Professional vs. At-Home Makeup for Photoshoots — Photographer’s Tips for Feeling Great on Camera

Helpful Tips
Written By Dorota Pietrzak
 
 

Makeup or No Makeup – That’s the Question

When preparing for your photoshoot in The Netherlands, one of the most common questions is: Should I wear makeup — and if so, how much?

Natural beach photoshoot in The Hague with home made make up

 

To start…

Ask yourself these questions:

– Do you feel comfortable wearing more makeup than usual?

– Would professionally done makeup make you feel more confident?

– Do you want to make this day all about you and celebrate it to the fullest?

If you answered yes, then booking a professional makeup artist in The Hague (or your city) might be the perfect choice.

But if heavier makeup doesn’t feel like you, or you’d rather keep your day relaxed without extra appointments, it’s absolutely fine to go for a natural photoshoot look and do your own makeup at home.

It’s also worth thinking about your outfit and location.

If you’re barefoot in nature wearing a simple summer dress, professional makeup might feel out of place. But in a studio photoshoot, urban setting, or even a beach session paired with a festive outfit, a more polished, professional look can make perfect sense.

Outdoor rooftop photo session in The Hague - while wearing more festive outfits it’s good to consider doing a professional make up that completes the look.

 

Let’s Rehearse a Few Scenarios

Here are some examples of when I’d recommend DIY (home-made) makeup versus professional makeup for your photoshoot:

  • Love story photoshoot – Wild beach, you and your partner, wearing summer clothes.

    Theme: A walk on the beach, splashing in the water, picnic

    💡 My tip: Go with soft, natural DIY makeup. It fits the relaxed vibe and looks beautiful in natural light.


  • After-wedding session – Old town, you’re wearing your wedding dress for an after-wedding session with your new husband.

    💡 My tip: Choose professional makeup. It will complement your dress and last longer throughout the shoot.


  • Studio photoshoot – Natural or flash light, boudoir or portrait session.

    💡 My tip: Most clients feel more confident in this setting with professional makeup (though it always depends on your personal preference).


  • Creative photoshoot – A colorful, bold outfit in the studio or outdoors.

    💡 My tip: Go for professionally matched makeup that complements your outfit and completes the overall concept.


  • Business photoshoot – In the studio or outdoors.

    💡 My tip: This one is worth thinking through carefully. You’re showing yourself to your clients — so you should be you.

    If your personal brand is natural, friendly, and approachable, go for a home-made, natural makeup look.

    But if you want to appear strictly professional, perhaps wearing a suit or aiming for a more polished business image, then professional makeup is definitely the way to go.


In creative shoots make up plays more artistic role and it’s part of the whole concept.

Remember that every case is different, and these are just examples of what I would recommend as a photographer. The decision is yours — and what’s crucial is that you feel great and confident with your makeup on your photoshoot day.

 

DIY Makeup Tips for Your Photoshoot

 
 

Summer dress, flowers and natural make up that’s perfect for this urban photoshoot.


From a photographer’s point of view, the most important thing is that your makeup is applied evenly and precisely. The foundation should look smooth and consistent, without streaks or areas where it gathers too much. Lipstick should stay within the lip line (tip: it’s a good idea to bring your lipstick for touch-ups), and eyeliner should be applied evenly on both eyes.


Your makeup doesn’t have to be heavier than usual — what matters most is that you look and feel like yourself: natural, confident, and comfortable.


Small skin imperfections such as acne or redness will be gently retouched during post-production, so there’s no need to stress about them

TIP: For a flawless foundation finish, always apply a good moisturizing cream before starting your makeup. This helps keep your skin hydrated, smooth, and naturally radiant.

 

Professional Makeup – What to Expect

If you decide to work with a professional makeup artist, they’ll likely ask what your makeup is for — so what should you tell them?

If your photoshoot takes place outdoors or in a natural-light studio, ask for a lighter, more natural look. Unless the makeup itself is part of a creative concept, it doesn’t need to be heavier than what you’d normally wear. The key is that it looks even, fresh, and camera-ready.

Stronger makeup works well for studio portraits, evening sessions, or when it’s a big part of your creative vision — or simply when you want your look to stand out more.

Keep in mind that a makeup artist usually needs about 1 hour for makeup (around 1.5 hours if you’re also having your hair done). Be sure to book your appointment early enough so you can arrive relaxed, confident, and ready to enjoy your session.


Final Thought

Whether you choose a natural DIY approach or hire a professional makeup artist, the most important thing is that you feel like yourself. Authentic confidence always shines through the lens — and that’s what truly makes your photos timeless.

Creative shoot where make up is perfectly matched with the background and the concept. Photoshoot styled by: @lorrains_styleguide * make up artist: @ellisnguyen_mua

Dorota Pietrzak