Saturday, February 7, 2009

Session Prep: Caprice

Caprice and I have her photo session scheduled a couple weeks from now.  To get ready for the big day, we spent some time at the make-up counter at Kohls for a make-over.  Caprice is one of those natural beauties who really doesn't need to wear make-up, but I suggested she do so for her session - especially since she'll be using several of the images as head-shots to send in to modeling and talent agencies.  

Even if you have great skin, wearing a light foundation during your photo session can really help to even out your skin tones and cover up blemishes - which is particularly helpful for keeping your retouching fees to a minimum.  

In researching head-shots online, I discovered that most models in this area tend to go with a more natural look when submitting their pictures to modeling agencies.  So, my goal in helping Caprice select a foundation was to find one that accentuated her dewy skin and allowed her natural beauty to shine through.  

This meant that powder foundations were out.  We know because the lady above tried to make it work, and it flat-out didn't!  We chose a liquid based foundation instead that really suited Caprice quite well.  

When selecting a foundation choose one that best matches your skin tone.  Always blend well when applying - especially around your hair and neck lines - to keep your look as natural as possible.
  
We chose a plum liner and a more neutral shadow to help bring out the green in her eyes.  I also encouraged Caprice to avoid sparkly blushes and moisturizers (especially under the eyes) as those can appear pixelated in a digital image - not the look we're after.  FYI: digital cameras especially dislike glitter on the face. 

After finding a make-up scheme we were both happy with, we headed to the mall.  Together we perused the racks for wardrobe ideas.  Caprice was sweet enough to include me in on these decisions as she knew I was working on building my teen portfolio as well.  We hit the jack-pot at Forever 21.

All of this is a huge deal for Caprice.  Her life long dream (since she was 5 years old) is to have a career in modeling and acting.  She loves theatre and will attend college in the fall to complete her degree in theatre and arts.  I'm really excited about being able to provide her with head-shots that will help her pursue those dreams.  We'll share a few of those images after her session in a couple weeks.

Random pic: Here's me documenting "me" on a styling session.  I was outside the dressing room waiting for Caprice to come out when I saw my reflection in the mirror.  Thought you might all get a kick out it.

Before I move on to a few more make-up tips, I have to mention how proud of Caprice I was.  She came in with a very specific budget and was so great about sticking to it.  How's that for maturity beyond her years? She's my kind of gal!

Now, back to make-up...An inexpensive place to send your clients for a makeover is the nearest cosmetics counter at your local department store. Most offer free make-overs.  Be sure to ask ahead of time if they are trained in make-up selection and application though.  Our lady at Kohls was NOT, and we ended up wasting much of our morning taking off and reapplying makeup that should never have been selected in the first place.  

Now for a HUGE top-secret scoop:  


Kohls carries the American Beauty and Flirt lines of cosmetics. American Beauty is the lower priced version of Estee Lauder.  Flirt is the lower priced version of MAC.  The formulations of both of these lines are identical to the higher priced counterparts.  The only difference (other than the packaging and the names of the colors) is the price tag.  Why throw money away if you don't have to, right?

With that said, like I alluded to before, Kohls may not have the most experienced make-over personnel - just be sure to ask about their experience before hand.  Remember, if you want a more professional makeover (with someone who can actually guide you to the correct color choices for your skin type), you might consider going to the MAC or Estee Lauder cosmetic counters first.  Once you've settled on your colors, head over to Kohls for the less hefty price tags.  Do so and you'll even have money left over to spend on your wardrobe!

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