Looking for some tips on how to get camera-ready makeup for your photo session? Look no further! After years of capturing portraits, I know what looks best in camera. I can help you with what to do, or more importantly, what not to do! While I always suggest that my clients invest in professional hair and makeup for their session (because who doesn’t love a day of getting pampered?), I completely understand that this is not in everyone’s budget, and I’m here to help!
My best tips for camera-ready makeup…
- Great makeup starts with great skincare. Before applying any makeup, use an exfoliating face wash to rub away all of the dead and dull areas of your skin. Cameras are made to pick up even the tiniest of details, including small skin flakes. By starting with a perfect, moisturized base, you’re setting yourself up for success!
- Once your skin is washed, moisturized, and primed, it’s time for foundation! Try finding a foundation that matches the color of your neck, not the back of your hand! Additionally, when applying foundation, make sure to blend it down your neck and all the way back to your ears. This way, you won’t have a distinct line along your cheeks and jaw. Finish it off with a lightweight powder to lock it in, and you’re good to go!
- Bronzer and blush are your best friend! By applying some bronzer on the sides of your cheeks, you can rest assured that your bone structure won’t get washed away in photos. Also, if you apply blush to the apples of your cheeks and blend upward, you’ll get a natural looking flush.
- Apply eyeshadow that is darker than your natural skin tone into the crease of your eyelid for natural dimension. Make sure to use a fluffy brush though to blend it outward! No harsh lines here!
- A bold brow can help define your face, so don’t forget to line them with a pencil, or plop in some eyebrow gel! If you choose to use a pencil or a pomade, make sure you give them a good brush through with a spoolie after. Again, no harsh lines here!
- False lashes aren’t just for the runway, consider wearing them for your session! While they may feel heavy or silly on if you don’t wear them often, they add just the RIGHT amount of dimension and drama to any photo.
- Don’t neglect your nails! Hands are incorporated into many of my poses, so well kept nails are a must. I always recommend neutral tones that coordinate with your outfits or the season. Pastels are an all time favorite! If you’re not a polish kind of person, freshly trimmed nails and a clear coat works just fine too!
- Last but certainly not least, don’t forget your lips! Just like flaky skin, cameras can pick up on flaky lips too! If you’re uncomfortable wearing a bold lip, try using a tinted chapstick to give your lips some color and hydration. If you want to go the lipstick route, try using a more cool toned pink or nude. It will help your teeth appear more white!
If you’re looking to do something fun with your hair as well, but a stylist isn’t in the budget, check out this Pinterest board created by yours truly! I have pinned tons of beautiful, easy to replicate hairstyles for every length.
