If you know me, you know my main goal as your photographer is to make you feel comfortable, confident and authentic during a photo shoot. I want the real YOU to shine through every single pic.

So you might be surprised to hear that I HIGHLY recommend having your makeup done by a professional before your photo session. Whether senior portraits, bridals or business headshots, you will be so glad you spent the extra time and money to put your best face forward.

Why should I use a professional makeup artist for your next photo shoot?

Makeup artists are specially trained to apply makeup for the camera, just like I’m trained to use a camera to capture great shots. They understand how lighting and styling affect how your makeup appears in print and can fine-tune it to highlight all your best features. This will make you feel like a million bucks and minimize the retouching I need to do during editing.

Hiring someone to do your makeup will also save you time and stress. Yes, it’s an extra appointment, but it will spare you that last-minute panic attack when your attempts at contouring go comically awry. Bonus: getting primped and pampered will calm your nerves and boost your confidence before your photo shoot. You will look even more amazing in your photos if you feel amazing. It is a proven fact!

What can a makeup artist do that I can’t?

Looking naturally beautiful before the camera requires much more makeup than daily use. But layering on products can look clownish when you don’t have experience. Makeup artists know professional techniques that accentuate your features without making you unrecognizable. They generally have higher quality makeup and more supplies, allowing them to mix and blend products to create a personalized look. They can amp up the drama if you want a bold look or layer the perfect neutrals to give you a healthy glow.

professional makeup for portraits portland oregon

What if I don’t like makeup styling?

The key to avoiding a makeup disaster is ensuring you’re working with a true professional. Ask around for recommendations and read reviews, if available. You can also ask the makeup artist to do a trial session ahead of time so you can test out the look. Finally, take a few phone pics to see how you look on camera. What may look too much in the mirror will often look amazing on camera. As for recommendations, I have some personal favorites I recommend to all my clients. Here are the links to either their website or their Instagram profiles.

Powder Inc Beauty

MakemeupCyn

The Beauty Briar

The Lash Lounge in Bethany (Lashes and brows, not makeup…but it is amazing what a set of lashes and defined brows can do for your photos!)

What if I can’t afford professional makeup?

You can still achieve a polished look if a professional makeup artist is outside your budget. There are oodles of tutorials online, but here are a few tips:

Wash and moisturize your face before applying makeup, so your skin doesn’t appear dry or cracked.
Avoid products with sunscreen as they will wash you out on camera.
Be very careful to match your skin tone with your foundation. Spend a little extra and get a high-quality non-shimmery skin color-matched foundation. Use concealer for under-eye circles and blemishes.
Use black (not brown) mascara and dark eyeliner to make sure your eyes pop.
The day of your photoshoot is NOT the time to experiment with a new look or brand new products. Plan ahead if you want to try a new look, so you don’t get stressed out just minutes before getting in front of the camera!
The camera can soften makeup by 50%, so apply extra coats and use deeper shades.
Relax and remember you’re beautiful just the way you are!