The credibility of a modeling agency and the possibility of a modeling photography scam can be evaluated to some extent based on whether only one photographer is required or recommended for american models. Reputable agencies should give a list of top photographers but they will not require one photographer.

The credibility of photographers can be checked by looking at the history of the photographer who is required or recommended. Get the photographer's name. Find the photographer's experience and model agents. Visit the photographer's website. Look at samples of previous work.

In the book, The Modeling Handbook, Eve Matheson writes: "Never spend money on a portfolio for a baby or young child models. In three months they will look different. The pictures in your wallet will do just fine"

Tim Tew, a photographer in Orlando, Florida, has this advice for parents for kids model: "Don't let anyone sell you a thousand-dollar portfolio. You only need a couple of snapshots to find out if an agent is interested. Then a good headshot is all your need to get started"