Quick and Easy Headshot Makeup Tips
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT MAKEUP TIPS: HOW TO LOOK YOUR BEST ON CAMERA
A great professional headshot starts before you step in front of the camera. From skin preparation and natural makeup to hair and grooming, these simple tips will help you arrive camera-ready and confident for your headshot session..
DO I NEED PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP FOR MY HEADSHOTS?
The answer is YES. High Definition cameras pick up the slightest discoloration, dark circles, blemishes, redness, and bags under the eyes.
WHAT KIND OF MAKEUP IS IDEAL FOR A HEADSHOT?
I personally love fresh, youthful, dewy look of the skin.When it comes to skin work, which is one of the fundamental skills for any Makeup Artist, it is as easy as this: the skin must look flawless in the images straight out of camera. It’s only when you zoom in and study the image you may find what to retouch, but at a first glance the captured images should look like they don’t even have any makeup.So, I recommend natural makeup. Here you can see my Headshots Portfolio
HOW DO I PREPARE MY SKIN BEFORE A HEADSHOT?
Pre-Shoot “Preparations”
The skin should be prepped, exfoliated, moisturized a week before the shoot. Drink plenty of water. The reason for this preparation is that hydrated skin looks great on camera. That’s the mantra you should try to adhere to before a photoshoot; keeping your face clean and moisturized and getting plenty of water, rest, and shade.
UPPER LIP AND EYEBROWS:
Small grooming details can become more noticeable in a high-resolution headshot. If needed, take care of upper-lip hair and shape or groom your eyebrows a few days before your session to avoid redness or skin irritation.
Eyebrows help frame the face, so keep them clean and well-groomed while maintaining a natural look. This applies to both women and men.
NOSE HAIR & FACIAL GROOMING
Small grooming details can be more noticeable in a professional headshot. Trim any visible nose hair and take care of facial grooming before your session for a clean, polished and natural look.
LIPS
For a professional headshot, lips should look healthy, polished and intentional. A natural or neutral lip color works beautifully for most professional images, while a bolder color can also work when it reflects your personal style or brand.
Avoid overly heavy lip liner or products that may look dry or distracting on camera. Bring your lipstick, gloss or lip balm with you for touch-ups during the session. For men, a light lip balm is usually all that’s needed to keep lips looking natural and hydrated.
EYES
Your eyes are one of the most important features in a professional headshot. Makeup should enhance and define them while still looking natural and polished on camera.
Neutral tones usually photograph beautifully, and mascara can help define the eyes. Avoid overly heavy eye makeup unless a stronger look is intentionally part of your personal style or brand.
If you wear false lashes, choose a style that complements your eyes without overpowering them. The goal is for people to notice your expression first.
DO I NEED TO GET MY HAIR DONE FOR A HEADSHOT?
Your hair is an important part of your overall professional image. Style it in a way that feels like you and reflects how you normally present yourself professionally.
If you’re planning a haircut, color or other major change, schedule it a few days before your headshot session rather than the same day. Bring any products or tools you may need for quick touch-ups during the session.
PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOT TIPS FOR MEN
For men, a few simple grooming details can make a big difference in a professional headshot. Make sure your hair and facial hair are neatly groomed, and bring a comb or your usual hair product for quick touch-ups during the session.
Use a light lip balm to prevent dry lips, and if you tend to have shine, a small amount of translucent powder can help keep your skin looking natural on camera. The goal is to look polished, confident and like yourself.
NOTA:
If a female client is under the age of 15 or a skilled hair and makeup artist (who knows the photographer’s lighting), she may be fine without hiring a professional hair and makeup artist, but everyone else should really hire a professional, and preferably someone who is a professional with headshots experience.