Model Bag Checklist

As I've been modeling for around four years now, I've picked up a few tricks along the way and learned to bring things you might not think you'll need. Always better to be over prepared than under. Personally, I love packing my stuff into a small suitcase; it keeps everything organized and allows me to bring more than what I could carry in a tote bag. Suitcases also make for really cute props when shooting in the city. So without further ado, here are my ten things you need to include in your bag for your next shoot. 

1. Wardrobe. I know, DUH, but I wanted to break it down a little.

1. Clothes. The amount of outfits you bring should be discussed prior to the shoot. It’s really going to depend on where and how long you’ll be shooting. If you don’t have guaranteed access to a place to change, you’ll probably only want to do one or two outfits. If you’re shooting for an hour, I wouldn’t do any more than two outfits.

2. Appropriate footwear. Oftentimes, I wear sandals to a shoot. This allows me to limit my time in uncomfortable shoes and have the option to switch to more comfortable shoes if we’re walking around. Don’t forget socks for boots, booties, and sneakers! 

3. Accessories can easily transform an outfit into a whole other vibe, while taking up very little space in your bag. I like to throw in a few options -- hats, fishnets, necklaces -- in case we want to switch things up a little. 

2. 
   Hair tools. No matter where you’re shooting, your hair is bound to get messed up or frizzy. I personally play with my hair a lot when I pose. Plus outdoors, you have the humidity and wind. A hair brush, a hair tie, and some bobby pins are a great addition to your bag and take up very little room. (P.S. keep the hair ties in your bag, not on your wrist!)

3. Makeup for touch ups. I always do my makeup prior to a shoot, but depending on the weather, you may need to do some touch ups. I recommend bringing a beauty blender to fix splotchy bases, q-tips for cleaning up smudged mascara/eyeliner, setting spray, lipstick or gloss, and of course, a mirror of some sorts. Numbers 2 and 3 will really make your photographer’s life easier in post production!

4. Water. I always bring my reusable water bottle, especially when shooting outdoors. Gotta stay hydrated!!

5. Safety Pins. If there’s a wardrobe malfunction or things just aren’t sitting right, safety pins will come to your rescue!

6. Bug spray. If you’re shooting outdoors, especially in humid climates, bug spray is a MUST. You might not feel the bugs biting you during the shoot, but that doesn’t mean they’re not biting! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made the mistake of not bringing bug spray and suffered the consequences.

7. 
   Oil/lotion gives your skin a beautiful shine. This is especially great for swimwear and beach shoots. My “Black Tape Project” shoot used a LOT of baby oil for that shine. Not to mention, our skin gets dry! Gotta keep the skin hydrated too!

8. Baby wipes. Sometimes you sit on the ground or touch something dirty. Quick easy way to clean your hands and clothes. Paper towels are a good option as well to dab sweat and clean up body oil.

9. Advil/Tylenol. I’m prone to headaches, so having a small container or baggy of ibuprofen is a must. 

10. Band-aids. These come in handy if you’re clumsy or just breaking in a new pair of shoes.

What are your must-haves for a shoot?