Makeup and grooming do not need to be complicated for a headshot session, but the small details matter. Studio lighting is controlled and flattering, but it can slightly wash out features, so preparation should be a little more intentional than an ordinary workday.
Makeup for studio lighting
Studio lighting can slightly wash out features, so it pays to err on the side of stronger makeup than you might wear day to day. The goal is still natural and recognisable, not heavy for the sake of it.
Women / girls
- Foundation: light-to-medium coverage with a natural finish usually works best.
- Eyes, contour, blush and lips: go a little bolder than usual. Mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow and lip colour all photograph better with more definition under studio lights.
- Prefer a softer look? Totally fine. We will make it work.
- Good at doing your own makeup? We can shoot multiple looks in one session.
- Want a hair and makeup artist on set? Reach out in advance and we can organise it.
Grooming checklist for the morning of your session
Run through this list before you leave. These small details make a real difference in the final images.
- Get a good night's sleep and drink plenty of water.
- Come with your hair done as you would wear it out.
- Bring a brush, comb or styling products if you would like to switch it up between looks.
- Moisturise your lips.
- Brush your teeth right before you leave.
- Comb or brush your eyebrows into shape.
- Trim any longer nose hairs.
- Check your eyelashes are not curling down over your eyes.
- Brush, trim or shave any facial hair.
Retouching can tidy small distractions, but grooming is better handled before camera. Clean preparation gives the final image more polish without making it look fake.
Hair and facial hair
Wear your hair how you want to be recognised. If you are likely to change it during the session, bring the tools you need. For facial hair, either commit to the beard/stubble look or shave cleanly. Halfway grooming usually reads messy in a close crop.
Do not overcorrect
More definition does not mean losing yourself. If your normal style is soft, we can keep it soft. If you want one natural look and one stronger look, that can work too. The best headshot still needs to look like you when you walk into the room.
Frequently asked questions
Should makeup be stronger for headshots?
Usually, yes. Studio lighting can slightly wash out features, so a little more definition around eyes, cheeks and lips often photographs better while still looking natural.
Can I do my own makeup for a headshot?
Yes. If you are good at doing your own makeup, you can arrive ready and even create multiple looks during the session if time allows.
Can Sydney Headshots organise hair and makeup?
Yes. A hair and makeup artist can be organised on request when arranged in advance, subject to availability.
What are the best headshot makeup tips?
The best headshot makeup tips are to keep foundation natural, add slightly more definition to eyes, blush and lips than usual, and avoid anything that feels unlike you in person.
Should I book hair and makeup for headshots?
Hair and makeup for headshots can be useful if you want a polished finish or do not want to manage makeup yourself. Sydney Headshots can organise a hair and makeup artist in advance, subject to availability.