Studio portrait session - make-up and outfit?

Question

For experienced studio photographers:

My mom scheduled a family portrait session for her, my sister and me. She's wondering if we should look into getting a make-up artist to do all our make-up so that it looks perfect (we haven't had a portrait done since my sister and I were little kids). I was wondering if you, as a professional photographer, think this is necessary or if you can do it on your own keeping a few tips in mind.

Also, for the family portrait (will be in B&W only), my mom wants us all to wear outfits that show our individual personalities. I'm the young career woman in the family with kind of a clean, classic, but trendy style. I was going to wear dark jeans, pumps, a white/blue 3/4 length button down shirt with a black sweater vest. Does this sound okay or too distracting?

Thanks for any comments (serious ones only please).

Answer 1

I have seen all kinds of makeup jobs done...from the Tammy Faye to the Granola (none)...and I would probably suggest that professional makeup is not 110% necessary. But it will make your mom feel good about herself and that IS 110% necessary. So go along with that. You'll look pretty when you're all dolled up.

I like your outfit. It's not too fussy, it's clean, it's classic, it's simple. I find that outfits which are too patterned or too fussy end up taking away from the subject. And I kind of like her idea! That's really cool! I'll have to remember that for OUR next family portrait.

And while I adore B&W, I would say to do some colour too...you are paying for the makeup job, and colours are a great thing. You might not end up purchasing the colour, but at least you will have some variety and the choice.

Have a great session!

Answer 2

I am not quite a professional yet but have a lot of experience when it comes to make-up, hair and the outfit for a black and white.
As you stated "keeping tips in mind" do your own makeup if you can do a fair job of it. Black and white portraits are very forgiving and hide bunches of flaws.
Tip 1: Do not use an excessive amount of dark eye makeup. Stay with the lighter,brighter shades. Black mascara is ok but no clumps please. (lol)
Tip 2: Don't over do the blush.
Tip 3: Do try to balance the look with your family. For example... everyone wear the same kind of makeup style.
Keep in mind what everyone else is wearing so you won't be off balance. Light to dark (top to bottom) works well .
In a black and White, it is hard to be distracting.
Relax, have fun and enjoy the time spent with your family.

Answer 3

Getting your makeup done professionally is fine, but unless you totally suck as applying makeup, I don't feel it's necessary, especially if the photos are black and white.

The best group shots embody the individual and group personalities via their expression, not their clothes. It is best for each member of the group to dress the same. For example, khaki bottom, red top; black dress; jeans, black top. Avoid turtle necks and too many layers.

If your mom really wants everyone to dress as themselves, then I recommend doing a shot like that, and then a shot where your faces can shine through.