Family portraits are treasured keepsakes that capture precious moments in time. To ensure you look your best in these lasting memories, follow these expert makeup tips designed specifically for photography.

1. Prep Your Skin

Start with a clean, well-moisturized canvas. Cleanse, exfoliate, and moisturize your skin before applying makeup. Use a primer to create a smooth base and help your makeup last longer. Avoid trying new skincare products right before the photoshoot to prevent unexpected reactions.

2. Choose the Right Foundation

Opt for a lightweight, matte foundation that matches your skin tone perfectly. Heavy foundations can appear cakey in photographs, so focus on evening out your skin tone rather than masking it completely. Be sure to blend the foundation well into your neck for a seamless look.

3. Conceal Strategically

Use concealer to cover any blemishes and brighten under-eye areas. Choose a shade that matches your foundation for a natural look. Remember, less is more – you want to enhance, not mask, your features.

4. Set Your Makeup

Use a setting powder to control shine, especially in your T-zone (forehead, nose, and chin). Avoid HD powders as they can cause flashback in photos, making you appear washed out. A light dusting of translucent powder should suffice.

5. Enhance Your Cheeks

Don't skimp on blush – it adds a healthy glow and prevents you from looking washed out in photos. Apply a bit more than you typically would for everyday wear, as cameras can mute colors. Opt for a natural-looking shade that complements your skin tone.

6. Define Your Eyes

For eye makeup, stick to neutral shades that complement your skin tone. Avoid heavy eyeliner, as it can make your eyes appear smaller in photos. Instead, focus on curling your lashes and applying mascara to open up your eyes. Consider using individual false lashes for added definition without looking overdone.

7. Perfect Your Brows

Well-groomed eyebrows frame your face and can make a significant difference in photos. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow powder or pencil, and set them with a clear brow gel to keep them in place throughout the shoot.

8. Choose the Right Lip Color

Select a lip color that enhances your natural lip shade but isn't too bold. Avoid nude shades that can make your lips disappear in photos, and steer clear of ultra-glossy finishes that may look too shiny. A satin or matte finish in a color slightly darker than your natural lip color often photographs beautifully.

9. Highlight Subtly

A touch of highlighter on your cheekbones and the center of your eyelids can add a beautiful glow to your photos. However, use it sparingly to avoid looking sweaty or overly shiny in pictures.

10. Set and Forget

Finish your look with a setting spray to ensure your makeup lasts throughout the photoshoot. This final step will help your makeup withstand any weather conditions or long photo sessions. Remember, the goal is to look like the best version of yourself. Your makeup should enhance your natural features without overpowering them. If you're unsure about doing your own makeup, consider hiring a professional makeup artist experienced in photo-ready looks.

By following these tips, you'll be camera-ready for your family portrait session, ensuring that your natural beauty shines through in every shot. With the right preparation, you can feel confident and relaxed, allowing your photographer to capture genuine moments of joy and connection with your loved ones.

Mike Schreurs is a combat veteran and a family portraits photographer located in the Austin, Texas metro area.

Mastering Makeup for Family Portraits: 10 Essential Tips