Enough with the abstract talk. Let's get to something useful. Below you will find a list of what I call the Model's First Aid Kit. Not to be confused with a packing list or incomplete compilation of essentials, these are the things that I've seen models--experienced and inexperienced--curse themselves for overlooking. These items can prevent bad days, embarrassing moments, and even physical pain. Too often I have watched models become too dependent on the photographer, agent, and creative team that does so much for them, they overlook the fundamentals of comfortable survival during unpredictable circumstances.
So in addition to showing up on time, well-groomed, and prepared for the day's business, remember to bring the following in case of emergency:
- Nonmedicated eye drops. Not only will these come in handy during early morning shoots where you look less than awake, they can be a real lifesaver if something gets in your eye. Think about it. This really could happen. You are working with a makeup artist, who will probably be working closer to this area than your eye doctor usually is. Even if she is the most experienced, she can't be held responsible for what could go wrong if you flinch. Nor can you prevent an injury if her hand shakes. So even if you don't worry about redness, bring along some simple saline drops because accidents happen and for the sake of your vanity and your well being, you'll want these around. (That being said, you'll probably just use them to deal with hay fever during outdoor shoots, but you'll thank me if those fake lashes ever do go awry.) On a similar note, if you wear contact lenses, bring along some solution. More likely than accidental injury, a heavy handed MUA can easily push your lens out of focus. Now that I've seen dozens of times.
- Cortisone cream. I will never go to a shoot without this product, but many MUAs don't carry it around with them. I've used it on inflamed blemishes, skin irritations, bug bites, and even as a moisturizer for red, sensitive skin that couldn't tolerate my other products. But it's more than versatile. It can save a photo shoot if a model discovers a cosmetics allergy the hard way. So keep some with you and remember to speak up if anything going on your face burns or stings. That's not normal.
- Makeup Remover Wipes. Though you shouldn't show up to a shoot with makeup on, you may have to if coming from another job, and there's no time to hit the sink. Or you may use it wipe off some ghastly product that's irritating your face and needs instant cortisone. At the very least, you should use it to clean your face before leaving. No matter how cool you look, leaving with your makeup on is a bad habit because anything without the label non-comedogenic can wreck havoc on your complexion.
- Floss. Most models remember to bring mints, but they won't pry spinach out of your teeth. I think that sums it up.
- Bandaids. Handy if jabbed with a pin by the wardrobe stylist or if you trip during an outdoor shoot, but that's not the main reason to keep them around. Your feet will beg for them when you find out you'll be in those stilettos for another thirty minutes.
- Rose salve. It's just versatile. No matter how impeccable your grooming, you should have a
product on hand for the occasional rough patch. This universal product can be used on elbows, knees, cuticles, lips, and more. Plus, since it's a balm and not a lot, it won't run, making it the perfect spot treatment when you're modelling clothes that must be returned spot free. (The pictured product is available at Bath & Body Works.) - Safety pins. If wardrobe doesn't have enough, you may need to rely on yourself to keep you...well...covered. Enough said.
- Advil. If your back or feet don't hurt, someone's probably giving you a headache.
- Tweezers. You never know when you'll need them.
Face your next emergency prepared, and you'll never risk looking unprofessional. Hope this helps those of you just starting out, and good luck to all of you!
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