Makeup for photos: how it differs from everyday makeup
In photos, makeup usually looks softer than in person, while some things, such as shiny skin, show more. That is why, with photo shoot makeup:
- I even out the skin tone carefully but thinly, because a good camera sees every thicker layer,
- I sculpt the face a little more and define the brows and lashes,
- I mattify the T-zone and keep the glow where it should reflect light, on the tops of the cheekbones,
- I match the foundation shade to the neck and décolletage, so that the face does not stand out from the rest of the body.
A portrait, engagement, family or business shoot
The type of shoot suggests which look to choose:
- A portrait shoot. Here we can allow ourselves more: more defined eyes, bolder lips, a glow effect. It all depends on the mood you are planning with the photographer.
- An engagement shoot. Natural, fresh makeup in which you feel at ease. It is often also a good test before your bridal makeup.
- A family shoot. Light, daytime and long-lasting, because with children the photos are taken on the move, and hugs are guaranteed.
- A business or branding shoot. Professional and neutral: even skin with no shine, defined brows and lips in a calm shade.
Outdoor locations in Masuria: lake, jetty, meadow
Masuria offers plenty of places for a shoot: jetties on the lakes, meadows, forests, the harbour in Giżycko, Boyen Fortress, the boulevard by Lake Czos in Mrągowo, the promenade in Mikołajki or the castle in Ryn. Outdoor locations have their requirements, though:
- it is often windy by the water, so mascara and brows need to be well set,
- in harsh midday sun the skin gets shiny faster, so the most beautiful light is in the morning and during the golden hour before sunset,
- in Giżycko the sun sets at around 9 pm in June, around 8 pm in mid-August and before 7 pm in mid-September,
- in the evening mosquitoes appear by the water: apply repellent to your body, away from your face.
How to work with the photographer and the makeup artist
The best results come from a shoot where everyone knows the mood you want to achieve. Before the shoot, send me:
- inspiration from the photographer or your own photos that you like,
- whether the shoot is in a studio or outdoors, and at what time,
- photos of the outfits you are planning.
If the shoot lasts several hours and you change outfits, we can plan two versions of the makeup, for example a daytime and an evening look. We will agree on this in advance, so that the change is quick.
How to prepare your skin before the shoot
The best makeup starts with the skin. In the weeks before the shoot:
- moisturise your skin and lips regularly,
- do not test new cosmetics or treatments just before the photos,
- have your brows shaped or tinted a few days in advance, so that any redness fades,
- the day before, focus on water, sleep and a light dinner, because a puffy face and dark circles are more visible on camera.
On the day of the shoot, wash your face and apply a light moisturiser. I will take care of the rest.
Clothes, colours and makeup: how to combine them
In photos, makeup and outfit form a whole. A few principles that help:
- plain clothes in neutral colours, without small patterns or large logos, direct attention to the face,
- if the outfit is bold in colour, it is worth toning down the makeup, and vice versa,
- with several outfits, we start with the most natural one and add stronger accents during the shoot,
- for an engagement or family shoot, it is good when everyone’s clothes are in coordinated colours.
An engagement shoot is also a good opportunity to see how you feel in makeup before the wedding. If you are planning a wedding, read the article Bridal makeup in Masuria.
Branding photos and CV photos
In a branding photo, for a company website, LinkedIn or a CV, makeup should be invisible and at the same time make you look fresh and professional. A few principles:
- even skin with no shine, because studio light mercilessly shows every reflection,
- defined, groomed brows, which give the face expression,
- neutral eyeshadows and well-coated lashes,
- lips in a calm shade, close to natural,
- no shimmer particles or strong highlighter.
These photos are often taken for several people from one company. Then I can come on site and get everyone ready one after another. Tell me how many people you are planning and where the shoot will take place.
Makeup at your place before the shoot
I come to you before the shoot: to your home, a hotel or a guesthouse in Giżycko, Mikołajki, Mrągowo, Ryn and throughout Warmia and Masuria. It is worth planning about an hour for the makeup, and we set my arrival time so that there is a margin for getting to the shoot location.
I book the date once I confirm it by email or text message, with no deposit. You will find the details on the occasion makeup page.
Frequently asked questions
Should makeup for a photo shoot be stronger?
Slightly more defined than every day, because the camera softens colours and the contours of the face. It all depends on the mood of the shoot and the outfit, though.
What is the best time for an outdoor shoot?
In the morning or during the golden hour before sunset. In Giżycko the sun sets at around 9 pm in June, and before 7 pm in mid-September.
Will you come before the shoot?
Yes. I come to your home, hotel or guesthouse in Giżycko and throughout Warmia and Masuria.
Do you take a deposit?
No. I book the date once I confirm it by email or text message, with no deposit.
How should I prepare my skin before a photo shoot?
Moisturise it regularly, do not test new cosmetics just before the shoot, and shape your brows a few days in advance. On the day of the shoot, a washed face and a light moisturiser are enough.
See also my portfolio and the occasion makeup page.