Let me first give the disclaimer that I’m no makeup expert! In fact, I rarely do my makeup at all. But as a photographer, I know a few things that can help you look your best on the day of your branding photoshoot.
These are things that I tell my clients AND things that I do to prepare for my own personal branding photoshoots.
When it comes to branding photos, we all want to look our best for the camera, and there are some things you’ll need to do in order to get the images you’ve been dreaming of.
So here are 5 tips to help you do your makeup for your personal branding photoshoot.
Tip #1: Make sure you moisturize well and drink plenty of water the week leading up to your photoshoot.
When your skin is moisturized, it will appear smoother on camera. When you’re not hydrated and moisturized, your skin may appear to have small cracks in it that are hard to cover up with makeup.
Remember, the camera will pick up on details that your naked eye won’t see, so sometimes dry skin can be very noticeable! Do your best to drink plenty of water and nourish your skin before you try to cover it up.
Tip #2: Wear more makeup than you usually do.
The camera will drain some of your color, so if you don’t wear makeup often, it’s a good rule of thumb to wear a little extra for your photoshoot.
Use concealer to cover up any blemishes you have and use a good foundation to smooth out your skin tones. Use mascara to really make your eyes pop (or opt for fake lashes if that’s your thing)!
Branding sessions are not like headshot sessions where every image receives detailed edits. Branding sessions result in more natural, authentic images, so prepare to look your best without detailed retouching.
Tip #3: Add more color than you usually would.
Like I said, the camera will wash out your skin tones, so in addition to wearing a good foundation, consider adding a contour or blush to really accentuate your natural features.
If you add in a little more color than you usually would, the camera will bring you back to your natural skin tones in post.
Tip #4: If makeup stresses you out, go to a professional.
I can’t stress this one enough! The last thing you want to do is show up to your personal branding photoshoot feeling stressed out and self conscious! So if doing your own makeup is going to feel like a lot of pressure, hire a professional! I’ve never had a client regret paying to get their makeup done on the day of their photoshoot, and chances are, you won’t either.
Tip #5: If you hire a professional, be specific about what you want.
Lastly, if you do go to a professional makeup artist, make sure you tell them exactly what you’re going for. Use photos to communicate a clear vision, and don’t leave until they get it right. If you feel confident, you will look confident!
If you’re in my neck of the woods, I love the Pretty Lane in Cedar Rapids, IA or Salon Ludic in North Liberty, IA. Just make sure you choose a salon that you know and trust.
Prepare to Feel Confident
If you show up feeling confident, you are going to rock your personal branding photoshoot no matter what! You can do this!
And if you need more prep tips, check out my recommendations for 3 outfits to bring to your next personal branding photoshoot.
