Makeup and Hair Tips for Photoshoots: Expert Advice from Katelyn Spencer

Makeup and Hair Tips for Photoshoots: Expert Advice from Katelyn Spencer

Planning a photoshoot is exciting, but it can feel overwhelming—especially when it comes to hair and makeup. What will look best on camera? How can you make sure your features pop without looking overdone? Hiring a professional makeup artist and hairstylist ensures your photos turn out polished, confident, and camera-ready.

Professional artists enhance natural features, choose colors and techniques that complement your skin tone and wardrobe, and adjust your look for studio and natural lighting. This expertise ensures you look your best in every shot—whether it’s for personal branding, maternity, headshots, or editorial photoshoots.

We spoke with professional makeup artist and hairstylist Katelyn Spencer, who shared her top tips for photoshoot-ready makeup and hair.

Why Hire a Professional Makeup Artist and Stylist for Photoshoots

1. Importance of Professional Makeup and Hairstyling for Photoshoots

Professional makeup and hairstyling enhance your natural features and ensure you look polished on camera. When you communicate your preferences—what you love, what you don’t—we can tailor the look to reflect your personality. That collaboration helps create the strongest images.

2. How Photoshoot Makeup Differs from Everyday Makeup

Everyday makeup often doesn’t translate well on high-resolution photography. Professional artists adjust tones, textures, and coverage so your features are enhanced while still looking natural.

Expert Makeup Tips for Photoshoots

3. How Camera Lighting Affects Makeup

Both studio and natural lighting can wash out regular “day-to-day” makeup. I make sure your complexion looks even, your skin tone is accurate, and any unwanted shine is controlled. This creates a fresh, balanced look under any lighting setup.

4. Must-Have Makeup Products for Photoshoots

Translucent powder is essential to control shine without adding heaviness—an easy way to keep your skin looking flawless on camera.

5. Skin Prep for Different Skin Types

Preparation starts with communication. Let your artist know your skin type and the products that typically work for you. This allows us to choose the right prep steps so your makeup lasts and looks its best.

6. Makeup Techniques to Enhance Facial Features

False lashes are a game-changer. They photograph beautifully and come in a wide range of styles—natural, bold, strip, individual—so we can enhance your eyes in a way that suits your look.

7. Tips for a Natural Photoshoot Makeup Look

Communication and reference photos are key. I always ask clients what products they normally wear and what feels comfortable for them. Bringing a photo of yourself when you felt your best, along with an inspiration photo for the shoot—even if it’s natural or full glam—helps us create the perfect version of your natural look.

Hair Tips for Photoshoots

8. Best Hairstyles for Different Photoshoots

Soft, voluminous curls or waves almost always look incredible on camera. They add movement, dimension, and polish to any style of photoshoot—from branding to maternity.

9. How to Keep Hair in Place During a Photoshoot

Talk to your stylist about your desired look. If you want curls, waves, or movement, avoid using a flat iron beforehand—this makes it harder for your stylist to achieve the look.

10. Common Hair Mistakes Before a Photoshoot

The biggest mistake is flat-ironing the hair right before a session when you actually want volume or curl. It makes styling much more difficult.

11. Quick Hair Touch-Ups During a Photoshoot

Yes—hairspray and a fine-tooth comb are perfect for taming flyaways and keeping everything smooth between shots.

Final Thoughts on Photoshoot Makeup and Hair

Professional makeup and hairstyling can make a huge difference in how confident, polished, and authentic you appear on camera. With clear communication, reference photos, and a few expert tips from Katelyn Spencer, you’ll be ready to shine in every shot. Remember: the right look is one that feels like you, enhances your features, and lasts throughout the entire session.

Meet Katelyn: the Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist behind this post