How to Apply Photoshoot Make-up

Muted colors work well for basic portfolio pictures

Many aspiring models will be burdened with the task of executing their own photoshoots when first assembling a portfolio. A big way you can cut expenses is by cutting out the make-up artist and having a friend apply your shoot make-up, or applying it yourself. When applying make-up for film appearances there are two key rules to keep in mind. Foundation that looks too heavy in the mirror will look just right on film; also, basic portfolio pictures should have a "clean face" look, so the use of eyeshadow, lipstick, and unnatural colors is generally frowned upon.

Things You'll Need

• Headband
• Ponytail holder
• Bobby pins
• Lip gloss or petroleum jelly
• Foundation primer
• Sponge wedge
• Oil-based liquid foundation
• Dark brown eyeliner
• Eyelash curler
• Dark-brown mascara
• Kabuki brush
• Mineral finishing powder
• Eyeshadow smudger
• White shimmer powder
• Eyeshadow brush

Instructions

1. Tie hair back in a tight ponytail and cover roots with a headband to protect from foundation staining. Once in place secure with several bobby pins to prevent movement.

2. Cover lips in a thick coating of lip gloss or petroleum jelly. This will help them retain a natural color and avoid foundation smearing which can streak the area around lips when washed off.

3. Apply a thick layer of foundation primer and blend into skin with fingertips. The entire end-look is based upon this step more than any others, so do not be afraid to use a generous amount of primer. Let dry for a few minutes.

4. Thoroughly wet a sponge wedge in cool water and squeeze out excess liquid, then set aside. Use only new sponge wedges when applying make-up for an important event or photo op.

5. Pour a quarter-size amount of heavy oil-based liquid foundation onto the back of your hand and warm to skin temperature by rubbing with the tip of your finger in a small circular motion.

6. Dip the tip of your sponge wedge in the foundation and blot lightly underneath eyes until an even layer of foundation covers the underside of each eye. It will look extremely thick, but avoid rubbing or smearing it. Use gentle taps only.

7. Apply remaining foundation to the rest of your face using light, outward strokes. Blend downwards into the neck from the jawline. Let dry for at least 30 seconds.

8. Apply a dark-brown eyeliner to the outer corners of your waterline. To achieve this, place the pointer finger on your non-dominant hand directly underneath the eye, and tug down gently. Use a fine-tipped eyeliner and lightly stroke from the outer corner of your eye inwards, stopping about half-way along the waterline.

9. Curl eyelashes with a non-heated curler, then apply a thin coat of dark-brown mascara to top lashes. When applying, use long upwards strokes, shaking the applicator lightly from left to right to help separate lashes.

10. Using a kabuki brush, swirl a sheer mineral finishing powder over your face, avoiding the eye area. Blend downwards into neck.

11. Dip the tip of an eyeliner smudger in water, then squeeze out any excess liquid. Dot your smudger in a fine, powdered white shimmer and apply to the inner corner of both eyes, near the tear duct. Use a small eyeshadow brush to apply a thin coat of white shimmer just below each eyebrow.

12. Wipe away lip gloss or petroleum jelly and apply a light nude or pink-colored stain to lips if desired.

Tips & Warnings

• Always start with a freshly washed face. Apply ice to any lingering under-eye bags before applying make-up.