29 Dec Five Tips for Wedding Photographers on Working with a Makeup Artist: and creating more business opportunities.
Guest Blogger: ade oshodi (shodiphoto)
The aesthetics of a wedding are crafted by a number of artists working together: photographer, cake, hair, makeup etc. For these artists, a significant portion of their business comes from referring each other to clients. The aim of this article is to primarily guide the wedding photographer on how to best serve the bride while building rapport with the makeup artist, which in return will lead to referrals and more business.
1. CONSULTATION
Prior to photographing a wedding, the photographer should ask the bride for the Makeup Artist’s (MUA) contact information and then consult with him or her. I find that calling the MUA and setting up an appointment to meet or talk works better than an email. This builds rapport and both artists are less likely to bump heads during makeup prep on wedding day. During the initial consultation the MUA and photographer should exchange contact information, talk about how both can benefit from each other’s businesses and their respective goals for the wedding day.
2. WEDDING DAY
Since window light is one of the prettiest light sources that flatter brides while their makeup is being applied, the photographer should recommend that the MUA set up close to a window. Additionally, the photographer should be lightly conversing with both the MUA and bride during makeup prep; this lightens the mood and helps things flow smoothly.
3. BEFORE SHOOTING
One of the things I recommend is to never photograph the bride until her makeup is almost complete. Always keep in mind that she is the star of the show and every picture the photographer takes and presents to her should flatter her in the best way possible. Therefore, begin shooting when her foundation or concealer is complete. This is where it pays to know a bit about makeup or simply ask the MUA to alert you when the bride’s foundation or concealer has been completed. The reason being is that both of these products hide her blemishes.
4. PHOTOGRAPHY TECHNICALS
I prefer to photograph the bride using a shallow depth of field. Generally, the room where she is being made up has other people getting ready, assisting her, or there is some form of clutter. By using a shallow depth of field you can isolate her from the background. I’d suggest an aperture (f/1.2-1.8). In particular for photographing lashes, I suggest a macro lens. Additionally, the photographer will want to capture the MUA preforming his or her craft, also record their tools, and look for creative compositions such as mirror reflections etc.
5. POST CONSULTATION
After the wedding, once again the photographer should contact the MUA and offer him or her prints or canvases or photo books or photographs for their website or any visual aid so that the MUA can show both of their work to future clients. It will cost the photographer a few dollars to provide prints or a photo book; however, if that MUA refers the photographer to a new client the cost of the visual aids are recovered. The photographer should also refer the MUA to other clients which keeps the cycle of business circulating.
I hope that both photographers and makeup artists understand that most of these tips can be used between themselves and other artists working on the wedding.
cheers,
ade oshodi
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