Models soon find out that in the fashion business it always pays to invest in yourself, whether that is employing a personal trainer to keep you in tip top shape or signing up to a new grocery service that will ensure you maintain a fresh and healthy diet.
In addition to factors such as fitness and diet there are other small but important steps that you can take in the days leading up to a shoot, as well as during the shoot itself, to ensure you’re at your best. Here we give a rundown of all the things that most top models will always have on their person when they head to a big shoot.
Models need to remember to care for their eyes on set, or otherwise risk incurring the wrath of a photographer
Eye Care of the Utmost Importance
There is nothing worse for a photographer than for a model to turn up to a shoot looking bleary eyed, because bloodshot or even just tired eyes can scupper a shoot before it has even begun. This means that a well-rounded eyecare routine and plenty of sleep are necessary for a model to take into account at all times. Just as turning up to a shoot with blood shot eyes is a no-no, so too is forgetting your contact lenses, because no one wants a model squinting at the camera. Daily disposable contact lenses, such as Alcon’s Dailies, are usually the best contact lenses for models, allowing them to switch out the lenses as soon as a shoot is over.
Peeling Cream Good for Early Preparation
While no one will expect a model to take peeling/exfoliating cream on set with them, there is an expectation that models who suffer from acne or other skin blemishes will use such creams and liquids in the days leading up to a big shoot. This can make the life of a set’s makeup artist much easier as they then have less dimples, and other imperfections, to conceal. Some of the best products out there at the moment are The Ordinary AHA 30% + BHA 2% Peeling Solution and The Shortcut Overnight Facial Peel Mini with the latter even being vegan, for those models who are committed to the use of cruelty free products.
Skincare creams are a great way for models to ensure that their skin remains spot and blemish free throughout a shoot
Never Go to a Shoot Naked
Okay, so we don’t expect anyone to actually do this, but it is also surprising how few models know that it is necessary for them to arrive at a shoot with things like bras, strapless bras, panty liners, stockings and socks all of which can then be used to complement whatever it is that the client wants you to wear. Failure to bring such basic undergarments to a shoot can lead to embarrassing situations, such as a shoot having to be delayed as someone dashes to the store for you.
Be Ready to Refresh
Sometimes a shoot can go on all day rather than just for a few hours and that means that a model will always need things with them that can re-energise and revitalise them. In this regard things like deodorant, makeup remover, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and mouthwash are all crucial to have in one’s bag. Ensuring you have these with you means you’ll still look fresh for those last shoots of the day, no matter how long it runs for.
Take a Good Book
Of course, one thing that is almost always guaranteed at a fashion shoot is a lot of downtime, as sets are prepared, and clothes adjusted or repaired. That’s why it is always good to have a book with you, which will make you appear infinitely more cultured and approachable than if you are just glued to your phone screen all the time.
