How to prepare for a photoshoot makeover

Hey guys! Today I want to introduce (or for some of you, re-introduce) you to Amber of Shining Light Beauty Design. Amber works all the hair and makeup magic for most of my photoshoots so I asked her to give us some tips on how we can show up ready for our hair and makeup for the best possible results. Keep scrolling to read her professional advice so you know what to do and what to expect.

“Hello! My name is Amber and will be your hair and makeup artist for your upcoming photoshoot. I’d love to share a few tips with you to make your hair and makeup appointment run as smoothly as possible.

Please arrive with a clean face and completely dry hair.

Hair Tips:

Hair washed and dried the night before or the morning of is best. When washing your hair, shampoo twice and only apply conditioner to the ends of your hair. In order to create or keep any volume in your hairstyle, please do not pull your hair back into a ponytail or bun. This deflates the roots of the hair and minimizes our chances of obtaining any height that is essential in creating texture and dimension in your photos. (If having your hair down without being styled drives you nuts, try a loose low braid after it's completely dry.)

If you are blessed with naturally curly hair, adding a little mousse, hair oil, or gel after washing can help contain the frizz until our final stage of styling together. Curly hair can be very unique in its behavior. If you know there are certain products or a certain way of styling it that works best, please feel free to bring those products or styling ideas along with you.

During the hairstyling portion of your appointment, I will use products and hot tools on dry hair to create a relaxed and natural look that best compliments the theme of your photoshoot.

Skin Tips:

A light moisturizer on the face is ok. Please avoid using heavy eye creams or thick facial creams so that I can properly prep the skin with primers that will aid in the longevity of your makeup look. It is also a good idea to avoid using moisturizing products that specifically contain SPF or are mineral-based before your shoot. SPF and mineral-based products can cause a “greying” effect to your skin that comes through in photos.

If you will be changing into different clothing after your hair and makeup services, be sure to wear a top that is button/zipper down or has a neckline loose enough to pull over your head without coming into contact with your face.

If you have a particular look in mind, please feel free to save and bring along inspiration photos! I am happy to work with you on creating a look that will enhance your natural beauty and best compliment your features. The more information we have, the easier it will be to not only have you looking fabulous but feeling like your best fabulous self! I look forward to meeting you.”