Whether you're preparing for a professional photoshoot, a special event, or simply want to look your best in everyday photos, understanding how makeup translates on camera is essential. As editorial makeup artists, we've mastered techniques that ensure flawless photography results. Here's our professional guide to camera-ready makeup.

Foundation: Balance Coverage and Texture

Cameras can accentuate both texture and discoloration, so finding the right balance is key. Use a foundation that provides adequate coverage without appearing heavy. Liquid foundations with a satin or natural finish typically photograph best. Apply in thin layers, building coverage only where needed. Avoid highly dewy foundations for photography, as they can appear oily on camera.

Avoid SPF and Flashback

One of the most common photography makeup mistakes is flashback—that dreaded white cast that appears in flash photography. To avoid this, skip products containing high levels of SPF, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide when you know you'll be photographed with flash. This includes foundations, powders, and even some concealers. Test your products by taking a flash photo in a dark room before an important shoot.

Contouring and Highlighting for Dimension

Cameras tend to flatten features, so creating dimension is essential for photogenic makeup. Choose contour products that are only 1-2 shades deeper than your skin tone and have the appropriate undertone (typically cool taupe for most skin tones). Blend thoroughly, as cameras will pick up harsh lines. For highlighting, opt for subtle illuminators rather than glittery products, which can appear as white specks in photographs.

Eye Makeup Intensity

Eyes often need more definition in photos than in everyday life. Define your crease more distinctly than usual and ensure lashes are well-defined with mascara or false lashes appropriate for the occasion. For hooded eyes, bring shadow slightly above the natural crease to ensure it's visible in photos. Neutral tones typically photograph most reliably, but don't be afraid of color when it suits the concept.

Lip Definition and Longevity

Always use lip liner to define the shape of your lips for photos, even when wearing nude shades. This prevents your lips from disappearing in photographs. For long photoshoots, layer your lip products: liner all over lips, followed by lipstick, blot, and reapply. This technique significantly improves longevity.

Professional photoshoot makeup takes practice, but these techniques will dramatically improve how you appear in photographs. Remember that lighting dramatically affects how makeup appears on camera, so always consider the lighting conditions of your shoot when planning your look. At MildStructure Studio, our photographers and makeup artists work closely together to ensure your makeup is perfectly suited to the specific lighting and concept of each photoshoot.