Top 5 Model Bag Essentials - Vikrant Photography

“You never get a second chance to make a first impression” – Will Rogers

Whether you are a professional model with years of experience or an aspiring model who is just starting out, when you are headed to a casting call, your preparedness can make a world of difference. Having your model bag essentials handy can make a great first impression, which in turn can get you booked again and again! Modeling agents and agencies prefer working with models that are professional, and being prepared is one of the ways that you can show them that you’re serious about your career.

As a Fashion & Model Photographer based in Philadelphia & New York, I have come across many models who were just adored by their agents and booked again and again, simply because they were always prepared with essentials for a model shoot. Having observed models for over two decades now, I can say confidently that a good model has the following essentials for different types of modeling shoots:

1. Comp Card and Portfolio

First and foremost—always keep your comp card and a copy of your portfolio (both digital and physical copy) in your bag, so that you can leave them with your agent. If you haven’t got either, don’t worry—I can help you build one that impresses—99% of my models get agency representation! Just fill out this form and I’ll get back to you!

2. Basic Makeup & Styling Tools

It is great if you can touch up your own makeup between shoots! While items like safety pins, a basic sewing kit (for quick wardrobe fixes), hand sanitizer, toothbrush, mouthwash, floss, mints, etc. are the same for both female and male models, there are few must-have makeup items for models on the go that differ for both.

Women: Clear makeup organizer with essentials such as Foundation, BB Cream, Concealer, Blush, Bronzer, Eyelash Curler, Eye Shadows, Eye Liners, Mascara, Eyebrow Pencils, Blotting Sheets, Lip Balm, Makeup Remover, Sunscreen, and Moisturizer. For hair styling, tools like flat iron and curling iron along with a hair spray and other hair products come very handy. For quick hairstyle adjustments, hair ties, bobby pins, clips, hair brush, comb, and elastics are a must-haves for models. If you have a hairstyle that will take hair extensions, I would definitely recommend that you have extensions—think how great it would be if you can change your hair from short to long in just a few minutes! Also, remember to have other feminine products with you at all times.

Men: While men may not need all the items that women do, it is great to keep a good Concealer Palette, a Bronzer, and/or a Blush Palette, as you too can use a little touch-up here and there! Plus, hair styling tools like hair wax, gel, or spray, a shaving kit, a makeup remover and a good moisturizer can go a long way.

3.Undergarments

To avoid lines in clothing, some shoots may request you to remove your undergarments completely (you can request for accommodations to be made in case you’re uncomfortable). Or the opposite can happen, which means the shoot can request you to wear their undergarments. In either case, being prepared always helps!

Women: A selection of undergarments such as bras, panties, g-strings/thongs, bodystocking, camisoles, tights, boy shorts, panty liners, half slip, stick on bras, nipple covers, and socks. Nude/Skin, black, and white colors are good to have in regular, push-up, strapless, padded (if your bust size is less than 34B) and a good support bra (if your bust size is above 34B). Bras should ideally be seamless, and for those with a bust size less than 34B, bust pads and push-up boosters are a great help. Bodystocking should be nude/skin color with no lace and narrow shoulder straps; camisoles and tights should be in white and black; seamless panties and g-strings/thongs should be in black, white, or nude/skin color. Another important item to carry is 2 sheer-to-waist pantyhose in black and cream color.

TIP: Do NOT carry any suntan colors, ever!

Men: Selection of undergarments such as simple boxers, boxer briefs and low-rise briefs that are form fitting to your body in a solid, neutral color. You should also have clean, white and black t-shirts and tank tops, as well as a pair each of blue and black jeans.

Dress shields are another important item to carry for both women and men, especially if you tend to perspire heavily. This goes especially for fashion shoots—remember, the clothes are going BACK on the rack and will not sell if they smell of body odor or even perfume. This is why a model never applies a scent before a show!

TIP: Make sure the undergarments you’re carrying have no bold prints, patterns, lace, colors, or logos/branding, as it tends to show.

4. Shoes

A small selection of shoes are good to have in your model bag. Often, you will know the type of booking you are going to ahead of time, so you can ask your agent or booker what type of shoes to bring. If you’re not aware of what shoes to bring, I would suggest a few options that I listed below in clean, good condition. Note that if you’re traveling to Asian countries for a shoot, it is a good idea to bring a good selection of shoes since finding American or European size shoes in Asia can be tricky (they have smaller feet than we do).

Women: If you’re not aware of what shoes will work with your shoot outfit, it’s always a good idea to carry a pair of Black and Nude pumps, Black and Nude Strappy heels, and basic flat shoes. You can also carry evening sandals in Black, Gold, Bronze, and Silver.

Men: If you’re not aware of what shoes you need to carry, your best bet is to keep a pair of classic Black and Brown dress shoes, and a pair of plain white sneakers. These go well with almost any kind of outfit!

5. Snacks, Water, & other Essentials

Last but not the least, photoshoots, fittings, and shows can often go on much longer than planned, so always remember to carry some easy-to-eat snacks (like a protein bar) and plenty of water (ideally in a reusable bottle—it’s good for the environment as well!). I recommend this because while most of these shoots and shows do not provide any food, in the rare chance that it is provided, you may run the risk of consuming something that upsets your stomach (this is especially for those who have specific dietary requirements or restrictions), so it’s always safe to err on the side of caution and bring your own food. TIP: Avoid eating while wearing the client’s clothes. If it is absolutely necessary be sure the client’s clothing is covered with a scarf or a towel. You should also carry a makeup hood, to prevent makeup from getting on the garment while changing between shoots.

Another item to add to your bag is a phone charger or a portable power bank—shoot hours often come with downtime that you might spend checking your phone for work or leisure, so it’s a good idea to have a power backup. You can also carry extra accessories of various sizes, shapes, styles and colors (including gold and silver) like earrings, belts, bracelets, and more.

That’s it! I know this may look like a LOT of things, and I know they probably are, but trust me, the more prepared you are the better impression you will make! You may not use all of these things at the same shoot but they are items that come in handy in case of an emergency. Remember, a professional model is a prepared model—and I know that with these model bag essentials, you will be a great model in no time!

Before I wrap this blog, here’s a parting tip: When on casting /agency calls, female models should wear a body hugging top paired with tight jeans, while men should wear a body hugging t-shirt and fitted jeans. Good luck!