Are Nude Photos Ever Required to Become a Model?

People have a lot of questions for us about modeling and what’s considered normal behavior versus what could be a red flag or an inappropriate request from a modeling agency or scout.

For many of the questions we get, the answers aren’t always black and white and may take further investigation to get to the bottom of the issue. However, there is one question that we often get that doesn’t have much gray area when it comes to its answer. The question is “Will a legitimate modeling agency or scout ask me to send them nude photos?”

The answer to that question is always NO!

Usually, when you have to wonder if something is inappropriate or unethical behavior by a professional business, your gut actually already knows the answer and is just waiting for your brain to catch up. In this case, the fact you even have to ask about this “modeling agency’s” intentions is a big red flag in the first place.

Most modeling agencies and scouts are ethical and professional, but there are some people who pose as experts and take advantage of the good standing other modeling agencies have developed. These predators count on inexperienced models falling for their tricks. Some impostors will ask aspiring models to pose nude on webcam to see if they “have what it takes,” or ask models to include nude photos in their portfolio for consideration by scouts.

Before submitting your photos to agencies you should always do your homework and work with established modeling agencies. Never send photos to any one who has randomly contacted you through social media. Talk to other models, check the Better Business Bureau to ensure the company in question is in good standing, and search online for a history of suspicious behavior or complaints about the person or company.

ModelScouts.com Awarded Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Excellence in Business Ethics

If someone claiming to be a modeling agent or scout asks you for nude photos, you should end the discussion immediately, then block them from your social media accounts if that is how they found you. You should also file a complaint with social media sites and your local police department. You should also do your part to warn other models so they don’t fall victim to predators, and always stay on the lookout for things that don’t seem or feel right. If you do fall victim to one of these predators, don’t panic and don’t blame yourself. Chances are they will just move on and forget about you once you have protected yourself.

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