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Writer's pictureDena Bruton

Headshot Makeup Woes & How to Fix Them

Updated: Sep 17

Your headshot says a lot about you – it’s your chance to make a lasting first impression. Whether you're a business owner, coach, or professional, looking polished and confident in your photos is essential. Doing your own makeup for professional pictures can feel overwhelming.


Headshot makeup is specific to close-up, high-quality photography. Headshots are meant to focus on your face and upper body, so it's super important that your face looks as flawless as possible.


Headshots are meant to make you unforgettable.


Headshots tend to be used for years, although it's recommended they be updated after two years. Then there is the misconception that minimalist makeup and headshot makeup are the same. So I'll break down a few of these points so you get a better understanding of what headshot makeup is needed for headshots.

Minimalist makeup, but there are a few key differences.


Headshot makeup is often perceived as a form of minimalist makeup due to its subtle and natural appearance, yet it encompasses unique characteristics that set it apart from other minimalist makeup styles. While minimalist makeup typically focuses on achieving a simple and understated look by using a minimal amount of products, headshot makeup is specifically tailored to enhance facial features for professional photography purposes. Headshot makeup focuses are:


  • Flawless Skin - Making sure your skin looks healthy and smooth under the harsh lighting and little editing is needed. The more the photographer edits the more they charge. And the more your photos can look less like you.

  • Enhance Your Features - Now this is where it can get tricky. The goal is to make your best features stand out with out over doing it. And that can seem easy but it isn't when you think this is only about looking pretty and putting on what you want. Headshots are to attract the right clients and no necessarily about how we want to see ourselves if that makes sense. Headshots are meant to convey you in a way that makes the client like and trust you instantly thru your photo. When done right it works in your favor.


One of the key distinctions of headshot makeup lies in its emphasis on camera-friendly techniques that ensure the individual's features stand out under the harsh lighting conditions of a photoshoot. This involves strategic contouring and highlighting to create dimension, as well as using products that prevent flashback and provide a flawless finish on camera.


Moreover, headshot makeup often involves a balance between accentuating features for clarity and definition while maintaining a natural look that does not appear overly heavy or exaggerated in the shots. This delicate balance requires precision and skill to enhance the individual's appearance without overshadowing their natural beauty. This is a distinct and essential skill for individuals seeking to present their best selves in headshots for various purposes, from corporate profiles to action photos.


I want to make doing your makeup simple and easy so you can do it yourself so I'm launching a free workshop. Polished & Professional October 6th 7pm EST.


In this workshop, you’ll learn:

- How to apply a smooth, even foundation that looks flawless on camera.

- Eye makeup tips that define without overpowering, perfect for a professional look.

- How to choose makeup shades that complement your skin tone and what to avoid.

- Finishing touches to pull your whole look together and boost your confidence in front of the camera.


Whether you prefer to watch and take notes or bring your own makeup and brushes to practice along, you’ll walk away with the skills you need to create a headshot-ready look. And don’t worry if you can’t make it live – the replay will be available for 3 days to all registered participants.


Don’t miss this chance to learn how to look your best on camera! Register today and feel confident for your next headshot or photoshoot.



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