Is it really neccessary? Isn't the makeup supposed to be natural anyways? Is there a difference if you do it yourself...? I would like some feedback because I'm a beginner.

Depends if you are any good at doing it yourself.

I have done my own at times as I have practiced so damn much since I was 14 AND because the last time I had it done, she did a horrible job and I left the shoot crying.

I will say this though- it's a lot less stressful to have somoeone else do it as you can just relax beforehand and during the shoot they can touch you up. BUT you need to be confident in their abilities.

Make sure you use a nice thick base as it will even the skin tone and eliminate the need for much retouching.

You want it to be natural.

But, if you don't know how to apply makeup properly, then a makeup artist who can apply NATURAL looking makeup is necessary.

I cannot recommend a makeup artist highly enough!!! They can truly make a shoot miraculous and if they stay on set with you they will keep watching and adjusting the makeup as you shoot and change outfits. Worth EVERY penny.

There are photographers out there that include make-up in their packages - like the one I took with. I would recommend it, even if you know how to apply makeup yourself, because they know how your face will look through the lens and on the finished product.

But like miss stone said, if you're not satisfied with the outcome, you can always tell them that and redo it yourself. Remember you are hiring them, you can do whatever you want.

Make sure, with whatever photographer you choose, to look at their portfolio for makeup too

Unless you are very good at makeup...
I;d get a professional...

quote:

Originally posted by FaithLove:
Make sure, with whatever photographer you choose, to look at their portfolio for makeup too
Unless you are very good at makeup... I;d get a professional...

Absolutely correct.

In the past three years, I've allowed only one customer to do her own makeup.

She was a professional makeup artist with an extensive book.

It should be noted here that makeup for photography is different than makeup for daily wear. Unless you know the difference (and the kind of lighting the photographer uses), you can ruin a headshot session.

Any professional headshot photographer should be able to furnish one for you. If he can't, he's no professional.

P.S.-- The best headshot photographers usually have the best makeup artists.

www.robertkim.com
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0453647/

I'm a professional make-up artist, Robert. I've been to your site.
Do you mind if I PM you? I'd love to show you my stuff.
Alicia Campos

quote:

Originally posted by Robert Kim Photography:

quote:

Originally posted by FaithLove:
Make sure, with whatever photographer you choose, to look at their portfolio for makeup too
Unless you are very good at makeup... I;d get a professional...

Absolutely correct.

In the past three years, I've allowed only one customer to do her own makeup.

She was a professional makeup artist with an extensive book.

It should be noted here that makeup for photography is different than makeup for daily wear. Unless you know the difference (and the kind of lighting the photographer uses), you can ruin a headshot session.

Any professional headshot photographer should be able to furnish one for you. If he can't, he's no professional.

P.S.-- The best headshot photographers usually have the best makeup artists.

www.robertkim.com
http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0453647/

Okay, thanks a bunch!

I'd love to see your work, alicia c.

Well, it really depends on how badly you want to market yourself. If you're thinking of playing big, then a makeup artist is definitely a must. You have a point by saying that makeup is supposed to appear natural in photographs but they are also supposed to help highlight our advantageous features like cheeks, brow bones, eyes and nose (whatever makes our features unique). A lot of people have mistaken simple natural makeup with no makeup or sloppy makeup and that's why their shots might not turn out as well. If you haven't at least a course in personal makeup or if you don't think you put on makeup the professional way, and you want great headshots, I think it does matter to get a professional makeup artist (prices are reasonably these days) to run the extra mile. Remember, it's important to have one fabulous shot for a great impression and pursue your career rather than having repeated attempts to produce better headshots. Good luck! Hope to see your headshots results.

Sincerely,
Julie Chase
http://www.actorgear.com