This week, I have been reminded at how much I hate these ‘model scouts’ standing in overcrowded shopping areas, annoying and tricking young students into handing over their measly amount of money, believing this is their one off opportunity to get scouted, and make it into the world of stardom. Being completely oblivious that they could easily be ‘scouted’ every week outside Topshop in London, the end of Kingston high street or on the rare occasion in Camden.
I have made the mistake before, handing over money in order to get model style photos, then going home feeling flattered and happy thinking I have been model scouted for one of London’s big model agencies, only to read the small print, which informs me that I will have to pay an extra fee in order to get my photographs done. Con.
Something didn’t feel right when they approached me using every flattery word that can be found in thesaurus’, however, any girl would fall for it, as lets face it, no one really hates compliments.
Waiting for my friend outside Topshop, Oxford Street, nothing has changed. These ‘model scouts’ as they like to call themselves, have improved their flattery skills, seeing many girls getting as excited as I did, thinking they too could be in for a chance for modelling.
After standing there for 20 minutes, I hear the same line used on 12 young girls, angering me every time I hear this man say, ‘I love your look, would you be interested in…”
Deciding to put my headphones in to drown out this ridiculous procedure that they are going through, I look the other way, then to be interrupted by that irritating ‘scout’. Not only did he make my blood boil for 20 minutes, he has the nerve to quiz me when I tell him that “I am only 17’’ and will not be allowed to participate in this ridiculous scheme. A lie of course, as I am 21, but why keep pestering me until I give a fake name and telephone number?
