Experts provide several tips to consider before handing over any money to a talent scouting company or agent.

1. Research a company's background and compare it with other talent scouting agencies before signing on any dotted lines or shelling out hard-earned cash.

2.  Never pay large up-front fees.  Legitimate talent and modeling agencies will not take money from you until they find your children a modeling job.  Scam companies will charge you a lot of money to place your photographs on a Web site.  Obtain a detailed explanation of what any money you do pay will be used for.

3. Most legitimate agencies do not advertise in newspapers, solicit through the mail, or "scout" for talent in malls and other public places.  There are genuine companies that offer workshops in a classroom setting, during which traditional acting instruction is offered, with no promise of work as an enticement to open your wallet.

4. Your child does not need a large and expensive photo package or Web site to become a model.  Companies that hire models only need one good photo to judge your child's appearance.  It's better to get one good photo and mail it to many agencies instead of spending a lot of money at just one company.

5.  Make sure to get your agreement in writing.  Even if an agreement is reached verbally, get it in writing before agreeing to any terms.

If you think you have been the victim of a modeling or talent scam, contact the Wisconsin Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division at: 608-224-5012