Why you should hire a professional makeup artist for your business portraits

It goes without saying that everyone wants to look good for their business portraits. Why ever not? Ok you might argue that looking their best does not make someone a better employee or more likeable to clients and suppliers. And what role does professional make up have a place in corporate headshots? Isn’t that just vanity? But I completely disagree. Because as a professional photographer, I know that when you look your best, you feel your best. And that is always reflected in portraits.

Given how much our digital image precedes us in the world, the portrait has become even more important than ever. You want to show your personality, your integrity and your competence. And that will be easier to communicate when you are feeling great.

Feeling great is just one reason I would recommend professional makeup artists for business portraits but there are more practical ones. For example, if the photoshoot is being conducted under artificial lights, it can get hot. Add nerves to the mix and the sitter can get rather warm and start perspiring. Whether male or female, this is not a desirable look. Having a makeup artist there to powder and dab and take away the shine can make a huge difference. Does anyone know why Richard Nixon lost his presidential debates with John F Kennedy? Famously, he refused professional makeup and sweated profusely under the hot TV studio lights. The public thought it made him look pressured, dodgy and untrustworthy and voted for his rival.

Clearly this is not how you want to come across in your portraits… so invest in a makeup artist and ask for shoot ready makeup. The artist will reduce shine, accentuate the eyes and make sure that your hair has that last minute fluff or adjustment. You will feel and look your best. And so will your portraits.

Read here for more information about preparing for your corporate portraits

BUSINESS PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER LONDON