Makeup Style Guide for Portrait Sessions
The Makeup Guide: How to Prepare for Your Portrait Session
Whether you're doing your own makeup or working with our professional stylist, these guidelines will help you achieve a look that photographs beautifully.
If You're Doing Your Own Makeup
Go matte. Shimmer and highlighter create hotspots under studio and natural light. Choose matte foundation, matte eyeshadow, and matte setting powder. The camera will add its own natural glow.
Build for the camera. Professional lighting washes out about 30% of what you see in the mirror. Apply slightly more than your everyday look — think "event makeup" rather than "office makeup." Defined brows, visible lashes, and a lip color that's one shade deeper than your natural tone all read beautifully on camera.
Set everything. Setting spray is your friend, especially for outdoor sessions in South Florida humidity. Apply after your makeup is complete and let it dry fully before dressing.
If You're Working With Our Stylist
Our Signature Series sessions include professional hair and makeup. Here's how to prepare:
- Arrive with clean, moisturized skin and dry hair
- Bring 2-3 reference images of makeup looks you like
- Speak up during the application — your stylist wants feedback
- The goal is you, enhanced — not a different person
What to Bring for Touch-Ups
- Lip color for reapplication between looks
- Blotting papers (better than powder for mid-session touch-ups)
- A small mirror
- Hair pins or ties for wind management at outdoor locations
The Night Before
Drink water. Skip alcohol. Get a full night's sleep. If you're prone to puffiness, sleep slightly elevated and apply a cool compress in the morning. Your skin will thank you.
Book your Signature Series session with professional styling.