Safety isn’t just a side note in the modeling and acting world—it’s a foundational part of building a healthy, long-term journey. With searches for “how to spot fake casting calls,” “model safety tips,” “industry red flags,” and “how to know if an agency is legit” on the rise, it’s clear that talent are looking for guidance they can trust.

Here’s what every aspiring model and actor should know as they navigate the industry today.

1. Verify Every Opportunity That Comes Your Way

Scam castings and imitation “agencies” are becoming more convincing each year. Before responding to any email, DM, or casting call:

• Look up the company’s website and social media presence

• Check for consistent branding and real portfolio work

• Search the company name + “review”

• Confirm that emails come from official domains, not personal accounts

A legitimate opportunity will hold up under basic research.

2. Talent Should Never Pay for a Job

This is one of the most frequently searched industry questions—and the answer is simple: you should never pay to get cast or to audition.
Standard investments like training, comp cards, and portfolio building are normal in the industry, but no real casting director or job will charge you to participate.

3. Protect Your Personal Information

As social media continues to shape modern careers, protecting your privacy is more important than ever.

• Avoid posting your daily routines or specific locations

• Use a dedicated email for industry opportunities

• Don’t share personal contact details with anyone who hasn’t been verified

Your online presence should be professional—while still keeping you safe.

4. Minors Should Always Have a Guardian Present

Any reputable industry professional will welcome a parent or guardian at photo shoots, meetings, or auditions involving minors.
Even for adults, bringing someone to a first-time meeting or unfamiliar set is smart—and no legitimate photographer or casting professional will push back on that.

5. Know Your Boundaries and Communicate Them Clearly

A positive industry experience starts with understanding what you’re comfortable with. Before stepping on set or signing a contract, make sure you know:

• What wardrobe is expected

• What scenes or concepts you’ll be participating in

• How the images or footage will be used

• What is not within your comfort zone

Professional environments respect boundaries—and they should be honored without hesitation.

6. Get All Agreements in Writing

Contracts protect everyone involved. Before any job begins, make sure the details are clearly written out, including:

• Usage rights

• Payment terms

• Contact information

• Length of the project

• Any exclusivity or restrictions

Documentation ensures clarity and prevents misunderstandings.

7. Keep Social Media Career-Safe

With so many opportunities beginning online, your profile often becomes your first impression.
Keep your platforms professional, be cautious of unsolicited DMs, and avoid sharing personal details that could compromise your safety.

If someone tries to move communication off a verified platform too quickly, slow down and verify.

8. Trust Your Instincts

If something feels rushed, unclear, or uncomfortable, it’s okay to ask more questions—or walk away.
In a professional industry, transparency is the standard.

Safe talent is successful talent. When young models and actors know how to identify legitimate opportunities, protect their information, and set boundaries, they walk into every audition and set with more confidence and clarity.

This industry is full of genuine opportunities—and understanding how to navigate them safely helps talent focus on what really matters: growing, performing, and creating their future.