How to Master Makeup for Photoshoots: Expert Tips from a Professional Makeup Artist

Talent Spotlight: Lily Ling, makeup artist & hair stylist at Lily Does Makeup Pt. 1

Monika Sosnowska Photography: Hi Lily, so nice to meet with you today and talk about your work. What inspired you to pursue a career as a makeup artist and hair stylist?

Lily Ling: So nice to be here, on this beautiful day in Vancouver. To answer your question, I've always had a passion for artistry and creativity, and I found that makeup and hairstyling offered a unique canvas for self-expression. Growing up, I was drawn to the transformative power of makeup and hair, how they could enhance natural beauty and boost confidence. This fascination ultimately led me to pursue formal training in cosmetology, and I've never looked back since.

MSP: What is your favorite part of being a makeup artist?

LL: My favorite part is undoubtedly the ability to empower others and make them feel beautiful. There's something incredibly rewarding about seeing my clients' faces light up when they look in the mirror and feel confident in their appearance. It's a privilege to be part of their journey and to help them shine, whether it's for a special occasion or simply a boost in their everyday confidence.

MSP: How do you stay updated with the latest trends and techniques in your field?

LL: Continuous education and staying abreast of industry trends are paramount in my profession. I attend workshops, seminars, and trade shows regularly to learn about the latest techniques, products, and trends. Additionally, I follow renowned makeup artists and hairstylists on social media platforms and engage with online communities dedicated to beauty and fashion. This ensures that I'm always equipped with the knowledge and skills to provide my clients with the latest and greatest in beauty.

MSP: What are the essential makeup products every person should have in their beauty arsenal?

LL: Every beauty arsenal should include foundational products like a good moisturizer, primer, foundation or tinted moisturizer, concealer, mascara, neutral eyeshadow palette, blush, lipstick or lip gloss, and setting spray. These versatile products can create a wide range of looks from natural to glam, making them essential for any makeup lover.

Lily Ling is a renowned celebrity freelance makeup-artist, hair-stylist and fashion-stylist based in Vancouver, Canada.

MSP: Can you offer tips for skincare or makeup prep to allow for easy makeup application?

LL: Absolutely! Skincare is the foundation of any flawless makeup look. I always recommend my clients to cleanse, tone, and moisturize their skin before applying makeup to ensure a smooth canvas. Additionally, using a primer helps to fill in pores and fine lines, creating a smooth base for foundation. And don't forget to exfoliate regularly to slough off dead skin cells and promote a radiant complexion.

MSP: How do you approach creating a makeup look for different skin types and tones?

LL: Diversity in skin types and tones is something I celebrate in my work. When creating a makeup look, I always take into account my client's unique features, undertones, and preferences. For example, for clients with oily skin, I opt for mattifying products and oil-free formulas, while for dry skin, I focus on hydrating and luminous finishes. Similarly, I select foundation shades and undertones that complement my client's natural complexion to achieve a seamless and flattering look.

MSP: How do you personalize makeup looks to reflect a client's personality and style?

LL: Understanding my client's personality and style is essential in tailoring a makeup look that resonates with them. I take the time to listen to their preferences, assess their style aesthetic, and draw inspiration from their personal taste. Whether it's a bold statement lip for the adventurous soul or a soft, romantic look for the minimalist, I strive to capture my client's essence and amplify their natural beauty through makeup.

MSP: What are some common makeup mistakes people make, and how can they avoid them?

LL: One common mistake is not properly blending foundation into the neck, resulting in a noticeable line of demarcation. To avoid this, always remember to blend foundation seamlessly down the neck and onto the décolletage for a flawless finish. Another mistake is overdoing it with makeup, especially with trends like contouring and highlighting. Less is often more, so aim for a balanced look that enhances your features without masking your natural beauty.

MSP: How do you approach working with clients who have specific skincare concerns or conditions?

LL: Empathy and understanding are key when working with clients who have specific skincare concerns or conditions. I take the time to listen to their needs, inquire about any sensitivities or allergies, and customize my approach accordingly. Whether it's selecting hypoallergenic products for sensitive skin or incorporating skincare treatments to address concerns like acne or rosacea, I prioritize my client's comfort and confidence throughout the makeup process.

MSP: What is your approach to creating a cohesive makeup look that complements a client's outfit or theme for a photoshoot?

LL: When creating a makeup look that complements a client's outfit or portrait theme, I pay close attention to color schemes, textures, and overall aesthetic. I draw inspiration from the outfit's style, whether it's elegant and classic or bold and avant-garde, and incorporate elements of that into the makeup look. Whether it's coordinating eyeshadow shades with the dress or matching lipstick to the overall color palette, the goal is to achieve harmony and balance between the makeup and the overall ensemble.

MSP: How do you adapt makeup techniques for different lighting conditions, such as natural daylight, indoor lighting, or photography flash?

LL: Adapting makeup techniques to different lighting conditions is crucial for ensuring a flawless and photogenic finish. For example, in natural daylight, I focus on achieving a luminous complexion with lightweight, natural-looking makeup. In indoor lighting, I may use slightly more product to compensate for the softer light and ensure the makeup translates well on camera. And for photography flash, I avoid using products with SPF or titanium dioxide, which can cause flashback, and opt for matte finishes to prevent unwanted shine.

MSP: How do you ensure that makeup stays fresh and long-lasting throughout a photoshoot?

LL: To ensure makeup stays fresh and long-lasting, I start with a clean and properly prepped canvas, using primers and setting sprays to lock in the makeup. I also opt for long-wear formulas and build makeup in layers, setting each step with powder to enhance longevity. Throughout the photoshoot, I provide touch-up services if needed at a small additional cost, ensuring that my client's makeup remains flawless and radiant from start to finish.

MSP: Can you tell me more about the touch-up services?

LL: Absolutely! Providing touch-up services throughout the photoshoot ensures that my clients look and feel their best from start to finish. I offer touch-up services at a small additional cost for makeup and hair, fixing any smudges, creases, or flyaways that may occur overtime. This attention to detail ensures that my clients maintain their confidence and radiance, no matter the occasion.

Visit Part 2 of my interview with Lily: "Unlocking the Secrets of Stunning Hairstyles for Photoshoots: Insights from a Talented Hair Stylist.” Our interview with Lily continues as she provides tips for picture perfect hair.

ABOUT

Lily Ling is a renowned celebrity freelance makeup-artist, hair-stylist and fashion-stylist based in Vancouver, Canada. She is a proud graduate of Blanche MacDonald and the Toronto Professional School of Makeup with over a decade of industry experience working with the most established photographers to create captivating imagery and capture indelible memories. Lily currently accepts commercial, bridal, and special event bookings. Contact Lily at www.lilydoesmakeup.com or on Instagram @lilydoesmakeup or on YouTube.