If you’re an aspiring model, or just someone who is serious about their makeup looks, doing makeup for a photoshoot can be intimidating. It requires a skill set and attention to detail that you may not need on an everyday basis. Applying the right look to your face can have the power to make good photos great, so it’s important to understand how best to showcase yourself in front of the camera.
Before you start, make sure to have a discussion with the photographer or makeup artist about what kind of look they want. Are they looking for something natural and subtle? Or something bold and glamorous? Knowing this information beforehand will save you time and give you an idea of what colors and products to use.
When it comes to product application, be sure to blend everything as much as possible in order to create seamless transitions between colors. This is especially important when working with eyeshadow looks because any harsh lines can appear exaggerated on camera.
If you’re doing a full face makeup look, always remember to set your foundation using loose powder or setting spray so that it lasts longer on your skin. This will also help reduce the appearance of shine, which is often intensified by the camera flash [1].
Makeup for a photoshoot doesn’t have to be complicated or intimidating – just remember to practice beforehand, discuss what kind of look you’re going for, and use high-quality products that are designed for long-lasting wear.
In this blog post, we’ll take you through exactly how you should tackle creating a stunning look that will flatter your face shape and feature lighting effects worthy of any magazine cover!
How To Do Your Makeup For Photoshoots?
When it comes to a photoshoot, your makeup can make or break the final result. It’s not just about looking good in person, but also in front of the camera. The right makeup can enhance your features, bring out your best qualities, and make you look stunning in every shot.
Choosing The Right Beauty Products
Before you even start applying your makeup, you need to choose the right products. This means looking for high-quality, long-lasting makeup that can withstand the camera’s intense lights and flashes. You also need to make sure that your makeup suits your skin type, tone, and personal preferences.
Here are some tips for choosing the right beauty products for a photoshoot:
- Invest in a good primer: A primer helps your makeup to stay in place, smooth out your skin, and reduce the appearance of fine lines and pores. Look for a primer that suits your skin type, whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin;
- Choose a high-quality foundation: Your foundation is the base of your makeup, so it needs to be perfect. Look for a foundation that matches your skin tone, provides good coverage, and has a matte finish. If you’re not sure which shade to choose, you can ask a makeup artist to help you;
- Consider using a powder: Powder helps to set your foundation and prevent it from melting or smudging. Choose a powder that matches your skin tone and has a light, translucent finish;
- Look for long-lasting products: You don’t want your makeup to start fading or melting halfway through the shoot. Look for products that are long-lasting, waterproof, and sweat-proof. This includes your foundation, concealer, eye makeup, and lipstick [2];
Proper Skin Preparation
To ensure that your makeup looks flawless, you need to prepare your skin properly. This means following a good skincare routine and applying the right products before you start your makeup.
Here are some tips for proper skin preparation:
- Cleanse your skin thoroughly: Use a gentle cleanser to remove any dirt, oil, or makeup from your skin. This will help to prevent breakouts and ensure that your makeup goes on smoothly;
- Exfoliate your skin: Exfoliation removes dead skin cells and helps to reveal fresh, glowing skin. Use a gentle exfoliating scrub or a chemical exfoliant, depending on your skin type;
- Apply a moisturizer: Moisturizer helps to hydrate your skin and create a smooth, even surface for your makeup. Choose a moisturizer that suits your skin type, whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin;
- Use an eye cream: If you have dark circles, puffiness, or fine lines around your eyes, use an eye cream to treat these issues. This will help to make your eyes look brighter and more youthful [3];
Using The Right Foundation And Powder
Once you’ve prepared your skin, it’s time to apply your foundation and powder. This is the most important step in your makeup routine, as it sets the tone for the rest of your look. Here are some tips for using the right foundation and powder:
- Apply your foundation evenly: Use a beauty blender or a brush to apply your foundation evenly all over your face. Make sure to blend it in well, so there are no visible lines or streaks;
- Use concealer to cover up blemishes: If you have any blemishes or dark spots, use concealer to cover them up. Make sure to blend it in well, so it looks natural;
- Set your foundation with powder: Use a powder to set your foundation and prevent it from smudging or melting. Make sure to use a light hand and blend the powder in well, so it doesn’t look cakey or powdery;
Adequate Contouring And Highlighting
Here are some tips for adequate contouring and highlighting:
- Use a contouring powder or cream: Choose a contouring powder or cream that is a few shades darker than your natural skin tone. Use a contouring brush to apply it to the hollows of your cheeks, the sides of your nose, and the perimeter of your face. Blend it in well, so it looks natural;
- Highlight the high points of your face: Use a highlighter to accentuate the high points of your face, such as the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the cupid’s bow of your lips. Use a fan brush or a small brush to apply the highlighter and blend it in well, so it looks natural;
- Use a blush to add color: A blush adds a pop of color to your cheeks and helps to create a healthy, youthful glow. Choose a blush that suits your skin tone and use a blush brush to apply it to the apples of your cheeks. Blend it in well, so it looks natural [4];
Good Eye Makeup
Your eye makeup is another crucial aspect of your makeup routine for a photoshoot. It helps to make your eyes stand out, create a focal point, and add drama and intensity to your look.
Here are some tips for good eye makeup:
- Prime your eyelids: Use an eye primer to prep your eyelids and create a smooth, even surface for your eye makeup. This will help your eye makeup to stay in place and prevent creasing or smudging;
- Use eyeshadow to add depth and dimension: Choose a neutral eyeshadow palette with shades that suit your skin tone and eye color. Use a light shade on your brow bone, a medium shade on your eyelid, and a darker shade on the crease. Blend it all in well, so there are no harsh lines;
- Use eyeliner to define your eyes: Choose a black or brown eyeliner and use it to line your upper lash line. You can also use it to create a winged liner or a cat eye, depending on your preference. Make sure to apply it evenly and close to your lash line, so there are no gaps;
- Apply mascara to your lashes: Mascara helps to make your lashes look longer, fuller, and more voluminous. Choose a mascara that suits your lashes and apply it in a zigzag motion from the roots to the tips. Use a lash comb to separate your lashes and remove any clumps [5];
Doing The Eyebrows
Your eyebrows frame your face and help to create balance and symmetry in your overall look. They also play a crucial role in your eye makeup, as they help to define your eyes and make them stand out.
Here are some tips for doing your eyebrows:
- Use a brow pencil or powder: Choose a brow pencil or powder that matches your natural eyebrow color. Use short, light strokes to fill in any gaps and create a natural-looking arch. Make sure to blend it in well, so it looks natural;
- Use a clear brow gel: A clear brow gel helps to set your eyebrows in place and keep them looking neat and tidy. Brush it through your eyebrows in an upward motion, so they stay in place all day;
Blush And Lips
Finally, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your makeup with blush and lips. Blush helps to add color to your cheeks and create a healthy, youthful glow, while lips help to define your mouth and add a pop of color to your overall look.
Here are some tips for blush and lips [6]:
- Use a blush that suits your skin tone: Choose a blush that suits your skin tone and apply it to the apples of your cheeks. Use a blush brush to blend it in well, so it looks natural and not too intense;
- Choose a lip color that suits your skin tone: Choose a lip color that suits your skin tone and complements your overall makeup look. You can opt for a bold, statement lip or a more subtle, natural-looking lip, depending on your preference;
- Use a lip liner to define your lips: Use a lip liner that matches your lip color or is a shade darker to define your lips and prevent your lipstick from bleeding. Use short, light strokes to outline your lips and fill them in, so your lipstick stays in place;
- Apply your lipstick evenly: Use a lipstick brush to apply your lipstick evenly and precisely. Start from the center of your lips and work your way outwards, making sure to stay within the natural contours of your lips. Blot your lips with a tissue and reapply if necessary;
Professional Tips For Doing Your Own Makeup For A Photoshoot
Apply Your Makeup in Natural Light
One important step to ensure that your makeup looks great in photos is to apply it in natural light. Natural light provides the most accurate representation of your skin tone and ensures that your makeup is evenly applied. If possible, apply your makeup near a window or outside so that you can see the true colors and textures of your makeup.
Prepare Your Skin with a Primer First
To help your makeup last throughout the photo shoot, it’s important to start with a primer. Primer helps to smooth out your skin’s texture, minimize the appearance of pores, and provide a smooth surface for foundation application. Use a primer that is suited to your skin type, and apply it all over your face before applying foundation.
Use a Full Coverage Foundation
A full coverage foundation is ideal for photoshoots as it provides a flawless, even base that will look great on camera. Make sure to choose a foundation that matches your skin tone and has a matte finish. Apply your foundation with a damp makeup sponge, using a stippling motion to ensure that it is evenly blended.
Avoid Makeup with a Shimmer
Shimmer makeup products can reflect light in a way that may not look great in photos, so it’s best to avoid them for a photoshoot. This includes shimmer eyeshadows, highlighters, and bronzers. Instead, choose matte formulas for a more natural and camera-friendly look.
Avoid Breakouts
To avoid any last-minute breakouts, start preparing your skin for the photoshoot a few days in advance. Avoid trying new products that may cause irritation, and make sure to cleanse and moisturize your skin regularly. If you do experience a breakout, try to avoid picking or popping any blemishes, as this can cause scarring or make the breakout worse.
Apply a Matte Lipstick Formula
If you want to wear lipstick for your photoshoot, choose a matte formula that will stay put and won’t transfer onto your teeth or clothing.
Substitute Your Highlighter with an Eyeshadow
If you want to create a subtle highlight on your face, try using a light, shimmery eyeshadow on the high points of your face instead of a traditional highlighter. Apply a small amount to the tops of your cheekbones, the bridge of your nose, and the inner corners of your eyes to create a natural, radiant glow.
Focus on Reducing Skin Texture
In photos, skin texture can be amplified, making bumps and imperfections more noticeable. To help reduce the appearance of texture, try using a blurring primer, such as one that contains silicone, to smooth out the skin. You can also use a color-correcting concealer to hide any redness or discoloration.
Use Highlighter and Blush Instead of a Heavy Contour
A heavy contour can look great in person, but it may not translate well on camera. Instead, try using a highlighter and blush to add dimension to your face. Apply a highlighter to the tops of your cheekbones and blush to the apples of your cheeks for a natural-looking glow [7].
Soften Your Lashes and Brows
For a more natural look in your photos, try softening your lashes and brows. Use a clear brow gel to brush your eyebrows upwards, and use a lash curler to give your lashes a subtle lift. Avoid using false lashes that look too dramatic, as they can appear too heavy and unnatural in photos. If you do want to wear false lashes, choose a natural-looking style that complements your eye shape.
Play Up the Eyes
Your eyes are the focal point of your face in photos, so it’s important to make them stand out. Use a neutral eyeshadow palette with shades that complement your skin tone, and create a subtle smoky eye by blending darker shades into your crease. Apply a thin line of eyeliner along your upper lash line, and finish with a coat or two of mascara.
Talk to a Makeup Professional
If you’re unsure of how to do your makeup for a photoshoot or want to create a more dramatic look, consider talking to a makeup professional. They can help you choose the right products for your skin type and tone, provide tips and techniques for applying makeup, and create a look that is tailored to your individual features and style.
Practice Your Makeup Before Your Photoshoot
Finally, it’s important to practice your makeup before your photo shoot. This will give you a chance to perfect your technique, try out different products, and make any necessary adjustments to your look. Set aside some time to do a trial run of your makeup a few days before the shoot, and take photos of yourself in different lighting to see how it will look on camera.
FAQ
What kind of makeup is best for a photoshoot?
The best makeup for a photoshoot is one that will enhance your features without appearing too heavy or cakey on camera. A full-coverage foundation, matte or satin finish powder, contour and highlight, neutral eyeshadow, and a neutral or bold lip are all great options for photoshoots. It’s important to choose the makeup that matches your skin tone and type and to avoid using makeup with a shimmer or glitter that can reflect light in unflattering ways.
Should I wear makeup for a photoshoot?
Wearing makeup for a photoshoot is generally recommended, as it can help enhance your features and create a more polished and professional look. However, the amount and type of makeup you wear will depend on your personal style, the type of photoshoot, and the desired outcome. If you’re unsure of how much makeup to wear, consider talking to a makeup professional or doing a trial run before the shoot [8].
How should you wear your hair for a photoshoot?
The way you wear your hair for a photoshoot will depend on the type of shoot and the overall look you’re going for. Some popular hairstyles for photoshoots include loose waves, sleek and straight, braids, or an updo. Consider the location and mood of the shoot, as well as your outfit and makeup, when choosing a hairstyle.
How do I prepare my hair for a photoshoot?
To prepare your hair for a photoshoot, start by washing and conditioning it the night before or the morning of the shoot. Use a heat protectant spray and style your hair with a curling iron, straightener, or another styling tool as desired. Finish with a flexible hold hairspray to keep your style in place without looking stiff or crunchy.
How can I look attractive in photos?
To look attractive in photos, it’s important to project confidence and showcase your best features. Use makeup to enhance your natural beauty, and practice good posture to project confidence and poise. Consider wearing clothing that flatters your figure and reflects your personal style, and use natural lighting to highlight your best features.
What is the correct order to apply makeup?
The correct order to apply makeup is as follows:
- Start with a clean and moisturized face;
- Apply primer to create a smooth and even base;
- Use foundation and concealer to even out skin tone and cover any blemishes;
- Apply powder to set the foundation and control shine;
- Use blush or bronzer to add color and dimension to the face;
- Apply eye makeup;
- Finish with lipstick or gloss;
Do makeup artists do hair or makeup first?
In general, makeup artists will do makeup first and hair second. This allows for the makeup to be set and not be affected by the hair styling process. However, the order may vary depending on the needs of the shoot and the preferences of the artist and the client.
What do you apply first in makeup
- The first step in makeup application is to start with a clean and moisturized face;
- Next, apply primer to create a smooth and even base. From there, apply foundation and concealer to even out skin tone and cover any blemishes;
- After that, apply powder to set the foundation and control the shine;
- Then, use blush or bronzer to add color and dimension to the face;
- Apply eye makeup and finish with lipstick or gloss;
How can I be more photogenic to smile?
To be more photogenic when smiling, practice good posture and facial expressions. Relax your facial muscles and take a deep breath before smiling, and try to maintain a natural and confident smile without appearing forced or fake. It can also be helpful to practice in front of a mirror and experiment with different facial expressions to see what works best for you.
How do I start basic makeup?
Starting with basic makeup can be overwhelming, but it’s essential, to begin with the basics:
- The first step is to establish a skincare routine that works for your skin type;
- Then, invest in some essential makeup products, such as moisturizer, foundation, mascara, eyeliner, and lipstick;
- Begin with simple looks, like a natural or no-makeup look, and gradually work your way up to more intricate makeup styles;
How long do first-look photos take?
The time taken to shoot first-look photos varies depending on the photographer’s preference, the location, and the complexity of the shoot. Typically, first-look photos take between 15 to 45 minutes to complete. It’s essential to communicate with your photographer beforehand to establish the schedule and timing for your shoot.
Do you put on the foundation first when doing makeup?
When doing your makeup, it’s best to start with a clean, moisturized face. Then, apply a primer to smooth out the skin’s texture and help the makeup stay put for longer. After the primer, you can apply foundation, which will even out the skin’s tone and create a smooth base for the rest of the makeup [9].
Should you dry your hair before makeup?
Yes, it’s best to dry your hair before doing your makeup. Wet hair can cause the makeup to smudge and ruin your hard work. Additionally, it’s easier to style dry hair, which can improve your final look. If you don’t have time to dry your hair, you can opt for a quick blow-dry or tie it up in a towel to absorb excess moisture before starting your makeup.
Useful Video: PHOTOSHOOT MAKEUP | 6 Essential Camera-Friendly Makeup Tips for PHOTOS + VIDEOS
Final Thoughts
Doing your makeup for a photoshoot requires a bit of extra care and attention to detail, but it’s worth it to ensure that you look your best in front of the camera.
Remember, the key to great makeup for a photoshoot is to keep it simple, natural, and timeless. Avoid trends and overly dramatic looks that may not stand the test of time, and focus on enhancing your best features and creating a cohesive, polished look that complements your outfit and the overall theme of the photoshoot.
So, whether you’re doing your own makeup for a professional photoshoot or getting it done by a makeup artist, keep these tips in mind to ensure that you look and feel your best in front of the camera. With the right beauty products, techniques, and a bit of practice, you can create a makeup look that’s perfect for any photoshoot, from headshots to family portraits to high-fashion editorial shoots.
References
- https://claremurthy.com/do-your-own-makeup-for-photo-shoots/
- https://thehhub.com/2018/11/21/tips-for-doing-your-own-makeup-for-a-photoshoot/
- https://www.faithfulphotography.com.au/tips-for-doing-your-own-makeup-for-a-photoshoot/
- https://www.faithfulphotography.com.au/tips-for-doing-your-own-makeup-for-a-photoshoot/
- https://www.whowhatwear.co.uk/best-makeup-for-photos/slide3
- https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Makeup-for-Photos
- https://www.flytographer.com/blog/photoshoot-makeup-tips/
- https://www.ipsy.com/blog/makeup-for-photos
- https://illuminatebeauty.co/makeup-for-outdoor-photoshoot-tips/