As a makeup artist, one of the hardest looks you can be asked to achieve is the “no makeup, makeup look”. Despite its seeming simplicity, natural makeup actually requires great skill and can be one of the most difficult looks to pull off.
Here are some of my tips which I use to get that glowing, natural look and what I have learnt by trial and error along the way.
1) Speak to Your Photographer
This is imperative. To be able to execute your role properly and correctly, you need to understand not only what the photographer is hoping to gain from the session, but also what he/she will be doing and what tools they will be using to achieve this. For example, if the photographer will be using a macro lens, this will pick up microscopic details so minimal product will be required. If you overload the skin, this will show up through the lens increasing the temper and editing time of the photographer.
2) Skin Prep is Key
This should go without saying, but you should be heavily investing in your skin care as well as your makeup application. I prefer to use oils such as an oil-based cleanser and facial oil as it promotes hydration in the skin which in turn creates a better base and a healthy glow to the skin. I will spend as much time prepping the skin as I will be applying makeup and without proper attention being paid to the base, this can be many artists downfall.
3) Use Cream Products
Creams are fantastic to use on beauty shoots as you can work them into the skin better than powders. This means you will be able to create natural flushes and contours without seeming too obvious.
4) Hands are Great Tools
Not only will your fingers provide the lightest, most natural touch when applying your products, the heat from your fingers will help warm the product more quickly and allow you to work them better into the skin. I love using my fingers whenever possible on photoshoots.
5) Forget Instagram
This is really important as I feel due to current trends, many makeup artists can become used to applying makeup in only one way. This can lead to not only taking unnecessary steps, but also overloading the skin and weighing it down with unnecessary products. Only take the steps that are necessary and forget about traditional makeup application. If your model doesn’t need much concealing, don’t apply a heavy base and concealer.
6) Model Choice is Important
When casting for beauty shoots, it is really important that you choose your model carefully. Someone with really clear skin is obviously going to be your best choice as you will use minimal product then. If you are using an agency, convey this to the, however, if you are using someone unsigned, request that they send you a natural headshot, recently taken with no filters or editing and most importantly, no makeup on. Any professional model will be happy to do this.
As makeup artists, it is very important that not only can you create a natural look, as this will be often requested, but you should be able to execute the look with minimal time. Sometimes, it easy to get involved in a process, particularly when you are new to the industry, so it is key to focus on the areas that will be featured and to have great attention to detail.