, ProScout relinquishes any accountability and leaves the jaded consumer to be the bad guys and "crazies" because, after all, the parents are the ones forking out the cash and throwing caution to the wind, not them. I've been at these events just to check them out and a majority of the attendants are really young, naive folks. I think that cements that point.

Of course, event space can be expensive too but let's just look at the Hyatt Regency Atlanta. It's a venue that is highly-regarded and offers tons of event space (180, 000 square feet I believe). I don't work in the hospitality business nor do I pretend to be an expert in the area but I know that not even half of the dues collected from ProScout attendants is going towards the event space. Again, where does this money go?

Clearly, most of this money is going towards kickbacks and commissions. The fact that most of the field staff for ProScout works on a part-time basis as they admit themselves should tell you something. Their office hours at the Arizona headquarters are quite limited too so, again, I ask: where does all this money go? Furthermore, if the agencies they work with trust them so much, why would they have to get paid to show up? Agents pay the talent, not the other way around, because they get paid by the client. It's a simple as that. The only thing you should be paying for in the business are things that make solid guarantees and provide tangibles, not just some very nice speeches and presentations.

The guys at ProScout certainly are professionals.. at brainwashing. They use subtle strong-arm sales tactics that have been around since door-to-door hairbrush salesmen! My favorite tactic PS employs is the time-old take-away. This is where you are presented with something seemingly "too good to be true" and then, when you start to get a little inkling of doubt, they take it away from you and say stuff like...

- You know, come to think of it, this may not be for you.
- This isn't for everyone. Only a select few will truly make it.
- This is for serious people only. Don't waste our time or your own if you're not going to commit.

...And the list goes on. It's a great way to put the burden of responsibility on the consumer. This is partly why there aren't many formal complaints against ProScout: most people feel they were the ones that dropped the ball, lacked the "right stuff", or "didn't try hard enough". These people will attend multiple conventions and likely buy into the "discounted" rate (which, apparently, is hundreds of dollars cheaper for returning prospects). Folks like that want to taste success so badly or simply do not want to admit defeat so they rationalize the whole experience and create a great deal of denial for themselves.

Ultimately, ProScout gets away clean. What's worse is that the fine print will get you so, even if you complain to the BBB and other consumer advocacy, they can can pass the buck because no laws were broken. That would explain why the BBB says this business has been around for 10 years and, in spite all the complaints, maintain an A+ rating. The Better Business Bureau has become pretty worthless. Companies can pretty much scrub their records clean if they "resolve" the issues in a timely fashion (or shut up people), which basically means they can just respond with some packaged answer or have someone "administratively close" an open claim.

In conclusion, the issue here is not whether or not this business is a scam. ProScout is unequivocally unethical and poorly managed. They do a poor job in managing expectations and providing good customer service. Customers should not feel trapped or unsure when working with any company, especially if the money you fork out can go into more important things like car maintenance, home repairs, family functions, helping charitable causes, and the like. Quite honestly, these types of companies disgust me and that is why I blog about them on WordPress.

I also would like to comment on the whole "you don't have what it takes" crap. It's just a cop-out ProScout uses to, again, dodge accountability. It's quite interesting how I know people that have made it in the modeling and acting business quite fine, even after being rejected by ProScout and other self-appointed experts.

People, spend your money how you'd like. If you want to meet other aspiring actors/models and go to some over-priced workshops, ProScout is definitely great. If you don't mind making others rich on a very slim chance that you MIGHT get a gig, maybe two, go for ProScout. Now, if you are truly committed and want to INVEST your money the right way, do the legwork yourself.

ProScout is the equivalent of a headhunter at a lowly recruiting firm. They'll do some "screening" to make the candidates left feel like they have a real chance, then they'll send them all off for the kill. Only 1 out of 100 people get placed like this, if you're lucky. ProScout has even worse success rates.

Like some others pointed out here, why is it that the ProScout events focus on smaller, more gullible markets? I'll tell you why: anyone that lives in NYC or LA knows where to go to get connected. It takes hard work, yes, but it's not as impossible as they make it out to be. I've had plenty of friends that moved to NYC or LA on a whim. They simply did the following:

- Joined mailing lists for aspiring actors and models.
- Met with local people that "made it" and got their sales-pitch-free success stories.
- Studied under successful actors and models.
- Joined marketing companies and street teams to run promos, stunts, and campaigns that would help them build up contacts, gain more experience, and get exposure.
- Launched their own web site and/or blog to gain more exposure.
- Joined social networking sites such as LinkedIn to make connections with key people.

There are tons of things you can do to get into the entertainment business but it takes persistence. ProScout thrives on people that want quick fixes or have just lost hope. PS is like a ray of light in a very, very dark world.

Now, I'm not here to point you in the direction of any talent agency, scouting service, photographer, or any crap. I'm only here to protect other consumers like myself by educating you. If you offer anyone money for a service, make sure they are ready to provide hard evidence, third-party validation, solid proof of a successful track record, and guarantees that they can actually back up and follow through with.

Believe me, I understand those of us honest people in the service business have a tough job as it is. We don't deal with tangibles so driving the value to our clients is tough, but there is a right way to do things and a wrong way. ProScout is a case study in how to do things all the wrong ways in business.

You know what else really grinds my gears as I go through these comments?

It all comes down to the youth. ProScout is crushing some of the youth out there rather than building up their confidence. Stop dangling the metaphorical carrot in front of people, folks. We parents have enough to deal with as it is without knuckleheads coming in and stirring the proverbial poo around.

I believe that everyone is capable of anything in life. So what if only .0001% of the world's population makes it big in modeling and acting. The same could be said about other fields too. Don't be ridiculous now. The honest-to-goodness truth is that some people just don't want it badly enough and, when they realize there is real work involved (or they find out how ugly the entertainment industry can be as a whole), they decide it's not what they really wanted.

Sure, some people are just looking for a new meal ticket, I agree, but there are very great talents out there that get shot down in ALL lines of work because they go to supposed experts that shoot them down because, for whatever reason, they feel that they know everything. It's this sort of arrogance that really makes me laugh. No one can possibly know everything, which is why there will always be some sucker that will be swayed by someone that knows how to hit all the right nerves and say all the right things. ProScout is good at that.

Look at the proponents of ProScout. A good portion of them are condescending snobs. I admit that, by going to these events, there are certainly many moms pushing their kids to do the whole thing, simply because most parents is unrealistic with how they assess their children, especially mothers. There's no such thing as an ugly baby, right? I get that logic and it's true a lot of the time, but not ALL the time. That's just another cop-out.

The reason why not everyone works in the line of work that ProScout is trying to sell is because there are plenty of other viable, lucrative career opportunities out there. It's true: this business is not for everyone and, if you ask me, you can keep it. I know plenty of "good-looking, well-rounded, smart people" that are doing quite well without getting involved with superficial, pompous jerks like the ones that are shooting down those that have very reasonable complaints with regards to ProScout and similar companies.

I'd hate to tell some of you this but you can't just stick a label on people or generalize, just to discredit their argument. Valid points are valid points. ProScout's business model needs serious scrutiny.

Like I said, you can get much better success rates investing less money and doing the right things. Sure, it may take more time but, if you really want to make a career out of it, it's the only way to do it. Plenty of companies offer auditions and open casting calls, which are great ways to build up your portfolio/resume. Surely, you'll find plenty of folks trying to sell you dreams, only to pull the 'ol bait-and-switch on you.

Which reminds me, another thing I truly enjoyed by attending the ProScout open calls was how they had all this pep-rally-esque rhetoric to open up. Once they weeded out those that they didn't feel "had what it takes", they made it seem like everyone left was part of an elite club. Once everyone started to foam at the mouth, they throw the dollar signs your way but you realize that the dollar signs are coming OUT of your pocket, not in. They spoke very little about how the industry is, how to prepare properly, what kind of pay checks to expect, and the like.

What was even more interesting is how the web site and open call presentation alike fail to provide real testimonials. Where are the recognizable faces? Oh, sure, there are some photos and name droppings here and there.. yet you don't see anyone speaking in person or on video, sharing what their experience with ProScout was. Sure, people can be paid to do that sort of thing but it'd be nice to have some real third-party validation and success stories, aside from the 1% that get one or two gigs then return to life as usual, or invest more money into PS crap.

The following links make me laugh too (if you look close enough, you'll see what I mean):

http://www.proscout.com/index.cfm/show_interview-locations
http://www.proscout.com/index.cfm/show_interview-process

It all reminds me of "business opportunity" meetings that sell "the dream" to those less fortunate (or those that feel they simply ran out of options). Well over a decade ago, pryamid schemes were very prominent and they worked because they helped just enough people to be able to say "Hey, we're delivering what we promise.. but some people just are not cut out for our business!" Meanwhile, all the "independent business owners" are forking out cash to buy branded merchandise, self-help systems, and seminar/workshop passes, only to make the company more rich. Even many of today's MLM/Network Marketing businesses tread that thin line between scam and legitimate business.

Truly, this is a scary world. For those of you that got burned by ProScout, keep your heads up. Karma will serve justice in due time. Ignore all these biased individuals that are trying to generalize, ostracize, and berate you. Do not let go of your dreams and just let these bad experiences build up your character and strength further!

You may also find it interesting to note that the current data the BBB has for ProScout does not match what they are distributing at their events:

14500 N. Northsight Blvd. #233
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

-VS-

15333 N. Pima Rd, St 275
Scottsdale, AZ 85260

The inconsistencies continue. How can any conscientious consumer NOT be worried when there are so many red flags just jumping out at you? It's not fair to assume that people that "failed" with ProScout just aren't cut out for it. Maybe ProScout doesn't know how to gauge potential properly. Maybe, just maybe, they are just trying to fill up seats to pad their paychecks.

Really, if I didn't have a conscience, I'd adopt a similar business model since no one seems to be stepping in to regulate these types of companies better. Sadly, this is not the first company, nor will it be the last, to get good ratings at http://bbb.org and deliver crap service and/or product. So much for a system of checks and balances! ;o)

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention more with regards to the bait-and-switch tactics of ProScout. Please excuse me if I seem like a troll but I am just very passionate about consumer advocacy and protecting against predatory/unethical businesses.

The simple fact of the matter is that ProScout makes it seem like "all you have to do" is go to the invitational and they do the rest. What is "the rest"? As many have discovered, the $800 or so you pay doesn't include much at all. They fail to provide any hard documentation detailing what you get for the money as well.

I just read the comments by the "plus size model" and my heart goes out to you. That's really crappy of them to take your money and make promises they have no intentions to deliver on. I'm sure some people make it with ProScout but it's such a low number that it's almost not worth it. About 1 out of every [protected] people "make it", it seems. They have to uphold their legitimacy somehow, after all!

Again and again, the common complaint that resounds with me is the matter of this fee for the invitational. What does it cover? Charging for guests and "optional" workshops is obscene, especially for event which is mostly standing space.. It's not like you have to reserve the space.

Oh, wait, I forgot... We must fly down the agents, agents that already trust ProScout and "love" coming to the events. Oh, and they get a "nominal payment" as an incentive but they're "really there to find talent". Come on now.. That would mean the agents make money at all angles. Bogus.

Yes, let me pay for people to come see me perform and hopefully give me the opportunity to give THEM part of my paycheck because they found me a gig that I probably could have found myself had I just Googled it or brown-nosed a bit myself. Ah, that IS worth the money! Heck, I want to work in the model/acting business now. Does anyone realize how flawed this logic is or is it just me?

Please excuse my caustic glibness but I'd say everyone commenting against ProScout, rather than in favor of, is certainly making more valid points. ProScout may not be a full-blown scam but it might as well be! It certainly seems like a waste of time for most. Pay to get slapped in the face and belittled.. Sounds like masochism to me!

"There are no pictures to buy, no classes to take. Just come meet our scouts, and we'll do the rest."

"AWESOME! Sign me up for ten invitational passes. Do you have any scouts that specialize in hand models? I have VERY nice hands. Actually, I'd like to speak with Mr. Marcus directly, please. What, he's not available? What a surprise."

Yup.. ProScout is the Amway of their industry, whatever that is supposed to be!

i went about 3 years ago my daughter was choosen she had pictures taken by their people then rite after was told that the event was canceled and would be rescheduled then never heared from them again i called and called and left many messages with no return call from them then after awhile their phones would say that you couldnt leave messages cause the mailbox was full. I'm sure it eas from everyone calling since it was all a scam..

I took my daughter about 3 years ago they choose her and we did our pictures with them then shortly after they canceled the event and said it woud be rescheduled and never heard from them again. Then i called and called with many messages left and not one return call then their web site was down after that. arfter some time when i would call them it would say mail box full, of course with all the calls from everyone that was scam. Dont waste your time it's a scam

After reading all these comments I honestly don't know what to believe. Can anyone actually verify any of these stories?

Anyways, I am a 12 year old girl and I attended a ProScout interview the other day. I got asked to attend the "invitational/callback" in Chicago this December. At first, it seemed like an amazing opportunity, the chance to perform in front of 40 agencies. My mom was skeptical though, saying we should check what the success rate was. On my form I put down that I was interested in both modeling and acting, however I am MUCH more interested in acting. Some people said that ProScout focuses more on modeling, can you explain? I am very short for my age, 4' 9", but I was under the impression being short was better for acting? Maybe not. Someone said if you are under 5' 5" do not expect to get a gig unless you are super cute and super thin. I don't think I'm gorgeous, however I do think I'm very cute (not to sound pompous) and have been told so many times. I'm not a skinny mini, however I am very light, probably around 74 pounds, and pretty thin. I have been in some plays, gone to a (sleepaway) theater camp this summer, and taken an acting class. What do you think my chances of getting a gig/callback are? Thanks

Shailea15 I was just wondering if you say it's not a scam did you get picked? Is there anyone on this page that had a call back and made some money for there talent? I am invited to go and I am just not sure I already paid half and I am upset that they say there is no refund why is that?

i got accepted into 3 agencies and have called them several times to get info and guess what no calls back to me..hmmm

Just attended a PS interview in Bend, Oregon for the fun of it. DEFINITELY A SCAM! Some observations:

* The radio ad was very misleading ...stating that scouts from Nickelodean, Warner Brothers, Disney and Ford Modeling would be there -- NOT true!
* They don't disclose the ProScout name in their radio ad. If they did, I believe people would search the internet, see all the complaints against them, and no one would show up. I researched the internet based on key workds from the radio ad and and nothing came up. That should've been a red flag. If anything, I knew this would be a good learning experience for my 2 daughters ... a lesson on how you can't believe everything you hear, and how to avoid being scammed.
* They're professionals alright ... professional scam artists. At the interview, they disclose up front that if you're "chosen" then it will cost $800 to attend a seminar where you will meet agents from Nickelodean, Warner Brothers, etc. I believe they intentionally do this to make themselves SOUND legitimate. No legitimate agency takes your money to meet scouts. Legitmate agencies don't need a middleman like PS to find talent. You can do that directly with agencies (like Ford modeling) by going directly to their website.

My personal opinion: PS scouts appeal to those who don't think they have a shot at stardom/modeling/acting. PS makes it appear that they "see something special" in you. This makes the person feel good about him/her self and they're likely to fork over $800 to see how far they can go. Don't let PS fool you. You don't need a PS scam artist to tell you how wonderful, beautiful and talented you are ... then take $800 away from you for nothing in return.

Remember ... if they ask you for money, run (don't walk) away! YOU should be the one getting paid. I spent one precious hour of my time at this thing, but at least I had the company of my friends (and their kids) -- and we all got a good laugh from it.

Hi Everyone.
Here is the bottom line concerning ProScout. You are not paying 800 to get discovered. You are paying 800 for the opportunity to display what you have to offer the world of acting, modeling etc., in front of 30 plus top agents.
Yes, there are several agencies there that are not world wide, or well-known. This is because alot of these agencies are exclusive and very selective. And that is not to mislead you and say that there are agencies there that will callback anyone.
They tell you that looks are not everything. And they are not. There was a wide variety of everything both male and female that recieved call backs. Here is the thing, you, your daughter, your son, whomever is considering attending, dont be naive. Understand that ther is gonna be 1000 people there, all gunning for the same thing you are. It is your chance to show what you got. And trust me, prepare. Preperation is key. IF you are acting, KNOW your monolouge. IF you are modeling, make sure you have pictures that repressent your versatility. PLEASE dont be like this poster, he or she, went to and Invitational, wasnt prepared and got blown out. It is easy to do.
Personality, Confidence and Persistence. Three words you need to learn. Remember as I said before, there are 1000 other people they are looking at, you need to stand out.
Also, keep in mind modeling and acting requirements, although the baseline characteristics remain the same, the need for right now, changes monthly, weekly, even daily. Meaning, you might have what they are looking for, or you might not.
A word of advice is be DIVERSE. Dont go with one streamline pursuit. I went originally for just Commercial Print modeling. During the course i adapted, learned a monolouge, and got call backs based on my monolouge performance. It aided me in getting noticed in the agents eyes.
You have to want it, and every agent there can tell if you do or dont in a second.
There are all legit agents there, huge names, huge moels, actors, acting coaches. People have made a mark in history in this business. The staff of ProScout genuinely cares for you, helps you, and does there best to prepare you for that second day. But as they tell you there, most people dont listen, dont take their advice, and it shows the next day.
Bottom line, if you have a daughter or son, or it is you that got invited, go. But only go if you really want it. Otherwise it will be as waste. You will meet awesome people, learn amazing things, and get exactly what they promise you, a chance.
In closing, remember, most that attend, love the idea of being found or discovered, a good amount go prepared, and then the smallest amount of people who attend WANT to be discoverd, want to be found. If you go, be that small percent. And you will be sitting in the room in the end with 3 agencies calling you back like I was.

Okay, first off, I am a working model and I am soooo tired of you stage moms that don't know anything about the business, or at least not enough to be "street smart". If no agent called you back, it's not because something is a SCAM, it's because they DIDN'T LIKE WHAT THEY SAW. That's just a given in this industry. No response= no interest. Duh.

Secondly, I was given the link to Proscouts by a friend, as I am going to NY to visit all of the major agencies myself, and my $50 bus ticket + hotels (haven't booked yet) is definitely going to be cheaper than the $800 that this thing is. I'm obviously not going.

I've been doing my homework, and I've been freelancing for only a few months and I have a complete portfolio as well as jobs with MAC Cosmetics, fashion weeks, etc etc. I'm at the point where modeling is paying my bills. I'm in the DC area, so I'm about to plateau. I will now step into the big agencies- full portfolio in hand- and do it the "hard" way, which I've worked countless hours to get towards. I've loved every second of it- the parties, the art, the portrayal of different characters. The connections, the hard work, the glamor. I've met tons of industry professionals and gotten that experience that one needs to be on the entry level of the bigger agencies--and I haven't paid one SINGLE dime.

My point? You need to have a body of work behind you, you need to show the initiative of sending in your submissions, showing up to the open calls, sending all the different people your information. There is NO easy way to the top-- this Proscout nonsense, while giving a select few a good chance, will only run your wallet and rob you of that invaluable experience of doing it YOURSELF.

The cost of this Proscouts, making you believe you have a chance when really, you have no idea how to USE that chance, to submit you to agencies:
$800, plus what ever hotels/food, plus the "photographers" that you are forced to use for a portfolio, and if you're really not that smart, "big name" classes to run you hundreds or thousands for what you can get PAID to do. Though, I will say, if you have started in the industry and have a base of talent and a portfolio, and $800 to spend, you may want to try. Though, none of the names listed on their site actually rang a bell.

The price of having a complete portfolio, experience, and knowledge of the business to submit to agencies: $0, and the $50 bust ticket to go to NY, plus hotels/food. And a few months of EXTREMELY hard work, but a hell of a lot to show for it. Actually, I've made thousands in this process as well.

You choose.

let me also add, I have been contacted by agencies and agents, but I wanted to be wise and build a portfolio and not be in any contract when I went to NYC. ...But I'm also a very determined girl.

proscout is not a scam and thats all i have to say...

Wow, ok so I went to the Proscout event. I only had two callbacks and I was terrible sick that weekend, but since yesterday, I was signed. I had to follow up, I didn't sleep out of nervousness. But to be honest, it was all worth it. There were so many people there, rangeing from 3 years old to 30 probably. You just have to have it, impress them, and hope for the best. DO your best. I get my comp cards done and start my career hopefully. I mean, you don't become a celebrity or top actor right off the bat. You work for it, which is what Proscout is doing. It gives you the opportunity to start from the bottom, for you to have a foot in the door.
I don't know why there are so many terrible comments about Proscout, maybe because you didn't receive a callback, but I can assure you that they help in so many ways. I don't the money to travel all over the US to audition, find an agent, stay in hotels etc. That's why Proscout is so convienient because they come to us. Yeah, the agents are paid to come. Understandable. And you're not paying the agents to work for you yet, you're paying for them to come and listen to you. To fly from their work, on their time, to come and watch you. So it's up to you, to make it worth their while. You don't have to stay in the same hotel (use Priceline...really :)). I met some people there my age who stayed at a 30 dollar a night hotel down the road from the hotel in Chicago where Proscout was hosted.
It's not a scam. Yes, it's expensive but think about how much money would have to pay to fly yourself around, stay in hotels, have doors shut in your face etc. This is one chance, so do it right. Prepare and impress them. If not picked, try again. I know, it's a lot of money, but honestly, it helps. As I said, as of yesterday I was signed with an agency. I wouldn't never had the opportunity without Proscout.

You are completely wrong about Prosout being a scam. I have also met the model they had there once. She use to be on extream home makeover, so I really doubt she would be involved with a scam. I have attended a few times and have gotten a callback two different times. I however had braces at the time and was two inches too short but I was a freshmen in high school and still growing. So the agent gave me her card and said email her later because I was perfect for what she needed. So it is up to you to keep up with the agents because it is not their job to contact you when you are not signed with them. Even still if you do sign with them they have a extremely busy life and they are not going to baby you. It is a very aggressive industry so you have to be aggressive cause you are just another person out of tons who want to be in the industry. Yes it makes perfect since that you do have to pay. Think they have to pay the agents to come there and then they also have rent a very large room to hold it in. Which is always at one of the nicest places so it is going to be expensive for them. Also don't stay at the hotel "where the agents stay" cause yes it will be expensive. You really won't see the agents cause they fly in late and they will more than likely be working in their rooms. As for the agents being rude they are just being real. If you can't handle them at Proscout then you won't be able to handle the industry. Just be friendly and don't let them get to because they also may be testing you. I have always enjoyed each time that I have gone and I plan on going again.

You are completely wrong about Prosout being a scam. I have also met the model they had there once. She use to be on extream home makeover, so I really doubt she would be involved with a scam. I have attended a few times and have gotten a callback two different times. I however had braces at the time and was two inches too short but I was a freshmen in high school and still growing. So the agent gave me her card and said email her later because I was perfect for what she needed. So it is up to you to keep up with the agents because it is not their job to contact you when you are not signed with them. Even still if you do sign with them they have a extremely busy life and they are not going to baby you. It is a very aggressive industry so you have to be aggressive cause you are just another person out of tons who want to be in the industry. Yes it makes perfect since that you do have to pay. Think they have to pay the agents to come there and then they also have rent a very large room to hold it in. Which is always at one of the nicest places so it is going to be expensive for them. Also don't stay at the hotel "where the agents stay" cause yes it will be expensive. You really won't see the agents cause they fly in late and they will more than likely be working in their rooms. As for the agents being rude they are just being real. If you can't handle them at Proscout then you won't be able to handle the industry. Just be friendly and don't let them get to because they also may be testing you. I have always enjoyed each time that I have gone and I plan on going again.

I'm a reality television star just out of curiosity i attended a pro scout interview i've appeared on flavor of love season 1, surreal life, stomp the yard an numerous music videos however when i attended the scouts said i wasn't what they were looking for it wasn't until another scoutt recognized me then suddenly i became what they wanted they were also interested in my son .however after that day i believe pro scout to be a scam ...when u see them run like hell

Hello
To everyone who is wonder if these accusations are true. Yes it is a big industry to pull you in.
At first they claim to be very legit saying that you do not need to pay for anything... well this is true, that if someone wants you they will not ask you to pay anything, not hotel cost either.
I attended one, got picked, flew to a convention but paid for my hotel cost n travel, met a lot of people and learned about the experience.
I met a lot of agencies but none that were really anything big. But here’s the catch I learned that it wasn’t real when I myself was enquired about becoming part of their team. It was noted to me by a caster who is a co owner of the business. There are several partners who take part in it, a buy in. They earn money by getting agencies that are really NOT reputable that pay them to bring people to them. They also get a percentage for recommending that you stay at the hotel recommendation list. The guy said I could cast as a model since I had the look, meet with people. They said they would give me a pay rate to travel with some casters to convince other people that I did big prints with the help of Proscouts. I did not do this I was convicted there, the pay seemed awesome but to lie to thousand would make me feel no less good for myself. I am glad I got a wakeup call but I say if you all want to find it out do so. But take part in mind dreams come true with hard work. I can say I now live in Hollywood; I did several real auditions and now do small print ads for department store magazines. Best journeys for everyone trying to get there.

is a big scam, i was in Philadelphia 5 6 nov 2010 paying over 1000$ for nothing. if you need more info please fell free and contact me at my e mail hawks22uliu21@yahoo.com because i can prove to everyone i was there i got 3 call backs and is a big [censor].

That the promblem. All the people who are talking bad are the people who never got call backs. ummmm... My friend went and I supported him by going. he had 8 call backs and now he is living in los angeles. People think that o Ill get pick and make tons of money the reality is that nothing is a free ride. Once an agency pick you. You have to save and move to whatever city, then study get a job there, work hard then book things. Which my friend is doing and making good money. People think that being pick means they pay for everything. No! You have to invest and believe in your self before you make money. And people if we all who what was talent or who has the right look to be a model then we would all be making tons of money, So They know what they want stop being pis cause you were to pick and saying its a scam. casuse I have been there, and my friend now makes good money in los angeles.

My four year old daughter just attended the Pro Scout event this past weekend and it is not a scam at all. The person that commented before me is right...the people saying it's a scam are the ones who did not get call backs. My daughter got three call backs, one of them being with BMG one of the biggest modeling agencies. ProScout offers you the chance to be able to put yourself in front of all these agencies, but they flat out tell you that there's no guarantee that you will get a contract. Once they put you in front of the agencies, it's out of their hands as to whether an agency likes you or not. If you are invited to one of these events and you are serious about wanting to get into the modeling/acting industry then I would definitely say this is worth it!

I disagree proscout is a scam! i had 6 callbacks and havent heard from anyone! I also know of a few others who got call backs and havent heard from anyone.

I bet every one of you, just had ONE bad experiece with ProScout, and think that it's a scam. But let me tell you this, people have bad experiences all the time. With anything. And if you didn't have a bad experience, you're just saying this stuff so no one comes in, and steals your spotlight. That is REALLY selfish!

-Amber Gilbertson

I am invited to go to a Boston event to be seen by the agents. My mom thinks it is a lot of money and i may not get any callbacks. What can i do to make sure i do get call back and what are the agents looking for? (question for past people who have gone.)

Just Facts:
I went to ProScout a couple of years ago for a male model. I recieved 8 call backs in Kansas City. I went to visit every single call back, only 1 seemed really interested. I pursued that agency in Chicago (I am from Arkansas). A month later after shelling about 700 more dollars for excellent photos (test shoot) I signed with the agency and work with them for 2 years.

Even if you recieved 45 callbacks, there is no guarantee that an agency will sign you, you will have to keep on them. If they are truly interested they will keep in contact. And even after you sign, there is no guarantee that you will get jobs. Research the agency before signing, check our the clients/retailers/companies that they work with, and make sure they are working hard to submit you to their clients.

Yes, ProScout is with the Better Business Bureau (A+ rating); Organizations pay for their rating, so this does not mean ProScout is a legitimate business.

ProScout is a LOT cheaper than alot of other organizations that put on the same thing (ie. AMTC charges $4, 000) . So this is a deal.

Do not pay this money in hopes of reaching stardom if it could ultimately put your family in financial trouble. If this is something you want to do, you can always raise money. Also, may sure you count in the cost to stay in a hotel, travel to the convention, and food while there. Also if you have real agency interest, you will more than likely have to shell out $400-700 more dollars for test shoots, and you will have to travel to the agencies location. I would hate for you to shell out $800 and get real interest from an agency and be unable to afford the test shoots or travel to the agencies location.

Pick an agency closer to where you live, unless you plan to move. You will have to travel to castings for different roles, whether acting or modeling. If the agency is closer to where you live, they are more likely to submit you to different roles.

I recently moved to the New York area, and I plan to attend ProScout again.

These facts are just from my experience and are not representative all experiences.

ok just to let know i am from montreal end going to boston in april. with what i read i wanted to make shure by myself.. i just called at ford model in t.o and asked about proscout the lady said it was excellent and she discovered many models at that proscout weekend...so yes i will go

Okay, I am a successful fashion, print, and art model. I've been modeling for 14 years. (This is my story.)

I went to a ProScout invitational in Kansas City, MO. in 1997 with a few friends from school. We were all accepted to this invitational by going to a Radio Call at the local Holiday Inn in Joplin, MO. My mother was brainwashed by the entire spiel that they sit you through promising you that your child has the talent to be seen by talent agents from all over the world. They know that you can't get out to the cities to meet with these people or maybe, you just don't know how to go about it? Well, they want to help you so badly, so, so, badly, that they are going to charge you $800 to fly all these modeling agencies to the closest city to you, so you can be DISCOVERED!

My mother bought it hook, line, and sinker. She scraped up the money from her factory job and paid the fees. She went out and bought roll after roll of film to take snapshots of me trying to get some decent images that they require you to have at the invitational to show the agents as a composite card. We even got our room at the hotel they were hosting the event which was not cheap.

We went to all these lectures about how to break into the business, what models/actors they've discovered and even had a model speaker come out before she made us all test the runway one time before we did the real thing in front of all the agencies the next morning on the 3rd and final day.

Meanwhile, they sold merchandise, model/acting directory books, and even a runway model soundtrack that my mother immediately scooped up completely engulfed in the moment and not thinking at all about how much money these people are making off each individual, not to mention the poor families whom have more than one child selected.

On the last day, I walked the ramp and walked around their giant table and showed the "agents" my picture. I sat in the large room, after a recess, and listened to them rattle off agency names along with numbers on our badges that they gave us at the very beginning for a callback.

My friends got callbacks to L.A. Models. Where they were pretty much told that they needed to send in their photos for further approval and after they were approved by more people at the agency, they would have to move to L.A. and work. (WTF? They paid over $1000 EACH (taxes, food, lodging, film for photos and development, etc) to sit at a table with an agency to be told they "liked" their look, but couldn't do anything else except hand them a business card and say, "Maybe. We'll get back to you."

I received one callback from a house agency that promised to continue sending out my photos to agencies. I NEVER HEARD another peep from them except when they came back to town and wanted my mother to fork over another $800 to give it another go. (What happened to keeping in touch with me and continuing to send my photos to other modeling agencies?)

S-C-A-M

MODELING BASICS 101:
IF YOU DON'T LIVE IN A NICHE MARKET (New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Chicago) You will definitely NOT make a living being a model. It doesn't matter who they pay to come out and see you.

YOU COULD HAVE SPENT LESS THAN $800 ON A PLANE TICKET TO L.A. TO MEET WITH EVERY MAJOR MODELING AGENCY! OR Better yet! THIS IS THE DIGITAL AGE, WE HAVE THE WONDERFUL TECHNOLOGY OF THE INTERNET! ALL OF THESE MAJOR AGENCIES HAVE ONLINE SUBMISSIONS! JUST GO TO THEIR WEBSITES!
IT'S EVEN FREE!

Agencies DO NOT need to advertise nor do they need to go to rinky dink towns in the midwest to find models. You do not PAY agencies and managers. They pay YOU and they get 10-20% of the money made on all the jobs they book for you.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK! IT'S COMMON SENSE.

PROSCOUT, MODEL SEARCH AMERICA, JOHN CASABLANCA'S MODELING AND ACTING SCHOOL AND AGENCY, ETC ETC ARE ALL SCAMS!

I know this because MY FAMILY WAS VICTIM TO ALL OF THEM. They feed on hopeful parents in rinky dink towns praying their children have a future ahead of them because they don't want them working in factories or [censor] office jobs just like them. It is DISGUSTING to me to realize that it is 2011 and with the wealth of information available via the web, PEOPLE ARE STILL STUPID ENOUGH, to pay them money and allow these facilities to thrive. At least, when I was victim, the internet was not nearly as developed as today and still widely unavailable in my area.

RUN AWAY AS FAST AS YOU CAN AND MAKE SURE YOU HAVE YOUR WALLET IN HAND!