Body Parts

Some models specialize in presenting only certain body parts, such as hands, feet or legs, instead of their entire body. Models who work in this area are called part models.

Body part models are often used as doubles if the body parts of the actual advertising face of the campaign do not look quite as perfect in a close-up.

Requirements for hand models are:

• smooth skin

• Long, slender, graceful looking hands and fingers

• Good shape and the ability to pose the hands so that they look relaxed

• No blemishes or uneven skin tone

• Men's hands should not be too hairy

• Well-groomed and even nails

Hand models promote rings and bracelets for jewelers, nail polish, nail extensions and hand creams.

Requirements for foot models are:

• smooth skin

• evenly shaped toes

• be free of corns and hangnails

• no skin blemishes or uneven skin tone

• clean and even nails

• attractive ankles

Foot models advertise shoes, anklets, toe rings, creams, sprays, polishes, socks, etc.

Leg models are usually associated with tall models. Legs should be long, shapely, smooth, well moisturized, depilated and free of blemishes and varicose veins. Leg models sell many products such as stockings, razors, bath products and lotions.

These are the three main types of body part models; however, there is also a market for ears, hair, buttocks, neck, eyes and lips.

In principle, the body part to be presented should be particularly well-groomed. However, special campaigns may also look for special features such as extra thin legs, wrinkles or crooked fingers.