Makeup reads differently on camera so whenever possible, it's a great idea to hire a professional makeup artist who understands how to make you look your best under a variety of lighting conditions. If you aren't able to hire a pro MUA to help you out, I've created a list of 10 tips to help you look amazing on camera.
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1) Keep your eye on the shine
Overly shiny skin can cause bright spots under studio lights, causing the skin to look uneven. Keep shine at bay by lightly setting your makeup with a powder on the spots that are most oily. Use oil blotters throughout the day to stay nice and matte!
2) Shimmery things aren't your friend
Tiny pieces of glitter in shimmery makeup products can cause flashback under studio lights, displaying as bright little spots in your photo. For this reason, it's best to keep your makeup more on the matte side and avoid glittery products.
3) Smooth it out
Primers are a wonderful tool for smoothing the appearance of skin texture. Be sure to use one before applying your foundation and other makeup.
4) Look for problem spots
I try to use as little foundation as possible when doing makeup for portrait sessions. I like to identify problem areas, and correct those while trying to keep the majority of skin makeup focused at the center of the face.
5) Add a little color
A nice wash of blush and bronzer can be really flattering. If you don't know what color blush to use, try a universal peachy tone from your favorite brand.
6) Lashes, lashes, lashes
I'm not always the biggest fan of eyeliner but I'm absolutely obessed with mascara. Find a formula that gives you the look you're going for (volume, length, separation, etc) and give your lashes some love
7) Don't forget the lips
Dry flaky lips aren't the best look so it's important to stay hydrated and gently exfoliate your lips the night before your session if they're feeling a little rough. During your session, you should always have some gloss, balm, or other moisturizing product handy to keep your lips looking fresh.
8) Highlight
Contouring can easily look harsh on camera if done too heavily so I'd go with some light highlights on the high points of your face instead (try to use a highlighting product with little to no shimmer).
9) Keep it light, you can always add more!
There's no need to cake on way more makeup than you usually wear. The idea is to enhance the things that you love about yourself, not to put on a mask. The most important thing is that you feel amazing about how you look.
10) Check your work
Use your phone or other camera to take a selfie. Try to do this outside or using window light if possible. Check out how your makeup looks on camera and adjust anything as needed. After that final test you're ready to go!
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While I always recommend hiring a local professional makeup artist when you can, I hope these tips help guide you the next time you have to do your own makeup!
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