Model Contacts
On Page 3 of Model Contacts, it pulled no punches. Just in case some “photographers” had other ideas and to deter the Phil Sutcliffes of this world. However, the lines were a little blurred as there were some “models” who were happy to offer a bit more, providing of course a cheque was attached. Though it must be said these were in the minority (despite what some lensmen would have you believe). On Page 5, Model Contacts amplified this further with its Terms and Conditions. “It is VERY IMPORTANT that you note the type of modelling each advertiser states. Please DO NOT expect an advertiser to model for men/adult magazine or video work if it doesn’t state it in the advert.” In bold and with italics if you did not get the message. Then regarding telephone enquiries, it stated: “We ask you to be polite to advertisers at all times.” Then again in bold: “Obscene phone calls to advertisers will NOT be tolerated and will be quickly dealt with by the authorities.” So you can get the picture as to the type of individual Model Contacts thought might be attracted to its services. But later on, it flips the coin a bit. “Photographers are advised NOT to send monies in advance to advertisers until they have discussed it with the advertiser concerned. NEVER send money of any kind to advertisers via the advertisers’ reference number.” So there could be some unscrupulous young ladies out there (or persons unknown masquerading as dollybirds in waiting). This shows how dicey this business could be. But there was no question the greater risk was on the model — and that holds good for today. It seems quaint now but there was a simple way of contacting a model advertising in Model Contacts through the good offices of the Royal Mail (don’t forget to enclose your postage stamps). It worked. Meanwhile, all female models got to advertise for free, while males were referred to its commercial rates (in this issue there were just two, which makes one think they were in the wrong place). Reason? Look back at Page 3 and its disclaimer that “MODEL CONTACTS does not knowingly accept adverts from person or persons involved in prostitution or any other sexual services/activities”. If the girls were charged and a young lady of dubious profession slipped though the net, MC could be had up for promoting and living off immoral earnings.