If you are doing your own makeup or hiring your own MUA, here are a few key pointers to keep in mind for a flattering, beautiful finish.

• Bridal makeup is designed to last for many hours, often in warm, humid conditions. But portrait shoots at my studio are not like weddings. A photoshoot generally only takes 2 hours and the studio is at a pleasant temperature. Please keep this in mind when working on your makeup. Less is more!

• I like to photograph with soft, natural tones. My lighting style is almost always soft and natural. I rarely light with hard lighting. Keeping the foundation light, keeping the tones natural and soft is an essential part of how I like my clients.

• Lighting is an incredibly important part of portrait photography. Most of my shoots are done in natural light. Therefore apply your makeup in natural window light if at all possible. My studio has large windows pouring tons of natural light, perfect for makeup. You are more than welcome to put on your makeup at the studio. Try to avoid using ring lighting, unless no other natural light is available. Good lighting is essential to a good, even application of makeup.

• Skin Texture: A good primer is just as important as a good foundation. Use primer before applying your base to give a smooth canvas by concealing large pores, uneven color and texture, and fine lines. But, try not to over-conceal or cake-up the skin layer because literally everything can be photoshopped at the retouching stage. Again, less is more. This is my general philosophy when doing shoots.

• In portraits, a matte finish is more desirable than a glow. Try to minimize shine as naturally as possible.

• Eyes: Portraits are all about the eyes. But that does not mean go heavy on eye-makeup. On the contrary, let the tones be soft and light. Go with matte/satin on eye shadow if possible. Light, pastel shimmer is okay. Keep the eyeliners sharp and neat as much as possible.

• Lips: A naturally colored lip is the most flattering in portraits because lip color trends change so quickly. Natural/nude lips go with any outfit too when shooting multiple looks. Lips can look too dry if they are too matte. So make sure to adjust the gloss to get a healthy, moisturized lip gloss.

Please feel free to contact me at anytime if you have any questions.