Makeup, Hair & Styling Tips to Help You Feel Confident in Front of the Camera
Preparing for Your Photoshoot: Simple Ways to Look and Feel Your Best
Whether you’re getting ready for your wedding, engagement session, branding photos, or another special occasion, professional hair and makeup can make a world of difference in how you feel — and how your photos turn out. As a Northwest Indiana photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right styling choices can boost confidence, enhance your natural beauty, and create a polished, camera-ready look that still feels like you.
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry. I’ve put together a few of my favorite makeup, hair, and wardrobe tips to help you feel your absolute best for your next photoshoot.
PROFESSIONAL MAKEUP MAKES A BIG DIFFERENCE
Even if you’re someone who doesn’t wear much makeup day-to-day, professional makeup for photos is a whole different ballgame. Cameras and lighting can sometimes wash out your features, so a little extra definition helps bring everything to life.
You don’t necessarily need a full glam look (unless that’s your vibe — in which case, go for it!), but soft glam or natural glam tends to photograph beautifully.
If you’re local to Northwest Indiana and looking for someone who can help you feel absolutely amazing, I highly recommend Tammy Durbin owner of Altered Ego Studio in Crown Point, Indiana. Tammy specializes in both soft and full glam, and she’s someone I’ve personally trusted and always reccomend for years. Whether you’re walking down the aisle, updating your headshots, taking family photos for the first time, or booking your Senior photos, she has a way of making you look and feel like the best version of yourself.
Altered Ego Studio Makeup Pricing
Makeup for any occasion. All makeup applications are $100 each. For brides it is a $250 deposit that includes the brides trail and day of the wedding makeup. There is a 7 person minimum for weddings and a 10 person max for just herself. If there are more than 10 people getting their makeup done there is a second artist she works with.
Typically you will get your makeup done at her studio in Crown Point. However, depending on the date and how many people are getting their makeup done she may travel but depending on radius there would be an additional fee.
Don’t Forget About Your Hair
Your hair can frame your face and change the entire feel of your photos. Think about your outfit, location, and weather when deciding how to style it.
A few quick tips:
For outdoor sessions: Loose curls, soft waves, or a relaxed updo move beautifully in the wind and look natural.
For weddings and engagements: Work with your stylist to choose something timeless that complements your dress neckline.
For branding sessions: Choose a look that matches your professional vibe — polished and styled but still you.
And remember, freshly washed hair can sometimes be too slippery to style, so it’s usually best to wash it the day before your session (unless your stylist suggests otherwise). I'm not a cosmetologist just an esthetician ( licensed skin professional ) giving you my best tips.
Keep Wardrobe Simple, Coordinated, and Comfortable
Clothing plays a huge part in how confident and natural you feel during your session. Here’s what I always suggest:
Avoid super-bright neons or busy patterns — they can distract from your face.
Stick to colors that complement your skin tone and the setting of your shoot.
For couples or groups, coordinate rather than match. Think “same color palette” instead of identical outfits.
Bring options! A backup outfit can come in handy if the lighting, location, or vibe changes.
And most importantly: wear something you feel comfortable and confident in. The more relaxed you are, the more natural and effortless your photos will look.
Layers! I love layers and texture. Having something to hold or grab on to can give your hands a place to go when you're feeling lost like you don't know where to put them, and it always looks natural.
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WHY PAMPERING YOURSELF IS PART OF THE PROCESS
Getting professional hair and makeup done isn’t just about the final look — it’s about how it makes you feel. There’s something special about sitting in the chair, letting someone else take care of you for a bit, and walking into your session feeling confident and radiant.
That glow you get from feeling your best? It absolutely shows in your photos.
Whether you’re a bride, a newly engaged couple, or a business professional showing up for branding photos, investing in professional styling is one of the best ways to elevate your entire experience.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, it’s not about perfection, it’s about confidence. When you feel good, you look good, and that energy shines through in every photo.
So take the time to prepare, treat yourself to professional hair and makeup, and wear something that makes you feel like you. You’ll thank yourself when you see the final gallery.
And if you’re local and looking for a trusted pro to help you get ready, definitely check out Tammy Durbin at Altered Ego Studio. She’s my go-to recommendation for a reason — she’ll have you glowing before your session even begins.
