Makeup Tips from a Photographer: How to Look Your Best on Your Wedding Day

1. Test Makeup in Natural Light

• Why It Matters: Natural light reveals the true colors and finish of your makeup. Testing your makeup in this light ensures it looks good both in person and in photos.
• How to Do It: Apply your makeup and then step outside or near a window to see how it looks. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it appears natural and flattering.

2. Opt for Matte Products

• Reduce Shine: Shiny or dewy products can reflect camera flashes and create unwanted shine in photos.
• Matte for the Win: Use matte foundation, setting powder, and blush to achieve a smooth, shine-free finish that looks great on camera.

3. Be Cautious with SPF Products

• Avoid Flashback: SPF can cause a white cast in flash photography, making your skin look lighter than it is.
• Alternatives: Choose foundation and powder without SPF for your wedding day. If you need sun protection, use a moisturizer with SPF underneath your makeup and give it time to absorb.

4. Long-Wearing and Waterproof Makeup

• Why It's Important: Weddings are emotional and busy events. Long-lasting and waterproof makeup ensures your look stays fresh through tears, hugs, and dancing.
• Product Recommendations: Look for long-wear foundation, waterproof mascara, and smudge-proof eyeliner to maintain your look all day and night.

5. Consider Professional Help

• Expert Advice: A professional makeup artist can tailor your look to your skin type, features, and personal style. They know the best techniques to enhance your beauty and ensure your makeup looks perfect in photos.
• Trial Run: Schedule a makeup trial before the wedding day to test your look and make any necessary adjustments.

6. Tips from a Photographer’s Perspective

• Blending is Key: Make sure your foundation and concealer are well-blended into your neck and décolletage to avoid harsh lines.
• Define Your Features: Use contouring and highlighting to define your features, but keep it subtle to maintain a natural look.
• Pop of Color: Choose a lipstick that complements your skin tone and adds a pop of color without overpowering your natural beauty.

7. Choosing the Right Makeup Artist

• Experience and Cultural Background: I have learned from many brides that they prefer makeup artists with experience and/or from their cultural background. For example, brides with darker skin tones, or those from Indian, Asian, and Arab backgrounds, often choose artists who understand their unique needs and cultural styling. These artists know what looks great and can incorporate traditional elements that resonate with your heritage. However, this is just a generalization that I have seen in my years of photograhing and have also seen the opposite. As with any professional please review their creditials, portfolio, work and personality to make sure they are a great fit for you!

Extra Tips for those with dry skin!

Yousra from Makeup by Yousra shared some more valuable insights for those with dry skin:

If you have dry skin and want to avoid excessive shine in photos, especially with flash photography, proper skin preparation is crucial. Just like preparing a canvas, smooth and well-primed skin enhances the overall look of makeup. Using moisturizer and appropriate products before applying makeup ensures a flawless finish. Yousra recommends using highlighter sparingly for a natural glow."

Final Thoughts

Please remember, these tips come from my experience as a photographer, not a makeup artist. For the best results, consider consulting with a professional makeup artist who can provide personalized advice and techniques .

As your wedding photographer, I am here to ensure you look your best in every photo. If you need any recommendations for makeup artists or other wedding vendors, I'm more than happy to help. Let's make your wedding day as beautiful and memorable as possible!

Happy planning!