It doesn't matter if you are hoping for your first audition or you are a booking machine, it's all about your preparation and professionalism when it comes to the entertainment industry (or any industry really). Time is money, similarly how we don't want or have the time to sit around waiting for some lighting error with the crew they don't have time to sit and wait around for you to find a lost item or find an alternative to something you forgot at home. Organization is key in this profession, so let's discuss how we can bring our A+ game to any situation rather it's a casting or booking.

HOW MODELS PREPARE

As I've discussed in my previous blog post A Week in the Life of a Model there are a variety of tasks models do on a daily basis to maintain or enhance their appearance and skillsets. This preparation is unique for every individual model. For instance, as a fitness model and yoga coach I do a lot of yoga shoots, so before a fitness audition or booking I'm sure to take a yoga class to find my center and make sure to practice my handstands as that is one of my specialty skills. Now, for a runway model who doesn't do fitness modeling this type of preparation is not necessary - they may work on there runway walk instead to prep. Food is also individual to how models prepare, some need a big meal before hand as they know they may get lightheaded while working long hours and others may feel to weighed down to eat a heavy meal before a shoot for opt in for light snacking before or during shoots and save the big meal for after.

Also we must consider the mental and emotional aspects of a career in the entertainment industry. Being an artist means a lifetime of getting to know yourself and learning what makes you tick, move, go or feel inspired. Watching Instagram reels of other models before a casting or booking may be detrimental to a models mental health while it may not bother another person or listening to an inspirational podcast may pump you up and inspire you to be creative and do your best work. The point is, preparation is something that can't be duplicated from artist to artist or even week to week. It depends on who you are, what you want out of your career and your individuals needs. 

Sample of a potential models preparation:

- facials (at home or professional)
- nails (at home or professional)
- workout (at home, personal trainer, gym etc.)
- purchase of: heels, portfolio book or website and model bag...

AUDITIONS: WHAT’S IN MY MODEL BAG

So, what's a model bag? You can use a durable professional looking medium sized duffel, weekender bag  or a small suitcase with wheels. A model bag is something I like to call a "just in case" bag filled with items you may or may not need on that particular occasion but you bring it with you because an artist is always prepared. So let's get in to it...

✓ STILETTO HEELS 
Are usually the best options in a tan or black shade. Choose heels as high as you are comfortable in but I'd aim between 4-6 inches. They don't have to be huge platforms and they don’t have to be designer. Just make sure they are comfortable to walk in and clean, first impressions are huge and scuffed heels won't look the part). 

✓ UNDERWEAR 
You also want underwear that is comfortable and seamless under clothing. Nude underwear is a awesome because it will be less visible in any outfits you need to wear.  I suggest having two nude thongs in your model bag.

✓ COMP CARDS
A comp card is a photo business card for a model. Bring around 2-5 cards with you and make sure you leave them with the casting agent or booker so they can remember you for future castings. 

✓ PORTOLIO
Make sure you've got a copy of your portfolio, whether that's a hardcopy version or a digital version. 

✓ MAKEUP BAG
This is going to be handy if you need to do any touchups on your makeup, but depending on the audition, aka casting aka go-see, you may only be wearing foundation or no makeup at all.

✓ PHONE CHARGER
Your phone is a business tool to connect with others on social media for future opportunities. I've created a model reel from shoots, this can be a great marketing tool for you. I always set my phone up somewhere or ask the makeup artist to film me in order to get great footage. 
  
✓ SNACKS AND WATER
Some castings can take a lot longer than you might expect. Make sure you've got plenty of yummy snacks!

✓ HAIR TIES & BOBBY PINS
Bring some hair ties so you can tie up your hair for digitals aka polaroids  if requested. 

BOOKINGS: WHAT’S IN MY MODEL BAG

✓ STILETTO HEELS 
Are usually the best options in a tan or black shade. Choose heels as high as you are comfortable in but I'd aim between 4-6 inches. They don't have to be huge platforms and they don’t have to be designer. Just make sure they are comfortable to walk in and clean, first impressions are huge and scuffed heels won't look the part). 

✓ UNDERWEAR 
Strapless bras, one in black and one in your skintone. You also want underwear that is comfortable and seamless under garments. Nude underwear is awesome because it will be less visible in any outfits you need to wear.  I suggest having two thongs in your model bag: one in black and one that is your skin tone. 

✓ WIGS
As a model you'll want to have a variety of wigs to create a diverse portfolio of looks. I suggest 2-3 wigs. The type of wig I'll leave up to you, but here are a few tips to help you get started. If you have straight hair maybe you opt for a curly wig, if you have long hair maybe you opt for a short hair wig, and if you have bangs maybe get a wig with no bangs. Or get a clip on bang!

✓ BREATH MINTS
In case you are working closely with other models. It's just the courteous thing to do. 

✓ MAKEUP BAG & WIPES
Not all makeup artist are created equal and they may not have your shade, so always be prepared with your own just in case.

✓ LOTION
Obviously.

✓ DEODORANT
Obviously.

✓ HAIR PRODUCTS
If you have straight hair for this booking bring your flat iron and heat protectant for any quick touch ups you may need on set. Other items to consider: hair gel or edge control, a hair brush and comb, hair ties, holding spray and maybe even a toothbrush for those tiny baby hairs.

✓ TAMPONS

I’ve definitely unexpected started my period on a shoot before NOT FUN. Be prepared.

✓ PRESS ON NAILS 
Just in case they want something more sleek than your nude nails.

✓ A BOOK
Sometimes there are long waiting times to wait for them to change the lighting or finish up another models shoot so having a book could help to cure boredom.

✓ IMPORTANT DOCUMENTS

CONCLUSION:

Keep your model bag in your trunk or in your closet to be ready at all times when you need it.