WHAT KIND OF MAKEUP
SHOULD I WEAR TO MY
HEADSHOT SESSION?

Makeup isn't just about looking good—it's about enhancing your natural features and ensuring your face is camera-ready. Professional headshots require makeup that evens out skin tone, enhances features, reduces shine, and boosts your confidence.

Why Makeup Matters for Headshots

Cameras can pick up even the slightest imperfections that our eyes might miss in person. Professional makeup for headshots serves several crucial purposes:

• Evens out skin tone: Creates a smooth, flawless base for the camera
• Enhances features: Brings out your best qualities naturally
• Reduces shine: Prevents unwanted reflections under studio lights
• Boosts confidence: Looking your best helps you feel more confident during the session

Step-by-Step Makeup Guide

1. Prep Your Skin

Start with a clean canvas:

• Cleanse your face thoroughly with a gentle cleanser
• Apply a lightweight, non-greasy moisturizer
• Use a primer to create a smooth base and help makeup last longer

2. Perfect Your Base

Foundation is key to camera-ready skin:

• Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone exactly
• Apply foundation evenly using a brush, sponge, or fingers
• Use concealer to cover any blemishes, dark circles, or redness
• Set your base with a translucent powder to prevent shine

3. Highlight and Contour

Subtle sculpting enhances your natural bone structure:

• Lightly contour the hollows of your cheeks, temples, and jawline
• Use highlighter on the high points: cheekbones, nose bridge, and forehead center
• Keep it subtle—the goal is enhancement, not dramatic transformation

4. Eyes and Brows

Your eyes are the focal point of any headshot:

• Use neutral eyeshadow shades that complement your skin tone
• Apply eyeliner close to the lash line for definition
• Use mascara to make your lashes pop—consider waterproof formula
• Groom and fill in your eyebrows for a polished look
• Avoid overly dramatic eye makeup that might distract from your natural expression

5. Lips and Cheeks

Add warmth and color to complete your look:

• Apply a natural blush to the apples of your cheeks
• Choose a lip color that's one or two shades deeper than your natural lip tone
• Avoid overly glossy or very dark lip colors that might be distracting
• Consider matte or satin finishes for a professional appearance

6. Final Touches

Lock in your look:

• Use a setting spray to help your makeup last throughout the session
• Bring a touch-up kit with powder, lipstick, and blotting papers
• Take photos with your phone to see how your makeup looks on camera

What to Avoid

Professional vs. DIY

While you can certainly do your own makeup for a headshot session, consider hiring a professional makeup artist if:

• You're not comfortable applying makeup
• You want to ensure the best possible results
• You're investing significantly in your headshot session
• You have specific skin concerns or challenges

Day-of-Session Tips

• Arrive with your makeup already applied, or allow extra time for touch-ups
• Bring your makeup kit for any necessary adjustments
• Avoid trying new products on the day of your shoot
• Stay hydrated and get a good night's sleep for the best skin
• Communicate with your photographer about the look you're going for

Remember, the goal of makeup for professional headshots is to enhance your natural beauty and ensure you look polished and professional. When done correctly, viewers should notice how great you look, not your makeup.