How to do makeup for black & white photos ?
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Wed Jul 11, 2007 9:03 am

Any good advice for doing my makeup for a black & white photo shoot? What color blush,lipstick,eyeshadow,eye liner,false eyelashes,base makeup?

free skin care · Wed Jul 11, 2007 10:48 am

I would stick to neutrals that will help to play up your features, since you won't be able to see the color of the make-up. I would avoid using anything too dark, especially on your eyes, because you don't want to look like you have two black eyes.

free skin care · Wed Jul 11, 2007 11:36 am

i would ask the the phot guy, sometimes black and white pictures you need to apply darker makeup so you can see it better, too light and you might look too washed out. hth

free skin care · Wed Jul 11, 2007 1:56 pm

I guess the question is 'What is this for?"

Is it for family? Special Event? Fun? The 'Why" can really help with the answer.

E.G. New baby pictures. (I just LOVE the ones with new Dads without a shirt holding a newborn or in their hands looking at baby!! My heart melts on those).

I think alot would depend on if this is casual or formal and if you are getting a head shot or full body. I think clothing is very important too.

I've found a couple things on make-up and clothing that I hope helps:

"The best clothing for B&W photos is clothing with a contrast such as a black jacket with a white shirt, animal prints, polka dots, and stripes and plaids in dark colors. The darker colors like black and navy make a clearer and crisper photo. Most other colors will look gray.

Everything tends to show up in a B&W photo like hair twigs sticking out or even eyelashes stuck together."

These are helpful tips I really like from JC Penny (of all places). Very Happy

I thought they might be interesting for you too:

"Overall, keep hairstyles and make-up (adults only!) simple. Barretts and ribbons should be small. Hair should be neatly trimmed no later than 48 hours prior to your appointment.
Let your individual personalities shine through.

Simplicity is the key when it comes to planning a portrait. Solid colors are best. Avoid large or bold patterns and bright colors. They draw attention away from the face. (this is refering to color photos)
Long sleeve dresses and shirts are recommended. They draw attention away from the arms and focus on the face. (Short sleeves are acceptable for infants and small children.

Coordinate your child's attire from head to toe, carefully selecting appropriate shoes and socks or stockings, as our photographer may suggest a full length pose.
Darker clothing tends to minimize body size, and light tones tend to emphasize body size.
Necklines are important. A scoop or v-neck is best if your neck is short and your face is full. A turtleneck or high-necked garment is more flattering if your neck is longer and your face is slender.

Dress everyone in the same style clothing. Do not mix casual and formal attire.
Do not mix light and dark colors. Save stronger colors and patterns for accent items like scarves and neckties.
White or light pastel clothing looks best in portraits taken against a white or light colored background. Dark clothing looks best photographed against darker backgrounds and creates a more formal mood.
Our photographers will help you to select the backgrounds most suitable to your needs. To personalize your portraits, we encourage you to bring your own props or a favorite toy to the session as well"

I know it's long, but I've followed some of these tips and had some of the best family photos ever!

Good luck!

Wed Jul 11, 2007 2:11 pm

I am blonde and 8 months pregnant,only wearing lacey bra & boy shorts.

free skin care · Wed Jul 11, 2007 2:33 pm

Then I would keep it natural....but a night natural if that makes sense. You know when folks go out in the evening...it's darker eyeshadow and lipstick...well, keep the day look, but apply with a heavier hand. That's my advice.

Sounds like you are celebrating the pregnancy. Keep you - well, you. Don't go for a dramatic new look no super dark make-up unless you normally do...keep it simple and clean. I would also look into body make-up just like for the face (remember...all things show up more in B&W-to include stretch marks and ingrown hairs-if you know what i mean). Embarassed

I wouldn't put a lot in the hair (also...are you a natural blonde? If not, don't forget the roots).

Lastly, and this is because my best friend did this...either take off all finger nail polish or get a fresh coat. Hers was chipped and it was very noticable. Laughing

Oh, don't forget to take off the watch but leave the ring if you wear one! Very Happy

Have fun and I bet it turns out great!

free skin care · Wed Jul 11, 2007 2:36 pm

I just realized my entry for the make-up didn't get pasted in! Opps!

Here it is:

Colours for black & white

Dark reds, dark greens and white work best for black and white photography.

Avoid pinks, yellows and light blues.

Shades should be stronger and applied more heavily than usual

This is from-Make-up for black and white photography
by Gina Anderson

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