Wanna know a not-so-secret secret here at Shalimar B. Photography?! I always work with a hair and makeup artist for each senior portrait session in Chicago.
And in my opinion, they are the best hair and makeup artists in the city! The artists I work with are licensed professionals that I actually book for my own hair and makeup when I need it! I really trust them and love their work. Trust me – when it comes to your senior photo session day, I don’t want you to worry about anything, so this is just one more thing that I will help take care of!
The only thing you need to do for me? Pin the makeup and hair looks on Pinterest that you like so you can show the artist on your session day. Easy peasy!
Here are a few tips that I share with my seniors before working with our hair and makeup artists.
- It’s all about prep!
Drink lots of water before your senior session to keep your skin hydrated and happy! Make sure you arrive at the studio with clean, dry hair and a clean face so the artist can start right away. Try not to change your haircare or skincare routine before your session… We want your hair and skin feeling and looking their best for your senior photos!
- Share your inspo!
Show your hair and makeup artists several different inspiration images. I suggest putting together a Pinterest board (yup, just like I mentioned a minute ago!) to make it easily accessible. Showing your artist or stylist visuals of what you want will help them envision your end goal. Make sure to pin images with models that have the same skin tone, eyes and hair color, hair length and texture to keep your expectations realistic.
- Tell them what you like!
Explain what you like about your inspiration pics. Be specific as possible when talking this through with your hair and makeup artists. Maybe you like the eye makeup in one photo but the lip color in another… These are important details to mention. Your artist is not a mind-reader!
- Speak up!
If you don’t like something, please speak up! I know this can be hard, but I promise you won’t hurt anyone’s feelings. Explain exactly what you’d like changed and take that extra time to get exactly what you want. A professional will always want you to leave the chair happy!
- But what if?
If you use special makeup or you have a special concern with your skin or hair, you can bring your own hair products or makeup for the artists to use. Just mention this before your session so that I can give our hair and makeup artists a heads up.
Planning hair and makeup for your senior photos doesn’t have to be hard – let me guide you through every step of the process! Here at SBP, I’ve got your back!!
2025 seniors, it’s your time! Reach out today to book your senior photo sesh!
Wanna learn more about the senior photography experience at Shalimar B. Photography? Get the scoop on Chicago senior photos here & see what’s happening behind the scenes over on Instagram!
Hair & Makeup Tips for Senior Photos | Chicago Senior Photos | City Chicago Senior Photographer | High School Senior Photographer Chicago
