So, I’ve started going on modeling gigs recently. I guess you can say that I’m currently a working model. Since I like to be prepared, I scoured the internet for ideas on what I need to bring to a photo shoot. I didn’t get a great idea of what goes into a well-assembled model bag. Besides, most of the websites and YouTube videos were showcasing what women put in their model bags. Since I’m a guy, it was only partially useful. Anyhow, after a few tries, I think I’ve gotten a pretty decent setup.
Why do you need a male model bag?
Well, first off, you need to be prepared. I’m learning that there are so many models that do not put in the time to prepare for the gigs they do. You can set yourself apart from the riff raff if you show up ready to work. Trust me on this. If you want to show that you’re a professional, then you need to act like one!
Who needs a male model bag?
I’d say models and actors should carry a model bag. Actors may not need it so much, but it does come in handy in a pinch. Even if you don’t bring it on set with you, you should at least keep it in your car! You never know when HMU (hair and make up) decides not to show up and you have to do your own. (Yes, it’s happened to me.)
I’ll break up my bag into categories to make it easier to group things together.
Clothing
- Seamless underwear
- V-neck undershirt (preferably close to skin tone)
- Cuff links
- Shirt collar stays (various, preferably metal)
Skin
- Hand lotion
- Body lotion
- Deodorant
- Alcohol wipes
Hair
- Comb (or brush)
- Hair product (I carry hairspray – medium hold)
- Mini mirror
- Scissors
Nails
- Nail clipper
Mouth
- Toothbrush
- Toothbrush holder
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss (or floss picks)
- Lip balm
Accessories
- Wrist watches
- Finger rings
Other
- Tissue
- Cotton Pads
- Q-Tips
- Band-aids
- Cologne
- Sewing kit
- Lint brush
- Hand towel
Tech/Media/Etc.
- Phone charger
- Portable power bank to charge electronics
- Pen
- Pencil
- Notepad
- Comp cards (or portfolio)
- A book (or Kindle, to read)
- Earplugs
- Headphones
Food
- Water
- Snacks (non-messy, preferably)
This list should cover most general modeling gigs and runway shows. I have separated most of the categories above into ziplock bags. It makes finding items much easier for me!
I bought a vintage camera bag for a photo shoot a couple of months ago and it’s been reborn as my model essentials bag. You can use pretty much anything, but leave a little room in the bag in case you need to leave the set with goodies or free clothes from your shoots!
If I’ve left anything important out, please leave a comment below!