Preparing your own makeup for a photoshoot

Makeup for a photograph starts with the creative brief: natural, graphic, polished, textured or something entirely different. There is no single finish that every face or lighting setup requires.

Agree on the look

Bring a few references and discuss them with the photographer or makeup artist. Test the look in the planned light where practical, then adjust shine, color and coverage together. The camera and lighting matter as much as the product.

Use products you know

If you are doing your own makeup, bring familiar products and tools plus what you need for touch-ups. Tell the production team about sensitivities and allergies. Your skin does not need to look “flawless” for a worthwhile portrait.

Keep sun protection

The original version of this article advised avoiding SPF. That advice has been removed. For sun exposure, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher. Work with the makeup artist and test the lighting instead of skipping sun protection for a photograph. AAD: choosing sunscreen.

For a campaign, bring the right team

Professional hair and makeup belong in the production plan when the brief calls for them. The client-appointed producer books and pays that team separately from Erika's creative fee. Use the production guide to arrange it.