Five Strategies To Get Perfect Makeup For Photos

We live in the age of Instagram and social media. If you don't post a picture of it, it's almost like it didn't happen. Believe it or not, I don't use Instagram.  I do, however, attend many events where I am frequently photographed. Here are five strategies to get perfect looking makeup in photographs:

1. Do not wear an SPF. Yes, I realize this sounds like bad advice. The reason is, many sunscreens create a flashback and can make your face have a very white cast when flash photography is involved. If you absolutely must wear sunscreen,  shoot for an SPF of 15 or lower, and test it out before your event.  The below makeup look is one I created for an event last weekend. 

2. Use a primer. I hear countless people say that they don't think primer does anything for them. There are reasons for that. First, pick the right primer for the job. Do you want it to mattify? Add luminosity? Also, be sure it is compatible with your foundation. If you are unsure, ask the person working at your local beauty counter, they know stuff! Finally, just use a tiny bit and gently blend it into the skin. Many people I see use far too much. This is a waste of product and money.  The below dewy primer from Wet n Wild has been a recent favorite of mine. 

3. Go easy on the highlighter.  Depending on the look you are going for, strategically placed highlighter can look beautiful in photos. Be very careful not to overdo it, avoid areas of the skin that have texture, and consider the camera flash.

4. Combat shine. Even if you love the dewy look, there are certain parts of the face that just do not look good with shine. A dewy glow can come across as oily or greasy in pictures. Always use a mattifying powder around the sides of the nose, forehead and chin. Don't forget to carry pressed powder with you for touchups.

5. Smile and have fun. It really doesn't matter what your makeup looks like as long as you remember to smile & have fun at your event.  Here are some photos from an event I went to for Sense8 last weekend. My makeup was fairly natural, but lasted all night. Honestly, I had so much fun, the last thing I cared about was my makeup.

How do you prepare for photos? Share in the comments below.