A cloud of alleged financial misconduct hangs over Ludlow Scout, a New York City-based modeling agency, as numerous creatives claim they are owed thousands of dollars for work rendered. The agency's owner, Shannon Leebern, denies these accusations, asserting that she is being targeted by a "smear campaign" orchestrated by a disgruntled photographer.
Selena Christina Perez, a 23-year-old Brooklyn-based model, is among those speaking out. Perez alleges that she is owed $3,000 for work performed over a year ago for renowned makeup artist Pat McGrath. She claims the payment has been missing, and has detailed her experience on a social media profile called "Ludlow Scam," which documents the agency's alleged wrongdoings, including unpaid invoices and delayed payments.
Since the "Ludlow Scam" profile emerged, over 20 models, photographers, and stylists have contacted The Post with similar grievances. These individuals report thousands of dollars in unpaid labor or promised refunds that have not materialized. Perez, who has also worked for brands like Makeup by Mario and Aritzia, shared screenshots of unpaid bills, contract details, and text messages allegedly from Leebern regarding payment delays.
Perez stated, "I’ve heard she was getting a divorce. I’ve heard her mom is ill. I’ve heard every excuse under the sun." Leebern's legal representative countered, stating that her client "has devoted her time and energy 24/7 into making sure the models had everything they needed."
Ludlow Scout, founded in 2014, initially gained a reputation for discovering and developing new talent, particularly from the Southern United States, for major fashion houses like Gucci and Marc Jacobs. However, sources suggest the agency's reputation has faltered since Leebern's former partner, Della Bass, departed in 2023 to start her own agency. Bass has not been accused of any wrongdoing.
The core allegations center on models paying between $350 and $750 for test photoshoots, with claims that Leebern retains this money instead of compensating photographers. This has allegedly led to delays in models receiving their portfolio images, hindering their career prospects.
Jennifer Boland, whose daughter signed with Ludlow Scout, recounted paying $1,600 for multiple photoshoots. She alleges that after wiring funds for a specific shoot, the photographer was not paid by Ludlow Scout, and she was compelled to cover the cost herself. Emails reviewed by The Post show promises of a refund in three installments, but Boland claims she only received one of the three promised payments.
Leebern's lawyer has argued that Leebern is not personally liable for Ludlow Scout's obligations, as the agency is a limited liability company. The statement asserts, "To the best of Ludlow Scout’s knowledge, Ms. Leebern has never personally guaranteed any contract or obligation of Ludlow Scout."
Ludlow Scout currently holds an "F" rating from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), with 15 complaints detailing alleged thefts ranging from $850 to $8,000. One anonymous BBB complaint from this spring states, "They scammed me and the photographer out of $750 for a photoshoot and still has not created my model book."
Several professional photographers have publicly shared their experiences. Alain Vasallo, a photographer, reported booking issues where models arrived for shoots he had not confirmed. When he requested payment, Leebern allegedly responded dismissively, questioning the booking and stating, "It’s not even that large an amount."
Photographer Perla Diaz alleges that Leebern booked a shoot under her name and collected payment without her arrangement. Diaz attempted to file a lawsuit in Los Angeles but was directed to pursue the matter in Georgia, where Leebern's business is registered.
Leebern's legal team maintains that they are "retrieving and reviewing the relevant records" before issuing further statements, but "does not agree with the broad characterization that it withheld money owed to the model."
Amidst the allegations, an anonymous Instagram account, "Ludlow Scam," has gained traction, sharing details and testimonials from those who believe they were defrauded. Ludlow Scout's lawyers have accused the account of harassment, including tagging Leebern's minor son and family friends. The creators of the account, photographers Bonnie Nichoalds and Dametrius Ward, are reportedly planning a documentary about the situation.