One of the most frequent questions I get before a family photography session is, “How should I do my hair and makeup?” My answer? Keep it simple and stay true to yourself, you want to look like you!

My photography focuses on capturing authentic moments and deep connections. Your family photos should reflect you, natural, relaxed, and timeless. The goal is to enhance your features in a way that makes you feel confident while still looking like yourself. Here’s how to approach hair and makeup to ensure you look and feel your best on the day.

Hair: Soft, Natural, and Effortless

Hair with movement brings a beautiful sense of life to your photos. If you’re comfortable wearing your hair down, styles like soft waves, a simple blow dry, or your natural texture will create a flattering, effortless look.

Prefer to wear your hair up? Opt for a loose, relaxed style such as a low bun or soft ponytail. Avoid overly structured or heavily sprayed hairstyles, natural movement always photographs best.

Hair Tips for Stunning Photos:

✔️ Stick with a style you love and feel comfortable in, this isn’t the time to try a brand new look.

✔️ Use a light texturizing spray if heat styling to add softness and dimension.

✔️ Control flyaways with a small amount of smoothing serum, but avoid heavy hairsprays that make hair look stiff or unnatural.

Makeup: Fresh, Flattering, and Photo-Ready

The best makeup for photography enhances your features while still looking natural. A fresh, glowing complexion, softly defined eyes, and a neutral lip shade always work well in family portraits.

If you don’t wear much makeup daily, a few subtle enhancements can brighten your complexion and define your features. If makeup is part of your regular routine, stick with what you know and love, just make sure it translates well on camera.

Makeup Tips for a Naturally Beautiful Look:

✔️ Create an even complexion – A lightweight foundation, BB cream, or tinted moisturizer evens out skin tone without feeling heavy.

✔️ Enhance your features – A touch of blush, bronzer, and mascara can add warmth and definition.

✔️ Opt for neutral shades – Timeless, natural tones complement your features and won’t go out of style.

✔️ Skip excess powder – A dewy finish looks healthy and radiant, while too much powder can make skin look flat in photos.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Experimenting with a bold new look, if you never wear red lipstick, a photo session isn’t the time to start.

🚫 Applying heavy foundation or dark eyeliner, lighter, more natural looks tend to be more flattering.

🚫 Choosing a hairstyle that feels too structured or rigid.

🚫 Using SPF or shimmer heavy products, these can create unwanted shine and reflection in your photos.

The Golden Rule? Be You.

Your family photos should be a reflection of your true self. Whether you love a polished, glamorous look or prefer a more natural, minimal approach, the most important thing is that you feel confident and comfortable.

Looking for more tips on preparing for your family photo session? Get in touch, I’d love to help you feel your absolute best in front of the camera!