So You Want to Be a Model?

When you hear the word "model" names like Tyra, Naomi, Gisele, and Iman come to mind. But what about Krista, Ellen, Christina, Yana, and Susan? Don't recognize these names? That could be because the second group of names are those of parts models. Parts models do just that-the model body parts. You may think that's what the well known supermodels do since you're always seeing their bodies but this is a different type of modeling from that of runway supermodels.

Dani Corwin is the founder and president of Parts Models Inc., an agency based in New York that specialized in body parts modeling. Dani represents more than 100 men and women who model body parts. The most in demand body parts are hands, feet, and legs. Those models we see in magazines and sale paper ads who are only modeling such parts of their bodies are all parts models. Other parts models are used to model their body/torso area or their derriere.

So just how easily can one make a living from being a parts model? Well parts models can earn anywhere from $150 a day to several thousand dollars, depending on what they're modeling for-be it an advertising or an editorial.

The natural look is the current trend in parts modeling. Korwin advises those aspiring to become parts models to be realistic. While having a well defined body is important, being overly muscular isn't necessary. Being a parts model may be a great alternative to someone who doesn't fit the requirements to be a runway or showroom model. It many even be an advantage to some models, as it can give you a longer "shelf life." Rather than focusing on keeping your whole body in a certain shape, you can focus more on the part or parts you specialize in modeling. You will have to make a conscious effort to take care of the body part you're modeling. For instance, if you're a foot model you can't wear flip flops since there's the possibility that you may stub a toe. Hand models have to take extra special care of their hands and often avoid such tasks like washing dishes, taking out the garbage, or cooking. Many hand models wear gloves everyday to protect their hands. This may sound a bit extreme to some but it's the price some people are willing to pay in order to fulfill their dream.

I know some people may be wondering what it takes to be a parts model since obviously, the body parts you model have to be in great shape. Well for hand models, the hands must be veinless, poreless, and flawless with perfect skin. Long, slim fingers are the best and you must have evenly shaped nails and a
nice, long nailbed. The nailbed is important because it can elongate the look of your fingers, regardless of the length of your nails.

Leg models must have long, lean legs that aren't overly muscular since the camera adds weight. Tone and definition are a must and legs also have to be smooth and shapely, not showing any veins, scars, or blemishes. When it comes to feet, toes and nails must be evenly shaped. Toes shouldn't bunch up or cross over each other. The skin should be smooth and free of corns and other blemishes. Your shoe size can range from a 6 to 10 for women and a 7 to 12 for men.

Torso/body models have to have a great body, plain and simple. You must also have an even skin tone. And as for those who want to model their derriere, you have to have the perfect butt. What is the perfect butt? Well butt models are usually for jeans so you must have a butt that can fill out the jeans and give them a nice form and shape.

While being a parts model might not land you on the cover of Vogue, it can be steady work for those who meet the criteria. So be sure to take special care of your skin, for all you know your hands may net you thousands of dollars without you so much as lifting a finger.