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If we are using a makeup artist, please arrive for your shoot with a clean face without any makeup or concealer. If you will be applying your own makeup, bring it with you! You'll want to be able to touch it up during the session. You may also wish to start with a simple application and then build it up or change it as you change your wardrobe. Below are some additional things to consider. |
Applying makeup for photography is different than applying makeup for everyday wear. Here are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
General
- As a general rule, apply your makeup a bit heavier than you might normally as studio lighting tends to reduce the impact of makeup. "Evening" makeup will look more like everyday makeup in a photograph. To create an "evening" look, even more makeup needs to be applied.
- Use concealer that is a bit lighter than your face to open up your eyes and cover any blemishes -- especially around the lips.
- Use a foundation or tinted moisturizer that matches the color of your neck -- avoid using a foundation that creates a noticeable color change in your skin tone.
- Powder generously. There's a reason TV personalities have their faces powdered -- studio lights magnify any variance in your complexion. Powder creates a smooth, shine-free look you'll love!
- To add a healthy glow and shape to your face, apply blusher over the apples of your cheeks. Be sure to create a hint of color rather than a stripe!
Eyes
- Apply liner from the outside of the upper eyelid toward the inner corner. You may prefer to leave some of the upper lid unlined to make your eyes look larger.
- Apply liner from the outside of the lower eyelid toward the inner corner. Use a thin liner and leave the inner corner of the lid unlined. In photographs, heavy liner that completely encircles the eye makes the eye look small, which is not flattering.
- Keep the lids near the lashes and near the eyebrow light and use a darker shade in the socket line. Blend with brushes, starting light and building the color up in several layers.
- Use mascara on either the top or bottom lashes or just on top. Match the mascara to your hair color. Use black mascara if you have black or dark brown hair. Redheads, light browns and blondes should use brown.
- Groom your eyebrows into a classic arched curve. Use an eyebrow pencil to fill in any gaps and accentuate the natural shape.
Lips
- Use a bolder and darker color than you otherwise might -- even if it's just a few shades.
- Avoid using a "natural" color the same shade as your skin. It will cause your lips to be lost -- and you'll look dead!
- Use a liner that matches your lipstick.
- You may apply a gloss if you wish, although frosted finishes are best avoided.
- Lipstick has to be touched up often during a shoot. Be prepared to fix any feathering.
Nails
- Short, well-trimmed nails look best. Polish with a color that compliments the rest of your makeup.
- If you prefer not to use colored polish, consider a French manicure or at a minimum use clear polish to create shine.
- Fake nails are notorious for coming off in a photo shoot. If you feel you must use them, please be prepared to reattach a nail that's come loose!