Photographer Scam Alert

Just a warning to all photographers out there that this scam that was identified long ago seems to be making the rounds again, this time in the Bay Area.
I found a reference from aPhotoEditor from last year which is how I decided not to engage by replying. https://www.aphotoeditor.com/2025/09/10/photographer-scam-alert/

Please read the article to get details of how the scam works.

Here is the email I got for reference:

Hello,

My name is Merlin Gauvin, and I’m the Creative Director working with MIRA Condominiums, San Francisco, CA, on a lifestyle-driven interior photoshoot for one of their luxury apartment unit.

We’re producing a collection of 26+ final images that merge refined architectural photography with natural, effortless lifestyle moments. For this project, we’re looking for a photographer who can maintain clean, intentional interior compositions while capturing people (a couple) in a candid, unobtrusive way that feels genuinely lived-in.

You can review the full project scope and creative direction here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/e/2PACX-1vQ8pdkoiFiTONGrmu0V6DFfaqs5GeRaYpptviAeyx3MbCoaAB-VfEDjtx7x6enJRpuNMEDBcQ7km9Pp/pub

If the direction resonates with your style, please write back and I’d be glad to answer any questions you may have.

Warm regards,

Merlin Gauvin

213-575-1325