Maximizing Your Makeup: How Understanding On-Set Lighting Can Take Your Skills to the Next Level

As A Makeup Artist, lighting is a big Deal. It can make or break your work on set. Not only does good lighting highlight your subjects natural beauty, but it can also help you hide and flats and make touch-ups on the fly.

One thing to keep in mind is the direction of the light. Natural light is usually most flattering when it comes from above, but on set, the direction can vary. It’s important to be aware of this and adjust your makeup accordingly.

Another factor to consider is the color of the light. Different types of light have different color temperatures, which can affect your subject’s skin. For example, warm light ( like from a candle or incandescent bulb) can make the skin look more yellow, while cool light (like from a florescent bulb) can make it look more blue. By understanding the color temperature on set, you can adjust your makeup to get a more natural and flattering look.

Artist Tip #1: If you’re working in warm light, avoid using cool-tones makeup as it can make the models skin look sickly and unnatural. Instead, opt for warm-toned products that will complement the light and enhance your models natural skin tone,

Artist Tip #2: If you’re working with cool light, avoid using warm-toned makeup, as it can make your models skin look orange and unnatural. Instead, opt for cool-toned products that will complement the light and enhance your models natural skin tone.

In addition to direction and color, the intensity of the light is also important bright light can wash out your subjects feature and make it hard to see your work. On the other hand, dim light can create shadows and make it hard to see what your doing. By understanding the intensity of the light on set, you can adjust the technique and product you choose to make sure your work looks it’s best.

Artist Tip #1 : If you’re working in bright light avoid using heavy foundations or concealers, as they can look caked and exaggerated on camera. Instead, opt for lightweight buildable formulas will provide coverage without looking heavy.

Artist Tip #2: If you’re working in dim light, avoid using matte powders, as they can make your models skin look dull and lifeless. Instead, opt for luminous powders or highlighters add a healthy, radiant glow to the skin.

In short, lighting is key for any makeup artist on set. By taking the time to think about the direction, color, and intensity of the light, you can create makeup looks that are natural, flattering, and camera-ready.