Thank you for all the recent activity in regards to your anonymous postings to my blog. I understand you are a very frustrated due to the limited amount of work you must have been receiving from “Your photo mill operation”; due to the amount of traffic my blog is getting and receiving. I would hope that you were smart with the money you did earn working with John Wood and Karon Shea and invested it smartly.
I would like to reiterate to you that this blog is for constructive comments and criticisms and yours however do not qualify as constructive or readable for that matter. You have butchered the English language in such away that I did not want to cause you any further embracement by posting your anonymous rants, written at the wee hours of the morning.
I want to thank you for your recent posting regarding my employment status. I would like to tell you that unlike you and John I am and have been gainfully employed for quite some time now, again thank you for your concern.
I want to tell you personally that this blog is not personal at all. I know at times it may seem to be but you have to understand that you became involved when you agreed to partner with John and Karon. I know that in your limited capabilities you can not understand this, but trust me this blog gave people a sounding board to vent and tell others about their experiences with you and your amigos. It seems that your chickens are coming home to roost. You had your chance to respond to these postings; but instead you choose to think this was one big joke. It doesn’t matter how great you pretend to be, what matters is what people are saying about you; but I guess you are too stupid to realize that. Actually I think you just don’t care. Believe me when I tell you that this blog got people talking; unfortunately for you its was not positive for you, John and Karon.
I know you don’t remember talking to me when I was outside Karon’s office, talking to you on my cell phone; while I was waiting to meet with John, but I have the cell phone records to prove that not only that I called you; but you also returned my phone calls. I’m surprised you don’t remember talking to me, we had a somewhat lengthy conversation that night, and you don’t remember bad mouthing John and Karon.
It was from that conversation that the lies started to unravel and that this blog was born. The problem is that you like to run your mouth and really contradicted what John had told me in previous conversations. From what I have been told you both have big egos.
I want to assure you that the undo stress and anger that you are under will pass; relax and breathe. So that we are clear I will no longer post your nonsensical rants and raves. This Blog is not about me but that of what people have experienced in regards to their dealings with you, John and Karon.
I will leave you with 2 pieces of advice if you’re going to have a man pose for his headshot in athletic attire curling a dumbbell; you should have him curling something more than a 2lb weight, but I guess attention to detail is not your strong suite. If you want to be taken serious stop pretending to be a female model, or posing as another photographer or who ever else you pretended to be.
I believe that if you work on developing your craft a bit more; Target may just hire you but then again they do have ethics and standards.
How's that for stones
Marc
12/2/08
12/1/08
Anonymous has left a new comment
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "My opinion": Incredible! Since I know Marc personally I can say that he is not unemployed if you were referring to him. Also, it is kind of fun and interesting to see everyday just what you people write. So if Marc is enjoying this, so what!!!! All of you are the ones fueling the fire, not Marc. He felt like he was potentially being set up to get ripped off. So he checked into it and this is the blog came to be. Everyone on here should be thankful that he started this. Hopefully it saved some people from being ripped off in the future by that agency, John Wood or Ricahrd Berone. And if you all ready were scammed, he gave you the tools needed to seek a refund.So, in looking at the people that are writing in calling Marc names, getting so upset that their sentences make absolutely no sense and the spelling leads you to believe its a 6 year old, I would have to say that it must be, John, Karen or Richard. Who else would get so upset by this blog???????For the record, this is the correct spelling of stalker...moron!
11/19/08
Karon Shea gives a refund!
Karon does not want to deal with the state if you have a complaint with her and go to the state you have a chance of getting your money back. Karon does not want to run the risk of loosing her licenses...
This is my second post, just want to give an update.
I'm happy to say that we did get our money back in full for our comp cards. I put in a complaint with with employment agency (Commonwealth of Mass.) and we didn't even have to go to the hearing. Karon called and we settled over the phone.
This is my second post, just want to give an update.
I'm happy to say that we did get our money back in full for our comp cards. I put in a complaint with with employment agency (Commonwealth of Mass.) and we didn't even have to go to the hearing. Karon called and we settled over the phone.
This just in as or 4:33 pm Nov 19th
Beware Of John Wood he is working from the Cinderella Modeling Agency in New Hampshire!
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "John Wood has decided to create another way to mak...": Well well people guess what John is at Cinderella agency in NH now and still running the same lines..not sure if they are a scam or what but I'm not wasting my money on it...have fun and beware... Posted by Anonymous to Do you feel that you got scammed by Karon Shay Model Management and John Wood at November 19, 2008 4:33 PM
11/11/08
Does this Craig's list post look Legit?
I saw this posting today on Craigs List. I am interested in hearing from anybody that answered this add.
Reply to: job-890840679@craigslist.org [?]Date: 2008-10-23, 4:58PM EDT
This is a casting call for girls 18 to 21.Who would like the oppertunity to get experiance in the entertainment industry. Do you sing? I don't care. So do you dance? I could care less. are you Pretty,thin,maybe a Red Head,Now we are talking. Send one face pic and stats hight.weight.mesurments to the e-mail.
Location: Central Ma N.R.I.
Compensation: beyond belife
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.PostingID: 890840679
Reply to: job-890840679@craigslist.org [?]Date: 2008-10-23, 4:58PM EDT
This is a casting call for girls 18 to 21.Who would like the oppertunity to get experiance in the entertainment industry. Do you sing? I don't care. So do you dance? I could care less. are you Pretty,thin,maybe a Red Head,Now we are talking. Send one face pic and stats hight.weight.mesurments to the e-mail.
Location: Central Ma N.R.I.
Compensation: beyond belife
Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
Please, no phone calls about this job!
Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.PostingID: 890840679
If you want to contact John Wood or Karon Shea Directly
If you want to contact John Wood or Karon Shea directly about anything regarding your business with them you can try these numbers and email addresses.
John Wood’s cell number 617-710-7510 from Craig's List original posting
John Woods email norseman@excite.com
Karon Shea’s email karon@ksmmonline.com
John Wood’s cell number 617-710-7510 from Craig's List original posting
John Woods email norseman@excite.com
Karon Shea’s email karon@ksmmonline.com
11/10/08
This person has actually received work from Karon Shea Model Management
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "John Wood is still at it, at the Cinderella Modeli...":
I have only skimmed through a few of the blogs posted here, and (aside from the grimaces I bear each time I note a grammatical error [I'm an English teacher]) I do want to express that I have had some difficulty with KSMM as well.
I signed on on Dec 2007 and only received two jobs from the agency. The first was in January 2008, and I only just received payment LAST MONTH... and that was after numerous e-mails and phone calls. That's right: it took KSMM 8 months to pay me $90 from a bridal show.
The second job I worked was in May 2008, and I finally received payment LAST WEEK... I would like to note the improvement in punctuality; this job only took 6 months for payment to be issued.
Please note that the final payment was only received after I began filing a complaint with the BBB. Although Karon appears to be very professional, her agency lacks professionalism. Communication is horrendous, punctuality is non-existent, and the staff is sweet but not very capable. (Secretary Haley is very caring, but her e-mails are grammatically worse than my high school students)
As an educated woman who lived in London studying the industry, I would NOT recommend KSMM to any aspiring talent. I myself have collected my remaining comp cards (that I was sold into getting from Bertone- a poor choice on my behalf) and terminated my contract.
I have only skimmed through a few of the blogs posted here, and (aside from the grimaces I bear each time I note a grammatical error [I'm an English teacher]) I do want to express that I have had some difficulty with KSMM as well.
I signed on on Dec 2007 and only received two jobs from the agency. The first was in January 2008, and I only just received payment LAST MONTH... and that was after numerous e-mails and phone calls. That's right: it took KSMM 8 months to pay me $90 from a bridal show.
The second job I worked was in May 2008, and I finally received payment LAST WEEK... I would like to note the improvement in punctuality; this job only took 6 months for payment to be issued.
Please note that the final payment was only received after I began filing a complaint with the BBB. Although Karon appears to be very professional, her agency lacks professionalism. Communication is horrendous, punctuality is non-existent, and the staff is sweet but not very capable. (Secretary Haley is very caring, but her e-mails are grammatically worse than my high school students)
As an educated woman who lived in London studying the industry, I would NOT recommend KSMM to any aspiring talent. I myself have collected my remaining comp cards (that I was sold into getting from Bertone- a poor choice on my behalf) and terminated my contract.
As I said I will post every comment I get good or bad
The following 3 postings have come from the same person who sent me an email telling me that Karon Shea had a blog. Since Friday her blog was taken down. I was accused of setting up that blog; which is absolutely not true. Again this is a forum for people that have had experience or opinion with Karon Shea Model Management, Richard Bertone, and John Wood. They all took part or had a part with what I believe the scam involved.
Email 1 has been edited. I could not post the entire email because it had nothing to do whith this blog.In response to email 3 I will state again that I did seek legal advise to protect myself from a law suite and given the nature of this blog I felt it the responsible thing to do. I did this so that I knew what I could and could not post or say.
Again I will state if you have something constructive to say either good or bad I will post it, as long as it is constructive. I believe these posts came from either John Wood Or Richard Bertone. Email 1 favors Karon Shea, John Wood, and Richard Bertone.The other 2 just attack my character and integrity.
Email 1 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 11:42 AM
I was one of those people that went to KAREN SHEAS, talk to John Wood. NEVER was promised the world as you say. People hear what they want to here because they sorted out the services from KSSM, they answered an ad. everyone wants to get there 15 mins, it's not a free ride people. and never a given.
Yes he talk about if I worked at my craft I COULD DO WELL.. "COULD"
I'm an actor and I paid the money of my own free will. John told me about RICHARD and other photographers, I PICKED WHO I WANTED TO USE!!
Had a GREAT SHOOT, which took 4 plus hours. Got all that was paid for. And I did do my home work. I got prices, 5 others from agents to just photographers and they came in with in 100 bucks +/-.
Email 2 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 2:53 PM
Marc, See your a lier !!!!
And I know this wont get posted either.
I sent you a post that said I was very happy with the work and photos I got from KSSM. YOU DIDN'T post it?
Hide behind your lies of the blog.
Email 3 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 9:39 PM
you discussed it with a lawyer?? so you actually paid someone for their time to talk about putting up a blog? wow no life.
Email 1 has been edited. I could not post the entire email because it had nothing to do whith this blog.In response to email 3 I will state again that I did seek legal advise to protect myself from a law suite and given the nature of this blog I felt it the responsible thing to do. I did this so that I knew what I could and could not post or say.
Again I will state if you have something constructive to say either good or bad I will post it, as long as it is constructive. I believe these posts came from either John Wood Or Richard Bertone. Email 1 favors Karon Shea, John Wood, and Richard Bertone.The other 2 just attack my character and integrity.
Email 1 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 11:42 AM
I was one of those people that went to KAREN SHEAS, talk to John Wood. NEVER was promised the world as you say. People hear what they want to here because they sorted out the services from KSSM, they answered an ad. everyone wants to get there 15 mins, it's not a free ride people. and never a given.
Yes he talk about if I worked at my craft I COULD DO WELL.. "COULD"
I'm an actor and I paid the money of my own free will. John told me about RICHARD and other photographers, I PICKED WHO I WANTED TO USE!!
Had a GREAT SHOOT, which took 4 plus hours. Got all that was paid for. And I did do my home work. I got prices, 5 others from agents to just photographers and they came in with in 100 bucks +/-.
Email 2 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 2:53 PM
Marc, See your a lier !!!!
And I know this wont get posted either.
I sent you a post that said I was very happy with the work and photos I got from KSSM. YOU DIDN'T post it?
Hide behind your lies of the blog.
Email 3 Sun, Nov 9, 2008 at 9:39 PM
you discussed it with a lawyer?? so you actually paid someone for their time to talk about putting up a blog? wow no life.
11/9/08
My opinion
OK, let me set the record straight. I did not start a blog in Karon Shea's name. Whoever did. The ip address from the computer that created was recorded in a log file on Bolger’s server, which means it can be traced. If this would ever go to court I have kept all emails I have received and I can produce those as well.
I have been with in my rights legally in regards to this blog and Karon Richard and John don't like it. I would love for this to go to court so then they would be exposed in a public forum. They defiantly don't want that.
Don’t think for a moment that they did not try to do everything in their power to have this blog removed. Before I wrote this blog I discussed it with a lawyer and guess what I'm safe and the blog is still here.
John Wood and Karon Shea tried to scam me and a friend of mine. I decided not to take this lying down so I started this blog.This blog was started to tell people about my experience and the experience of other people that had used Karon Shea Model Management.
The postings you see on the blog are people's opinions and then people comment on those opinions. I have told people to use their best judgment after reading anything from this blog.
I don't need to pose as Karon Shea to get people to a blog, my Google page rankings bring more than enough people to this site.
I wish there was no need for this blog; sadly that is not the case. As long as I keep getting emails and comments I will continue to post. I make no money from this blog and again I wish there was no need for it. I'm doing it for consumer awareness. As the old saying goes buyer beware.
I do not hide behind this blog or blog title. Karon, John and Richard all know who I am as I have made myself perfectly clear several times.
I have asked several times for people to send me positive comments about their experiences with any of the three. I have not received any positive feed back stating otherwise. I have been more than fair in regards to what I post; I can’t post what I don’t get.
I have no regrets for posting this blog. In my opinion John Wood and Karon Shea tried to con me out of my money. I do not need to pose behind some blog named after Karon Shea to try and get comments. I have my own. I also would not proactively promote Karon Shea's business.
I received an email posted anonymously informing me of her blog on Friday. It went up on Friday then violated the terms of service on Saturday morning and I believe it was taken down last night.
Let me state again for the record. In my opinion John Wood is a liar and a con Artist that is my opinion of him. Karon Shea hired him and was warned by the owner of another modeling agency to beware. Karon ignored her, so in my opinion she is equally as guilty. Again these are my opinions you may have a different experience of them.
So give me a break on trying to frame me for trying to set up a blog in Karon's' name. I have no time for that. If you don't like the blog don't read it. Instead of attacking me say something positive about Karon or John.
So again if after reading this blog posting you feel confident that Karon Shea is the one who will get your career to the next level go ahead and use her. If you Think John Wood truly has your best interest at heart give him your money. If Richard is the photographer that you believe is going to be the best one out there to capture your image on film use him I don't care. It’s your money not mine. I gain nothing by you doing business with them.
How ever remember if you choose to use them remember you were warned. There is no urgency to signing with them, there are other agencies and photographers out there; maybe you should do your homework, again that is my opinion. It am not a model, I went to an open casting call at her agency for acting. I may not know the modeling business but I do know a scam when I see one, again that's my opinion.
11/7/08
Karon Has A Blog!
Karon Shea now has a blog and is interested in hearing what people think. Tell Karon directly. Please leave your comments here as well. Check out her site and tell her John Wood and Richard what you think, please be respectful. I guess Karon does not want to believe what has been posted on this blog. If I were her I would take to heart how people feel they were treated. The only reason this blog continues to grow as it does is because of all the opinions I have received.
http://karonshea.blogspot.com/
http://karonshea.blogspot.com/
11/5/08
About this blog!
The sole reason that this blog exists is to share with you the experiences of many people that have had contact with John Wood, Karon Shea, and Richard Bertone in regards to their business ethics. You are free to share with the blog your personal experience i.e. experience, professionalism, work ethic, etc. Please remember to formulate your own opinions after reading this.If these are people you feel that can help further your career by all means use them! I am asking for good and bad experiences. How have they helped your career? How much work are you getting from them? What did you like about them? Would you recommend them? I am interested in hearing it all and I will continue to post. I created this blog on the overwhelming response I received on Craig's List to A simple question; "Could you please share with me your experience in regards to Karon Shea Model Management, John Wood or Richard Bertone, I am thinking about signing with them." Remember this blog is all about opinions and the information contained within can not be confirmed or denied, it’s strictly about your opinion. Which, I might add is your truth? Thank you, and please be respectful of other opinions even if you disagree with them.
How to spot the scam
Many people wonder if they are getting scammed I hope this post helps you:
"The agent should not recommend one photographer, and you do not pay the agency, you deal directly with the photographer." -- Nina Blanchard, The Nina Blanchard Agency
"Beware of photo pushers. They are seemingly legitimate talent agencies who make money by receiving kickbacks from photographers. The agent's advice may sound helpful, but the photo 'deal' will cost an exorbitant amount of money." -- Erik Joseph, Author, The Glam Scam
"If a so-called talent agent sends you to a particular photographer for pictures, hold your wallet tight and run for the nearest exit! Chances are the 'agent' is a phony who makes money splitting the photographer's fee." -- Los Angeles Office of the Consumer Protection Agency of the Federal Trade Commission
Paying $1,000 for comp cards to an agency which is a promotional agency, not a modeling agency, is ridiculous. Promotional "modeling" pays $15/hour. Therefore The model may never make more from modeling than the cost of the comp cards. In fact, the model may never even make anything. The model would have to work for more than 65 hours at $15/hr just to break even and to pay off the $1,000 comp cards. There are modeling agencies where models do not have to pay for their photos until after they work. It comes out of their first paycheck. This is the only way to check and balance expensive modeling photos. It does not put the model at risk or in a financial hole.
http://www.modelingscams.org/modelingphotographyscams.html
1. A truly interested agent will never ask you for money.
2. A legitimate modeling agency will never ask you to pay up front for your own test shots or pay to build your own portfolio.
3. Another thing that models legitimately need but should never be expected to pay for is a comp card.
4. Becoming a model should not cost you any money up front, even for things that sound legit like professional modeling lessons.
5. Finally, but very importantly, no legitimate modeling agency or agent will ask you to take nude or suggestive photographs, no matter how “tasteful” the presentation.
http://teenadvice.about.com/od/adviceexpert/a/newmodel.htm
Modeling Conventions: Modeling conventions is a way to cheat aspiring models out of thousands of dollars. This is how most of these scams work; they will have an open modeling cast for aspiring models. Once you arrive, they will look at your photos and give you a weak line about how you have the potential to become a model. They may take a photo and ask to keep the picture for their own references. You then are sent back home and told that they will call you if interested. Once they do call, they will send you an invitation by mail or phone to attend a modeling convention. They claim that in this convention, you will get picked by modeling agents that are desperately searching for fresh new models. There is only one thing; they require a "small" one time fee of $5000! This should yell scam. These are only scammers out to profit from young aspiring models who never have the attention of signing you. Stay away from modeling conventions. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/649461/how_to_spot_and_avoid_modeling_scams.html?cat=7
Ihope this helps
"The agent should not recommend one photographer, and you do not pay the agency, you deal directly with the photographer." -- Nina Blanchard, The Nina Blanchard Agency
"Beware of photo pushers. They are seemingly legitimate talent agencies who make money by receiving kickbacks from photographers. The agent's advice may sound helpful, but the photo 'deal' will cost an exorbitant amount of money." -- Erik Joseph, Author, The Glam Scam
"If a so-called talent agent sends you to a particular photographer for pictures, hold your wallet tight and run for the nearest exit! Chances are the 'agent' is a phony who makes money splitting the photographer's fee." -- Los Angeles Office of the Consumer Protection Agency of the Federal Trade Commission
Paying $1,000 for comp cards to an agency which is a promotional agency, not a modeling agency, is ridiculous. Promotional "modeling" pays $15/hour. Therefore The model may never make more from modeling than the cost of the comp cards. In fact, the model may never even make anything. The model would have to work for more than 65 hours at $15/hr just to break even and to pay off the $1,000 comp cards. There are modeling agencies where models do not have to pay for their photos until after they work. It comes out of their first paycheck. This is the only way to check and balance expensive modeling photos. It does not put the model at risk or in a financial hole.
http://www.modelingscams.org/modelingphotographyscams.html
1. A truly interested agent will never ask you for money.
2. A legitimate modeling agency will never ask you to pay up front for your own test shots or pay to build your own portfolio.
3. Another thing that models legitimately need but should never be expected to pay for is a comp card.
4. Becoming a model should not cost you any money up front, even for things that sound legit like professional modeling lessons.
5. Finally, but very importantly, no legitimate modeling agency or agent will ask you to take nude or suggestive photographs, no matter how “tasteful” the presentation.
http://teenadvice.about.com/od/adviceexpert/a/newmodel.htm
Modeling Conventions: Modeling conventions is a way to cheat aspiring models out of thousands of dollars. This is how most of these scams work; they will have an open modeling cast for aspiring models. Once you arrive, they will look at your photos and give you a weak line about how you have the potential to become a model. They may take a photo and ask to keep the picture for their own references. You then are sent back home and told that they will call you if interested. Once they do call, they will send you an invitation by mail or phone to attend a modeling convention. They claim that in this convention, you will get picked by modeling agents that are desperately searching for fresh new models. There is only one thing; they require a "small" one time fee of $5000! This should yell scam. These are only scammers out to profit from young aspiring models who never have the attention of signing you. Stay away from modeling conventions. http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/649461/how_to_spot_and_avoid_modeling_scams.html?cat=7
Ihope this helps
11/4/08
John Wood is still at it, at the Cinderella Modeling Agency in New Hampshire
John Woods Scam is alive and well in New Hampshire. Cinderella Modeling agency is fully aware of who John Wood is and seems not to care. Ask yourself after reading this blog do you really want to support or give money to an agency that employs or even associate with John Wood!
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "For those of you that paid Karon Shea and John Woo...": Just got a call back from John today. I am glad to have found this blog.I went last week to a 'casting call' based on a Craig's list ad. It said, looking for people for an 'Irish mob film', an age range (that I fit, being age 20). I called the 978 number and said I was interested. I was told to come the next day at 7 PM to Cinderella Modelling in Manchester, NH (I live in Lowell, MA at the moment). So I went there. About 20 other hopefuls were there and we all had to give our information and wait in the room downstairs.I think this must be the routine. You walk in, meet John, give your information, and then go into a room to hear the spiel. John claims he lived in LA for 20 years, worked with agency which shut down recently because the owner 'went into menopause and thought all her employees would steal her money' (maybe he comes up with a slightly changed story every week). He stated that the previous day he had over 1000 people in a meeting for the same film. He claims that the film details have not come in and will not come in 'till tomorrow or maybe next week' (this must always be the case). Auditions may be as 'early as Saturday' and etc. I did not grow very weary during that session. He was a good actor, a good 'scam artist'. On questions, he stated that normally he cannot answer any questions during a session when there are 'hundreds or thousands of people' so 'you guys are lucky'. Then questions are asked. He has a pre-set answer for every one I am sure. I asked no questions, however one person did and asked 'how many people do you know from LA?'. He claimed he had 'over 3,000 contacts'. The session ended and he said that he would judge whether we could have a role in the film or any film the modelling agency gets information on based on how we 'carried ourselves' when we walked in, solely. 'First impressions make it or break it.'He had some old guy with him that night who was siding with him so as to further his claims. The old guy was agreeing with John that 'MA Comp cards are a joke in comparison to LA' and 'MA is so far behind when it comes to LA; there is no bulk rate on printing'. John made further claims that Boston and New England are becoming a hotspot for shooting feature films (perhaps that is true). He also made claims that acting schools around here are charging too much and are a joke. To seem more believable, he mentioned places like Boston Casting and other places.Finally, he said to wait a week for your call back. He even stated, 'if you do not get a call back, do not feel bad. We will keep you on file in case you fit any other things we come across'.I got a call back today (certainly it has not been a week, 5 days). John first asked: 'how much do you really want to do this?' I responded with enthusiasm and said 'very much'. He then said 'great' and asked me about my situation, to which I answered as 'I am a full-time student' and so forth. He then told me to 'think about a few things', and then said that he NEEDS a Comp card done (yes every agency needs a Comp card). However, he then told me about Richard Bertone. He told me to go to his MySpace. I did that but I questioned to myself why does not Bertone have a REAL web site (like a .com; ANY business can afford one)? He told me that Richard Bertone knows the agency (Cinderella) and knows what they are expecting, and then stated that the cost of the photos would normally be $1,000 but Richard is doing a deal right now for 'newcomers' at $795.After reading this blog, among other links from it, he is getting no call back from me and I am certainly not dropping $800 for Comp cards when they are not even the industry standard for acting. And I have read they are not worth the $800.Yes, I am an acting hopeful and I am taking classes at school as well (minor in Theatre, English major). I think I need more work and I will find that legitimate agent/agency one day who will get me the work (unpaid and paid) I would like to get. As for now, I audition for anything I can find, building a decent resume I hope.It is unfortunate Cinderella has fallen for such a trick.http://www.cinderellamodelsne.com/Contact them and let them know!I did to let them know about this scam. I will phone them tomorrow and ask for Suzette, the owner. Watch out for this! I am so glad I never dropped money. Craig's list is great for selling stuff locally. Never buy into claims of easy entry into an industry like the film industry. If you have it in you, you will either already have them looking for you or you just need to find a legitimate agency, and you MUST speak with its owner!Lastly, I was told by people who have friends in the SAG NEVER to trust Craig's list when it comes to ANYTHING regarding the industry. Real casters, directors, producers, etc NEVER post there.
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "For those of you that paid Karon Shea and John Woo...": Just got a call back from John today. I am glad to have found this blog.I went last week to a 'casting call' based on a Craig's list ad. It said, looking for people for an 'Irish mob film', an age range (that I fit, being age 20). I called the 978 number and said I was interested. I was told to come the next day at 7 PM to Cinderella Modelling in Manchester, NH (I live in Lowell, MA at the moment). So I went there. About 20 other hopefuls were there and we all had to give our information and wait in the room downstairs.I think this must be the routine. You walk in, meet John, give your information, and then go into a room to hear the spiel. John claims he lived in LA for 20 years, worked with agency which shut down recently because the owner 'went into menopause and thought all her employees would steal her money' (maybe he comes up with a slightly changed story every week). He stated that the previous day he had over 1000 people in a meeting for the same film. He claims that the film details have not come in and will not come in 'till tomorrow or maybe next week' (this must always be the case). Auditions may be as 'early as Saturday' and etc. I did not grow very weary during that session. He was a good actor, a good 'scam artist'. On questions, he stated that normally he cannot answer any questions during a session when there are 'hundreds or thousands of people' so 'you guys are lucky'. Then questions are asked. He has a pre-set answer for every one I am sure. I asked no questions, however one person did and asked 'how many people do you know from LA?'. He claimed he had 'over 3,000 contacts'. The session ended and he said that he would judge whether we could have a role in the film or any film the modelling agency gets information on based on how we 'carried ourselves' when we walked in, solely. 'First impressions make it or break it.'He had some old guy with him that night who was siding with him so as to further his claims. The old guy was agreeing with John that 'MA Comp cards are a joke in comparison to LA' and 'MA is so far behind when it comes to LA; there is no bulk rate on printing'. John made further claims that Boston and New England are becoming a hotspot for shooting feature films (perhaps that is true). He also made claims that acting schools around here are charging too much and are a joke. To seem more believable, he mentioned places like Boston Casting and other places.Finally, he said to wait a week for your call back. He even stated, 'if you do not get a call back, do not feel bad. We will keep you on file in case you fit any other things we come across'.I got a call back today (certainly it has not been a week, 5 days). John first asked: 'how much do you really want to do this?' I responded with enthusiasm and said 'very much'. He then said 'great' and asked me about my situation, to which I answered as 'I am a full-time student' and so forth. He then told me to 'think about a few things', and then said that he NEEDS a Comp card done (yes every agency needs a Comp card). However, he then told me about Richard Bertone. He told me to go to his MySpace. I did that but I questioned to myself why does not Bertone have a REAL web site (like a .com; ANY business can afford one)? He told me that Richard Bertone knows the agency (Cinderella) and knows what they are expecting, and then stated that the cost of the photos would normally be $1,000 but Richard is doing a deal right now for 'newcomers' at $795.After reading this blog, among other links from it, he is getting no call back from me and I am certainly not dropping $800 for Comp cards when they are not even the industry standard for acting. And I have read they are not worth the $800.Yes, I am an acting hopeful and I am taking classes at school as well (minor in Theatre, English major). I think I need more work and I will find that legitimate agent/agency one day who will get me the work (unpaid and paid) I would like to get. As for now, I audition for anything I can find, building a decent resume I hope.It is unfortunate Cinderella has fallen for such a trick.http://www.cinderellamodelsne.com/Contact them and let them know!I did to let them know about this scam. I will phone them tomorrow and ask for Suzette, the owner. Watch out for this! I am so glad I never dropped money. Craig's list is great for selling stuff locally. Never buy into claims of easy entry into an industry like the film industry. If you have it in you, you will either already have them looking for you or you just need to find a legitimate agency, and you MUST speak with its owner!Lastly, I was told by people who have friends in the SAG NEVER to trust Craig's list when it comes to ANYTHING regarding the industry. Real casters, directors, producers, etc NEVER post there.
10/31/08
For those of you that paid Karon Shea and John Wood $800 read this
Here is another fine example of somone's experience with Karon Shea Model Management .
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "John Wood is active in New Hampshire": All of a sudden Karon is working with Richard Bertone again. Wonder if John is waiting in the wings to mark up the new price that they are offering. Just got an email that they are doing a photoshoot package for $225.Makes you really see just how marked up they were before. $700 dollars for the printing of the cards, I think not. That's outrageous! I guess this blog did just prove the point that John scammed us all out of our money. They all benefited from it and John worked for Karon. Shame on her.I have talked to the state and I was informed that it was illegal what they did. My receipt does not reflect any upcharge for consultation fees. I can go to Boston and dispute this to get my money back. Or I have consulted with a lawyer and we get enough people together we can start a class action suit.I have recently spoken with two other women, one was successful in getting back her money from Karon and the other was not. Why is that? They both had the same complaint as did I.I have tried to copy and paste the new flier that Karon has stating Richards new photo package but I can not get it to copy on here. Too bad because if you clicked on the image of the flier it pulled up a whole bunch of pictures of Karon's promo models at bars, drunk and dancing on tables. Very, very classy!This is not the type of place I thought that it was judging by these pictures so I am glad that since reading this blog I have pulled my daughter out of there. Does Karon teach in LaFemina Modeling School this type of behavior to her students? Seems like the schooling could be another scam and big waste of money! Unless of course you want to be on girls gone wild!My next thought is if Richard Bertone is as great s John plugged him to be, wouldn't he be too busy to do these small photo shoots for chump change? I mean isn't he in demand for Vogue and the Miss Massachusetts Pageant. Isn't he in NY and LA? So how can he do these photo shoots for Karon Shea's Flim-Flam Scam?
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "John Wood is active in New Hampshire": All of a sudden Karon is working with Richard Bertone again. Wonder if John is waiting in the wings to mark up the new price that they are offering. Just got an email that they are doing a photoshoot package for $225.Makes you really see just how marked up they were before. $700 dollars for the printing of the cards, I think not. That's outrageous! I guess this blog did just prove the point that John scammed us all out of our money. They all benefited from it and John worked for Karon. Shame on her.I have talked to the state and I was informed that it was illegal what they did. My receipt does not reflect any upcharge for consultation fees. I can go to Boston and dispute this to get my money back. Or I have consulted with a lawyer and we get enough people together we can start a class action suit.I have recently spoken with two other women, one was successful in getting back her money from Karon and the other was not. Why is that? They both had the same complaint as did I.I have tried to copy and paste the new flier that Karon has stating Richards new photo package but I can not get it to copy on here. Too bad because if you clicked on the image of the flier it pulled up a whole bunch of pictures of Karon's promo models at bars, drunk and dancing on tables. Very, very classy!This is not the type of place I thought that it was judging by these pictures so I am glad that since reading this blog I have pulled my daughter out of there. Does Karon teach in LaFemina Modeling School this type of behavior to her students? Seems like the schooling could be another scam and big waste of money! Unless of course you want to be on girls gone wild!My next thought is if Richard Bertone is as great s John plugged him to be, wouldn't he be too busy to do these small photo shoots for chump change? I mean isn't he in demand for Vogue and the Miss Massachusetts Pageant. Isn't he in NY and LA? So how can he do these photo shoots for Karon Shea's Flim-Flam Scam?
10/10/08
John Wood is active in New Hampshire
Does this add look familiar. This is the work of John Wood. John has worked at Karon Shea model management in Worcester Ma, and Image Makers in Boston. Please read this blog if you are thinking about working with John Wood and giving him any money.
Reply to: mailto:job-874159695@craigslist.org?subject=ACTORS%20and%20MODELS%20%28New%20England%29 [?]
Date: 2008-10-10, 2:50PM EDT
Reply to: mailto:job-874159695@craigslist.org?subject=ACTORS%20and%20MODELS%20%28New%20England%29 [?]
Date: 2008-10-10, 2:50PM EDT
Auditions are being held for upcoming acting and modeling jobs.
All ages and sizes up to 60yrs.
Rates range from 50 dollars per hour to thousands per day.
Must include phone number and age to be contacted for auditions.
All ages and sizes up to 60yrs.
Rates range from 50 dollars per hour to thousands per day.
Must include phone number and age to be contacted for auditions.
- Location: New England
- Compensation: See Above
- Principals only. Recruiters, please don't contact this job poster.
- Please, no phone calls about this job!
- Please do not contact job poster about other services, products or commercial interests.
9/30/08
John Wood needs to make your living and needs your money to do it
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "A Shey D Deal": This is so great that the agency and John Wood are being busted for their scam. John did not "just arrive from LA" - he has been here for a number of years. In addition, beware other non-descript CL postings. For example, I responded to an add that said The Four Seasons Hotel was looking for models for approx. $3500 per shooting day. I thought, great...I'll respond and see what happens. Who should call me today, but John Wood, looking to set up a "private casting" with me tonight. Uh NOPE! Be careful, it looks like John is not spreading out and trying a whole new host of scams. I assume that his new scam is having you come down for a casting call, then telling you he can't submit you for the job unless you get comp cards. Here is a heads up for everyone....the acting industry does NOT use comp cards as the standard! Modeling, yes....Acting, NO! Headshots are still the industry standard for film and television, no matter what John tells you. Ask anyone legit in the industry and they will confirm that.
John Wood Needs to make a living, and needs your money to do it
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "A Shey D Deal": This is so great that the agency and John Wood are being busted for their scam. John did not "just arrive from LA" - he has been here for a number of years. In addition, beware other non-descript CL postings. For example, I responded to an add that said The Four Seasons Hotel was looking for models for approx. $3500 per shooting day. I thought, great...I'll respond and see what happens. Who should call me today, but John Wood, looking to set up a "private casting" with me tonight. Uh NOPE! Be careful, it looks like John is not spreading out and trying a whole new host of scams. I assume that his new scam is having you come down for a casting call, then telling you he can't submit you for the job unless you get comp cards. Here is a heads up for everyone....the acting industry does NOT use comp cards as the standard! Modeling, yes....Acting, NO! Headshots are still the industry standard for film and television, no matter what John tells you. Ask anyone legit in the industry and they will confirm that.
9/23/08
John Woods Cinderella Modeling Agency Story
John Wood and Richard Bertone have left Massachusetts and are now working with the unsuspecting people of New Hampshire with The Cinderella Modeling Agency located in Manchester New Hampshire.
I answered an ad from CL in Manchester Nh.
It was the Cinderella modeling agency and the guy who called me back was John Wood. Same story, he is just in from LA. after 20 years there and the Boston scene is gonna be huge, I have the look and then it was down to photos.
He just called and I was reading these blogs.
I may call back, but why bother if it's really just a legal way to sell hopes.
Is it the same guy?
Same deal?
It was the same photographer Richard, so I guess so.
Please chime in.
I answered an ad from CL in Manchester Nh.
It was the Cinderella modeling agency and the guy who called me back was John Wood. Same story, he is just in from LA. after 20 years there and the Boston scene is gonna be huge, I have the look and then it was down to photos.
He just called and I was reading these blogs.
I may call back, but why bother if it's really just a legal way to sell hopes.
Is it the same guy?
Same deal?
It was the same photographer Richard, so I guess so.
Please chime in.
9/19/08
Well it looks like there still at it and I thought Karon learned her lesson
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "I answered another add on Craigs List for Acting a...":
Reading this website made me feel somewhat like a fool because I experienced the exact same thing you have written with Karon, John and Richard. Here's my $0.02.
Karon - never met her. Don't think I ever talked to her. Traded some voice mails and a few e-mails, but that's it.
John - IMO, sleazy. Didn't trust him. Gave his "personal" cell number because people are less likely to "flake out" if they have that contact. Never trusted him. Same story… check the BBB, call around. We did check the BBB – there was nothing really, and checking around resulted in not much.
Richard - seemed like a nice enough guy. Shoot was OK, pictures were OK. Artistically they were nice. Technically, nothing to be amazed with. It sure didn't seem worth $800.
What gets me about this whole thing was the story was the same for everyone... gotta have you as a client... special deal on photos - only $795... never hear from them again. Then the hard sale on the $25/month website came… “you won’t get jobs if you don’t have our website…”
Our shoot took place right away and we were told it would be 6-8 weeks before the comp cards were in. That put us around the holidays. We waited until mid-January and called only to be told (by Karon’s front desk person) that Karon would call back. Karon never called. We called one to two times a week for three weeks. Each time, “Karon would call back.” Then the front desk person (Haley?) said the cards were lost and they’d get back to us.
After two months of this, the next call was simple: “Money back by the end of the week or we go to the AG and the BBB.” That got a call back! We were told the cards had to be reprinted since the wrong name was used on them. We said we didn’t care… it had been six months and we never heard from them so other plans were made. They didn’t deliver in a timely manner, and we want a 100% refund.
Karon initially refused to refund anything, so I filed a report with the BBB and the AG. After a couple of phone calls from each, Karon agreed to pay the whole amount (she initially offered her portion – Richard had to get paid). We said pay all or we take her to small claims court. We paid her $795, so $795 was due back.
She caved and said we would have our money in two weeks. In the meantime, the BBB and the AG called and asked if the matter was finalized. I said no because I didn’t have the check yet. I said if they call back in two weeks and I have the check, I would agree. Since I didn’t trust them to deliver anything I wouldn’t sign off until satisfied.
A week later the check arrived and it cleared!
I should have realized when the contract was a copy of a copy of a copy, missing portions, that this was a bogus setup. Also, when I tried to get information on anyone and there wasn’t much out there it should have been a red flag. We went into it knowing we could lose $800, but fortunately, we did get our money back.
Reading this website made me feel somewhat like a fool because I experienced the exact same thing you have written with Karon, John and Richard. Here's my $0.02.
Karon - never met her. Don't think I ever talked to her. Traded some voice mails and a few e-mails, but that's it.
John - IMO, sleazy. Didn't trust him. Gave his "personal" cell number because people are less likely to "flake out" if they have that contact. Never trusted him. Same story… check the BBB, call around. We did check the BBB – there was nothing really, and checking around resulted in not much.
Richard - seemed like a nice enough guy. Shoot was OK, pictures were OK. Artistically they were nice. Technically, nothing to be amazed with. It sure didn't seem worth $800.
What gets me about this whole thing was the story was the same for everyone... gotta have you as a client... special deal on photos - only $795... never hear from them again. Then the hard sale on the $25/month website came… “you won’t get jobs if you don’t have our website…”
Our shoot took place right away and we were told it would be 6-8 weeks before the comp cards were in. That put us around the holidays. We waited until mid-January and called only to be told (by Karon’s front desk person) that Karon would call back. Karon never called. We called one to two times a week for three weeks. Each time, “Karon would call back.” Then the front desk person (Haley?) said the cards were lost and they’d get back to us.
After two months of this, the next call was simple: “Money back by the end of the week or we go to the AG and the BBB.” That got a call back! We were told the cards had to be reprinted since the wrong name was used on them. We said we didn’t care… it had been six months and we never heard from them so other plans were made. They didn’t deliver in a timely manner, and we want a 100% refund.
Karon initially refused to refund anything, so I filed a report with the BBB and the AG. After a couple of phone calls from each, Karon agreed to pay the whole amount (she initially offered her portion – Richard had to get paid). We said pay all or we take her to small claims court. We paid her $795, so $795 was due back.
She caved and said we would have our money in two weeks. In the meantime, the BBB and the AG called and asked if the matter was finalized. I said no because I didn’t have the check yet. I said if they call back in two weeks and I have the check, I would agree. Since I didn’t trust them to deliver anything I wouldn’t sign off until satisfied.
A week later the check arrived and it cleared!
I should have realized when the contract was a copy of a copy of a copy, missing portions, that this was a bogus setup. Also, when I tried to get information on anyone and there wasn’t much out there it should have been a red flag. We went into it knowing we could lose $800, but fortunately, we did get our money back.
7/14/08
I answered another add on Craigs List for Acting and Modeling
Someone who reads this blog suggested that I check out another agency located in Auburn Mass called Mass Models. So I did and here is what I found out.
I answered an add on Craig's list looking for New Talent. The name of the company is Mass Models. I read the add and called to get an appointment. We set up an appointment to meet on Saturday afternoon. I was expecting another room full of people. To my surprise when I arrived I was the only one there, I thought it was odd. (Remember my most recent experience was with Karon Shea Model Management big cattle call hosted by John Wood) Ken the owner met me and I asked him where everybody was at and did I miss the audition. Ken said no this is how we do things here by appointment only, one on one. Well that was the first big difference I noticed; the actually want to get to know me. We talked for a little more about what I wanted and what I was looking for. Ken told me how they might be able to use me and what the process is for getting work.
Then it came time to talk about pictures, Ken asked me if I had my comp cards I said no. He told me that I would need them done in order to get work. I asked him if I had to use their photographer and he said absolutely not, I can use any photographer I want. I said speaking of photographers I asked him if he had known or could give me any information about Richard Bertone. All Ken would say is that he knew of Richard but kept it at that. Ken did not pressure me at all into signing with them he told me about their fee structure and how they get paid. I did ask Ken that if I choose to use his photographer how much would it cost, he said around 500 dollars. Which sounded very fair to me. He told me to think about it and then get back to him. He also gave me some great pointers and questions to ask when choosing a photographer and gave me pointers on what kind of cards to get.
I then met his wife Tara we spoke briefly, and what I liked about bot of them is that both ken and Tara were honest with me. They said that I could do charicture work but the runway was out of the picture. I said thats ok cause I wanted to do more background work anyway. The meeting lasted about 30 minutes. They have only been in business for about 2 years however it is apparent that they actually get their clients work by the pictures on their walls. When I was leaving I asked if they had any information about Karon Shea Model Management and all they said was that Karon Shea was an agent in Worcester.
For the record I booked my appointment under an alias just in case they saw my blog. The differences from Karon Shea - Mass Models was incredible from their offices to their professionalism to their website. I would defiantly do business with Mass Models in the future. I didn't leave there feeling like I needed a shower to wash off all the bullshit that I did when I left KSMM and John Wood.
http://www.massmodels.net/
I answered an add on Craig's list looking for New Talent. The name of the company is Mass Models. I read the add and called to get an appointment. We set up an appointment to meet on Saturday afternoon. I was expecting another room full of people. To my surprise when I arrived I was the only one there, I thought it was odd. (Remember my most recent experience was with Karon Shea Model Management big cattle call hosted by John Wood) Ken the owner met me and I asked him where everybody was at and did I miss the audition. Ken said no this is how we do things here by appointment only, one on one. Well that was the first big difference I noticed; the actually want to get to know me. We talked for a little more about what I wanted and what I was looking for. Ken told me how they might be able to use me and what the process is for getting work.
Then it came time to talk about pictures, Ken asked me if I had my comp cards I said no. He told me that I would need them done in order to get work. I asked him if I had to use their photographer and he said absolutely not, I can use any photographer I want. I said speaking of photographers I asked him if he had known or could give me any information about Richard Bertone. All Ken would say is that he knew of Richard but kept it at that. Ken did not pressure me at all into signing with them he told me about their fee structure and how they get paid. I did ask Ken that if I choose to use his photographer how much would it cost, he said around 500 dollars. Which sounded very fair to me. He told me to think about it and then get back to him. He also gave me some great pointers and questions to ask when choosing a photographer and gave me pointers on what kind of cards to get.
I then met his wife Tara we spoke briefly, and what I liked about bot of them is that both ken and Tara were honest with me. They said that I could do charicture work but the runway was out of the picture. I said thats ok cause I wanted to do more background work anyway. The meeting lasted about 30 minutes. They have only been in business for about 2 years however it is apparent that they actually get their clients work by the pictures on their walls. When I was leaving I asked if they had any information about Karon Shea Model Management and all they said was that Karon Shea was an agent in Worcester.
For the record I booked my appointment under an alias just in case they saw my blog. The differences from Karon Shea - Mass Models was incredible from their offices to their professionalism to their website. I would defiantly do business with Mass Models in the future. I didn't leave there feeling like I needed a shower to wash off all the bullshit that I did when I left KSMM and John Wood.
http://www.massmodels.net/
7/13/08
PLEASE DONT BELIEVE ME!
I DON'T WANT PEOPLE TO READ THIS BLOG AND TAKE WHAT IS WRITTEN AS GOSPEL. SO HERE IS THE DEAL.
IF YOU COME ACROSS JOHN WOOD ASK FOR REFERENCES, ASK FOR SOME OF THE PEOPLE HE HAS WORKED FOR. HE CLAIMS TO HAVE 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ASK HIM TO SEE HIS RESUME, IM SURE WITH 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE THEY HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING SOMEONE BECOME FAMOUS. THEN IF YOU FEEL COMPELLED DO BUSINESS WITH THEM DO IT.
DO THE SAME FOR RICHARD BERTON AND KARON SHEA. ASK QUESTIONS AND JUST DON'T TAKE THEIR WORD AS GOSPEL EITHER. BEFORE DOING BUISNESS TALK TO AT LEAST 2 OTHER AGIENCIES AND 2 OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS. DONT BY THE HYPE THAT YOU HAVE TO SIGN RIGHT AWAY TAKE TIME AND DO YOUR REASEARCH BEFORE SPENDING ANY HARD EARNED MONEY.
IF YOU ARE A PARENT OF TEENAGE GIRLS, MAKE IT A POINT OF GOING WITH YOUR DAUGHTERS TO THE PHOTO SHOOT TO MAKE SURE THE SHOOT REMAINS IN GOOD TASTE AND DOES NOT GET SLEEZY.
DONT PAY WITH CHECK OR CASH USE PLASTIC, DONT BUY THEIR BULLSHIT THAT THEIR MERCHANT ACCOUNT IS NOT SET UP FOR THOSE TYPES OF TRANSACTIONS. THIS WAY IF YOU DO NOT GET WHAT YOU ARE PROMISED YOU CAN START CHARGEBACK PROCEDINGS WITH YOUR CREDIT CARD COMPANY AND YOUR PURCHASE IS 100 PROTECTED AND YOU HAVE RECOURSE. THE REASON JOHN WOULDNT TAKE A CREDIT CARD IS BECAUSE HE KNOWS THIS AND THIS IS THE ONLY WAY JOHN WOOD HAS SUSTAINED A LIVING JOHN IS A SLICK SALES PERSON.
THE BEAUTIFULL THING ABOUT A CHARGE BACK IS THAT THE MERCHANT HAS 30 DAYS TO RESPOND AND PROVE HIS DEFENCE OR YOU GET YOUR MONEY BACK AND THE BURDEN OF PROFF IS ON THE MERCHANT NOT YOU.
AGAIN PLEASE TAKE WHAT YOU READ ON THIS BLOG AS JUST 1 PART OF YOUR RESEARCH THIS IS NOT THE BE ALL AND END ALL. I HAD A BAD EXPERIENCE AS MANY DID WITH THESE 3 PUT PLEASE USE YOUR OWN JUDGEMENT.
IF YOU COME ACROSS JOHN WOOD ASK FOR REFERENCES, ASK FOR SOME OF THE PEOPLE HE HAS WORKED FOR. HE CLAIMS TO HAVE 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE ASK HIM TO SEE HIS RESUME, IM SURE WITH 20 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE THEY HAVE BEEN INSTRUMENTAL IN HELPING SOMEONE BECOME FAMOUS. THEN IF YOU FEEL COMPELLED DO BUSINESS WITH THEM DO IT.
DO THE SAME FOR RICHARD BERTON AND KARON SHEA. ASK QUESTIONS AND JUST DON'T TAKE THEIR WORD AS GOSPEL EITHER. BEFORE DOING BUISNESS TALK TO AT LEAST 2 OTHER AGIENCIES AND 2 OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS. DONT BY THE HYPE THAT YOU HAVE TO SIGN RIGHT AWAY TAKE TIME AND DO YOUR REASEARCH BEFORE SPENDING ANY HARD EARNED MONEY.
IF YOU ARE A PARENT OF TEENAGE GIRLS, MAKE IT A POINT OF GOING WITH YOUR DAUGHTERS TO THE PHOTO SHOOT TO MAKE SURE THE SHOOT REMAINS IN GOOD TASTE AND DOES NOT GET SLEEZY.
DONT PAY WITH CHECK OR CASH USE PLASTIC, DONT BUY THEIR BULLSHIT THAT THEIR MERCHANT ACCOUNT IS NOT SET UP FOR THOSE TYPES OF TRANSACTIONS. THIS WAY IF YOU DO NOT GET WHAT YOU ARE PROMISED YOU CAN START CHARGEBACK PROCEDINGS WITH YOUR CREDIT CARD COMPANY AND YOUR PURCHASE IS 100 PROTECTED AND YOU HAVE RECOURSE. THE REASON JOHN WOULDNT TAKE A CREDIT CARD IS BECAUSE HE KNOWS THIS AND THIS IS THE ONLY WAY JOHN WOOD HAS SUSTAINED A LIVING JOHN IS A SLICK SALES PERSON.
THE BEAUTIFULL THING ABOUT A CHARGE BACK IS THAT THE MERCHANT HAS 30 DAYS TO RESPOND AND PROVE HIS DEFENCE OR YOU GET YOUR MONEY BACK AND THE BURDEN OF PROFF IS ON THE MERCHANT NOT YOU.
AGAIN PLEASE TAKE WHAT YOU READ ON THIS BLOG AS JUST 1 PART OF YOUR RESEARCH THIS IS NOT THE BE ALL AND END ALL. I HAD A BAD EXPERIENCE AS MANY DID WITH THESE 3 PUT PLEASE USE YOUR OWN JUDGEMENT.
My opinion and your opinion, who is right who is wrong.
I have an opinion, you may not agree with it and that's ok, i am the foremost authority on my opinion. You the reader have an opinion I may not agree with it but you are the foremost authority on your opinion. I have posted the good and bad posts.
MANY, MANY, PEOPLE HAVE ADDED TO THIS BLOG. SO WHAT YOU ARE READING IS A CULMINATION OF THOUGHTS AND IDEAS ABOUT KARON SHEA, JOHN WOOD AND RICHARD BERTONE, THEY HAVE BEEN INVITED TO DEFEND THEMSELVES AND THE STATEMENTS POSTED HERE ANED THEY HAVE.
YOU MAY THINK THEY ARE THE BEST THING TO HAPPEN TO THE MODELING AND ACTING WORLD SINCE HOLLYWOOD AND THATS FINE. I DONT. JOHN WOOD TRIED TO SCAM ME AND TAKE MY MONEY'. THAT IS A FACT! RICHARD AND KARON WERE PART OF THAT CIRCLE AS WELL AND THERFORE ARE JUST AS GUILTY. JOHN SAID CHECK US OUT SO I DID AND I USED THE POWER OF THE INTERNET AND CRAIGS LIST TO HELP ME.
PEOPLE RESPONDED TO MY POSTING AND THE STORIES I HEARD WERE THE SAME. SO TO ALL YOU WHO TELL ME TO GET A LIFE AND THAT I AM ON A WITCH HUNT I SAY FUCK YOU!
THIS SITE IS FULL OF PEOPLES OPINIONS ABOUT THEIR PERSONAL EXPERIENCES WITH THESE INDIVIDULES. TO BE FAIR I POST EVERYTHING THAT IS RELEVANT BOTH GOOD AND BAD OPINIONS. I HAVE POSTED COMMENTS IN WHICH PEOPLE VERBALLY ATTACK ME. FYI I HAVE THICK SKIN.
IF NONE OF THESE POINTS THAT HAVE BEEN POSTED WERE JUST LIES, I WOULD HAVE HAD A LAWYER THAT REPRESENTED KARON, JOHN OR RICHARD CONTACT ME. I HAVE NOT HIDDEN MY IDENTY IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM. THE FACT IS THEY DONT HAVE A FUCKING LEG TO STAND ON. IF YOUR GOING TO ACCUSE ME OF POSTING THINGS THAT ARE SLANDEROUS OR LIABLE, READ A FUCKING LAW DICTONARY AND GET BACK TO ME. I HAVE SAID NOTHING OF THE SUCH.
I HAVE POSTED MY OPINIONS, AND I HAVE POSTED EVERYBODY ELSES OPINIONS AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO. I FIND IT FUNNY THAT PEOPLE THAT CRITISIZE ME LIKE TO POST ANOMOUSLY, THEY TELL ME TO GET MY FACTS STRAIGHT BUT I AM SUPPOSED TO BELIEVE EVERYTHING THAT COME FROM THEM AS TRUTH. I SAY FUCK THAT. I HAVE TO ASSUME THAT EVERYTHING PEOPLE ARE SAYING IS TRUE FOR THEM, IT IS THEIR PERCEPTION OF AN EVENT, GOOD AND BAD! ITS NOT RIGHT OR WRONG. IN A COURT OF LAW THE TRUTH IS AN ABSOLUTE DEFENCE. I BELIEVE THAT EVERYTHING I HAVE POSTED TO BE TRUE REGARDLESS IF I SHARE THE SAME OPINION.
MANY, MANY, PEOPLE HAVE ADDED TO THIS BLOG. SO WHAT YOU ARE READING IS A CULMINATION OF THOUGHTS AND IDEAS ABOUT KARON SHEA, JOHN WOOD AND RICHARD BERTONE, THEY HAVE BEEN INVITED TO DEFEND THEMSELVES AND THE STATEMENTS POSTED HERE ANED THEY HAVE.
YOU MAY THINK THEY ARE THE BEST THING TO HAPPEN TO THE MODELING AND ACTING WORLD SINCE HOLLYWOOD AND THATS FINE. I DONT. JOHN WOOD TRIED TO SCAM ME AND TAKE MY MONEY'. THAT IS A FACT! RICHARD AND KARON WERE PART OF THAT CIRCLE AS WELL AND THERFORE ARE JUST AS GUILTY. JOHN SAID CHECK US OUT SO I DID AND I USED THE POWER OF THE INTERNET AND CRAIGS LIST TO HELP ME.
PEOPLE RESPONDED TO MY POSTING AND THE STORIES I HEARD WERE THE SAME. SO TO ALL YOU WHO TELL ME TO GET A LIFE AND THAT I AM ON A WITCH HUNT I SAY FUCK YOU!
THIS SITE IS FULL OF PEOPLES OPINIONS ABOUT THEIR PERSONAL EXPERIENCES WITH THESE INDIVIDULES. TO BE FAIR I POST EVERYTHING THAT IS RELEVANT BOTH GOOD AND BAD OPINIONS. I HAVE POSTED COMMENTS IN WHICH PEOPLE VERBALLY ATTACK ME. FYI I HAVE THICK SKIN.
IF NONE OF THESE POINTS THAT HAVE BEEN POSTED WERE JUST LIES, I WOULD HAVE HAD A LAWYER THAT REPRESENTED KARON, JOHN OR RICHARD CONTACT ME. I HAVE NOT HIDDEN MY IDENTY IN ANY WAY SHAPE OR FORM. THE FACT IS THEY DONT HAVE A FUCKING LEG TO STAND ON. IF YOUR GOING TO ACCUSE ME OF POSTING THINGS THAT ARE SLANDEROUS OR LIABLE, READ A FUCKING LAW DICTONARY AND GET BACK TO ME. I HAVE SAID NOTHING OF THE SUCH.
I HAVE POSTED MY OPINIONS, AND I HAVE POSTED EVERYBODY ELSES OPINIONS AND WILL CONTINUE TO DO SO. I FIND IT FUNNY THAT PEOPLE THAT CRITISIZE ME LIKE TO POST ANOMOUSLY, THEY TELL ME TO GET MY FACTS STRAIGHT BUT I AM SUPPOSED TO BELIEVE EVERYTHING THAT COME FROM THEM AS TRUTH. I SAY FUCK THAT. I HAVE TO ASSUME THAT EVERYTHING PEOPLE ARE SAYING IS TRUE FOR THEM, IT IS THEIR PERCEPTION OF AN EVENT, GOOD AND BAD! ITS NOT RIGHT OR WRONG. IN A COURT OF LAW THE TRUTH IS AN ABSOLUTE DEFENCE. I BELIEVE THAT EVERYTHING I HAVE POSTED TO BE TRUE REGARDLESS IF I SHARE THE SAME OPINION.
7/9/08
Links to Richard Bertons pictures.
If you want to see some examples of the comp cards you will receive, using Richard Bertone you can click on the links below.
http://richardbertonephoto.exposuremanager.com/g/models_two
http://richardbertonephoto.exposuremanager.com/g/models
http://richardbertonephoto.exposuremanager.com/g/models_two
http://richardbertonephoto.exposuremanager.com/g/models
7/2/08
Is It an Opinion, Fact, or Lie
Since some people do not know the difference between an opinion, fact or a lie let me give them here.
FACT- Generally, a fact is defined as something that is the case, something that actually exists, or something that can be verified according to an established standard of evaluation. There is a range of other uses, depending on the contex. A statement that is objectively true and can be verified
OPINION - An opinion is a person's ideas and thoughts towards something. It is an assessment, judgment or evaluation of something. An opinion is not a fact, because opinions are either not falsifiable, or the opinion has not been proven or verified. ...
LIE - An intentionally false statement; a falsehood; A statement intended to deceive, even if literally true; a half-truth; To be in a horizontal position; To be placed or situated
NOW WITH THAT BEING SAID, THIS BLOG IS DEDICATED TO OPINIONS AND EXPERIENCES ONLY. JUST BECAUSE YOU MAY NOT AGREE WITH WHAT IS POSTED DOES NOT MEAN IT IS NOT TRUE OR DID NOT HAPPEN. IT SEEMS THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE OPINIONS ON THIS SUBJECT. YOU MUST DETERMINE FOR YOURSELF WHAT YOU WANT TO BELIEVE OR NOT.
I DON'T AGREE WITH ALL THE POSTINGS, PUT ALL GET POSTED REGARDLESS OF THEIR NATURE. LETS COMMON SENSE PREVAIL. NOBODY ATTACTKED RICHARDS WIFE. SOMEONE MADE A STATEMENT SAYING THAT HE WAS MARRIED, SOMEONE ELSE COUNTERED THAT STATEMENT. THE PERSON THAT SAID "WELL RICHARD COULDN'T DO THAT HE IS MARIED" I SAY SO WHAT BILL CLINTON IS MARRIED AND LOOK AT WHAT HE HAS DONE.
THE POINT IM TRYING TO MAKE IS SOME PEOPLE THINK RICHARD BERTONE, KARON SHEA AND JOHN WOOD ARE THE GREATEST THINGS TO HIT THE ENTERTAINMENT AND MODELING SCENE, OTHERS THINK THEY ARE CON-ARTISTS. SOME PEOPLE PRAISE ME FOR THIS BLOG OTHERS SAY IM A GOSSIP MONGER THAT NEEDS TO GET A LIFE. THE GREATEST THING IS THAT NO MATTER WHAT YOUR OPINION IS, YOU ARE ENTITLED TO IT. AFTERALL YOU ARE THE FOREMOST AUTHORITY ON YOUR OPINION.
FYI I HAVE SPOKEN TO RICHARD BERTONE IN THE PAST AND HE DID NOTHING BUT BAD MOUTH JOHN WOOD AND KARON SHEA, WHEN I ASKED HIM THEN WHY DOES HE WORK WITH THEM HE SAID ITS BUSINESS. IT AMAZES ME WHAT ONE LITTLE POSTING ON CL'S CAN DO. I DID NOT EXPECT AS MANY PEOPLE TO VIEW AND RESPOND TO THE SITE, IF YOU DONT THINK THIS BLOG IS WELL READ AND WELL TRAVELED JUST LOOK AT MY GOOGLE RANKING!
IF AND WHEN YOU RUN INTO JOHN WOOD ASK HIM ABOUT HIS RESUME, DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH ON HIM, FIND OUT WHATY AGENCIES HE WORKED FOR DO YOU DUE DILLIGENCE BEFORE YOU GIVE HIM ANY MONEY. DO THE SAME FOR KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT AND RICHARD BERTONE. IF YOU WANT TO USE THEM PLEASE DO AND LET US KNOW YOUR EXPERIENCE, GOOD,BAD OR INDIFFERENT.
FACT- Generally, a fact is defined as something that is the case, something that actually exists, or something that can be verified according to an established standard of evaluation. There is a range of other uses, depending on the contex. A statement that is objectively true and can be verified
OPINION - An opinion is a person's ideas and thoughts towards something. It is an assessment, judgment or evaluation of something. An opinion is not a fact, because opinions are either not falsifiable, or the opinion has not been proven or verified. ...
LIE - An intentionally false statement; a falsehood; A statement intended to deceive, even if literally true; a half-truth; To be in a horizontal position; To be placed or situated
NOW WITH THAT BEING SAID, THIS BLOG IS DEDICATED TO OPINIONS AND EXPERIENCES ONLY. JUST BECAUSE YOU MAY NOT AGREE WITH WHAT IS POSTED DOES NOT MEAN IT IS NOT TRUE OR DID NOT HAPPEN. IT SEEMS THAT MANY PEOPLE HAVE OPINIONS ON THIS SUBJECT. YOU MUST DETERMINE FOR YOURSELF WHAT YOU WANT TO BELIEVE OR NOT.
I DON'T AGREE WITH ALL THE POSTINGS, PUT ALL GET POSTED REGARDLESS OF THEIR NATURE. LETS COMMON SENSE PREVAIL. NOBODY ATTACTKED RICHARDS WIFE. SOMEONE MADE A STATEMENT SAYING THAT HE WAS MARRIED, SOMEONE ELSE COUNTERED THAT STATEMENT. THE PERSON THAT SAID "WELL RICHARD COULDN'T DO THAT HE IS MARIED" I SAY SO WHAT BILL CLINTON IS MARRIED AND LOOK AT WHAT HE HAS DONE.
THE POINT IM TRYING TO MAKE IS SOME PEOPLE THINK RICHARD BERTONE, KARON SHEA AND JOHN WOOD ARE THE GREATEST THINGS TO HIT THE ENTERTAINMENT AND MODELING SCENE, OTHERS THINK THEY ARE CON-ARTISTS. SOME PEOPLE PRAISE ME FOR THIS BLOG OTHERS SAY IM A GOSSIP MONGER THAT NEEDS TO GET A LIFE. THE GREATEST THING IS THAT NO MATTER WHAT YOUR OPINION IS, YOU ARE ENTITLED TO IT. AFTERALL YOU ARE THE FOREMOST AUTHORITY ON YOUR OPINION.
FYI I HAVE SPOKEN TO RICHARD BERTONE IN THE PAST AND HE DID NOTHING BUT BAD MOUTH JOHN WOOD AND KARON SHEA, WHEN I ASKED HIM THEN WHY DOES HE WORK WITH THEM HE SAID ITS BUSINESS. IT AMAZES ME WHAT ONE LITTLE POSTING ON CL'S CAN DO. I DID NOT EXPECT AS MANY PEOPLE TO VIEW AND RESPOND TO THE SITE, IF YOU DONT THINK THIS BLOG IS WELL READ AND WELL TRAVELED JUST LOOK AT MY GOOGLE RANKING!
IF AND WHEN YOU RUN INTO JOHN WOOD ASK HIM ABOUT HIS RESUME, DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH ON HIM, FIND OUT WHATY AGENCIES HE WORKED FOR DO YOU DUE DILLIGENCE BEFORE YOU GIVE HIM ANY MONEY. DO THE SAME FOR KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT AND RICHARD BERTONE. IF YOU WANT TO USE THEM PLEASE DO AND LET US KNOW YOUR EXPERIENCE, GOOD,BAD OR INDIFFERENT.
7/1/08
A POST IN DEFENCE OF RICHARD BERTONE AND JOHN WOOD
OK NOW I THINK YOU HAVE GONE OVER THE LINE WITH YOUR OPINION or YOU SAY Someones else's which is with out merit!!
SARA here again, I can not be leave your crap. I shot with him and we did a ton of different looks and yes some that I wanted to do with a few less clothes. Always the pro. I never felt like Richard was anything but a PRO!! I also know many other women that have shoot with Richard and never had a bad word to say. I don't know about this women,but my opinion she crazy.. Richard is married to an model that most us would love to look like. There is no need for him to look at anyone in any other way than as PRO. Even before he was married My girl friend shoot with him VERY PLAYBOY STYLE.( She wanted too.) And told me he was great.
Really you NEED TO GET A LIFE. If your on your horse trying to save all of us from them, way don't you go and see Richard, not just some fake call you said you did. Go see him, talk, see his work. I for one, don't find your crap helpful, just really don't think you know shit. Again as I said in other post, GET A LIFE!!!!I will have my friend comment on this one. PLEASE I don't know why she said that, my guess she wanted to do some nude stuff and he said no....
SARA
SARA here again, I can not be leave your crap. I shot with him and we did a ton of different looks and yes some that I wanted to do with a few less clothes. Always the pro. I never felt like Richard was anything but a PRO!! I also know many other women that have shoot with Richard and never had a bad word to say. I don't know about this women,but my opinion she crazy.. Richard is married to an model that most us would love to look like. There is no need for him to look at anyone in any other way than as PRO. Even before he was married My girl friend shoot with him VERY PLAYBOY STYLE.( She wanted too.) And told me he was great.
Really you NEED TO GET A LIFE. If your on your horse trying to save all of us from them, way don't you go and see Richard, not just some fake call you said you did. Go see him, talk, see his work. I for one, don't find your crap helpful, just really don't think you know shit. Again as I said in other post, GET A LIFE!!!!I will have my friend comment on this one. PLEASE I don't know why she said that, my guess she wanted to do some nude stuff and he said no....
SARA
6/30/08
A Females experience with! John Wood, Richard Bertone, and Karon Shea
I don't believe in any of those three scam artists: Karon Shea, John and Richard Bertone;
the only place where I have seen them as being truly acclaimed is in claiming other peoples hard earned savings.
...oh...and just as an added remark~~~If mr. Bertone is really hired and used by that agency for all of his PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE. If he is the only one we are pushed to use because supposedly he is oh sooo Knowledgable of what kinds of shots Karon Shea wants to represent and show off her company and high status....
Then why on earth was he pushing for nude shots behind white curtains???......yeah I don't know too much about profesionalism but that sure as heck does not seem like a shot that ANY composite card would have on it. Maybe some cute lingerei or something...MAY~BE>>>
I just know I was not there to try to get into the next penthouse edition either...so my conclusion is Richard is a pervert on top of everything else wrong with their little scam.
the only place where I have seen them as being truly acclaimed is in claiming other peoples hard earned savings.
...oh...and just as an added remark~~~If mr. Bertone is really hired and used by that agency for all of his PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE. If he is the only one we are pushed to use because supposedly he is oh sooo Knowledgable of what kinds of shots Karon Shea wants to represent and show off her company and high status....
Then why on earth was he pushing for nude shots behind white curtains???......yeah I don't know too much about profesionalism but that sure as heck does not seem like a shot that ANY composite card would have on it. Maybe some cute lingerei or something...MAY~BE>>>
I just know I was not there to try to get into the next penthouse edition either...so my conclusion is Richard is a pervert on top of everything else wrong with their little scam.
6/24/08
Attention Actors and Models be on the look out for John Wood
Dont Be Fooled By John Wood and his Bullshit
Actors/Models (Boston)
Reply to: job-716153679@craigslist.org
Date: 2008-06-11, 1:36PM EDT
Be prepared for the upcoming jobs coming to the Boston area.
Before you can hope to get the call backs that you seek, you must have a promotional package that makes you stand out from the crowd, and meets industry standards. Your promotional package is what the talent agency submits to the casting director for auditions, and is the only representation by which a casting agent will determine if you are worth seeing. 99% of promotional packages are not up to industry standards, and will be rejected. This may be the reason that you are not getting call backs.
Many try to enter the industry by creating their own package without understanding the very high professional standards that must be met. Others rely on their talent agencies to produce the promotional package. Although most agencies offer these services, this is not the primary focus of most, leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price.
Our sole business is to create a personal promotional package that will differentiate you from the crowd. Each of our team members has over twenty years in the industry that we will apply to help you meet your personal goals. We know what the industry looks for, and we make sure that your package satisfies their expectations. You are assured that your personal promotional package provides the highest quality representation, regardless of the agencies that submit your package.
We are NOT a talent/modeling agency. We are NOT a school. Packaging is the key to your success… NOT your agency.
There are no consulting fees.
Email or call 978-457-1231 for dates and times.
THIS IS ANOTHER ATTEMPT BY JOHN WOOD TO SELL YOU A SERVICE THAT YOU DON'T NEED. ASK JOHN TO PROVIDE YOU HIS RESUME OF HIS INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE AND A LIST OF HIS SATISFIED CLIENTS. TRUST ME HE JUST WANTS YOUR MONEY !!!
6/11/08
John Wood has worked at several agencies in Mass
If you meet John Wood at an open call he will tell you he has only been in Mass for 6 months to get a jump start on the talent for the studios that are coming here from Hollywood. However we just found out that he worked at 2 other studios prior to Karon Shea Model Management.
Ford- I guess they closed
Image Makers in Boston
John likes to brag about he's 20 years of experience. Why don't you ask John Wood for references. I would like to see that resume.
Ford- I guess they closed
Image Makers in Boston
John likes to brag about he's 20 years of experience. Why don't you ask John Wood for references. I would like to see that resume.
6/6/08
Posting from a Talent Agency
I received this posting from a person from a talent agency I found it very interesting, on her comments in regards to John Wood. John claims to have 20 years of experience. I'd like to see his resume and talk to some of the people he has worked for.
I have been following this blog and find it very interesting sincce I am a talent manager. I prefer to stay anonymous for business reasons.
After reading this newest blog entry that John Wood has placed on Craigs List, I feel that I need to respond. This whole blog has been created about the fact that John was scamming people while working at Karon Sheas. Now she has apparently fired him and he is still going to continue his scam. Do people not see a connection here to just what Mr. Reece has been trying to warn the public about? Obviously John Wood and Richard Bertone are looking to cash in on the unsuspecting.
In reading his ad I have to say that it sounds really good and pretty convincing but completely untrue. If you were only going to have headhsots taken I would say yes, go ahead. But they are marketing composite cards. Noone should make their own comp cards before speaking with a talent agent first that plans on representing them. Your talent agent decides where and how you are marketable in the industry and that is what your card needs to reflect. How would John Wood know what your talent agent has in mind for you? I can say that I have seen some cards produced by these two and they are average at best. You do not want average, you want great.
John Wood wrote, "leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price." Isn't this what he was doing at Karon Sheas. Look at all the complaints from unsatisfied models/actors on the blog.
John wood also wrote, "Our sole business is to create a personal promotional package that will differentiate you from the crowd." I have seen many of their cards and they all look the same. Same boring gray background. JOhn has been fired from 2 agencies maybe people should take notice of that and realize that there is a reoccuring theme...John likes to take peoples money. He is branching out with Richard Bertone because no agency wants to touch either one of them. Their names mean little in this industry.
Any reputable agency, whether big or small, will help and guide you with your pictures to create a card that makes you desirable and marketable in the areas that you are strongest in this industry.
Good luck!
I have been following this blog and find it very interesting sincce I am a talent manager. I prefer to stay anonymous for business reasons.
After reading this newest blog entry that John Wood has placed on Craigs List, I feel that I need to respond. This whole blog has been created about the fact that John was scamming people while working at Karon Sheas. Now she has apparently fired him and he is still going to continue his scam. Do people not see a connection here to just what Mr. Reece has been trying to warn the public about? Obviously John Wood and Richard Bertone are looking to cash in on the unsuspecting.
In reading his ad I have to say that it sounds really good and pretty convincing but completely untrue. If you were only going to have headhsots taken I would say yes, go ahead. But they are marketing composite cards. Noone should make their own comp cards before speaking with a talent agent first that plans on representing them. Your talent agent decides where and how you are marketable in the industry and that is what your card needs to reflect. How would John Wood know what your talent agent has in mind for you? I can say that I have seen some cards produced by these two and they are average at best. You do not want average, you want great.
John Wood wrote, "leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price." Isn't this what he was doing at Karon Sheas. Look at all the complaints from unsatisfied models/actors on the blog.
John wood also wrote, "Our sole business is to create a personal promotional package that will differentiate you from the crowd." I have seen many of their cards and they all look the same. Same boring gray background. JOhn has been fired from 2 agencies maybe people should take notice of that and realize that there is a reoccuring theme...John likes to take peoples money. He is branching out with Richard Bertone because no agency wants to touch either one of them. Their names mean little in this industry.
Any reputable agency, whether big or small, will help and guide you with your pictures to create a card that makes you desirable and marketable in the areas that you are strongest in this industry.
Good luck!
6/4/08
John Wood's New add on Craigs List
John wood has posted this new add on Craig's List. This is defiantly him We believe that he is working in conjunction with Richard Bertone. This was the same add he posted a few weeks ago. Understand that he will try to sell you a discounted picture package using a certain photographer and I might add is the only way his new service can work. A talent managers job is to make sure everything is in order and that you are packaged correctly to present you to clients. So ask yourself why do you need anything that John Wood has to offer. He states the following in his add
"leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price." John knows all to well about this since this is how he made his living for the last 20 years. If you don't believe me read the responses that others have left. I don't believe that John is associated with Karon Shea Model Management any longer according to her last posting.
Reply to: job-707612753@craigslist.org
Date: 2008-06-04, 3:27PM EDT
We are trying to prepare all talent for the upcoming jobs to the Boston area.
Before you can hope to get the call backs that you seek, you must have a promotional package that makes you stand out from the crowd, and meets industry standards. Your promotional package is what the talent agency submits to the casting director for auditions, and is the only representation by which a casting agent will determine if you are worth seeing. 99% of promotional packages are not up to industry standards, and will be rejected. This may be the reason that you are not getting call backs.
Many try to enter the industry by creating their own package without understanding the very high professional standards that must be met. Others rely on their talent agencies to produce the promotional package. Although most agencies offer these services, this is not the primary focus of most, leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price.
Our sole business is to create a personal promotional package that will differentiate you from the crowd. Each of our team members has over twenty years in the industry that we will apply to help you meet your personal goals. We know what the industry looks for, and we make sure that your package satisfies their expectations. You are assured that your personal promotional package provides the highest quality representation, regardless of the agencies that submit your package.
We are NOT a talent/modeling agency. We are NOT a school. Packaging is the key to your success… NOT your agency.
There are no consulting fees.
Email or call 978-457-1231 appointment dates and times.
"leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price." John knows all to well about this since this is how he made his living for the last 20 years. If you don't believe me read the responses that others have left. I don't believe that John is associated with Karon Shea Model Management any longer according to her last posting.
ACTORS/MODELS (Boston)
Reply to: job-707612753@craigslist.org
Date: 2008-06-04, 3:27PM EDT
We are trying to prepare all talent for the upcoming jobs to the Boston area.
Before you can hope to get the call backs that you seek, you must have a promotional package that makes you stand out from the crowd, and meets industry standards. Your promotional package is what the talent agency submits to the casting director for auditions, and is the only representation by which a casting agent will determine if you are worth seeing. 99% of promotional packages are not up to industry standards, and will be rejected. This may be the reason that you are not getting call backs.
Many try to enter the industry by creating their own package without understanding the very high professional standards that must be met. Others rely on their talent agencies to produce the promotional package. Although most agencies offer these services, this is not the primary focus of most, leaving you with a less than satisfactory representation, often at a very high price.
Our sole business is to create a personal promotional package that will differentiate you from the crowd. Each of our team members has over twenty years in the industry that we will apply to help you meet your personal goals. We know what the industry looks for, and we make sure that your package satisfies their expectations. You are assured that your personal promotional package provides the highest quality representation, regardless of the agencies that submit your package.
We are NOT a talent/modeling agency. We are NOT a school. Packaging is the key to your success… NOT your agency.
There are no consulting fees.
Email or call 978-457-1231 appointment dates and times.
5/31/08
My Dear John Wood Letter
Dear John
Feel free to do what ever you feel you need to. I am fully prepared should it go that route, but I don't think it will go that route for a couple of reasons. I would bet that you and Karon probably talked to a lawyer. I also believe that he or she told you don't have a case. You see John if you did have a case against me your lawyer would have already been in contact with me. Now I could be wrong, but I don't think I am. Be that as it may the cards will fall where they will. You stated that you wanted to know when people are dissatisfied with your services well read the comments that people have posted about what you have done, its all here in black and white.
Marc
Feel free to do what ever you feel you need to. I am fully prepared should it go that route, but I don't think it will go that route for a couple of reasons. I would bet that you and Karon probably talked to a lawyer. I also believe that he or she told you don't have a case. You see John if you did have a case against me your lawyer would have already been in contact with me. Now I could be wrong, but I don't think I am. Be that as it may the cards will fall where they will. You stated that you wanted to know when people are dissatisfied with your services well read the comments that people have posted about what you have done, its all here in black and white.
Marc
5/30/08
Karon Shea and John Wood Cut Ties
I just received this posting from Karon Shea and I think it is important to read. Following this posting you can read my comments that I replied
Karon Shea has left a new comment on your post "I received this email fron John Wood Tonight":
From Karon Shea:
1) John Wood is no longer affiliated with Karon Shea Model Management. He does not work with or for my company. He also does not represent my company.
2) Our address may have changed on a few occasions in our 20+ year history, but the name of our business has stayed the same. The agency "Karon Shea Model Management" was created as the firm represents women and men. LaFemmina (the school) means "the woman" and would obviously not be appropriate to carry that name to an agency that represents women and men.
3) If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding their business with my company they are invited to call me at the following: Karon Shea 508-755-0662
My response to Karon
Karon Shea has left a new comment on your post "I received this email fron John Wood Tonight":
From Karon Shea:
1) John Wood is no longer affiliated with Karon Shea Model Management. He does not work with or for my company. He also does not represent my company.
2) Our address may have changed on a few occasions in our 20+ year history, but the name of our business has stayed the same. The agency "Karon Shea Model Management" was created as the firm represents women and men. LaFemmina (the school) means "the woman" and would obviously not be appropriate to carry that name to an agency that represents women and men.
3) If anyone has any questions or concerns regarding their business with my company they are invited to call me at the following: Karon Shea 508-755-0662
My response to Karon
Thank you Karon for your comment, I am glad that he no longer works for your agency. If you fired him you did the right thing. The best thing you could have done is to cut ties with him.This is the best news that I have heard and I know people are going to be very happy. Just so you know when he offered me a contract and had asked me to give him a check made out to him. It seems that if you read the blog the majority of posting were about John Wood. Unfortunately for you he was affiliated with your company.
John Wood, In my opinion and others scammed a lot of people. I also believe that he would throw you under the Bus in a moments notice. Prior to my second interview with John, I called Richard Bertone and he did nothing but Bad mouth you and John. I think that you do a lot of great work outside your organization for good causes and that is very honorable. I had to post that email that John sent me because I knew you would see it. Thank you for posting again and I hope now your company can prosper by doing the right thing.
If there is anything else that you would like people to know please keep posting. It is truly amazing what the power of the internet can do.
You see this proves my point John claims he works with Karon Shea, Karon says he doesn't! SOMEONE IS LYING AND I BELIEVE IT IS JOHN WOOD but why would you expect anything different from a man that has made an unbelievable income profiting off of the dreams of people just wanting to make it
5/29/08
I received this email fron John Wood Tonight
I just received this email from John Wood tonight, apparently he states that he is still with Karon Shea Model Management. Be that as it may I thought it made for interesting reading. In my promise to post every posting. I am a man of my word.
Read this very carefully Marc Reece. Karon is not taking legal action against me, WE are taking it against you.
I have ignored your badgering, your slanderous remarks, and your outright lies as long as I can. I have no idea what your objective is. Nor can I fathom anyone who has the negative motivation and the shallow mentality to devote so much time and energy to the sole purpose of destroying other people’s professional reputation and business. I can only assume that you are a frustrated want-to-be actor who chooses to blame others for your inability to land roles rather than accepting your own limitations.
Karon Shea, Richard Bertone, and I work together at KSMM in the most ethical and professional manner possible to deliver highest quality services and help aspiring talent achieve their objectives. We go out of our way to make it clear that we can offer no guarantees of success, and we require a written acknowledgement from anyone who uses our services that they have been so informed. If anyone is dissatisifed with our service, we want to know about it.
We provide packaging services within the agency for a competitive fee, but make it very clear that we are only one of many options that the client can use to obtain his or her headshots, composites and all the materials needed for a talent agency to present to a casting agent. We do not apologize for the fact that we believe that our packaging service and its associated value are inferior to none, superior to the vast majority, and an exceptional value to our clients.
Although you have attempted to make something clandestine out of the fact that, in addition to working with KSMM, Richard and I are providing packaging services outside the realm of the KSMM talent agency, there is nothing devious about it. We simply want to help aspiring talent present themselves in the most professional manner possible, and at a cost that is a tremendous value, regardless of the talent agency that they choose.
After spending more than twenty years in this business, I do take pride in the fact that I know what I am talking about, and present it in an effective, honest, and convincing manner. You may call it “slick”. Those in the know refer to it as knowledgeable professionalism.
People who run blog sites have a responsibility to monitor the content. Failure to do so makes them susceptible to slander suits. One of your most resent blogs stated that Karon Shea is suing me. This is could not be further from the truth! You have crossed the line. The three of us are meeting together to determine the appropriate legal action if your harassment does not stop immediately.
Read this very carefully Marc Reece. Karon is not taking legal action against me, WE are taking it against you.
I have ignored your badgering, your slanderous remarks, and your outright lies as long as I can. I have no idea what your objective is. Nor can I fathom anyone who has the negative motivation and the shallow mentality to devote so much time and energy to the sole purpose of destroying other people’s professional reputation and business. I can only assume that you are a frustrated want-to-be actor who chooses to blame others for your inability to land roles rather than accepting your own limitations.
Karon Shea, Richard Bertone, and I work together at KSMM in the most ethical and professional manner possible to deliver highest quality services and help aspiring talent achieve their objectives. We go out of our way to make it clear that we can offer no guarantees of success, and we require a written acknowledgement from anyone who uses our services that they have been so informed. If anyone is dissatisifed with our service, we want to know about it.
We provide packaging services within the agency for a competitive fee, but make it very clear that we are only one of many options that the client can use to obtain his or her headshots, composites and all the materials needed for a talent agency to present to a casting agent. We do not apologize for the fact that we believe that our packaging service and its associated value are inferior to none, superior to the vast majority, and an exceptional value to our clients.
Although you have attempted to make something clandestine out of the fact that, in addition to working with KSMM, Richard and I are providing packaging services outside the realm of the KSMM talent agency, there is nothing devious about it. We simply want to help aspiring talent present themselves in the most professional manner possible, and at a cost that is a tremendous value, regardless of the talent agency that they choose.
After spending more than twenty years in this business, I do take pride in the fact that I know what I am talking about, and present it in an effective, honest, and convincing manner. You may call it “slick”. Those in the know refer to it as knowledgeable professionalism.
People who run blog sites have a responsibility to monitor the content. Failure to do so makes them susceptible to slander suits. One of your most resent blogs stated that Karon Shea is suing me. This is could not be further from the truth! You have crossed the line. The three of us are meeting together to determine the appropriate legal action if your harassment does not stop immediately.
I find it truly amazing that so many people are great full to me for posting this blog, I have to wonder how much money was truly generated on Head shots from people wanting to live the dream. I am amazed at how many people have read these postings from all over the country. At least with this blog out there when people do internet research on the web they will see these postings and opinions and hopefully form there own. On a side note I am amused at my rankings on Google, depending on what you type in the search field.
I think it is great what you are doing. Until I had read your first posts some time back, I had that terrible feeling like I was scammed though had no proof. I've brought people to justice in the past for crossing me and I'll tell you this is exciting. I will help in any way I can - let me know.
I was looking for John's number to bid him a proper fair-well if he were to fall into laws grip. An anonymous Good riddance I say - I'll do what I can to help purify the system.
I think it is great what you are doing. Until I had read your first posts some time back, I had that terrible feeling like I was scammed though had no proof. I've brought people to justice in the past for crossing me and I'll tell you this is exciting. I will help in any way I can - let me know.
I was looking for John's number to bid him a proper fair-well if he were to fall into laws grip. An anonymous Good riddance I say - I'll do what I can to help purify the system.
5/28/08
Another opinion about Karon Shea Model Management
I received this email today, if anybody else is willing to come forward we might be able to get Karon Shea to refund money to people that paid her organization money and fees through a civil action, this is your way to have your voice heard. I know that she views this blog on a regular basis.
Of course you can post that message. I will tell whoever I can to be aware of the blog. Keep on posting - I only wish this was around only 3 months ago Is she trying to accuse you of defamation?
Let me know if I can be of any assistance to your defense or to any action against her. I have been taken for $795 under false pretenses. The very fact that Jon Wood has been with her company for 3 years is fraud enough - his pitch relied heavily on the "fact" that he just moved here to get an edge on LA. What most salesmen call "creating urgency."
Jon also left the option open to get Comp Cards made elsewhere, but with the caveat that if they are not "to the agency standard" - he'll reject them and make you do it again. There is little doubt in my mind that he was prepared to "reject" your Comp Cards until you shelled out for the Bertone "deal."
I was also explicitly told that there is no kick-back from the fee. I clarified that a couple times with him. I'd love to see what they keep on the books.
The man is a soul-less scam artist. After all my questions and clarifications to alleviate my skepticism, I looked him in the eye and asked "will i be able, at the very least, recover this Comp Card investment in work?" He said without flinching "there is no doubt in my mind."
Of course you can post that message. I will tell whoever I can to be aware of the blog. Keep on posting - I only wish this was around only 3 months ago Is she trying to accuse you of defamation?
Let me know if I can be of any assistance to your defense or to any action against her. I have been taken for $795 under false pretenses. The very fact that Jon Wood has been with her company for 3 years is fraud enough - his pitch relied heavily on the "fact" that he just moved here to get an edge on LA. What most salesmen call "creating urgency."
Jon also left the option open to get Comp Cards made elsewhere, but with the caveat that if they are not "to the agency standard" - he'll reject them and make you do it again. There is little doubt in my mind that he was prepared to "reject" your Comp Cards until you shelled out for the Bertone "deal."
I was also explicitly told that there is no kick-back from the fee. I clarified that a couple times with him. I'd love to see what they keep on the books.
The man is a soul-less scam artist. After all my questions and clarifications to alleviate my skepticism, I looked him in the eye and asked "will i be able, at the very least, recover this Comp Card investment in work?" He said without flinching "there is no doubt in my mind."
5/27/08
A person comes forward seeking a civial action against Karon Shea Model Management
I received this email today and wanted everybody to see it, hopefully Karon Shea will do the right thing and refund this persons money
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "I am not a talent agent or a modeling agent like K...":
I am in the process of getting my affairs in order with a law firm here in Boston. Why? Well, unfortunately, I am one of those who paid the 800 bucks because I had the "look." As soon as I did so, I realized that I was being scammed and called and asked for my money back. I got nothing in return. I called again and talked to no one but the receptionist. I finally received a call from Jon and after giving me some bull about what the contract said, he told me to call that Monday and I would get my money back. What did I get when I called on Monday? An answering machine and since then, I have not received a call since.
Since my last call, I have sent an email alert to the contact person, Hayley, stating that I was pursuing the matter with a law firm my sister works with. Again, nothing.
I find it funny that I came across this site today, as I am about to call Karen Shea today to give them the law firm's fax number. I am very much looking forward to hearing if they respond after that.
I don't want to drag this out any longer than it has to, I just want my money back. I never set up an appointment with their "photographer," I never received any services from them. Yet, they cashed my check right away. If they want to make this difficult, then so be it, let's go to court. I have a feeling people with similar stories to mine will be happy to join in.
Anonymous has left a new comment on your post "I am not a talent agent or a modeling agent like K...":
I am in the process of getting my affairs in order with a law firm here in Boston. Why? Well, unfortunately, I am one of those who paid the 800 bucks because I had the "look." As soon as I did so, I realized that I was being scammed and called and asked for my money back. I got nothing in return. I called again and talked to no one but the receptionist. I finally received a call from Jon and after giving me some bull about what the contract said, he told me to call that Monday and I would get my money back. What did I get when I called on Monday? An answering machine and since then, I have not received a call since.
Since my last call, I have sent an email alert to the contact person, Hayley, stating that I was pursuing the matter with a law firm my sister works with. Again, nothing.
I find it funny that I came across this site today, as I am about to call Karen Shea today to give them the law firm's fax number. I am very much looking forward to hearing if they respond after that.
I don't want to drag this out any longer than it has to, I just want my money back. I never set up an appointment with their "photographer," I never received any services from them. Yet, they cashed my check right away. If they want to make this difficult, then so be it, let's go to court. I have a feeling people with similar stories to mine will be happy to join in.
5/23/08
My sourses of information
I just want people to know that all this information contained in this blog come from postings I have received, research that was done on the internet or personal experience. I have also posted several links to information that I have posted on this blog. I am not taking credit for writing any articles that I have posted unless I have written or posted them myself. This all started when I posted a request for information on Craig's List asking for information regarding Karon Shea Model Management, John Wood or Richard Bertone.
FYI I was informed that Karon Shea did work with the Easter Seals which is a great organization and a great cause!
Please note that this is not a personal attack on Karon Shea, John Wood, or Richard Bertone, but the way that business seems to be conducted, and it was mostly about John Wood WHO WORKED FOR KARON!
I WOULD REALY LIKE TO POST MORE POSITIVE COMMENTS ABOUT KARON, JOHN OR RICHARD SO IF YOU HAVE THEM PLEASE SEND THEM. All POSTINGS WILL BE PUBLISHED AND NOT EDITED FOR CONTENT.
I WANT THIS TO BE AN UNBIASED BLOG BASED STRICTLY ON FACTS OR OPINIONS PRESENTED.
I will go one step Further and Invite Karon or another member of her staff to talk about the postings. That goes for Richard or John Wood as well and will post them so people can get fair and balanced information!
In fact if I do get any positive postings I will not personally comment on them. I will only post other peoples responses to those postings.
Thank you. PLEASE REMEMBER THE STATEMENTS MADE FORTH ARE OPINIONS AND BELIEVED TO BE TRUE, BY THE AUTHOR.
FYI I was informed that Karon Shea did work with the Easter Seals which is a great organization and a great cause!
Please note that this is not a personal attack on Karon Shea, John Wood, or Richard Bertone, but the way that business seems to be conducted, and it was mostly about John Wood WHO WORKED FOR KARON!
I WOULD REALY LIKE TO POST MORE POSITIVE COMMENTS ABOUT KARON, JOHN OR RICHARD SO IF YOU HAVE THEM PLEASE SEND THEM. All POSTINGS WILL BE PUBLISHED AND NOT EDITED FOR CONTENT.
I WANT THIS TO BE AN UNBIASED BLOG BASED STRICTLY ON FACTS OR OPINIONS PRESENTED.
I will go one step Further and Invite Karon or another member of her staff to talk about the postings. That goes for Richard or John Wood as well and will post them so people can get fair and balanced information!
In fact if I do get any positive postings I will not personally comment on them. I will only post other peoples responses to those postings.
Thank you. PLEASE REMEMBER THE STATEMENTS MADE FORTH ARE OPINIONS AND BELIEVED TO BE TRUE, BY THE AUTHOR.
5/22/08
RICHARD BERTONE PHOTOGRAPHY'S BBB REPORT
KARON SHEA POSTED ABOUT RICHARD BERTONE AND TOLD US TO CHECK HIM OUT.THIS A LINK TO THE BBB. THE BBB RATES HIS BUSINESS AS UNSATISFACTORY. CLICK TO SEE ACTUAL REPORT http://reports.bosbbb.org/Boston/Public/Reports/BrandedReport.aspx?firm=99994
DOES JOHN WOOD WORK FOR KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMET OR NOT THAT IS THE QUESTION
I RECEIVED THIS POSTING FOR IN RESPONSE TO A DIFFERENT POSTING BUT I WANTED TO MAKE SURE IT WAS SEEN.
I answered the CL ad for "promotional material" . What they wanted me to do was have a photoshoot with Richard Bertone for $540 and then print the cards up on my own. If I did this John would make sure that I was seen by Karon Shea Model Management. Before setting up this appt. with Richard I said that I wanted to investigate and check into this further. When I googled Karon Shea, because I am from out of state and had never heard of her agency, I found this blog. So, I called Karon and actually spoke directly with her. I wanted fto make sure I would be represented if I paid this money. karon said that John had not been with her agency for about a month now and thats she had no knowledge of him saying these things. That I would not be guaranteed anything with her agency unless I met her first. Then she could decide if Richard would be a good photographer for me because Richard is good for fashion photography not commercial. People with a commercial look would benefit by going to Pat O'Coonor. So, I set up an appt. with her to be seen. About a half hour later I got a call from John saying that Karon had just called him up upset about my calling her and saying that John had mentioned her agency. John insisted this had been a misunderstanding by myself about her agency. He said that he never said any of that. Yet where did I get her name from I had never even heard of her.
He said that I should get the cards done with Richard even though I do not have interest in fashion modeling strictly acting. Also, know this... John never even asked me what I looked like. He just wanted to set up the appt. with Richard and he said that he would personally meet me there at Richards studio. He told me that I should shop around for agencies and not sign with any that have exclusive contracts. When I asked him why Karon was so upset and what the deal was between them he refused to tell me and only said that he worked there for 2 years and 9 months and there was a reason why he wasn't there anymore but he did not want to go into it.
So, I asked to see some of Richards work because I find it funny that he has no website. He told me to check out his myspace page. I did and found only fashion models. He told me that when I showed up at Richards studio he could show me lot of books with his work. I then asked him about this blog and he said that he had never heard of the blog. He would check into it when we hung up. The number John called me from ws 617-710-7510. But he told me to call him back on a 978number. The same number that was listed in the original CL posting.Now that I have read this blog I realize that the 617 number is the same as Karon Sheas.
I called Karon back to cancel my appt. with her and also to question her side of all this. She said that John was a wonderful man and that she had nothing bad to say about him except that she did not authorize him to post that ad. yet now I see on the blog that she wrote that she is seeking legal action action against him but 10 mins.before she added that comment she said to me that he was a nice guy. Which is it!!! Karon also said that Marc Reece is just angry because they did not want to represent him at her agency. I asked her why he said that John wanted him to pay $800 if they didn't want him. She said that never happened that Marc was never seen by her agency. Maybe people should look into him.
I read everything and after talking to them (Karon and John, I did not call Richard even though John told me to) I believe you are correct and this is a SCAM!!!! I think that there scam is faling apart and they are trying to find a way to still make money. Al ot of finger pointing going on.
Some say IMTA Iis not a scam others say it is,read this and form your own opinion
I knew a lot of people were looking at this blog, but this blog has now reached across the country and this is a blurb I received from LA. The power of the internet is amazing. I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR RESPONSES.
AFTER THE POSTING YOU WILL SEE SOME OTHER LINKS TO HELP VALIDATE THIS POSTING. REMEMBER KNOWLEDGE ISN'T POWER UNLESS IT IS APPLIED!
I have no personal knowledge of Karon Shea, John Wood or any of the others mentioned in your blog. But I do have personal experience with IMTA.
FYI, the ONLY people who go to IMTA (or it's stepsister competition, iPop, which is about double the price) are expensive modeling schools. NO ONE ELSE. It is NOT the way professional actors enter the industry. 99% of the actors who attend never get a paying job in Los Angeles, because the training they have received is so horrible. AGENCIES do not send their clients there...why would they? So their clients could be stolen by a larger agency? Of course not! They send their acting school students (they are not really agencies) because conventions are big business..between paying for MORE classes, NEW pictures, and the convention itself, you would have dished out $10,000 or so. And don't think it stops there...you will get "callbacks" (a misuse of the industry term) alright. But the result will be that you were "almost there" and "just need a little more training". And back into the school cycle you go, so they can suck more money out of you.
BTW, if you want to compare Los Angeles prices, a great headshot photographer charges about $250 and 100 copies are about $75. The average cost for a top acting class is less than $50 per hour.
Another reality of Hollywood: AGENCIES are not legally allowed to advertise in CA. They cannot charge ANY fees upfront for photography, classes or anything else--that is a violation of the Advanced Fee Talent Service Law. Legit Hollywood companies do not post on craigslist--ever.
I think you must be a pretty savvy guy. From what I have read here, looks like you have spotted a scam, and managed to save yourself another $10,000 or so by NOT attending IMTA. $800 is ridiculous for professional headshots. Bravo for saying, "Stop the Madness!" and for speaking out.
Tip of the day: Google
"IMTA scam", "John Robert Powers scam" and "iPop scam". Just adding that little word to the end of your searches will bring up thousands of websites, including pretty much every consumer protection site in the nation. You are not alone!
KARON SHEA I have a question for you.
HOW MUCH MONEY, IF ANY HAVE YOU RECEIVED FROM SENDING PEOPLE TO IMTA IN FORM OF SALARY OR COMMISSION?
IF YOU DON'T REMEMBER THE ADD THAT YOUR ORGANIZATION POSTED ON CRAIG'S LIST, I HAVE POSTED IT BELOW FOR YOUR REVIEW. Remember this is the original add I answered.
Reply to: see below
Date: 2008-04-04, 10:21AM EDT
International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) is coming from NY to Boston
A few of IMTA discoveries are Ashton Kutcher, Eva Longoria, Katie Holmes, Elijah Wood, and many more.
Auditions are now being held for ages 4 to 58.
All ethnicities and sizes are encouraged to audition. No experience nec.
Call (617) 710-7510 for audition dates and times. (Notice the Phone number)
PostingID: 629909715
LINKS TO WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE IMTA AND OTHER CONVETIONS AND AGENCIES
http://www.bbb.org/alerts/article.asp?ID=477
http://www.calorie-count.com/forums/post/78580.html
http://www.actorslife.com/forum_view.php?id=115
http://www.zoomonme.com/gallery/albun17/superman03
http://modelsadvocate.com/model-scams-blog.html
http://www.easybackgroundcheck.com/mainlinemodelsandtalent.html
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/190/RipOff0190219.htm
AFTER THE POSTING YOU WILL SEE SOME OTHER LINKS TO HELP VALIDATE THIS POSTING. REMEMBER KNOWLEDGE ISN'T POWER UNLESS IT IS APPLIED!
I have no personal knowledge of Karon Shea, John Wood or any of the others mentioned in your blog. But I do have personal experience with IMTA.
FYI, the ONLY people who go to IMTA (or it's stepsister competition, iPop, which is about double the price) are expensive modeling schools. NO ONE ELSE. It is NOT the way professional actors enter the industry. 99% of the actors who attend never get a paying job in Los Angeles, because the training they have received is so horrible. AGENCIES do not send their clients there...why would they? So their clients could be stolen by a larger agency? Of course not! They send their acting school students (they are not really agencies) because conventions are big business..between paying for MORE classes, NEW pictures, and the convention itself, you would have dished out $10,000 or so. And don't think it stops there...you will get "callbacks" (a misuse of the industry term) alright. But the result will be that you were "almost there" and "just need a little more training". And back into the school cycle you go, so they can suck more money out of you.
BTW, if you want to compare Los Angeles prices, a great headshot photographer charges about $250 and 100 copies are about $75. The average cost for a top acting class is less than $50 per hour.
Another reality of Hollywood: AGENCIES are not legally allowed to advertise in CA. They cannot charge ANY fees upfront for photography, classes or anything else--that is a violation of the Advanced Fee Talent Service Law. Legit Hollywood companies do not post on craigslist--ever.
I think you must be a pretty savvy guy. From what I have read here, looks like you have spotted a scam, and managed to save yourself another $10,000 or so by NOT attending IMTA. $800 is ridiculous for professional headshots. Bravo for saying, "Stop the Madness!" and for speaking out.
Tip of the day: Google
"IMTA scam", "John Robert Powers scam" and "iPop scam". Just adding that little word to the end of your searches will bring up thousands of websites, including pretty much every consumer protection site in the nation. You are not alone!
KARON SHEA I have a question for you.
HOW MUCH MONEY, IF ANY HAVE YOU RECEIVED FROM SENDING PEOPLE TO IMTA IN FORM OF SALARY OR COMMISSION?
IF YOU DON'T REMEMBER THE ADD THAT YOUR ORGANIZATION POSTED ON CRAIG'S LIST, I HAVE POSTED IT BELOW FOR YOUR REVIEW. Remember this is the original add I answered.
IMTA OPEN CALL (Boston)
Reply to: see below
Date: 2008-04-04, 10:21AM EDT
International Modeling and Talent Association (IMTA) is coming from NY to Boston
A few of IMTA discoveries are Ashton Kutcher, Eva Longoria, Katie Holmes, Elijah Wood, and many more.
Auditions are now being held for ages 4 to 58.
All ethnicities and sizes are encouraged to audition. No experience nec.
Call (617) 710-7510 for audition dates and times. (Notice the Phone number)
LINKS TO WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING ABOUT THE IMTA AND OTHER CONVETIONS AND AGENCIES
http://www.bbb.org/alerts/article.asp?ID=477
http://www.calorie-count.com/forums/post/78580.html
http://www.actorslife.com/forum_view.php?id=115
http://www.zoomonme.com/gallery/albun17/superman03
http://modelsadvocate.com/model-scams-blog.html
http://www.easybackgroundcheck.com/mainlinemodelsandtalent.html
http://www.ripoffreport.com/reports/0/190/RipOff0190219.htm
5/21/08
JOHN WOOD HAS BEEN WITH KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT SINCE AT LEAST 2006
THIS IS PRICELESS THE FOLLOWING WAS COPIED DIRECTLY OFF KARON SHEA'S MY SPACE PAGE. UNDER WANNA BE A MODEL; LOOK WHO IS HER TALENT COORDINATOR, BUT IF I REMEMBER CORRECTLY DIDN'T JOHN WOOD SAY HE JUST ARRIVED FROM LA 6 MONTHS AGO? CLICK THE LINK TO SEE THE ADD. http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=46839763&blogID=89089440 Saturday, February 18, 2006
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accomplished The Little Blog That Could, Karon Shea of Karon Shea Model Management speaks!
Wow I'm going to call this the little Blog that could. I guess you could say that this blog defiantly had an impact on and rocked the house over at KSMM (Karon Shea Model Management) I have received the following emails from Karon Shea's office. I will be making my comments below..
ertonephoto .
Karon is taking care of John. karon is picking out models herself with private one on one appts. any questions info@ksmmonline.com
as far as IMTA. any agency can bring their models to this event. An agency can take advantage of this and the amount of money but not having training leading up to IMTA in NYC. ours however has set up classes that meet twice a week. You need to be top notch for this event. so we are teaching all models the in's and out's. Please google the name Mark Lund. He is one of our teachers here at karon shea. He is helping the models prepare for IMTA in NYC July 21-27.just yesterday they had a full day class (10am-4:00pm) we hired a hair and makeup guy to show the models what would be best. We also hired a photographer who did have a photo shoot with each model. basically the amount of money is for the 2 month training and all expenses in NYC (hotel/ transportation/ food)for 7 days. basically the flack on the internet is from other agencies who have taken advantage and has not put the time and effort into their models before this event
OK SO THERE ARE THE EMAILS I HAVE RECEIVED FROM KARON SHEA'S OFFICE. I BELIEVE ,THAT BECAUSE OF THIS BLOG AND THIS BLOG ONLY THAT JOHN WOOD IS NO LONGER REPRESENTING KARON SHEA'S BUSINESS; HOWEVER AS OF TODAY 5/21/08 HIS NAME IS STILL LISTED ON HER WEB SITE AND KARON SAID HE HAS BEEN GONE FOR 30 ACCORDING TO HER EMAIL. JOHN WAS STILL WITH THIS COMPANY AS OF 2 WEEKS AGO. SO I CAN NOT CONFIRM THIS TO BE TRUE OR FALSE.
THAT BEING SAID ACCORDING TO HIS MOST RECENT POSTING ON CRAIG'S LIST HE MAY VERY WELL BE ON HIS OWN BUT WORKING WITH RICHARD BERTONE. IT WAS ONLY UNTIL RECENTLY THAT JOHN LEFT KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT (SUPPOSEDLY) BUT HE WAS WITH HER FOR AT LEAST 3 YEARS. BEFORE THIS ALL CAME UP, SO UNLESS SHE WAS COMPLETELY OBLIVIOUS ABOUT WHAT WAS GOING ON IN THE ROOM WHERE THE CATTLE CALLS WERE GOING ON, PRIOR TO HER TALK. THE BUCK HAS TO STOP SOMEWHERE.
OK SO RICHARD BERTONE HAS A MY SPACE PAGE, I HAVE A BLOG! THE FACT THAT IN THIS DAY AND AGE EVERYBODY HAS A WEBSITE UP IT SEEMS TO BRING LEGITIMACY TO YOUR BUSINESS. I MEAN EVEN KARON SHEA HAS A WEBSITE, I HAVE A BLOG, AND A WEBSITE. RICHARD DOES NOT.
IF RICHARD BERTONE IS THIS BIG NAME PHOTOGRAPHER WHY DOESN'T MORE COME UP WHEN YOU GOOGLE HIM. I MEAN YOU CAN GOOGLE ME AND I COME UP ALL OVER THE PLACE. I CALLED ONE OF THE PAGEANTS HE DID SOME WORK FOR AND THEY WOULD NOT GIVE A GOOD OR BAD REFERENCE OR SAY A WORD EITHER WAY! WHY?
IT RAISED A RED FLAG. I ACTUALLY SPOKE TO RICHARD ON THE PHONE AND HE SAID THAT PEOPLE WERE STEALING HIS WORK, I CANT CONFIRM OR DENY THAT STATEMENT TO BE TRUE. ALSO RICHARD BERTONE TOLD ME THAT HE RECEIVES A PERCENTAGE OF THE MONEY THAT KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT BROUGHT IN FOR HIS PHOTO SESSION, SOMEWHERE IN THE AMOUNT OF 350.00 THE REST WENT TO THE KARON SHEA AND JOHN WOOD.
FOR THE RECORD I HAVE A DIGITAL CAMERA AND TAKE PICTURES AS WELL.. BIG DEAL. ALSO I HAVE POSTED SOME COMMENTS THAT ACTUALLY FAVORED RICHARD BERTONE. YOU CAN READ THEM AND DECIDE. DO I THINK HE SHOULD GET PAID FOR TAKING PICTURES ABSOLUTELY! BUT WHY SHOULD KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT AND JOHN WOOD GET A CUT.
THE PROBLEM IS THAT JOHN SPECIFICALLY SAID HE DOES NOT MAKE A DIME UNTIL HE GETS YOU WORK. HE ALSO SAID THAT HE IS NOT MAKING A DIME FROM THESE PHOTOS.
AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ABOUT THE IMTA. (INTERNATIONAL MODEL AND TALENT AGENCY ) IT HAS BEEN SAID ON MORE THAN 1 OCCASION THAT THE SCHOOLS AND AGENCY'S THAT SEND PEOPLE TO THE CONVENTION GET A KICK BACK FROM THE IMTA.
IF YOU ATTENDED THE MOST RECENT IMTA CONVENTION THROUGH KARON SHEA ASK YOURSELF DID YOU GO BECAUSE YOU HAD THE LOOK OR DID YOU GO BECAUSE YOU HAD 5,000 DOLLARS. I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE THAT ATTENDED THROUGH KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT, AND IF SO WAS IT WORTH 5,000 DOLLARS.
HOW BAD DO YOU WANT TO BE FAMOUS, THAT YOU WOULD HAND OVER 5K. YES SOME COULD SAY ITS AN INVESTMENT, THAT YOU HAVE TO INVEST IN YOURSELF. IT JUST SEEMS THAT EVEN WITH THE CLASSES AND THE COACHES IT IS RIGHT OUT OF WHAT THE BBB SAYS BEWARE OF.
From: Staff @ Karon Shea [mailto:noreply-comment@blogger.com]
Sent: Wednesday, May 21, 2008 3:19 PM
To: Marc Reece
Subject: [Opinions about Karon Shea and John Wood at Karon Shea Model Management] New comment on John Wood has decided to create another way to mak....
John Wood is no longer with us. (over 30 days now)What he does with his own time we cannot control at this moment WE are taking legal actions against him. If you have concerns please contact us info@ksmmonline.com
Karon is taking care of John. karon is picking out models herself with private one on one appts. any questions info@ksmmonline.com
as far as IMTA. any agency can bring their models to this event. An agency can take advantage of this and the amount of money but not having training leading up to IMTA in NYC. ours however has set up classes that meet twice a week. You need to be top notch for this event. so we are teaching all models the in's and out's. Please google the name Mark Lund. He is one of our teachers here at karon shea. He is helping the models prepare for IMTA in NYC July 21-27.just yesterday they had a full day class (10am-4:00pm) we hired a hair and makeup guy to show the models what would be best. We also hired a photographer who did have a photo shoot with each model. basically the amount of money is for the 2 month training and all expenses in NYC (hotel/ transportation/ food)for 7 days. basically the flack on the internet is from other agencies who have taken advantage and has not put the time and effort into their models before this event
OK SO THERE ARE THE EMAILS I HAVE RECEIVED FROM KARON SHEA'S OFFICE. I BELIEVE ,THAT BECAUSE OF THIS BLOG AND THIS BLOG ONLY THAT JOHN WOOD IS NO LONGER REPRESENTING KARON SHEA'S BUSINESS; HOWEVER AS OF TODAY 5/21/08 HIS NAME IS STILL LISTED ON HER WEB SITE AND KARON SAID HE HAS BEEN GONE FOR 30 ACCORDING TO HER EMAIL. JOHN WAS STILL WITH THIS COMPANY AS OF 2 WEEKS AGO. SO I CAN NOT CONFIRM THIS TO BE TRUE OR FALSE.
THAT BEING SAID ACCORDING TO HIS MOST RECENT POSTING ON CRAIG'S LIST HE MAY VERY WELL BE ON HIS OWN BUT WORKING WITH RICHARD BERTONE. IT WAS ONLY UNTIL RECENTLY THAT JOHN LEFT KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT (SUPPOSEDLY) BUT HE WAS WITH HER FOR AT LEAST 3 YEARS. BEFORE THIS ALL CAME UP, SO UNLESS SHE WAS COMPLETELY OBLIVIOUS ABOUT WHAT WAS GOING ON IN THE ROOM WHERE THE CATTLE CALLS WERE GOING ON, PRIOR TO HER TALK. THE BUCK HAS TO STOP SOMEWHERE.
OK SO RICHARD BERTONE HAS A MY SPACE PAGE, I HAVE A BLOG! THE FACT THAT IN THIS DAY AND AGE EVERYBODY HAS A WEBSITE UP IT SEEMS TO BRING LEGITIMACY TO YOUR BUSINESS. I MEAN EVEN KARON SHEA HAS A WEBSITE, I HAVE A BLOG, AND A WEBSITE. RICHARD DOES NOT.
IF RICHARD BERTONE IS THIS BIG NAME PHOTOGRAPHER WHY DOESN'T MORE COME UP WHEN YOU GOOGLE HIM. I MEAN YOU CAN GOOGLE ME AND I COME UP ALL OVER THE PLACE. I CALLED ONE OF THE PAGEANTS HE DID SOME WORK FOR AND THEY WOULD NOT GIVE A GOOD OR BAD REFERENCE OR SAY A WORD EITHER WAY! WHY?
IT RAISED A RED FLAG. I ACTUALLY SPOKE TO RICHARD ON THE PHONE AND HE SAID THAT PEOPLE WERE STEALING HIS WORK, I CANT CONFIRM OR DENY THAT STATEMENT TO BE TRUE. ALSO RICHARD BERTONE TOLD ME THAT HE RECEIVES A PERCENTAGE OF THE MONEY THAT KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT BROUGHT IN FOR HIS PHOTO SESSION, SOMEWHERE IN THE AMOUNT OF 350.00 THE REST WENT TO THE KARON SHEA AND JOHN WOOD.
FOR THE RECORD I HAVE A DIGITAL CAMERA AND TAKE PICTURES AS WELL.. BIG DEAL. ALSO I HAVE POSTED SOME COMMENTS THAT ACTUALLY FAVORED RICHARD BERTONE. YOU CAN READ THEM AND DECIDE. DO I THINK HE SHOULD GET PAID FOR TAKING PICTURES ABSOLUTELY! BUT WHY SHOULD KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT AND JOHN WOOD GET A CUT.
THE PROBLEM IS THAT JOHN SPECIFICALLY SAID HE DOES NOT MAKE A DIME UNTIL HE GETS YOU WORK. HE ALSO SAID THAT HE IS NOT MAKING A DIME FROM THESE PHOTOS.
AFTER DOING SOME RESEARCH ABOUT THE IMTA. (INTERNATIONAL MODEL AND TALENT AGENCY ) IT HAS BEEN SAID ON MORE THAN 1 OCCASION THAT THE SCHOOLS AND AGENCY'S THAT SEND PEOPLE TO THE CONVENTION GET A KICK BACK FROM THE IMTA.
IF YOU ATTENDED THE MOST RECENT IMTA CONVENTION THROUGH KARON SHEA ASK YOURSELF DID YOU GO BECAUSE YOU HAD THE LOOK OR DID YOU GO BECAUSE YOU HAD 5,000 DOLLARS. I WOULD REALLY LIKE TO HEAR FROM ANYONE THAT ATTENDED THROUGH KARON SHEA MODEL MANAGEMENT, AND IF SO WAS IT WORTH 5,000 DOLLARS.
HOW BAD DO YOU WANT TO BE FAMOUS, THAT YOU WOULD HAND OVER 5K. YES SOME COULD SAY ITS AN INVESTMENT, THAT YOU HAVE TO INVEST IN YOURSELF. IT JUST SEEMS THAT EVEN WITH THE CLASSES AND THE COACHES IT IS RIGHT OUT OF WHAT THE BBB SAYS BEWARE OF.
More information and resources to help you figure out if you getting scammed by a talent agency
In an effort to continually help inform you on so called talent managers trying to take your hard earned money I found this helpful article
http://www.bizparentz.org/gettingstarted/avoidingscams.htmlSo how does a parent spot a scam?
- LISTEN. One step is to really listen to your instincts. What seems too good to be true, usually is.
- RESEARCH. Researching every company and person you are going to work with is of paramount importance. Use Google and check the names of the businesses as well as the names of the people you meet. Ask other parents. Email us. Look for common red flags. Some red flags of a scam or rip-off include:
- being approached in a mall, family store or other public place
- name dropping such as “a casting director from shows LIKE Hannah Montana and Nickelodeon” or naming famous alumni (which rarely turn out to be supporters of the program)
- promising work or access to breakdowns
- using several different names for their business or they change the name frequently
- seeing an ad on Craigslist or in the newspaper, or hearing it on the radio,
- the term “open call”,
- use of the words “star”, “fame”, “you have the look”, “boot camp”, “Hollywood University”
- putting pressure or time limits on the offer such as “we only bring back 10% of the kids we see, not everyone makes it”, “we can only hold the spot for 3 days”, etc.
- use of the terms “top Hollywood talent agent/manager/casting director”
- charging upfront fees for representation. In California, this practice falls under the Advance Fee Talent Service Act (*insert link*). This is why many scammers travel the country. Hollywood recognizes the scam artists so they can’t do business as easily here.
- WAIT. Leave your checkbook at home. Sometimes the best way to spot a scam is to separate yourself from the situation and sleep on it. Talk to your spouse. Run it by a friend. And if you don’t have your checkbook/credit cards, it forces you to think about it without that pressure.
But some people say it is OK….. Of course every story has 2 sides, and you may find another person ‘vouching’ for
someone else. One very common example of these discussions revolves around talent competitions and talent/modeling schools. Consider this perspective as posted on Backstage:
"If we view a child's entertainment career as a business (because it is) - families who go the competition/convention route entering the business start off thousands of dollars in the hole - to "hopefully" get an agent and manager. For the people who really like their individual situation – ask them what's the success rate of ALL the children in their child’s classes? Never mind their little budding star... what about the others?"
Getting an agent or manager can be accomplished for under $100 via picture submissions. Really. Honest. Your child doesn't have to be at a convention to have an agent notice them and see if they might fill a hole in their roster. Signing with an agent (and perhaps manager) is the very basic cornerstone of the industry. It's not a guarantee of success. A good percentage of represented child actors never, ever work.
A child is going to need to book about $30,000 of work (at least) to even make up for the cost of the classes - depending on how many other people (agent, manager, trust account, and taxes) they are paying. It puts a tremendous strain on the child’s “business” to start out so much in the hole. The finances are often the source of many difficulties within a family.
The "awards" and training - will be the first thing to LEAVE the professional resume. The industry does not afford any respect to participation in talent competitions. Winning ‘Child Actor of the Year” isn’t going to bring you employment or success in the industry.
We understand why parents want to see it otherwise - but after hearing thousands of stories from people who experienced this, they describe that it's a lot like a slick boyfriend. They say all the right things to get you interested, but later, looking back, you sort of regret the time you spent with them. There are many people who have learned a lesson - and /or really don't appreciate how these businesses take advantage of families and their love for their children. Yet, good news for competitions - there are still people willing to believe that it's the best choice they can make to get their child an agent, when it's really the only option they ever even considered.
I’ve been scammed, what now?
First, don’t be embarrassed. MANY, many of us stumbled our way into this industry in ways we would rather forget. But you can recover. Perhaps the scammer did you a favor, and made your realize that A. your child really has a gift, and B. you need to get your business in order if you are going to support them the way they deserve.
There are legal remedies to getting scammed. Please email BizParentz and we can point you in the right direction if you feel like that is a route you want to pursue. Many families just count the experience as a very expensive lesson learned. Others choose to tell their story and prevent others from making the same mistakes. We applaud them! Next, re-group. You can find an agent/manager without spending any more money.
Read our article entitled “Just Getting Started".
There are respected and standard websites that exist for marketing and casting in the industry. There’s no need to seek out untested and dangerous alternatives. See also articles on this website – Online Casting and All Roles Aren’t Created Equal (PDF). Even if you are fortunate enough to find someone that is ‘safe” to work with from these alternative methods – there certainly won’t be the level of pay you might expect to receive for your work.
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