Getting Started with Beauty Photography

Beauty photography is a unique and creative field that requires attention to detail, an eye for beauty, and a strong understanding of makeup and lighting. In this blog, we'll explore the different approaches to beauty photography, from going natural and glowy to building up creative and bold looks.

Starting with a natural, glowy look is a great way to showcase the model's natural beauty and highlight their unique features. This look can be achieved by using minimal makeup, opting for a sheer, dewy foundation, and keeping the eye makeup subtle. A soft, neutral lip colour will help to keep the focus on the skin, while a subtle contour will add definition without looking too drastic.

To achieve the perfect natural glow, lighting is key. Soft, natural light will help to create a warm and radiant look, while using a reflector can help to bounce light back into the face and enhance the skin's natural texture. Shadows can be used to create depth and dimension, but it's important to keep the overall look soft and even.

While natural, glowy looks are beautiful and timeless, sometimes you want to create something more bold and creative. This is where you can let your imagination run wild and get creative with your makeup and styling choices.

For a bold look, it's important to start with a solid base. Use a full coverage foundation to create a flawless canvas, and then build up the eye makeup with bold, bright colours, graphic liner, and false lashes. A bold lip colour can be used to make a statement and draw attention to the face.

When creating bold beauty looks, lighting becomes even more important. Use a strong key light to create sharp shadows and define the features, and then use accent lights to highlight specific areas, such as the eyes or lips. This will help to create a dramatic and eye-catching look that pops off the page.

Beauty photography is about showcasing the natural beauty of the model and enhancing their features with makeup and lighting. Whether you're going for a natural and glowy look or a bold and creative look, it's important to have a strong understanding of makeup and lighting, and to let your imagination run wild. With the right approach, you can create stunning beauty photography that captures the essence of your subject and showcases their unique beauty.

York Fashion & Beauty Photographer

I am a fashion and beauty photographer based in York, with a passion for creating visually stunning and impactful images.

With over a decade of experience in the industry, I have honed my skills and developed a unique style, specialising in editorial photography with an eye for edgy fashion and beauty styles.

Check out my portfolio and see the impact that stunning beauty photography (and high-end retouching!) can have. Contact me now to discuss your next project!