Curious about legitimacy

[DWilson]

I recently received an e-mail from a company called ITGO Live Modeling Agency. http://itgolivemodelingagency.itgo.com/

It seems to be a direct e-mail to me as opposed to a generic e-mail to a bunch of photographers. They are looking for a photographer for a 10 day shoot in the UK. I looked them up but found nothing (initially there was no web site link in the e-mail). But I felt brave so I replied with a request for more informtation on both the company and the job.

I didn't expect anything to come back except maybe some more spam than I already get.

However, tonight I got a response. The job pays very nicely (with half up front once I show I haveall my paperwork in order) and I can bring my own gear or their client will provide gear for me to use. The client is Greg Tann Boutique UK, who I am also unable to find information on. A WHOIS lookup shows the gtb.com domain name is registered to a company Pleiades Enterprises in Virginia of which a Google search turns up a bunch of links to an energy company.

I could really use the money they are offering, but I don't want to end up stranded in the UK.


Any thoughts?

[bc_shutterbug]

Dave:

Their FAQ lists Vancouver 'If we are interested in you and you live in the Vancouver area', yet also says that their Head Office is in UK.

As I look over their site, I'd be a little concerned. And I'd also be asking why a UK based agency is not taking advantage of local talent to shoot for them.

I think this calls for more questions - perhaps best asked of the client themselves.

Still... if it's legit... it could be a good gig.

Tread carefully and Good Luck!

Cheers Neighbour!

njw

[lsc1]

This is most likely a SCAM. The next thing they will tell you is that they will send you a check for more than the amount and ask you to send back the difference. Their check will turn out bad and your's will be cashed.

[jimmyd]

SCAM!!!

check this out: http://aphotoeditor.com/2008/04/28/photographer-scam/

[hgwest]

Jimmy-
Thanks for the link on the stories, good thing a photographer can ask questions like this and get help (and links to back it up) from others here!
H

[JonScott]

Hey Dave, it's a scam.

I know a model in Cranbrook that fell for it, unfortunately. Same company names, even.