It was not long ago when ladies hid their baby bumps under loose fitting maternity wear and baggy clothes. Now, form fitting tops, sexy jeans and cute dresses are more the fashion during pregnancy. To meet the needs of these “growing” demands comes famous designers and large retail chains like, Liz Lange, Ann Taylor, The Gap, Target, Old Navy and much much more.

Has anyone ever told you that you have great hands or feet, a buff stomach, or beautiful eyes? If so, you may be a good candidate for the specialty known in the business as "Parts modeling." While I model in the Fashion, Commercial, and Beauty categories, I fell into Parts modeling years ago while doing print work for a cosmetics company. They noticed my hands, and I started hand modeling for them in addition to my other Beauty work. Later, I expanded into modeling some of my other parts as well...

Professional modeling is a competitive industry. It is said that "8 out of 10 girls dream of a career in modeling," and now more boys are following suit. Promotional modeling is less competitive and will give you valuable experience within the industry, but what does it mean to be a promotional model?

After winning the 1996 Miss USA title, Ali Landry's modeling and acting career blossomed. Her highly acclaimed role as the "Doritos Girl" began when her first commercial appearance aired during the 1998 Super Bowl. That spot received such a positive response that Ali was asked to recreate the role in a Doritos commercial again during the 1999 Super Bowl.

For years “young girls” have dominated the modeling industry snagging contracts and bookings with cosmetic lines, top designers, department stores and magazines. Many believed that by age 25 a female model was ready for retirement and no longer marketable. Now the advertising trend is shifting towards more sophisticated models proving 40, 50 and 60 are not only fabulous but profitable as well.

A steady gig in the soap opera arena is widely sought after by many struggling actors looking for stardom on the big screen. Known as one of the toughest training grounds for any actor, any one of five roles - Extra, Under five, Day player, Recurring Day player and of course the coveted contract role - on one of today's daytime dramas is an excellent way to jumpstart your acting career.

When I started modeling, I was told at 5-foot-7-inches tall it would prove to be a challenge. Most fashion models were at least 5'9 to 5'11. I would soon realize that the 'fashion modeling' arena is representative of only a fraction of the work available to models in the industry.