A big part of my job is creating makeup that looks great in photos and in real life. Photography makeup refers to a look that comes off well when captured on film or in an image, but may not be quite what you look or feel like in real life. Red carpet makeup is the true middle ground. Because while celebrities have to feel great in person when giving interviews or meeting fans, they also want to look great in photos from the event. So no matter what the occasion, here are some photo-worthy makeup tips to protect you from bad pictures on camera.
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Photo-ready makeup: important tips
skin
You probably won’t be surprised to hear me say this, but the key to photo-worthy makeup is all about your skin. Managing your skin for photos is the most difficult part, because while natural, glowing skin looks great in real life, powdery, matte skin often looks better in photos. As always, you need to start with preparation.
Before applying makeup, wash and moisturize your face thoroughly to create a healthy base without dry skin that can make your face look unflattering in photos. Next, mix your usual foundation with a drop of highlighter and apply it all over your skin for a slightly dewy, radiant look. A bright contour looks great in photos, but a cheek color like a natural bronze or rosy blush is a must.
For everyday makeup, I try not to hide any shine, but if I take a lot of photos, I can create a matte finish by using a translucent powder and blending it into my forehead, nose, and chin. Good for photos.
Finish the look by adding highlights in the right places. Important points are the upper cheekbones and eyebrow bones.
eye
No matter what eye look you go for this season, there are two rules for photo-worthy makeup. First, curl your eyelashes tightly. Personally, I always curl my hair both before and after applying mascara, but it’s just my personal preference, so I always curl my hair before applying mascara.
Next, be sure to choose a waterproof mascara and apply two coats, allowing each to dry completely.
lips
For a photo-worthy lipstick that lasts all night long (no matter how many champagnes you gulp down), apply a lip liner that matches your chosen lip color all over your lips. If you want a lip that stands out, we recommend a gloss finish that looks great in photos. There are so many options, check out my guide to long-lasting lipsticks.
Photo-ready makeup: shopping list
Kevin Aucoin | Sculpting powder
CHANEL | Les Beiges Sheer Healthy Glow Highlighting Liquid
Laura Mercier | Translucent loose setting powder
Yves Saint Laurent | Rouge Pur Couture The Bold High Pigment Lipstick – 02 Wilful Red
Read next: glitter party makeup | long-lasting lip color
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