Flashcast Modeling agency for Babies deceptive cunning ripoff company Los Angeles California

I had companies that Mark Lambert went after he molded evidence and dragged me through a long 6 month court trial, stating fraud victims he even pulled his normal stunt prior to the court case which was placing a false story in the La Times stating I was a fraud and a scammer and victims should come forward if you have given me money to come forward for potential compensation.

I was dragged through court and was found not guilty even with a 100 x-customers comming to the stand. Mark Lambert would stomp his feet when the judge kept saying he had heard enough and was border line ready to throw the case out he could not see any crime.

Mark Lambert is simply a bas@@rd and an absolute idiot and should have his license revoked for trying to cripple innocent people by abusing his position, even when I was found not guilty on all counts he objected like crazy and tried to over rule the rulling by insisting to the judge it was a mistake, he then went outside and started having a go at the jury, the man is a flipping idiot plain and simple and no one should believe in any case he takes on.

I can see that this report is a little old, however I am glad that I found it. I have been searching for an agency to represent my 12 month old daughter and was considering using the above meantioned agency. However, I will admit that I was concerned by their ad that I had read since it specifically said that they were searching for financially stable parents. Now I can see that a lot of parents force thier children into modeling in hopes of making a quick buck, but I must admit that this struck me as odd. I modeled in a child fashion show in Las Vegas when I was eight and I had the best time of my life doing it.THis being the case I would like to offer that same oppertunity to my daughter. Even though my husband is still in school, and we are not what some may call financially succure, we are not attemting to exploit our child in order to make money since we will have plenty of it after my husband graduates med school. Besides this unusual comment in the ad, I was also put off by the owners rebuttals. Is he educated at all? I do not recall insults such as "idiot" as being a valid defense. Perhaps the owner has been spending too much time with his young clients and doese not know how to act as a mature adult. This alone makes me doubt the legitamacy of this agency and I will be seeking another agency to help my daugher gain "exposure".

At the KidsFaire in Costa Mesa my baby's photo was taken and what do you know... We recieve a call from someone at Flashcast. I scheduled an appoinment to meet with the company this weekend (apparently they don't meet new kids during the week). After trying to read over the website given to me (fbaa.us) that was a little distorted on my screen, I decided to do a little more research, since that website was hard to read. I was a little skeptial to begin with anyway. Thank goodness I came across this website. Money or no money up front, after reading Mr. Carranza's responses, I would never want to meet him, have my child meet him, or ever see the face that speaks to people in the manner he does. How does he afford to pay rent at this place on Cahuenga. I feel sorry for the people that have been sucked in to believe this man. What a JERK!! (NOTICE HOW I USED CAPITAL LETTERS???? REMIND YOU OF ANYONE?!) Good thing I didn't waste my gas $ to drive up there and sit in traffic to meet this IDIOT! How can someone running a company expect to get any business speaking/writing like the a** he seems to be. And by the way, my family is very well off, I DO have the $$ for gas. I live in Newport Beach and I am a stay-at-home mom. I would be able to afford what he says would be to cover costs for a photo submitted on-line for agents, but I am not interested in paying anyone up front. And, yes, I am one of those who believe if Hollywood wants my child, they will find him at "Ralph's" or I will search for an agent on my own with the list I have from SAG. Thanks for offering to see my child, but.... NO THANKS!

A couple of weeks ago our local news show was airing an interview with the head of the Wisc. State Dept. of Consumer Affairs. They do this about every week or so.

In this particular interview/consumer warning was about talent scouts coming into the state and selling modeling services such as photo portfolios and stuff.

The man said that "No legitimate talent agent will ask for money to represent you."

He didn't say anything about ages... just that consumers need to be aware.

Thanks,

This is a comment toward Carl Carranza of Flash Cast in California. Do you really think that by defending yourself in that manner would make someone listen or be persuaded by your defense? you should understand that there are always going be people that are not happy with what you do no matter what it is you do. Everyone is entitled to have thier opinion and all you can do is defend the truth you stand behind.

I dont think that by calling anyone a IDIOT, makes your point come across any better. Are you the top person in your agency? If not, shouldn't they be proof reading the things you put online? If you are then I cant say too much about the professionalism that you should have. I am not in the business and was just looking into getting my 6 month old in to a talent agency here in Chicgao and thought I should browse the web to see what is out there.

I stummbled across this site and I thought the person who said those things about your company was probably a person they told that they were not interested in and they were just bitter. but to read the comments you shot back was just not professional on your part. If people read and believe everything they read this world would be a mess. Stand up for yourself but dont put anyone down inthe process it make you look no better than the ignorance that was lashed toward you.

Carl, you are preaching to the choir here on this site. This site will tell you emphaticly The BBB's are worthless and in the pockets of the business they represent.

I have talked to many in this field, and the consensus is that upfront fee agencies are not the norm, and generally to be avoided. Those who the legit agencies find interesting or prospective clients, fees and such are worked into a contract to be paid in the form of comission and royalties etc. This is the incentive for agents to take a risk, because until they do there are no fees which cross their desks and thus they are motivated to find that "right" client. with a fee upfront agency, there is no incentive because no risks are taken.

Yes it is a hard business, very cut throat and often times dishonest because people find it easy to prey on other's dreams and have no scruples about taking advantage. However, there are companies out there who have risen above that kind of doing business.

You need to stop taking thisg so personal. If the person is not happy with your business, they have a right to choose not to deal with you and express their reason why to other people. The fact you are expending so much energy debating this worries me because it shows a defensiveness which shouldn't be there. If your doing business legitimately, "d**n the torpedos and full speed ahead." If you are not, than LA District attorney and this site have just given you a long needed wake up call.

Hey-
Want the real facts on our friends at the BBB in California. Go to... www.coltonbbbshakedown.com
Obviously, many others agree!

Kindest regards,
Carl Carranza :)

Attn: "Rob"
Your an IDIOT, as well as Mark Lambert from the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office!

This is obviousl a touchy subject with lots of emotion involved and alot of misinformation coming from both sides.

There are at least three ways to go, all of them legitimate.

The first way is the doit yourself method. You do all the leg work, establish all the contacts, etc. This is the hardest way to do it, but it can be done successfully without an agent or agency involved.

The second and third ways to break through is with the assistance of an agency/agent. Some agencies/agents require a fee up front to offset costs etc. (That's their rationale). Some of these are legit, some aren't. The downside of paying a fee is you are not guaranteed a spot etc.

The third way, done by MANY agencies and agents, is to submitt no payment, fee etc. The benefit of this is the agent/agency won't work for you unless they feel you are a safew investment. Then, they do the leg work, contacts, contracts etc. and in the contract are the agent's percentage, client's pay/royalties etc. Payment doesn't happen until the person starts making money, at which time fees etc. are already figured into the contrtact. This means the agent/agency is Motivated to do right by you, because if you they don't they don't get paid.

This is obviousl a touchy subject with lots of emotion involved and alot of misinformation coming from both sides.

There are at least three ways to go, all of them legitimate.

The first way is the doit yourself method. You do all the leg work, establish all the contacts, etc. This is the hardest way to do it, but it can be done successfully without an agent or agency involved.

The second and third ways to break through is with the assistance of an agency/agent. Some agencies/agents require a fee up front to offset costs etc. (That's their rationale). Some of these are legit, some aren't. The downside of paying a fee is you are not guaranteed a spot etc.

The third way, done by MANY agencies and agents, is to submitt no payment, fee etc. The benefit of this is the agent/agency won't work for you unless they feel you are a safew investment. Then, they do the leg work, contacts, contracts etc. and in the contract are the agent's percentage, client's pay/royalties etc. Payment doesn't happen until the person starts making money, at which time fees etc. are already figured into the contrtact. This means the agent/agency is Motivated to do right by you, because if you they don't they don't get paid.

This is obviousl a touchy subject with lots of emotion involved and alot of misinformation coming from both sides.

There are at least three ways to go, all of them legitimate.

The first way is the doit yourself method. You do all the leg work, establish all the contacts, etc. This is the hardest way to do it, but it can be done successfully without an agent or agency involved.

The second and third ways to break through is with the assistance of an agency/agent. Some agencies/agents require a fee up front to offset costs etc. (That's their rationale). Some of these are legit, some aren't. The downside of paying a fee is you are not guaranteed a spot etc.

The third way, done by MANY agencies and agents, is to submitt no payment, fee etc. The benefit of this is the agent/agency won't work for you unless they feel you are a safew investment. Then, they do the leg work, contacts, contracts etc. and in the contract are the agent's percentage, client's pay/royalties etc. Payment doesn't happen until the person starts making money, at which time fees etc. are already figured into the contrtact. This means the agent/agency is Motivated to do right by you, because if you they don't they don't get paid.

This is obviousl a touchy subject with lots of emotion involved and alot of misinformation coming from both sides.

There are at least three ways to go, all of them legitimate.

The first way is the doit yourself method. You do all the leg work, establish all the contacts, etc. This is the hardest way to do it, but it can be done successfully without an agent or agency involved.

The second and third ways to break through is with the assistance of an agency/agent. Some agencies/agents require a fee up front to offset costs etc. (That's their rationale). Some of these are legit, some aren't. The downside of paying a fee is you are not guaranteed a spot etc.

The third way, done by MANY agencies and agents, is to submitt no payment, fee etc. The benefit of this is the agent/agency won't work for you unless they feel you are a safew investment. Then, they do the leg work, contacts, contracts etc. and in the contract are the agent's percentage, client's pay/royalties etc. Payment doesn't happen until the person starts making money, at which time fees etc. are already figured into the contrtact. This means the agent/agency is Motivated to do right by you, because if you they don't they don't get paid.

Dear Carl "the sphyncter" Carranza, Hey jackass! A quick check of the Internet showed that you were in fact CONVICTED OF 10 COUNTS FRAUD! Here is a direct quote from the Better Business Bureau website. I should point out that this information has disappeared from their website, but I have archived the information! We ALL know how litigeous you are so the best guess is that you threaten to sue them and they probably caved, as usual. Right? For the record, This is what the BBB said about you:

"On December 18, 2001, we were advised by the company that they would no longer respond to the complaints presented by the Bureau. On July 24, 2001, the Los Angeles City Attorney filed a 14 count misdemeanor action against the company and its principal, Carl Carranza. The complaint alleged in part, that the defendants made misleading statements in print ads, verbally, and on their website. On May 17, 2002, Flashcast, and its principal, Carl Carranza, were convicted of 10 counts of using false and misleading advertising in violation of the California Business & Professions code. The company and Mr. Carranza were placed on probation for 36 months and ordered to pay a fine of $4,050.00. They were also ordered to include a statement listing any fees charged, including monthly fees, in all of their advertisements. Anyone seeing an ad that does not contain the fee information is asked to contact Mark Lambert, Deputy City Attorney at (213) 485-4515."

Get a new thinker! Notice, you were not found innocent; just not guilty. Mark Lambert will have another crack at you as you continue to fracture California jurisprudence.

Have a nice day, sewer rat!

Hi Rob-In Los Angeles (If that's your real name?)



Yes...we are the same "Flashcast" that had criminal misdemeanor charges filed against us for, in part, acting as a Job Listing Service without the required Bond. These charges were filed by City Attorney Mark Lambert, who happens to be, in my opinion, a complete IDIOT! Many people in the Court system agree.



By the way, let me share the facts with you. The Honorable Judge Michael Kellogg, firmly ruled that Flashcast Companies was, in fact, NOT a Job Listing Service, and that we were a LAWFUL business that provided services to the industry. We have the complete transcript of the case.



We proved the validity of our service in Court, and that's what REALLY matters Rob. I just thought I would share the FACTS with you. We have been in business for 16 years and going strong...We are obviously doing something RIGHT!!!! We wouldn't still be in business.



The State in constantly trying to find new ways of getting fees out of businesses. That's why sooo many business owners are leaving California! By the way, we are NOT a prepaid talent agency. Where do you people get your misinformation from? If you would like to discuss this matter further, please post your comments below I would love to respond to anyone out there and assist them in educating them to this industry!!!



Your friend,



To Mark Lambert of the City Attorney's Office:

*******YOU LOST THE CASE! GET OVER IT!!!********

Christine-



I am so glad that "your parents" didn't have to pay anything...you were very fortunate. You didn't say how old you were when you started in this biz?



As you know,or may not know, most agents DO NOT want to deal with children under 4, 5, sometimes 6yrs. old. Why? They don't have time to educate parents and update the pictures everytime a "baby" changes. Furthermore, children do NOT have to join the Union until they reach the age of 4!!! I will assume that you were an older child when you started..hence, your lack of knowledge of the "baby modeling biz".



I must agree with you that there are so many companies that reguire unnecessary overpriced headshots and portfolios in the promise of "stardom". These companies are what has hurt this industry tremendously. Not everyone can succeed, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. I am always amazed when I see the choices a casting person makes...you never know who they will be looking for. Now days with the "Real" look so popular it has opened the door for many.



You say you did this in the 70's...wow..that is a long time ago. Things change in any industry, especially after 33 yrs. I don't think most parents go into this with the hopes of their children support themselves at 18yrs., as you said. I think most parents honestly, would just love to see their child do something, and if they can stick a little money away in their college fund that's a bonus! You sound like you were more serious and intent on becoming an "actress".



As far as "upfront fees" there are companies that provide services that you pay for in this biz..why is that so hard for people to comprehend. Nobody works for free. Our company works thru Talent agents and acts as a submission service for those children that are new or babies just starting out. We DO NOT take commission, so how do we get paid for doing the initial submission on the job?



Christine, things have changed..did you know that, now you can register and put your headshot and resume online for casting people to go over...for a fee of course! This is just one of the "new" ways the industry has changed. I used to be an AGENT and owned my own agency...I do KNOW this business!!! I know the biz from the business end not from the models advantage.



Models think that they shouldn't have to pay for anything and that someone is going to come up to them at Ralphs and offer them a sitcom!!Get Real!!I saw a great need for new "young especially babies" to be seen and their parents given the opportunity to have their babies seen by casting directors, photographers,talent agents, etc. Our company has been successful for going on 16 years and we have not sold pricey headshots or classes...but do not work for FREE!!!



Yes... I'm aware of the many "opinionated" individuals in this industry ( YES...including myself!) I know, I sometimes get defensive, but there are so many people that think "they know" what they are talking about. I hope this information helps you understand the variety of wonderful services that are out there in this industry now...I really appreciated you expressing your opinion...



Take care,

Pre-paid talent agencies are highly regulated in California, though these regulations are rarely enforced. The City Attorney of Los Angeles filed criminal charges against a couple of these companies and employees/owners. Flashcast was one of them.



If you believe they are doing anything wrong, contact the Consumer Unit of the City of Los Angeles City Attorney office.

I am a former child model/actress. I was featured in several print ads with major brand names from the early 1970's on. I was also on a network television show with a four year run. My parents never paid anyone an up-front fee for "exposure". The head shots, portfolios, and big contracts came AFTER months of small, local print work and "exposure". Many of these companies don't want you to know the simple truth; most babies/kids/people will not make it in this business. 99.9% of people who enter the business (through companies such as the one above) will not be making enough money to support themselves at age 18. My advice... save the money you'd spend on these services and invest in your child's future college education. And, as the "owner" seems hell-bent on criticizing everyone, I'd like to say that I DID make enough to live happily on for the rest of my years. AND I STILL WOULDN'T sign my children up for these services. Companies (of any sort) are out to make a buck; the entertainment industry is no different.

You Call yourself a former child model, fashion model, and agent for 20 years? Who are you? By what you've stated in your commentary, it is clear to me that you know NOTHING about the "baby business".



Our children are auditioning and booking projects on a consistent basis through State Licensed Talent Agents!!!!! You sound to me like a bitter wanna be star YOURSELF that didn't make it. If you were soooooo successful in this industry, why on earth are you living in Nevada? Why are you hiding your name? Please indentify yourself.



We you even aware that most talent agents DO NOT represent children under the age of four? People like you that think any company that charges a fee is a scam is what gives this industry a bad name! Do YOU work for free? I would hope NOT? Please contact me. I would love the opportunity to speak with you and educate you a bit on the "baby business".

Hope to hear from you...

Please, understand that in this industry, there are many who simply desire to take your money. NEVER pay an "up-front" fee to join any group who says in effect, "I can make your child a star." The industry doesn't work that way. These "searches" and those who give "exposure" to babies are 99% scams. Check with the talent's union (SAG or AFTRA) for a list of legitimate agencies who handle small children. You can get a list for free of those who represent children. Also, don't pay for a portfolio for small children. A snapshot will do until you have secured a legitimate agency. Be aware that most often, babies used in print, etc. are either siblings of children represented by real agencies or the child of someone who works for the ad agency. To pay for "exposure" is a waste of money! (this advice from a former child model, fashion model, then an agent for over 20 years)

Dear Shanda:(or whatever your "real" name is!...competitor????!!!!)

Are you kidding?...



Sweetheart... here's the REAL scoop:

Flashcast provides "exposure" and "advertising" to newborns, infants & children! We do NOT find work for our clients!



If you truly came to our offices, and you were listening to our so called "robotic" sales pitch, you would've understood what services we provide. All negotiations regarding employment contracts are drawn up between you, the client, and a licensed talent agent... NOT Flashcast.



We work with some of the TOP agents in the industry! Do you honestly think that talent agencies would be working with our service if they were not booking our children. Afterall, they receive 10-20% of our clients earnings on each and every job! Furthermore, we have been in existence for 15 years, and are clients consistantly receive auditions on a weekly basis!!!!!!!!!



Those "suspicious" similar "referral letters", are actually forms that we provide to our clients, so as we may be informed each and every time our clients are contacted for work or an audition!!!!!!



Again, if you were truly a legitimate "client" you would've been well aware of this!!! If you really brought your child into our offices for an interview, as YOU ALLEGE, you were probably REJECTED, and can't handle it, or maybe you couldn't afford our service. If we like a child and the parents are professional but under financial hardship, WE WILL ALWAYS WORK WITH PEOPLE!!!!!!



We have scholarships available...for the RIGHT PARENTS!!!!!! If you think, for one minute, that your not going to spend $$$$$$ doing this...you've got another thing coming honey!!!! I used to be a talent agent.



Most talent agents don't even take children under the age of 4, THAT'S WHY THEY USE OUR SERVICE! Our wonderful clients have wroked for: THE GAP & BABY GAP, VERIZON, JcPENNEY, GYMBOREE, OLD NAVY, MERRILL LYNCH, IKEA, THE X-FILES, DISNEY, AND ON & ON & ON & ON & ON... 15 years of company names SHANDA!! GET A CLUE!!!!



We have clients from all over Southern California and BEYOND, not just "well off" areas!!!! Unfortunately, not every parent is cut out for this business...sadly to say...SHANDA...you are one of them!!!!!



It's really to bad when IGNORANT people go "blabbing" their big mouths on the internet, just because they can!!!!!!



THE THOUGHT FOR THE DAY FOR SHANDA:

BE A LEADER NOT A FOLLOWER!!!!!!!!!!!! WITH LOVE,

FROM THE (2) ROBOTS

IF YOU WOULD LIKE THE "REAL" FACTS ON THIS INDUSTRY, PLEASE FACE YOUR FEARS .