Q&A for How to Become a Hand Model

Return to Full Article

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How do I know if my hands are photogenic?
    Traci Halvorson
    Modeling Agent
    Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach.
    Modeling Agent
    Expert Answer
    Photogenic hands typically don't have especially large knuckles, hair, or scars.
  • Question
    How do I keep my hands in great condition?
    Traci Halvorson
    Modeling Agent
    Traci Halvorson is a Modeling Agent, Former Model, and the Owner of Halvorson Model Management (HMM) in San Jose, California. HMM is a full-service, licensed talent agency representing over 300 professional models and actors. With over 25 years of experience in the modeling industry, Traci specializes in scouting, managing, advising, and launching modeling careers in the Bay Area. Traci holds a BA in Public Relations & Business Management from San Jose State University and also specializes in Marketing, Image consulting, and is a certified Life-Career Coach.
    Modeling Agent
    Expert Answer
    Aside from always moisturizing, keep them out of the sun. Some hand models even wear gloves at night and get manicures before a shoot.
  • Question
    I have a scar the size of a sesame seed on one of my hands. Will this prevent me from becoming a hand model?
    Community Answer
    These things can usually be covered with make-up, so you don't have to give up being a hand model.
  • Question
    How old do I need to be to become a hand model?
    Community Answer
    Modeling does not correspond to a certain age, however, if you are under the age of 18, parents' permission is necessary.
  • Question
    Which companies should I approach if I'm interested in becoming a hand model?
    Community Answer
    Look online for a modeling agency near you. Do your research and make sure it's a trusted, credible agency. If you book an appointment, it would be wise to take a friend or family member with you.
  • Question
    Could I become a hand model if I am 46 years old?
    Community Answer
    Yes! If your hands are in good condition, with no visible scars, cracks, or callouses, then you would be a great candidate.
  • Question
    I have a side tattoo on my ring finger. Will that have any effect or anything?
    Community Answer
    If it's visible during a shoot, they will have to Photoshop your body art. This will probably make it difficult to find work. The best way to know for certain, however, would be to contact an agent.
  • Question
    I have uneven skin complexion especially on my knuckles. Will that have a major effect on this career path?
    Community Answer
    Yes, if you want to be a hand model.
  • Question
    Can I use a press-on nail if my regular nail is damaged?
    Community Answer
    Probably, but it will depend on who's doing the modeling shots (and how realistic the fake nail looks).
  • Question
    Are there ear models?
    Community Answer
    Good ears can be used for earrings and jewellery. However, most of models do campaigns and photos for many products, without a certain specialization and ears really aren't a known modeling field.
  • Question
    I'm afraid only a minimal amount of clients would be looking for someone with a tattoo. Sadly it is seen as an imperfection these days. What should I do?
    Community Answer
    Some companies look for people who are advertising products through tattoos, but that occurs very rarely. But for hand modeling jobs, tattoos will minimize the chances of getting a hand model job if it covers the hand. You could cover it with makeup but that would be evident under various lights and most models must be seen makeup free to show the "blank canvas". Keep trying, as many people have tattoos these days, so make that point when going for jobs, to cover all possible clients.
  • Question
    Is it possible to just use one hand as a hand model?
    Community Answer
    No. The client changes their mind all the time as you shoot. They will want you to do things with your left even if at first they said they only want to see you hold the product with the right. Rarely do you ever shoot jobs with just one hand. At the casting, they always ask to see both hands.
  • Question
    I have a scar on my wrist. Would that impact anything?
    Community Answer
    That's up to your agent and clients. If you're needed only for rings, or just below the scar, it wouldn't matter.
  • Question
    I read that sometimes people with small hands are wanted to be used in place of kids. Any ideas on pursuing this? My hands are often compared to that of a child's.
    Community Answer
    The smaller the hands the better. Follow the steps in this article and become a hand model.
  • Question
    Can I be hand model using fake nails?
    Community Answer
    It depends on what the agency or company hiring you is looking for. I'm sure you'd be able to find plenty of jobs while wearing fake nails, as long as they're not too obvious or gaudy looking.
  • Question
    I have a prominent vein on the back of each hand. Is that a deterrent?
    Community Answer
    It may be. Some companies will photoshop or use makeup. If the vein is highly noticeable, it may be difficult for you to find work as a model.
  • Question
    The tips of my middle fingers are slightly crooked. Will that have a major impact on becoming a hand model?
    Community Answer
    It is possible.
Ask a Question

      Return to Full Article