Makeup
I recommend using a professional makeup artist to help you prepare for the shoot. Since doing makeup for a photoshoot is different than normal applications, using a makeup artist will ensure you look great in your pictures. A professional makeup artist will know how to apply makeup for the camera, how to match your skin tone, how to select colors that make your features pop, how to contour and bring out the correct amount of shadow or highlight, etc. You’ll look and feel amazing which will make a huge difference in the images.
I understand that there are times that using a makeup artist is not feasible or desirable so I’ve provided some tips and suggestions below that will help if you do the makeup yourself.
Products
Use quality brands because cheaper brands will make your skin appear cracked and wrinkly in the pictures. Avoid products with sunscreen, mineral products and products that are shimmery or glittery. Use Matte products and use powder (but not HD powder) instead of liquid because it’s easier to blend.
When applying your foundation, it is best to use a damp sponge or foundation brush rather than wiping your foundation on your skin with your hands to avoid uneven coverage or streaking.
Skin Prep
Wash and moisturize your face first so you’ll start on a fresh canvas. Then apply a thin layer of primer paying special attention to the areas under your eyes, on your nose, on your forehead and on cheekbones.
Application
Apply your makeup in good light. If possible, use natural light near a window during the application.
Foundation and Powders
Select the closest possible shade to your skin tone. Any variations in tone may look awkward and will be obvious in photos.
Don’t over apply your makeup because it will stand out in pictures. Try to make your skin look natural but flawless.
Contouring and Highlighting
Both contouring and highlighting are extremely important for photo shoots. Use a matte finish contour under your cheekbones, along your temples, and under your jawline. This will add definition and depth to your face. After contouring, highlight your cheekbones and cupid’s bow in the same places the light would hit them naturally.
Eyes
The eyes are often the most important part of the subject in a photo shoot and they need to pop. Use black eyeliner and mascara (instead of brown or gray). Fake eyelashes can be used and will look amazing if applied correctly. However, if they are not applied correctly, they start coming unglued, they irritate your eyes, etc. they’ll ruin your pictures.
Eyeshadow colors should accentuate your eyes. Blues and greens tend to look better with warmer shades like golden browns, peaches, or reddish browns, while hazel eyes pair well with purples, grays, and pinks. Brown eyes tend to be neutral, pairing well with nearly any color. Using a lighter shade for the inner corner, a medium shade for the rest of the eyelid and a darker shade for the crease will add definition and depth to your eyes.
Eyebrows
Wax or pluck a few days before the shoot so that they’re clean, defined, but not irritated. Don’t wax or pluck on the day of the shoot. When applying makeup on the day of the shoot you want to fill them in. It’s easy for eyebrows to get washed out in pictures so darkening is extremely beneficial.
Blush and Lips
Depending on the camera, lighting and other factors your makeup may be substantially softened in the images. Due to this you need to apply more color to your cheeks and lips than usual. Use brighter colors, especially on your lips, as natural hues and nudes are harder to capture on camera. If possible, apply gloss to your lips to make them appear fuller and plumper.
The Finishing Touches
Ensure everything is blended properly and that you haven’t missed anything. Once you feel confident with the look, use setting spray to ensure the makeup stays intact. You still may need to touch up during the shoot. In some settings and conditions your makeup will melt quickly. Due to this ensure you have concealer, powder, lipstick and skin blotters on hand.
