Picture day is your chance to shine and capture a moment you’ll remember for years—so why not make sure your makeup is timeless too? While it’s tempting to follow current makeup trends, you’ll want to aim for a look that still feels fresh and flattering when you look back at these photos years from now. We’ve put together a guide to help you create a natural, glowing look that’s both picture-perfect and trend-neutral. (Of course, if you love embracing makeup trends and don’t mind reflecting your style in each era, feel free to skip this tip and flaunt your unique look!)
Here’s your ultimate guide to a natural cutie makeup look for picture day:
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1. Foundation: Natural to Medium Coverage
Opt for a foundation that enhances your natural skin rather than masking it. Choose a formula with light to medium coverage to even out your complexion without looking cakey. This keeps your skin looking like skin while adding a soft glow. Our always favorite is the Estée Lauder foundation.
2. Concealer: Extra Coverage
For a flawless finish, apply a concealer that matches your skin tone to cover any blemishes or dark spots. You can also choose a concealer one shade lighter than your skin tone to brighten areas like under your eyes for a refreshed, well-rested look—just make sure it blends seamlessly.
3. Subtle Blush
Choose a soft, natural blush in pink or peach tones to give your cheeks a healthy, youthful glow. Avoid heavy or intense shades—just a gentle flush will do the trick to make you look naturally radiant in photos.
A great blush I love is the Rare Beauty Blush
4. Subtle Bronzer
A light dusting of bronzer can add a hint of warmth and definition to your face. Apply it sparingly to areas where the sun naturally hits, like your cheekbones, forehead, and jawline, for a subtle sun-kissed effect.
Related: 10 Best Drugstore Cream Bronzers (Tested & Reviewed)
5. Eyebrows: Keep Them Natural
Well-groomed but natural-looking brows are key for a timeless look. Fill in any sparse areas with a brow pencil or powder, but avoid over-defining or creating overly bold brows. Stick to soft strokes that follow your natural brow shape.
6. Natural-Looking False Eyelashes (Optional)
If you love false eyelashes, choose a pair that enhances your lashes without looking too dramatic. Stick to styles that add length and a slight curl but aren’t too thick or heavy. The goal is to enhance, not overpower.
7. Mascara
A good coat of mascara can make your eyes pop. Apply one or two layers to lengthen and define your lashes, focusing on separation rather than volume for a softer, more natural look.
Related: The Best Mascara for Hooded Eyes: Reviewed by a Hooded eye MUA
8. Eyeliner: Optional
Eyeliner is optional for picture day. If you prefer to go without, you’ll achieve a softer, more natural look. If you do wear it, try a thin line close to the lash line for subtle definition without creating a heavy or bold effect.
Related: How to Apply Eyeliner for Beginners: Step-by-Step Guide with Expert Tips
9. Lip Colors: Keep It Natural
Choose a soft, neutral lip color that enhances your natural lip shade. Light pinks, peaches, or nude tones work best for a fresh and timeless look. Avoid bright purples, or dark browns, black or black/dark lip liner, as these can date your photo or stand out too much in a natural makeup look.
Current Trends to Avoid (Optional)
While trendy makeup can be fun, certain techniques might not age as well in photos that you’ll look back on decades from now. Here are a few current trends you may want to skip for picture day:
- Dark Contouring: Heavy contouring can make your face look too sculpted and may not translate well in photos. Opt for a subtle bronzer instead.
- Highlighter: Although highlighter is popular, too much can make your skin look shiny or greasy under camera lights.
- Baking Under Eyes: Baking can leave a harsh, overly matte finish that looks unnatural.
- Very Light Concealer: Using a concealer that’s too light can cause a stark contrast under the eyes, making the area appear too bright or washed out.
- Winged Eyeliner: While winged eyeliner is a classic trend, it can make your look feel too dramatic for a natural, timeless effect.
- Smudged Bottom Eyeliner: Avoid dark, smudged eyeliner on the lower lash line—it can look messy in photos.
- Laminated Eyebrows: This trend may stand out too much and could date your photo over time.
- Dark Brown Lips: Dark lips can draw too much attention and may not suit a fresh, natural makeup look.
Final Thoughts: Keep It Simple and Timeless
The goal for picture day makeup is to enhance your natural beauty without going overboard. By sticking to neutral, timeless shades and techniques, you’ll create a fresh, beautiful look that will still feel relevant years from now. However, if you’re someone who loves showing off the makeup trends of the moment, go for it! Your pictures are a reflection of who you are at that time, so don’t be afraid to express yourself.
