A Brooklyn-based modeling agency has been accused of withholding payments from models and other industry professionals, prompting multiple allegations and complaints. Ludlow Scout, founded in 2014 by Shannon Leebern and Della Bass, is at the center of these claims, with accusations ranging from unpaid invoices to misleading business practices.
The controversy surfaced publicly after model Selena Christina Perez, 23, alleged she is owed $3,000 for work completed with prominent makeup artist Pat McGrath. Perez, who has previously modeled for Makeup by Mario and Aritzia, shared screenshots on social media purportedly showing unpaid bills, contract pages, and correspondence with Leebern regarding delayed payments. She described a pattern of excuses for the missing funds, referencing rumors about Leebern’s personal difficulties but expressing frustration over the unresolved issue.
Since Perez’s post, more than 20 individuals—including models, photographers, stylists, and parents—have contacted the publication to claim they are also owed money by Ludlow Scout. Allegations include demands for payments ranging from $350 to $750 for test shoots that were purportedly not used to pay photographers, with some charging that photos intended for portfolios were either delayed or withheld. A Florida mother, Jennifer Boland, whose teenage daughter signed with the agency earlier this year, described immediate follow-up requests for additional payments and noted “red flags” from the outset.
Ludlow Scout has been recognized for discovering and developing new talent, particularly rural Southern models who have gone on to work with luxury brands such as Gucci, Marc Jacobs, and Maybelline. The agency’s reputation reportedly waned following Della Bass’s departure in 2023 to start her own firm. Bass is not implicated in any wrongdoing and did not respond to requests for comment.
Despite the flood of allegations, Leebern’s legal representative rejects claims that the agency or its owner is engaging in misconduct. The lawyer characterizes the situation as a “smear campaign” initiated by a “disgruntled photographer” who has already been compensated. The statement emphasizes that contracts with models are held by Ludlow Scout as a company, distancing Leebern personally from financial liabilities. The lawyer also addressed concerns regarding bookings with photographers, saying it is possible that bookings were not finalized, although the agency denies knowingly misleading clients by claiming sessions were confirmed when they were not.
The Better Business Bureau assigned Ludlow Scout an “F” rating based on 15 complaints alleging financial improprieties, with claimed amounts ranging from several hundred to thousands of dollars. Prominent photographers who have worked with high-end fashion houses and retailers have also come forward with similar complaints, adding to the agency’s scrutiny.
As the dispute continues to unfold, former and current clients await resolution, while Ludlow Scout maintains it is working to support its talent despite widespread criticism.