Are you preparing to get your photo taken for work or for school? Maybe you have something more glamorous going on like engagement photos or a swanky event that will be photographed. Or, perhaps you’re a style blogger who poses for the camera frequently.
When it comes to applying makeup for photos, there is a whole new list of rules that apply. You don’t want to look washed out or shiny, but you also don’t want to look like a clown!
I took a class a while back that taught me how to apply photo-ready makeup. Here’s what I learned:
Skincare:
- Make sure you start with a clean face!
- Don’t use irritating products like Retinol or “cleansing” masks.
- When preparing to apply makeup for photos, SKIP moisturizer unless your skin is VERY dry.
- Instead, moisturize your face with a primer.
Foundation:
- Use a foundation with NO SPF. SPF will reflect in the flash, giving your face a white, washed-out look.
- Make sure your foundation matches your skin right-on. It should not be lighter or darker.
- There should be no oil in your foundation.
Powder:
- Unless it is a translucent powder, skip it. Other powders will leave a white cast on your face with the camera flash.
- Mineral powder is a definite no, especially when it comes to getting photos taken! Mineral powder + flash photography = face white-out. There have been numerous celebs make this mistake, including Ashley Judd.
- Make sure you use a clean puff when powdering your face. Use a “press and roll” technique for the best results.
Eyes:
- Despite popular belief, less is more.
- Line your eyes precisely. Be sure to practice this beforehand.
- Use waterproof eye makeup.
- Use a primer as your base and matte eye shadows in natural hues.
- Fill in your brows for a polished look.
- Use setting powder over your lids to keep everything in place and more matte.
Cheeks:
- Go natural by applying blush to the apples of your cheeks.
- Use a swirl motion with your brush to get the most natural look.
- If you stand back in the mirror and your cheeks don’t pop, you need more blush.
- If your skin is dry, use a creme blush.
- Only use a bronzer if it’s matte.
Lips:
- Use a little more color than you’re used to.
- Skip bold colors, unless you’re going for a vamp or period look.
- Gloss over color is great!
Finishing it up:
- Look at yourself in the mirror from a distance. Does anything stand out too much? Does anything need more emphasis?
- Finish with another dusting of translucent powder.
- Lightly spray a makeup setting spray.
And the golden rule when it comes to photo-ready makeup: Don’t OVER apply!
Follow these tips, and you’ll be posing pretty for those flashing bulbs in no time!
