Tami Photographer Blog

Brides this section is for you…

Being a photographer I see a variety of make up. There are times when I am editing a wedding that I notice the makeup on a bride is not as complimentary in photos as it was in person.  I appreciate it when a bride asks me for tips on their makeup so their photos turn out great. So when I came across this information, I knew I had to share it! But before I begin, I always recommend hiring a professional makeup artist to do your makeup because ladies it is worth it in the end! I even suggest providing this information to your professional just to be on the safe side. Now… On to the tips!!

1. BLEND! You can use your everyday makeup, but use more than you normally use every day. Best makeup to apply is airbrush makeup because it is lightweight, waterproof and gives flawless coverage.  I always recommend going outdoors at least once when applying your makeup, because most weddings and formal photos are taken outdoors.
2. SOMETIMES LESS IS MORE. Use less makeup for a day wedding and more for evening weddings. You can get dramatic with eye makeup.
3. DON’T SKIMP ON THE CONCEALER. Use a moisturized concealer on the thin, sensitive skin under the eyes. If your concealer isn’t moisturizing, blend it with a skin cream. For blemishes, first treat them with a natural or over the counter anti-inflammatory, then cover with concealer.
4. ALWAYS DO A MAKEUP TRIAL RUN! It’s the only sure fire, stress free way to make certain your makeup will look beautiful.
5. NOT ALL MINERAL MAKEUP IS CREATED EQUAL. Titanium dioxide, a chemical used as sun block can reflect flash, giving the bride a ghostly appearance.There is makeup formulated for photography. Wow… this is serious stuff people!
6. USE WATERPROOF MAKEUP WITH STAYING POWER. You do not want to spend your wedding day reapplying your makeup from time to time. Foundation, eyeliner and mascara all should be waterproof. And in case you cry (and you most probably will), have a tissue or handkerchief handy to gently blot your tears right the eye.
7. KEEP YOUR LIPS MOISTURIZED AND COLORED. Dry lips look dreadful in photos! Please have someone carry your lipstick for you and touch up often. Matte and gloss lipstick both photography well, and be sure to use blended lip liner for enhanced definition.
8. DON’T FORGET THE GROOM! Ok guys… I have info for you too! If the groom is too red faced due to too much sun (or drinking!), a little powder can help. That goes for shiny heads too.  And it’s a good idea to slip a tube of Chapstick in the groom’s pocket for his dry lips as well as a handkerchief to dab well-wishers makeup smudges off his suit.
9. DON’T SPRINKLE ON GLITTER. In photographs, it tends to look like little white spots as if there is something wrong with the camera. Not fair!
10. REMEMBER. To apply foundation and powder to your neck, shoulders and decolletage-you want your head to look like it belongs to your body!

I hope you find this information useful. Because I strongly believe in the info shared, I have arranged the services of a professional makeup artist at an awesome rate! Also as your photographer… I am including the services of the professional makeup artist as part of your photo package (at a discounted rate) be it for a portrait session, engagement or wedding. Please contact me for details!

Yesterday I attended a fund raiser for Africa Burn Relief (ABR). This is a non-profit organization that does amazing work over in Africa. ABR provides reconstructive burn care to patients, most who are children under the age of 10. I was also honored to meet the founder and president Jennifer Wall. If you would like to learn more about ABR I encourage you to check out their Facebook page… www.facebook.com/group.php. I also like to thank my friend Tanya for inviting me to this great and informative event, Thanks Tanya!