How to Apply Makeup for Photographs

Ever take a picture and your make up doesn't show? To look your best in photographs, relax, smile and follow some simple makeup tips to get a defined look that reflects on camera.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Mirrors
• Blush
• Blush Brush
• Eye Shadow
• Eye Shadow Brushes
• Face Powder
• Foundation
• Lip Liners
• Lipstick
• Liquid Eyeliners
• Makeup Brushes
• Makeup Kits
• Mascara

1. Make sure your foundation is yellow-toned (this applies for all ethnic backgrounds).

2. If you are African-American, it's a good idea to have light, medium and dark shades of foundation to allow for different gradations of color on different parts of your face.

3. Use the right color blush so as not to look washed out. Layer natural color first, and make it "pop" with a brighter color on top.

4. Define your eyes with shadow, but avoid dark colors on the lid - they make the eyes recede. Add mascara, but don't overdo it.

5. Choose deeper or brighter colors for strong lighting. Soft lighting, or daylight, requires less intense colors.

6. Apply makeup that works with your style. Don't put on a lot of it for more effect, but instead use more color and a bit more definition.

7. Avoid dark liner, extremely glossy lips, shimmery or bright shadows, and foundation and powder that's too pale.

8. Use good definition - e.g., careful lining of the lips and eyes - for black-and-white photographs.

Tips & Warnings

• Snap away in summer. This is a great time to be photographed for holiday cards, since people usually look healthy and rested.

• Choose a photo that looks like yourself.

• Try to relax when being photographed. Tilt your head and move your face for a variety of shots.

• Lift your chin when being photographed to lessen dark circles and keep the nose from looking big.