I am a 29 year old freelance photographer in Jacksonville FL. I do this as a hobby and as a means to earn extra income on weekends and nights. An online contact from an website "model mayhem" contacted me (modeling/photographer website) to shoot a 'fashion show' at the old Club5 building in 5 points sat. 8/12/2006. Of course I was highly excited. I thought it would be a good opportunity to promote my work and get my foot in the door somewhere. WRONG!

I have attended and photographed one real fashion show here in Jacksonville and was expecting the same, not a drawn out talent show that blamed the 'kids ages' on the total unprofessional way the "fashion" show was tossed together last minute. This should have been my sign to run but I did not.

Our agreement for my photography services was so easy yet they did not honor it. 1. I expedited shipping on my new business cards and was told they would be included in the program guide that is handed out at the show. 2. I was to be able to sell cds from the fashion show at a booth that day, so I created my own forms, brought my mom to watch the booth while I shot pictures, and I opted for $16 each ($1.00 shipping), No not money hungry at all. I was not to be paid for this fashion show and knew this going in so that was a means to earn a little money. I just wanted the experience and to have more runway material in my portfolio.

I got a call from this girl I will leave nameless out of respect that she might not really support what goes on at JRP and hasn't seen these thousands of reports against the companies across the US. I will release all the names if someone feels they can take on this case, which I would only take the money owed to me to date from 5 photoshoots I did for them last saturday (explained later). And any amount over I would start by giving back to a client friend there that has wasted so far $1200 (the lowest package) on her child to attend. Met her on the telephone as she obtained one of my personal biz cards at the show. She called me because she wanted my prices for photography as she couldnt afford the $700 dollars JRP wanted from her for her child's pictures (I state this paragraph to let people out there I know I am serious after choking reading thousands of horrible stories and scams).

2 of my model friends were asked to participate in this show that are NOT affiliated at all with JRP. They are both tall and very fashion model like. Thin Pretty Tall. Another friend was also included in the event but they told her she was too short for fashion and in industry standards considered plus size which I guess is above size 6. (understandable) yet still beautiful girl. All 3 of these contacts could easily be obtained by my portfolio at model mayhem on my friends list as well as on my page at myspace all are in my top 20 list. I have a point for these specifics as well. I believe all these girls will come forward. I cannot guarantee but will guarantee at least two will testify. The third I can't guarantee because she wants outside work doing their bridal and hair shows.

When this new client called me for photography work I told her my charges for doing pictures in the park of kids was $140.00 and she would be given all the pictures and as many outfits as we could squeeze in before she had to leave town and I owe alot to this woman for helping me realize the light, and I believe I have also helped her. This is tech. what I charge for casual shots of kids in the park, and they would receive 15 Photoshopped (graphic design minor at UNF) NICE photos of her child to include on his comp card since she can't afford the $700, as well as 2 cds full of high resolution digital pictures (approx 250 images for $140)

That week there was numerous exchanges between a mutual client on the phone and I truly did gasp that they required this much money for photography at John Robert Powers. $700 is too much yet this is an opinion based on what they've already taken in from these parents. She informed me how much she had paid out to date and had to have her kids comp cards asap for a "conference" in LA. I believe it is MiBa or something to that affect with those characters which I've read now yest. is also in bed with JRP.

The week of the fashion show, the girl that contacted me for the free work at the fashion show called me finally bc I was confused on how it worked, my booth, etc. but I was excited. She told me to come to the above address listed with an "age specific portfolio". At this point I am still so excited (and stupid) that I didnt even ask about the show format bc I just wanted to photograph a fashion show so bad! I mapquested it, on route got lost, left a voicemail to her asking the name of the business and got no response. Finally I found the building. Second floor Suite 200 was John Robert Powers. I havent been aware of modeling scams until this past week. But have heard the name JRP and John Casablanca in YM type magazines growing up.

I showed up with my portfolio that I spent all weekend picking awesome work to show. Not sure why I needed it bc I was hired already, their current photographer was photographing a wedding on that date an unable. Regardless I brought the portfolio. The head person Nicole at JRP flipped thru it, seemed impressed, even though short, said "we pay $150 a comp card $50 headshot" and was I available to do a test shoot the following saturday the 19th at 10am. (setup at 9:30). I agreed and was so excited!

This was a way to keep my day job with my 74 yr old father whos going blind, and make money on the side. I thought "FINALLY at age 29 with my college degree Im going to earn money" and was confident in my skills and photoshop work so the test shoot was a no sweater for me. Of course I will still nervous as anyone would be.

My mom can witness a few things that happened at the fashion show. here are the facts:

1. One of the models pointed out her name wasn't included in the brochure, and she wasnt getting paid, and they said there were agents in the crowd. I encouraged her to still walk the runway even though they had to wear their own clothes for Fall Fashions (who puts on a fashion show and makes the models wear their own clothes?), that maybe someone would see her, and its good exposure, but her name wasn't in the program guide. Only one of three girls above mentioned was listed in the program guide.

2. My business card was NOT included as our verbal and written agreement (although I've deleted the correspondances now on model mayhem between the nameless girl that hired me that stated this I believe a verbal contract is still binding. During intermission at the show a client of JRP pulled me aside (as did many) stating they were unhappy with the photography they received in the past on their child(s), and looked at my portfolio setup at a table with my mom and my cards, with the form to help me and buy a cd for $16.00. Based on my portfolio he and many said I did "beautiful work" and have "lovely models" in my book.

This man (nameless unless he wishes to come forward), wanted me to photograph his child. The girl from model mayhem that contacted me saw this exchange (my mom will testify) and pulled me aside as I was saying the words "I am not affiliated with JRP" pulled my arm, and said "yes you are, between you and I, we fired the old photographer w/ 90 days notice and could I do the test shoot with his girl (a re-shoot)" I said I cannot do the test shoot with her because Nicole wanted me to do a test shoot with another unhappy lady I met at Wendys down the street at rehearsal night. I was too test shoot with a little boy at 9:30 setup 10 start on the date mentioned per Nicole and I's verbal agreement.

I sold only 7 cds, one parent bought 2. I made $105.00 for the day which doesnt include my time to crop, rotate, edit, and make photo galleries of the show. I didn't care. I just wanted to get my foot in the door. Still clueless.. it gets worse

Last week before the test shoot, I made NUMEROUS amounts of calls to JRP with not ONE call back. I felt bad bugging the girl that hired me for the fashion show, bc she has many jobs and I felt I was bugging her. After no call backs, I had to send her a message on model mayhem asking advice. Get this.

The info Line at JRP 363-9944 was given to me by a client of JRP and I called it and they said on the voicemail "they were accepting money for the fashion show cds on MY Behalf and I was also doing test shoot(S) all day saturday and to call the front desk to schedule an appointment with me. WOAH I didn't give consent to this! Nor did they ask me in advance if i was able to shoot these model portfolios that day. I only consented to doing the test shoot at 9:30/10am with a boy __X.

Regardless I said hey thats good, I will make some money right. NOPE. So I messaged ___X from MM and she said "yes you have 8 appointments that day, the first being your test shoot, but you will be paid for all 8 shoots". I called Jasmine (worker of jrp)4 times that week because I had questions to arrange my payment as a freelance photographer, (left voicemails bc I was told she was the contact there while Nicole was in LA). I accept cash money orders and paypal. Jasmine did not call back. I finally got through on Wednesday. Eventually someone named Mary picked up and said Nicole was in LA, would be back Thursday and call me then to discuss saturdays photoshoots and then asked if was I able to do the other photoshoots that day (they scheduled them so of course). I said yes I would love too. No call from Nicole.

Once again I messaged __X and asked advice. She said "I would show up Saturday and Nicole will be back and to go over everything with her directly before shooting."

I show up at 9 AM Saturday 8/19/2006 (clueless still) and wait till 9:40 till the lady at the front desk arrived. I walked in and she said "can I help you?" "I am the photographer doing shoots today I replied and asked for Nicole. "Nicole's flight is delayed till Monday in LA." So I asked for Jasmine. Jasmine came out, a very young girl, and she pointed me to Mary, another very young girl.

I asked Mary what the day consisted of, and she gave me a piece of paper which I still have which said "___X(name I photograph under) Photo Shoot with hours blocked off 9:30/10:30 etc. one hour blocks. There is a name, Age, Phone # on the sheet and handwritten are "CC or HS or CC+HS" (this stands for comp card, headshot or both.) Mary said "you are not getting paid for the first two test shoots." I chalked it up. I was honestly thinking I was making anywhere from 1000-1600 max that day based on __X's quote "you have 8 appts that day and you are getting paid for even the test shoot." (UM HELLO, IF THEY DOUBTED MY CAPABLITIES AS A PHOTOGRAPHER WOULD THEY REALLY SCHEDULE REAL APPOINTMENTS ALL DAY FOR ME?)

On the sheet there is only 6 names. 1 is crossed off. The 9:30 appt, (I knew this was a cancellation because I opted to help this person and photograph their child before she went out of town on Friday the 18th.) So I was counting on 7 children to photograph, and being paid at a minimum of 7 headshots to a maximum of 7 headshots + comp card. $350 start up to $1400.00. This is ALOT of money and good money to me. I also knew from a mutual client of JRP what the cost each parent was to pay. It was $700 dollars. $350 due before photograping and non refundable, the remaining when the pictures arrived. This included the composite cards of a quantity of 100.

They had each parent bring about 10 outfits and the makeup artist (name protected unless she chooses to come forward.) It was up to her to pick which outfits the children wear. During this one hour block for each child, I was to somewhat rotate kids, while one is dressing, shoot a child, (indoors and outdoors), with my professional lighting gear. I was showed the small photography room. The last photographer Dell, his equipment was still setup in that room. Mary asked if we could push it to the back. It consisted of two very large softboxes. I said no because I also have 2 large softboxes. His equipment if I had to guess was more expensive than mine. I wasn't familiar with his gear and it was two big to just roll each light thru the doorway. I had to remove each softbox from the light very carefully bc to me, ITS WRONG for another person to touch their gear. I'd be upset.

This figuring out Dells 2 lighting gear put me off to a late start of 10:45. I start shooting. My first client is the same man that ___x pulled me away from that saw my portfolio at the fashion show a week prior. His child was a reshoot as he was unhappy with the pictures he received before. I chalked it up, knowing I wasn't gteting paid now 2 TEST SHOOTS? All day till 4:30 I was literally busting my bum making sure each child got studio shots and outdoor shots. In and out all day constant, and was becoming discouraged because I did not feel one hour time slots were enough to properly photograph each child for what they have dished out to John Robert Powers. (Keep in mind each child gets one hour, 4 outfit changes (4 looks) that is not enough time for $700 bux!)

I did very well. Mary said she was impressed that I finished it bc Dell could only 2 do photoshoots in a day. Probably because he took his time and gave each client was they rightfully deserved for the $ they charge at JRP. I do not believe Dell was really fired, nor do I think they have told him about me, or me touching his gear. I do not know this for a fact.

One of my appointments was a comp card and they wrote it on my sheet as headshots. $100 (my payment not theirs!), difference. It was a comp card. Not a headshot. So that I have invoiced at $150 not $50 bc I have proof in pictures.

Right now I still cannot get anyone to call me back to arrange a meeting with Nicole to go over what I can invoice since I was told several different things.

I believe I am owed $800.00

This is for 5 kids ages 7,9,17,14,5. My last appointment was a free photoshoot winner from the fashion show. I didn't agree to this freebie so i am invoicing it. The girl was young, 25, and hadn't a clue what she won. They said it was a picture package worth $600 dollars and announced it on the microphone as a raffle winner at the Fashion Show. However, this child was only to receive headshots, in a block of one hour, 2 outfit changes.

She and I spoke and she bought a ticket to the fashion show thinking it was a runway show like you would see in NYC consisting of high end runway models. She was wrong. IT was a talent show and a fashion show of kids some of whom aren't JRP members and were asked to do the show bc they "looked like real models". This person would come forward to say this. When she asked how they were lined up to walk, they had her in the back with another handsome man. When she asked if it was by age, they said No, they were the ones that looked like real models. Unft. this is mostly true.

The JRP website claims that they do not accept everyone. This is not really the case although they don't accept who cannot pay for the scam. While I was at JRP doing these photoshoots I talked alot to the parents, and kids, yes trying to get more information and sure enough did. One girl in the show was a heavy girl. In fashion terms, she was too large to be a plus sized model. If i guessed her weight I would say 220. A Teenager. I am sad and embarressed on her behalf. The proof is in the pictures on what they allowed her to walk out in. I heard many conversations about this poor child in the week and 1/2 of seeing her. It is criminal to accept someone's money like this for a self esteem class not fashion.

Indeed what you read on the internet is true. They had the makeup artist teaching modeling. An older heavyset woman teaching runway, and everyone there was sort of unprofessional.

Jasmine is 22 from my findings from the mutual contact at JRP. She is Nicole's assistant. Mary is 19. Very beautiful tall girl, she is the director. I am sorry, but this is a little young no?

I have 5 sets of pictures and the parents phone numbers and it has taken me alot to get to this point of frustration. I spoke to my friend in Orlando who pulled up over 20 links to John Robert Powers Scams. What made me finally write was Kendalls story being exactly on point. She wrote on this website if you look up other JRP scams on here.

I haven't been paid for my work. When I call the info line, they have taken my name off but still demanding parents to put their money in by today (the 25th), for a CD (MINE) and dvd of the show. They are collecting money on my behalf? i didnt consent to this. the parents that bought cds from the show have been mailed out. I took the online photo gallery down after reading numerous scams this week. I included it on the cd that was mailed. I have saved all my shipping documents, paperwork from the show, and my photo shoot schedule. I am not calling anymore down there.

What I dont understand is why they wouldn't want to pay me for the work I've done and obtain the cds bc the parents have already paid a downpayment. I have consider calling each parent and letting them know the photos are finished and look EXCELLENT BTW, but due to no response from the company I am holding on to them until I get paid.

I left Nicole another voicemail yesterday stating I need to arrange a time to come in collect my money and go over the invoice since so many people told me different things. Nothing yet. And I have these kids cds! Whats up?

At this point i do not want any affiliation with the company and it isnt a money based decision. What they are doing to these parents/kids is criminal. I've gotten to peek in the classes now and speak to some workers there. One girl that is a client of JRP teaches the hip hop class. What! I hope they pay her! Keep in mind the director is 19 years old. The assistant is 22. The girls didnt seem very busy while i was there. I was angry seeing them on the internet and talking about their boyfriends all day bc the week prior, they couldnt take a minute out of their busy days to call me? This is why?

Currently John Robert Powers owes me $800 for my photography work. After reading 4 more pages of scams about photographers AND workers of JRP rushing to the bank before their paychecks bounce, I will not accept a check. I never did before. I am a freelance girl, cash money order and paypal only. The unft. part is I never did get to sit with the lady that runs things Nicole. I wish I never was asked to be a part of this money hungry school. I am still giving the girl __X every opportunity to get away from this place. Class action suits, small claims court, u name it, people are filing it. california to even our local branch in jacksonville.

Another friend of mine fell trap for the radio scam "disney auditions" now i've got to witness for myself being there as a photographer. It is all true what you read. Do not pay them. The money is NON REFUNDABLE. If you choose to not pay for certain things they do indeed get very snotty. One worker admits she isn't trained to teach the class she's teaching.

All i want right now is to inform the public of the scams. If someone ever in the future reads this, that would be willing to take on a case against JRP or if there are similar experiences from what you've read, I encourage you to file a report. You probably never will get your refund. DO NOT sign any contracts. DO NOT BUY INTO them telling you there are agents at their fashion shows. Its BS! They will accept anyone with the cash. The lowest package they offer is $1200.00 Their photography rate is ridiculous. The photographer uses their own gear, so this is not any expense to them. The people that print their comp cards is local and only charges 100 bux to the average person, so you know the school gets a discount. and Im making it clear they haven't paid me yet for my work or called me back. I have the pictures.

I have the pictures also to proove they would accept anyone. With braces (photographed) Large (photographed) beautiful women that are not affiliated with JRP at all used to boost their show (photographed and will most likely testify).

They say a picture is worth a thousand words!

And I have them.

In John Robert Powers case, a picture is worth $700 bux!

On TOP of the contracts. and are non refundable if they do not turn out. !

I hope this story helps parents and children make a conscious decision on these modeling schools. Save your money!

IF AN AGENT WANTS YOU OR YOUR CHILD they will not make you pay money! the most they will ask for is for you to seek out a photographer to update your portfolio's.

The reason i leave ___X as nameless is because she is a professional working in the fashion industry and has done all she could answering my questions online, and maybe isn't aware of the scams about JRP.

I have now contacted 2 of the three models unaffiliated with JRP that were used for their looks to boost the 'fashion show'. They both will testify.

JRP does NOT have the copyrights OR images to the cds they are selling on my behalf.

I have 500+photographs and know how this place operates. My mom would testify to what she witnessed that day as well.

I've been hustled! But hey, its a learning experience for sure.

At least if anything I am saving someone some money from these modeling school scams in this case JOHN ROBERT POWERS OF JACKSONVILLE.

Thank you for reading this. I wish I could include my name and portfolio so you all reading could also judge wether or not I would even need to be put thru "two test shoots".

Ha! Who makes someone come in for a test shoot (this means you would examine my work and determine if I was right and good enough for a company), yet SCHEDULES APPOINTMENTS all day for me! BUAHAHAH. Sad part is I too bought into the JRP scam. I read their website, saw the famous names, and was so excited to think I would be their photographer. No THANKS!

Kelly

Jacksonville, Florida
U.S.A.

Click Here to read other Ripoff Reports on John Robert Powers

9 Updates & Rebuttals

One Very Happy Mom!

Jax,
Florida,
U.S.A.

John Robert Powers Jacksonville Florida is Not A Scam, For Hard Working and enthusiastic Clients and their Parents, Success is a Guarantee!!

#2Consumer Comment

Wed, April 02, 2008

I am the parent of children who attend John Robert Powers in Jacksonville Florida. My husband and i are both full - time professionals in a very demanding job where honest people are few and far between, so we are very leary of any program such as this. I have a 6 year old son and a 13 year old daughter. The Kids started taking classes approximately three years ago at the Baymeadows location and they are continuing to grow. Please read my story and now that i would love to share my opinions with you in person; however it would be at the John Robert Powers office on Baymeadows Rd. Ms. Pierce and her staff know how to reach me (privacy respected). We responded to a radio add that was advertising a casting director from Disney and Nickolodeon. The kids were so excited and ready to see what this was all about. I will be the first to tell you that my husband and i were absolutely the most skeptical parents in the entire audition room because we are so protective of our kids and worried that rejection would damage their self esteem. When we arrived, the room was filled with so many promising faces and nervous parents preping their kids. The Director (Ms. Nicole Pierce) of the company came out to greet the auditioners and their parents. She was dressed to the T and represented her company extremely well and went on to introduce the audience to her staff members. I can honestly say that Ms.Pierce carried herself very professional and bluntly honest and yet she was so warm and personable you just wanted to give her a big hug. Our kids went to the back with a two staff members, Ms. Olga and Ms. Ruby. After the auditions were complete they instructed the ones who were chosen to stay so that they could be video taped. My son received a call back; however our daughter did not. "Ms.Olga"and "Ms.Nicole" as my kids call them, and the casting director from disney brought my husband and i into the office and explained the reason why our daughter was not chosen. They explained that she was absolutely beautiful in every way but she was extremely shy and to nervous to speak. They were so wonderful to her by encouraging her explaining that she is welcome to try out again at a later time. My son on the other hand takes after his mother and will talk to anyone and everyone about whatever subject you would like to discuss. He would sing to them, dance for them and show them his amazing human tricks... (OH YEAH, Upon leaving the audition, my daughter admitted hat she did not do her best on her audition and knows that she could have done alot better, she said that she wants to give it another try in the future, my heart smiled!) Ms. Nicole advised that with my son being at such a young age but so eager to perform, he was going to need some training. We explained that we understood about the training and gaining experience because in any job or profession you have to receive some form of training in order to receive work. She advised that it would probably be best to try my son out in the smallest amount of classes to make sure that his is what he wants to do. She re-assured me that at any time my son did not want to continue with classes that our money would be returned at a pro-rated amount. That was the last thing on our sons mind. He loved his classes, his teachers and all of his class mates. i immediately started to notice that John Robert Powers was not just a business, it was a small close knit family. The time came where i began to notice that our son was getting a tremendous amount of call backs from numerous well known agencies and casting directors. They loved our son and offered him work. They only hold back was that he needed professional pictures. I knew this was true since the only pictures that i had of my son was ones that were taken by a family friend. And although they looked good to me, our family and friends , it was not what the industry was looking for.... I completely trusted Ms. Nicole and the rest of the staff at Jonn Robert Powers ( including Ms. Mary the 19 year old assistant director to the business) Ms. Mary was yes 19 years old, but she was extremely knowledgeable about the modeling and fashion industry since she was a competitive high fashion runway model in the Us as well as Europe, (you should see her resume it would blow you away), i have never in my life met such a high energy, outgoing, intelligent, driven and professional YOUNG woman... I see why Ms. Nicole hired her to be a part of the team. The staff explained that it was time for me to be thinking about getting professional comp cards of our son since he was receiving call backs but all with the same request ( professional pictures). Ms. Nicole nor any of the JRP staff has ever ever pressured me to purchase a photo package from their photographer. they would say that to us that when we get ready to let them know, but in the mean time it would be okay to continue to use the photos that we had. i have said all of this to bring me to these points. I came into contact with the aggraveted photographer that listed the original complainant about not receiving payment from JRP whenever i looked at her photos on her web-site (which are very beautiful photos) and called her directly to see if she would be willing to take a few pictures of our son on the side before she officially started to work for JRP. I explained to the photographer that i could not afford the $600.00 that JRP was asking and asked if she would take them at a lower rate. She agreed and we met at a park. She took alot of pictures and we spent about and hour and a half with her. She was very nice and really good with me son. She allowed us to have clothing changes which was nice. I gave the photographer a check and she later mailed me the cd's with my sons photos. When i received the photos and reviewed them i thought they looked good, so i took them to the agencies and casting directors that had work for my son. All of the agents and directors advised that they were not going to be able to use any of the photos that were taken. Needless to say, the money i paid for two 2 cd's could have been applied to the photo shoot at John Robert Powers. Ms. Nicole called and explained to me that she would do whatever she could to help me financially with the photo shoot. ( like set up payments ). She advised that she wanted her students to succeed and had no idea that i could not pay the entire amount at one time. She told my husband and i to come to her at any time with any concerns about financial issues concerning JRP and she was willing to help in any way that she can. The pictures were taken and i could not have been more pleased with the entire experience. They were patient and professional. They staff ran the entire day on an extreme elite level. The John Robert Powers photographer knew exactly what to do and say to get extriodenary shots. I have been with John Robert Powers for going on 3 years now. I have not regreted one minute or one experience. My family is always treated with courtesy and honesty. Ms. Nicole and the rest of the JRP staff has helped my son grow in so many ways to help him in his college paying and future plans career. $$$$ We recently received a phone call from one of the largest modeling agency in the WORLD not just the US.... Our son is now a client and his career is soaring!!! It is all thanks to the team at John Robert Powers Jacksonville. Ms. Nicole and the instructors treat the child and teen students at JRP like their own kids (again, a family). She is a very very busy lady because she is always going and doing to make sure that her students are receiving every opportunity available. Sure you are going to hear horror stories from individuals that are frustrated in one way or another, but that is in every business. But if the truth be told the real reason why alot of students do not go further in the business is because of a lack of commitment by the students and or thier parents. This industry is not tolerant of late or missed appointments, they do not have time for excuses or constant do-overs and alot of times you get 1 shot to catch the eyes of agents and directors and you have to be ready. So many times Ive seen kids rejected at auditions and the parents get so upset, but then the parents are quickly to realize that their kids have been missing their classes and not practicing. Then a few weeks later you see them and they are doing awesome... She and her team are not only involved with the business, they are also involved in NUMEROUS organizations in our community that benifit children and teens. Ms. Nicole and the John Robert Powers Staff are major sponsors in the S.T.U.D. Rally (Stop Teen Underage Drinking Rally). She hosts workshops for young people free of charge to help them build self - confidence and being confident on public speaking. She mentors children and teens.Ms. Nicole host food drives for needy families in our immediate area, and sends care packages to out military over seas. She and her staff are always earger to get involved with the community in any way possible. I honestly do not know when the woman sleeps or how she makes a dime with everything that she does and gives away. She definitely has a gift and genuinely cares about each and every student and their families... Oh Yeah, My daughter comes with us to take our son to his classes and Ms. Nicole lets her participate in the poise and self esteem classes to help her build confidence ( FOR NO CHARGE) Again i dont know how she makes any money at all, but it has to make you stop and think, people like Ms. Nicole are rare and she looks at her office as not just a business but as a ministry and i can say to you that the staff at John Robert Powers has truely blessed our family!!! P.S. The next time that you think that a casting director or an agency is fake that comes to JRP Jacksonville, THEY ARE NOT!! Ms. Nicole has such a close and outstanding reputation with these agents they trust her ability to judge and train talent, so they call her and come from all over for a chance to see her students. All you have to do is look them up on line or watch Disney or Nickolodeon, HBO, SHOWTIME, shows and so many more and see in the credits who the casting agents are, you can see that they are the real deal and they are the real agents who host auditions at the John Robert Powers location on Baymeadows road in Jacksonville Florida. Thank you for your time.

Krzykourt

Citrus Heights,
California,
U.S.A.

This is what the problem seams to be

#3Consumer Comment

Thu, August 30, 2007

All of these suposed employes and whatever are having to come on this site and defend the company saying how great they are. Guess what this is not just one JPR, in one state it is sevreal. which means that this company is a d**n joke. You should not have to deffend something if it is as great as you say. In case these people have not noticed there are not 1 BUT 5, THAT'S 5 I SAID! 5 pages of complaints against this company. That is enough for a pretty big law suit if you ask me. I was lucky enough to get my money back as a child but that does not change the fact that I was lied to and givin false hope. Also half of the money does not make up for all. Which now I could really use, believe me! Also I am disgusted with the fact that there are people out there that feel it is OK to do this to a child. Give them false hope and take from there parents. This company can try to defend their actions all the want. FACTS ARE FACTS. READ THE 5 PAGES! How do you argue when you know you are in the wrong. Grow the hell up JRP!

James

Las Vegas,
Nevada,
U.S.A.

Know What You Are Paying For

#4Consumer Comment

Mon, February 19, 2007

Our 5 year-old daughter has been a student of JRP for nearly a year. When we enrolled her we were told to expect nothing and give everything. Success is not deserved, it is earned. There were no guarantee's or promises. There have been auditions with agents and casting directors. The key to success is training and determination. We are involved with a JRP in another city, but I feel that my concern is for the Parent's that expect too much. If your child has talent wether it be in acting or modeling, then only time will tell. At 5 my daughter has attended approximately 6 classes, from Image(for self esteem) beginning acting, to runway and fashion print. She has participated in IMTA(International Modeling and Talent Convention) Los Angeles, Jan. 2007. Competing in 11 competitions. Including Runway,Commercial and sitcom, just to mention a few. She received 23 callbacks. Has a full time Manager in LA and is in the process of signing with a major Talent Agency. She has done the work, with our support to help make her dreams come true, "To be in the Television" She has already had two paying jobs and will continue to take auditions as they arise. She is still attending class at JRP. Training is forever. To constantly keep improving. I guess what I am trying to say is if it happens for your child it is not an accident. A school trains and requires a fee. Neither a Manager or agent will ever ask for money from you. If you don't work they don't get paid. There are only two real significant markets for actors, LA and NY. Of course there are local markets, but the real money is in theatrical and screen, which means union. Get the facts up front. Know what the real cost is. Don't let dillusions of grandure cloud your judgement. Hopefully the school in your area will have an owner who genuinely cares and deliveres what has been offered. Good Luck, James Las Vegas, Nevada

Michelle

Saint Louis,
Missouri,
U.S.A.

Show Me The Money!!!

#5Consumer Comment

Fri, October 27, 2006

Kelly, You shouldn't feel the need to regret what you said! You have a right to be paid for your services. 1) JRP did NOT hold up to their deal according to what "contract" you agreed to. You should ALWAYS get the money up front! NOT after the fact! They stated they would give out your business cards and did NOT hold up to their promise. They were making appointments and making money off of you WITHOUT your permission... They make TONS of money off of these poor innocent families and you should get a good chunk as a "professional". Here is my experience with the company in Saint Louis Missouri: My best friend went to a "Interview" to be told she qualified to be a model for the JPR company.. Well, me and her went to the "audition" where you sit in a room with a bunch of people and they brag about how such and such was in a movie or commercial. Well then you go in the room to be videotaped. Number 1. My friend isn't TALL enough to be "classified" as a model! She had the WORST catwalk I've ever seen! I Love her to death but it's true! These people tried telling her she was great and wanted to sign her up but she had to pay Thousands of Dollars for something they would never live up to and tried making her feel like one of a kind just to RIP HER OFF! I was fuming at this point and told her what exactly they were doing! She's not a stupid girl. She knew too! Then Weeks later after I moved to Saint Louis I heard them advertising on the radio about how they accept ANYONE! Fat, skinny, tall, short, you name it! I would NEVER EVER recommend this company to ANYONE! I would like to know why JPR would even hold a "Runway" show if not to actually BENEFIT the clients!! After all they are paying for it! No professional "Model" would go down a runway to NOT be seen by an agent or paid. Anyone that pays $700 to $1200 for a "Photo shoot" is CRAZY! JPR is even CRAZIER for stealing that money from innocent people that trust in them!

Kelly

Jacksonville,
Florida,
U.S.A.

I have spoken to Nicole, she is indeed giving me money tomorrow

#6Author of original report

Sun, August 27, 2006

I am updating this report to let all of you above know I have spoken to Nicole, she is indeed giving me money tomorrow. And I will no longer have dealings with the person that I said __X, I was completely lied to, and used. I feel horrible that I wrote about all of this. Nicole had no idea what was going on with any of this. It all could have been settled by an answered email or returned call. This girl never did have my check stated yesterday. Another lie. I am cutting ties with this person, bad business sense! What I read online false or not false has nothing to do with what I state now. Im let down in this person that I was protecting above. All matters are cleared up between Nicole and I and my faith has been revived on with this particular John Robert Powers Branch. I was indeed misinformed, but by a so-called friend I was protecting. No need to say anymore. This is dropped to anyone that reads. (To the person that created the false report-- game over)

Kelly

Jacksonville,
Florida,
U.S.A.

Addressing your comments

#7Author of original report

Sun, August 27, 2006

To address the second person who's report is more of a real update, I totally am in agreeance with you. ___X has definitely been the misinformer And I am angry in her actions! At this point I dont so much care about the money. She contacted from a modeling website catered to models above 18+ and so I was contacted to shoot a fashion show. (not talent), and no word was given when I asked the name of the co. on her voicemail till I even got to my interview. She has a hard time calling me back thats for sure, yet leaves apparently what im understanding now, a very very BIG lie about her having my money in her hand to get me to call back and more concerned about her name than anything else, like admitting or saying sorry that she wrongly misinformed me about the show, not filling our agreement, not answering my calls, claiming ot not have my phone number, when she called it all the time before, I am sadenned that this reflects very poorly on Nicole who, she seems nice, *why wouldnt __X give me her email when I asked?* Now things make sense :( so I agree completely that maybe I shouldnt have said "scam" to the jacksonville based company. I believe totally she should have said "this is for children, this isn't a fashion show, its more of a talent show, its for the kids, not people looking to see a runway show, i cant pay you, no i am not including your business card in the program guide, nor am i going to stick up for you about things i misinformed you about" (u are probably understanding at this point i am changing my mind on WHO HAS BEEN THE ONE MISINFORMING ME) I still will keep her name out of it totally bc shes not even an employee there I'm learning! I believe shes probably just concerned solely on her personal name than the name of jrp. Period. Her voicemail yesterday totally conflicts with what the boss says. And what the boss says GOES Here's a quote from their website to follow my initial argument about wether or not they will accept anyone "Does JRP accept everyone? No. We are looking for people with a high level of interest and dependability. When our students meet top industry professionals their conduct is a direct reflection of our training. Our relationships with the best agencies and casting directors are excellent because we are known for presenting only the most talented, enthusiastic and professional candidates" I hold no hostilities towards the boss nicole. To the other person I leave their name out, well when you read this update.... leave it between me and the boss. Would I recommend from my personal experiences any JRP at all? probably not. I should have not done any work with this company at all knowing that it was someone only 19 ( believe it was her doing so) that was scheduling the appointments and selling cds without my consent and that isnt Nicoles fault. From now on I know to not trust anyone period without a written agreement ! I apologize but I cannot take the word 'scam' out of the headline. I'd use scam to direct to the lawsuits from the other JRPS Not scam, miscommunication noted here. For that I most def. apologize. I thank this second person for sharing their good experiences and understanding more where I am coming from. The first response to my report doesn't seem to quite match up at all and seems very coincidental I left a comment for the__X to read, and how funny a report got filed this quickly to my response! (think you would agree:)

Kelly

Jacksonville,
Florida,
U.S.A.

miscommunication (varies from jrp to jrp please read)

#8Author of original report

Sun, August 27, 2006

Keep in mind, I am not talking about this necessarily Jax branch, Nothing spoken above has much to do with the head lady in charge, and I've been made aware the employee that I had the trouble with isn't with the company as of this week (why she wont call me back) I cleared up my personal issues with our local branch. I am responding to Kendall age 14's story in my report. I still feel some hostility towards JRP in general, Not any branch to be specific,. I have read all these law suits, and have posted the above solely on that alone I will say this. Every branch will differ from city to city. If you dont believe read up on charlotte esp, and san diego. I finally have gotten the boss (who's been out of town) to get in touch with me. No one was giving her my messages. We are supposed to arrange payment, hopefully soon. From now on I will only deal with Nicole. I don't think shes aware of 1/2 the stuff I talked about above. If you have the funds, sure it can help. I go by what the main website states about 'do they accept everyone" yes; if you have the money, in this case the local branch may help your child, However, I have one friend that feels ripped off. I'm not here to bash the company n jax. I'm here to direct this all to people wondering if it is a scam and if they do find these kids work. I have a list of law suits, that made my decision on wether or not to post the first initial statement of my arguments. I do believe that everyone is accepted and quote on their website that the auditions do not accept everyone, but they do if you can pay NOW I WILL SAY THIS! This branch could be a lot different than others based solely on one lady that runs the place, who happened to also be out of town, and had no idea of the bs going on the past few weeks, and said now they are going to pay me the correct amount. The person ___X. I named, isn't an employee even I find out, the one that i am protecting her name, either she was the one misinforming me about payment, our agreement on the show, or something, I do not know what, but she left me a conflicting voicemail yesterday and I will only deal with Nicole. Nicole seems pretty d**n honest to me. I feel bad in a sense writing my personal experiences that are ongoing still, to try to get paid, and will say she gives away free classes and lets people make payments. At the same time, these franchaises are independently owned, I dont know if you read Kendalls story? Shes been waiting for a refund, and a big one, and not getting it. Same goes around the USA. Reports filed by photographers, and children and parents alike about not getting their promised money after 2 years. Not everyone can afford a lawyer. Not every branch is negative. It's gonna vary state to state. My update: Wwaiting to arrange payment. Employee misinformed me about my pay rate. So giving the boss a lot of kudos to pay my invoice in full (waiting). I don't think she's a bad person. Do I think JRPs in genral are a ripoff? Yes I do. I have a friend that has a child that has finished classes there, and well, they arent to happy Nor is my friend that went to an audition with his child for a disney audition, If you have the $, I think it can work (locally), Have I been totally lied to? YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSS Who's fault is all of this? Someone I'm either protecting, or two very young girls running things (one not with company anymore I guess which is why ive been explained to I havent been called back) What did it take to arrange contact? This report. Again me stating are they scams, (opinion) Have I been paid (no) Will I update (yes) Am I upset (yes) Why? (miscommunication) Who's fault (whomevers job it is to deliver messages) I already realize that person I am protecting ___X, has read this and had people jump on to file in reports against my argument. A lying voicemail to me (2 in fact) on her 'having my check' I WILL ONLY DEAL WITH NICOLE! ---- I am def glad you have gotten your $'s worth at our local branch, I still advise anyone thats considering sending anyone (across the USA) to do research on schools vs agencies that make false promises. I do however agree that it can boost a child's self esteem. If each branch is independently owned its going to vary on what they offer. Again I stated the facts of whats been going on that's totally stressful to me. My story was written from a diff perspective. Someone that has had to go this far to get contact with anyone. I now wonder why the person tht I am protecting is lying to me! Like I said, from this day on I will only deal with the boss. I am still not going to include the links to the websites that lead me to here; I just hope someone does indeed give kendall her refund and sure I do hope I get paid as well, which I think will turn out fine, and will update this to let everyone know. This branch differs based on nicole writing me yesterday telling me that indeed she does give away free classes, and doesnt claim that she will make anyone famous and lets everyone know from the start. How do I know that ___X jumped on here to update this report? I left an obvious comment for her to do so. Who's lying? You tell me. I just stated facts and shared my opinion on the whole modeling school industries. If your rich, go for it. However I don't believe a 14 year old child is rich, seems pretty disappointed and my heart goes out to her, as well as my mutual friend/client there that feels let down. OUR JAX BRANCH appt is the only one that will allow children to go outside the co. for photography. I would have to hear the initial pitch of the company from start to finish to make a decision on if this branch is making false promises to their clients. I honestly do not know why anyone above is posting last names. you cannot erase these reports. I am really glad you feel you are getting your money's worth. This makes me feel a little better about the local branch. I do not however believe that the thousands of law suits filed by unpaid photogs, and clients alike to get their refund or payment is a lie. It is going to vary this report on my feelings initially stated, since someone that has a clue now, has finally gotten in touch with me. I am repeating again. I will only deal with Nicole. This other person I am parting ties with completely. What I stated in my report, well this was HER fashion show, not hers nec. but she was the one putting it together. and didnt at all to what she agreed to do. Thanks for sharing and I will update this when I get paid to let you know so. My feelings obviously still havent changed on this whole industry as Im still writing and confused why this had to be so hard to begin with! I would have never known about all these filed reports if i wasnt seeking outside action to make a decision on if I need a lawyer. Thank you, Kelly

Daria

Jacksonville,
Florida,
U.S.A.

JRP has helped my kids

#9Consumer Comment

Sun, August 27, 2006

I have read this complaint concerning John Robert Powers and I would like to speak on their behalf a bit if I may. I am a parent of 2 children currently enrolled in JRP. My youngest daughter was a student of Barbizon previously and was herded around like cattle there so I was hesitant, to say the least, when she approached me about going to JRP. JRP is a school, not an agency - just to be clear... When I met with Nicole, she was open and honest and I felt she had the children's best interest at heart. I am not a wealthy woman by any means, so money was most defintely an issue... She accepted payments from me at what I could afford and since my youngest had already taken classes at Barbizon - she accepted her free of charge and promised to help her overcome her shyness in at least 3 - 4 sessions. She did! Both of my children love their classes and look forward with much anticipation each week. I strived to give my children the tools they need to succeed in life... a good education, ambition, emotional support, spiritual guidance and good health to name a few... but none of these things will help my children unless they have the ability to believe in themselves and believe they can achieve and that is what Nicole and JRP has done for my kids. They have gained self-esteem and confidence. I understand that you may have made some of these comments out of anger or frustration. My children have nothing but respect for their teachers and receive respect in return... age does not matter. Agents do come to the school on occasion or fax info concerning casting calls to the school in hopes of finding new talent. Again, JRP is a school not an agency. If I were a casting agent, I most definitely would look at schools like JRP as a source for new talent. JRP gives the kids the information and the kids use these auditions to gain experience and skills. Skills they can use in life for interviews or meeting new people. They also look for pointers both good and bad so the next audition can be better. JRP never made any promises to me concerning these auditions. They never promised to make my kids stars but they certainly offer them the tools and skills to use if that is what they may want to pursue. My kids have been enrolled since March and both have worked. There have been certain auditions the kids chose not to do... I have never seen "teachers" at a school bend over backwards for their students like the ones at JRP do for their kids. It's all about the children there and that is what is so wonderful. I was at the fashion show you speak of and I have to tell you a lot of people were misinformed as you were by your girl X. You were not the only one. But that is miscommunication, not a scam. That show was for the kids and "all" students were allowed to participate no matter what they looked like... This show was for them - to showcase what they have been learning and for them to enjoy. It was also mostly for friends and family so they could enjoy the kids... If you went there looking for a NYC High Fashion Show, I can certainly understand your disappointment. It was never supposed to be that but some people were given that impression due to misinformation. The responsibility of the show was given to someone else and I feel it was Nicole with the help of others that was able to pull it together at the last minute. I don't know much about your financial situation with them except that I feel you should give them a little bit of time - the show was just on the 12th and I imagine your shoots were after that so I think its kinda soon to be complaining about payment... I do have dealings in the business world and if payment isn't made after 20-30 days then you get mad... I know Nicole to be a wonderful person and a good business woman. She is willing to work anything out with anyone so I feel you may have jumped the gun a bit. I guanrantee you will think differently once you have had the chance to discuss this with her personally. You will find a wonderful person with a big heart - big enough for all of these kids - with room to spare. In concluding, I feel the majority of your bad experience was because of empty promises made by your girl x and miscommunication. But please don't let the actions of one condemn the whole school...

Tony

Jacksonville,
Florida,
U.S.A.

I Beg to Differ

#10UPDATE Employee

Sat, August 26, 2006

I am a new employee with John Robert Powers Jacksonville, but have been affiliated with the company through my two younger sisters and three of my cousins for a little over two years now, and I must say that the allegations that are being claimed against this company's methods of operations are preposterous. Ms. Nicole Pearce's (the casting director) business dealings and professionalisms are a cut above the rest. She never promises anything that she cannot provide and yet still goes above and beyond to do what she can to help clients and employees as well, in any way that she can. From observation of the young clients' parents, they absolutely love the company, Ms. Nicole and what her works have done in their children's' lives and the opportunity that her services provide. As for the comment about the models not being paid for the latest fashion show, none of the models were paid, and none of them (to my knowledge) were non-JRP affiliates. The fashion show was simply for the school. It was orchestrated so that the kids would be allowed to participate in an event that provided experience on the runway and in the spotlight even if it wasn't the big screen. In reference to there being scouting agents in the audience, that's a story for the road; the only agent that was there was the special guest band Jan' Ra's agent, and I'm almost sure that he was not there looking for new talent. I am deeply appalled that someone would dare make these kinds of accusations against such a high standard organization.

Reports & Rebuttal

Complaint Review: John Robert Powers - Jacksonville Florida

John Robert Powers, Jacksonville, FL ripoff non-payment misrepresentation dishonest non-communication lied photography scam Jacksonville Florida

*UPDATE Employee: I Beg to Differ

*Consumer Comment: JRP has helped my kids

*Author of original report: miscommunication (varies from jrp to jrp please read)

*Author of original report: Addressing your comments

*Author of original report: I have spoken to Nicole, she is indeed giving me money tomorrow

*Consumer Comment: Show Me The Money!!!

*Consumer Comment: Know What You Are Paying For

*Consumer Comment: This is what the problem seams to be

*Consumer Comment: John Robert Powers Jacksonville Florida is Not A Scam, For Hard Working and enthusiastic Clients and their Parents, Success is a Guarantee!!

9 Updates & Rebuttals

John Robert Powers Jacksonville Florida is Not A Scam, For Hard Working and enthusiastic Clients and their Parents, Success is a Guarantee!!

This is what the problem seams to be

Know What You Are Paying For

Show Me The Money!!!

I have spoken to Nicole, she is indeed giving me money tomorrow

Addressing your comments

miscommunication (varies from jrp to jrp please read)

JRP has helped my kids

I Beg to Differ

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