Unlike the photos you post on social media, your headshots are professional. You’ll likely use them on your resume, business website, LinkedIn profile, job applications, etc. The photo will be the first impression people get of you. This means that you want to keep your outfit, hair, and makeup as professional and natural-looking as possible.

This begs the question, should you get a professional makeup artist to do your makeup for your headshot photography session?

Your photographer will surely retouch your pictures to remove blemishes or imperfections, but if you regularly use makeup, it is best to hire a professional makeup artist for your headshot session. Here’s why:

Makeup Looks Different on Camera

Makeup looks completely different on camera due to lighting. Professional makeup artists are experienced in makeup specifically for photography sessions, whereas you are probably used to natural or everyday looks. If you are spending a couple of hundred bucks on a professional photographer, why not go the extra mile?

Professional Products

You probably don’t have a collection of professional, camera-friendly products to choose from. A professional makeup artist knows what products work best in artificial lightening and on camera. They have matte makeup without glitter and shimmers, which prevent your skin looking cakey. Let the professional decide what works best for your skin and looks flattering in the photographs.

Years of Experience

A professional spends years working and experimenting on different faces with varying skin tones, complexions, and types. Whereas you have probably only worked with your own. A professional makeup artist can do your makeup better than you, especially on camera. After all, this is what you are paying them for.

Real-time Touchups

A professional makeup artist will probably be present on set and will make any changes according to the headshots you’re getting. Therefore, you need to get your makeup done professionally for headshots. You yourself won’t be able to make the appropriate changes, especially if you’re getting headshots taken in different settings.

Relieve Stress

A professional photography session can be nerve-wrecking and stressful. You should arrive on the venue relaxed and energized, and not tired after spending an hour doing your makeup. With a professional makeup artist, you don’t have to worry about getting up early and losing sleep on getting your makeup right! Just follow their directions, sit back and focus on that beautiful smile.

Should Men Hire a Professional Too?

Makeup helps brighten up your face and fix any pesky imperfections you don’t want showing up on your professional photos. A makeup artist can help you look your best with subtle changes to your facial features. It can make a whole lot of difference between an amateur and a professional headshot. If your aims are high and you wish to make a great first impression, we suggest you go for it. Don’t be shy!

In the end, the decision is up to you and the budget you’re working with. Do a quick cost-benefit analysis before booking a professional for your headshot makeup.