There’s something incredibly powerful about a newborn photoshoot – it’s a celebration of motherhood, strength, and beauty. But let’s be real: between growing bellies and pregnancy hormones, many expecting moms don’t always feel that pregnancy “glow” we so often hear about. For some great makeup tips for photoshoots, keep reading.

That’s where the magic of professional makeup comes in. I chatted with Melissa Votroubek (Banes) – a talented makeup artist with a knack for enhancing natural beauty – to get her best makeup tips for photoshoots that looks just as flawless in photos as it does in person.

Whether you’re going full glam or keeping it light and airy, here’s Melissa’s expert advice to help you shine in front of the camera. These makeup tips for photoshoots are essential for expecting mothers.

Q1: For expecting moms preparing for a newborn photoshoot, what are your top three tips for creating a flawless base that looks great in photos?

• Skin prep is everything! Hydrated skin = happy foundation. Apply your skincare routine and let it fully absorb (about 20 minutes) before applying makeup.
  
• Layer your makeup. Start with cream products like blush and highlighter, then set them with a powder version for a long-lasting, photo-ready finish.
  
• Don’t skip the primer. A good primer smooths texture and helps your makeup stay put through the entire shoot.
  

Q2: What eye makeup techniques do you suggest to make eyes look bright, open, and expressive?

• Brush choice is key! A fluffy blending brush helps keep things soft and seamless.
  
• A nude liner on the lower waterline instantly makes eyes appear bigger and more awake.
  
• If you have hooded eyes, apply your eyeshadow just above your natural crease and blend upward toward your brow bone using windshield wiper motions. It lifts the eyes and opens them up beautifully.
  

Q3: Contouring and highlighting can add dimension to the face in photos. What’s a simple, photoshoot-friendly technique for expecting moms?

• Bronzer is your BFF. Forget heavy cream contours—just lightly dust bronzer around your forehead, cheekbones, and jawline to create soft definition and a natural glow. It’s quick, easy, and super flattering on camera.
  

Q4: Lip color really pulls a look together. What makeup tips for photoshoots would you recommend?

• Stick with lip shades that enhance your natural tone – nothing too bold unless that’s totally your vibe!
  
• One of my go-to shades is Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk. It works beautifully on so many skin tones and gives that “effortless but polished” look.
  
• For staying power, go with lip stains or matte formulas. Layering lip liner underneath can also help your color last longer, even with a few kisses from your toddler between shots!
  

Q5: A lot of expecting moms prefer a natural look. How can they keep it light without looking washed out in photos?

• Keep it simple. Too many products can feel heavy and look overdone.
  
• Use foundation and powder to even out your skin tone, and opt for earth-tone shades that work with your complexion.
  
• Need an easy trick? Use your bronzer as eyeshadow for a soft, cohesive look without adding too many steps.
  

Q6: What makes professional makeup so impactful for a newborn shoot – especially under studio lighting?

• More makeup = better on camera. It might feel like “a lot” in real life, but under studio lighting and camera lenses, it evens out beautifully.
  
• It’s all about knowing how much product to use and where to place it – that experience is what helps the look translate in photos.
  
• False lashes, extra blush, a little extra powder? Trust me, it all balances out behind the lens.
  

Q7: Pregnancy is such an emotional time. How does hiring a makeup artist help moms feel more relaxed and confident?

• Hiring a pro takes the stress off your plate. No Googling tutorials or wrestling with your mascara wand.
  
• We show up with the tools, products, and experience to give you exactly the look you’re going for – especially that perfectly “natural” look that actually requires some skill to pull off!
  
• More importantly, you get to sit back, be pampered, and feel beautiful. And that confidence? It shows in every single photo. These makeup tips for photoshoots highlight the benefits of professional help.
  

From the first swipe of primer to the finishing touch of lip color, professional newborn makeup is all about enhancing your natural beauty while helping you feel relaxed and radiant. With the right techniques (and a little expert help!), you’ll step in front of the camera feeling confident, comfortable, and truly celebrated. For more makeup tips for photoshoots, consider consulting a professional.

📸 Want to work with Melissa for your newborn session? Reach out and let her help bring your vision to life – you deserve to feel as amazing as you look!