Preparing for a photo shoot is more than just choosing the right clothing to wear—it is also important to apply makeup that will look good in the photo. Although the makeup that you wear on a daily basis may look good in the mirror, it is not the best look for a photo shoot. This is why this photo shoot makeup tutorial is here to help you.
I partnered with Kelsey Morey, founder of Haus of Pretty in Westport, Connecticut, to share professional advice on how to do your own makeup at home that will accentuate your features without looking too done-up.
How to Do Makeup for Photoshoot?
The very first step in any makeup routine for a photoshoot is to prepare the skin properly. Well-moisturized skin is a smooth canvas for the foundation to be applied on, and it also makes the makeup last longer. Apply your favorite moisturizer the night before and also in the morning. For the photoshoot, Kelsey suggests applying a BB cream as a base. This will give an even tone to the skin without looking heavy. Do not apply sunscreen while doing your makeup, as it will create uneven reflections in the photos.
Foundation should be applied lightly and blended well into the neck. Matte foundations work best for photo shoots because dewy or shimmery foundations can look shiny in photographs. Remember, the aim is to have an even skin tone while still being able to see your natural freckles and features.
Recommended products: Make Up For Ever Ultra HD foundation, applied with fingers or a large brush.
How to Apply Eye Makeup for Photoshoots?
Eyes are a prominent feature in portraits, but sometimes it’s best to keep things simple. Begin by applying concealer underneath the eyes to cover up dark circles and brighten up the area. Apply three dots of concealer to each eye and blend with a small brush or your fingertips.
When it comes to eyeshadow, it is best to keep it to neutral colors. Darker colors should be applied close to the lash line to create a liner effect. Lighter colors should be blended upwards. Shimmery eyeshadows should not be used as they can create a scattering effect in photographs. If you have several changes of clothes, you can darken your eyeshadow slightly during the shoot.
For mascara, a volumizing and lengthening formula is preferred. To apply mascara, use small strokes and a clean mascara brush to remove clumps for a natural look.
Recommended products:
- Bye Bye Under Eye Concealer
- Neutral eyeshadow palette with a small blending brush
- Too Faced Better Than Sex Mascara
How to Do Your Own Makeup for a Photoshoot?
Although professional makeup for photoshoots is the best option, you can achieve it yourself with proper technique. Keep your makeup simple and accentuating, rather than contouring heavily. You can apply blush to the apples of your cheeks with an angled brush. Do not contour too heavily, as studio lighting will already be adding depth to your face.
Lip color should match the overall makeup look. A lipstick and lip gloss combination is a good idea, with the gloss layered on top. Take your makeup colors to the studio for touch-ups, as they may look different on camera. Lip liner should not be used unless done professionally.
Recommended products:
- Glossier Cloud Paint for blush
- MAC lipstick and Alba Botanica TerraGloss Shimmering Lip Gloss
How to Do Natural Makeup for Photoshoot?
Natural makeup is ideal for portraits, engagement shoots, family photo shoots, and outdoor shoots. The aim is to accentuate, conceal, and look fresh and clean. Apply light foundation, soft blush, neutral eyeshadow, and natural lip colors. Setting powder or a light finish spray will keep the makeup in place and prevent creasing.
Recommended products:
- MAC Prep + Prime setting spray for a polished finish.
Tips for a natural photoshoot makeup look:
- Keep eyes neutral and lashes defined
- Use matte foundation for smooth skin
- Lightly apply blush for a healthy glow
- Opt for natural lip shades
- Bring your makeup kit for touchups
How to Apply Makeup for Outdoor Photo Shoots?
Outdoor photo shoots have some special considerations, particularly when working with natural light. Matte foundation is a must to prevent the unwanted shine of sunlight. Do not use shimmer on eyes and lips, as it will cause scattering of light. Waterproof mascara can be helpful in making lashes resistant to wind or moisture.
Blush and lipstick colors should be a little bolder than in indoor photo shoots, as direct sunlight can have a washing effect on softer colors. Neutral eyeshadow schemes are still the best choice, and a light finishing spray will ensure that the makeup stays in place longer during outdoor photo shoots.
For beach or engagement photo shoots, you can apply a layer of lip gloss on top of the lipstick to give a subtle shine that looks great when it catches the natural light.
Tips for outdoor photoshoot makeup:
for outdoor photoshoot makeup:
- Use waterproof and long-lasting formulas
- Avoid heavy contouring
- Bring your own touch-up kit
- Stick with neutral colors to complement natural lighting
How to Do Makeup for Your Own Photoshoot?
It is possible to do your own makeup for a portrait or family photo shoot if you follow a few simple rules. Keep it simple, use good quality makeup, and aim to enhance your natural features. Groom your eyebrows, apply a thin layer of foundation, neutral eyeshadow, mascara, and a soft blush. Finish with natural lip colors and set with a light finishing spray.
Even if you are doing your own makeup, professional tips such as Kelsey’s can make a big difference in your photos. Always remember that makeup for photography is not about hiding yourself—it’s about highlighting your best features and looking camera-ready.
A Few Extra Tips for Photoshoot Makeup
- Do not use foundation or powder with shimmer.
- Don’t wear sunscreen in photoshoot makeup
- Keep brows neat and groomed
- Stick with long-lasting, high-quality products
- Bring your makeup for touch-ups
- Think about various lip and eye colors depending on the clothes being worn
- When in doubt, hire a photoshoot makeup artist
These tips can be applied to all kinds of photo shoots, whether it is a family photo shoot or an engagement or beach photo shoot. By following a proper makeup tutorial for photo shoots, one can achieve professional-looking results without looking too done-up.
Conclusion
A successful photo shoot is as much about preparation as it is about posing. Good makeup can add to your natural beauty and make you camera-ready. This tutorial on photo shoot makeup has taken you through all aspects of makeup, from moisturizing to foundation, and then on to eyes, lips, and final touches.
Whether you are applying makeup yourself or have a professional makeup artist for a photoshoot, the same rules apply: keep it natural, accentuate your features, steer clear of anything shiny or too dewy, and play up what makes you look good in pictures.
By following these makeup tips for photoshoot, you can easily get the desired and long-lasting effects, whether it is a studio photoshoot, outdoor photoshoot, or beach photoshoot. With proper preparation and easy makeup techniques, you can create different makeup looks for photoshoot that will make your portraits timeless and beautiful.
Makeup doesn’t have to be scary. With the right knowledge and products, you can get professional-looking makeup at home and feel confident in front of the camera.
