1. Flawless Skin Preparation: A well-moisturized and primed skin provides the perfect canvas. Advise subjects to hydrate well before the shoot for a healthy glow.
2. Natural Base: Opt for lightweight, natural-finish foundation to maintain the subject’s skin texture while evening out the complexion.
3. Enhance Features: Use contouring and highlighting techniques to accentuate bone structure and create dimension in portraits.
4. Defined Brows: Well-groomed brows frame the face. Encourage subjects to shape brows beforehand, and lightly fill in any gaps for a polished look.
5. Subtle Eye Makeup: Neutral shades and softly defined eyes enhance without overpowering. Avoid overly dramatic eye makeup for a timeless feel.
6. Lash Boost: Curled lashes and mascara open up the eyes, creating a captivating look that translates well in portraits.
7. Natural Lips: Opt for soft, natural lip colors that enhance the subject’s lip shape without drawing excessive attention.
8. Matte Finishes: Avoid overly shiny makeup to prevent unwanted reflections during the shoot, ensuring a clean and polished look.
9. Setting Spray: A setting spray helps makeup stay in place, even under studio lights or during outdoor shoots.
10. Hair Prep: Advise subjects to style their hair as they would for a special occasion, considering the overall look and outfit.
11. Avoid Overstyling: Keep hairstyles classic and complementary to the subject’s features. Overly intricate hairstyles can distract from the subject’s face.
12. Embrace Natural Texture: Work with the subject’s natural hair texture. Effortless, tousled looks often photograph beautifully.

Remember, your collaboration with hair and makeup artists is key. Effective communication ensures the subjects’ comfort and helps achieve the desired look. These simple yet effective tricks contribute to polished, timeless portraits that capture the essence of your subjects with authenticity and grace.