Holiday Makeup That Hits Without the Hassle
The holidays bring a whole lot of joy and a whole lot of cameras. Whether you're planning family photos, hosting the big dinner, or just want to look good while doing the most, this is the time of year when a little glam goes a long way. But here's the thing: holiday makeup isn't just about piling on shimmer and calling it festive.
If you're planning to be in front of a camera (professional or iPhone), the makeup that works in-person doesn't always translate on camera. And if you're running around in a kitchen or Texas humidity, the full-beat face you spent an hour on can easily slide off before dinner is served. So here’s how to plan your glam like a pro.
Start With Skin That Can Handle the Heat
Don’t skip your skincare. Even if you’re oily, dry, or combo, you need moisture underneath your glam ESPECIALLY when you're going to be under lights, flash, or stress. A hydrated base helps foundation sit smoother and last longer. Tight, dry skin under makeup will always show up in photos.
What works best:
A light moisturizer or hydrating primer (not slippery silicone-heavy stuff)
Something that grips but doesn’t pill under foundation
A bit of facial mist or setting spray before and after makeup can lock everything in place
Choose the Right Foundation (Spoiler: It’s Not Always Full Coverage)
You don’t need to wear the thickest foundation in your drawer to look good on camera. What you need is balance. Medium coverage with a soft-matte or radiant satin finish tends to look best in both real life and photos.
If you're someone with melanin-rich skin, this is especially important. Some foundations can cause flashback or oxidize weird in warm lighting. I work with pro-grade products in undertones that are true to your skin, so you don’t have to worry about that ash or that weird orange mask effect.
Bonus tip: Pressing a bit of powder only where needed (like the T-zone) keeps the glow without making you look sweaty.
Skip the Glitter. Go for Dimension.
Glitter is fun. But in family photos? It can reflect weird and look like fallout, especially under flash. Instead, think dimension: sculpted cheeks, a natural flush, and a bit of strategic highlight where the light would naturally hit. Think, tops of cheekbones, brow bone, maybe the bridge of your nose.
Keep eyes soft but defined. Neutral shimmer on the lid, a bit of liner, and lashes that open the eye without hiding it.
Lip Color Should Compliment, Not Compete
You don't need to go red just because it's November. If you're doing a bold lip, make sure it complements your outfit and your undertone. And if you're not sure, a rich nude, brick, or berry will photograph well, flatter deep complexions, and stay put through dinner (especially when blotted and set).
Gloss is great for in-person impact, but in photos, it can bounce too much light and get messy. For family photo sessions or events where you’ll be smiling a lot, go for a soft matte or satin finish that wears down gracefully.
Know What You’re Wearing and Where You’re Going
This is an underrated tip. Your glam should match your energy and your outfit. If you’re wearing jewel tones, warm tones with gold or bronze will pop. If your outfit is more neutral or icy, soft taupe, rose gold, or even a rich plum can bring just enough drama.
And if you're spending time outside or cooking? You need longwear everything. That’s primer, foundation, liner, brow gel, and setting spray with staying power.
Book Ahead for Holiday Photos and Events
The best holiday glam is stress-free. No last-minute blending, no rushing to redo a lash. I come to you, set up, and give you a look that lasts through group photos, toasts, hugs, and leftovers.
If you’re planning family photos, hosting Friendsgiving, or just want to look and feel pulled together for the season, now is the time to book. Appointments are limited and spots will fill fast the closer we get to Thanksgiving.
Tap the link to reserve your session and cross one thing off your holiday list.