Agents worth their salt NEVER charge to join their 'books'. They don't even have books they have clients. Agents earn when you do, that's the way it works and no other. In fact, if he is asking you to pay this money for the photo's as a CONDITION of joining his agency he is acting illegally. If it's an extra agency then it might be different. Please don't hand over money if you're suspicious, it doesn't seem like a lot but it funds the scams and as long as people keep paying the scams will keep running. Be especially aware of signing anything on the day. Most agents want you to think it over for a few days before you sign. Join thestage.co.uk stagetalk section and ask a guy who's username is Actor about John Doe, he works to fight against scams so if anyone knows it will be him.