Being mindful of how your Photography and choice of photographer can affect the look of the makeup

I am Cathryn Kerwin-Rawlinson and I am a Bridal Makeup Artist for over 18 years in North Wales and Cheshire and with this comes experience.

You've chosen your dress, your venue, and your dream makeup artist—but have you thought about how your photographer's style might affect how your makeup looks in your wedding photos? It's something not often discussed, but it's a detail that really matters—and one I always consider when working with my brides.

The Hidden Link Between Photography and Makeup

I'm not a photographer—but I do love photography. I enjoy taking photos myself, and as both a makeup artist and an artist in the broader sense, I understand light, shadow, warmth, and coolness—and how they impact the finished look of a face in a photo.

What many makeup artists overlook is just how much a photographer's style—especially their editing and lighting—can influence the way makeup is captured. From the moment I know who your photographer is, I start thinking about how their visual approach might affect your makeup look.

Light and Airy vs Warm and Moody

Let's break it down.

Some photographers favour very light, bright, pastel-like tones. Their work has an airy, almost editorial softness to it, sometimes with a touch of coolness. Others lean into warmth—using tones that veer toward orange or golden hues.

Then there are the moodier styles—photographers who play with shadows and contrast to create drama. These can produce stunning, artistic images, but they don't always show off makeup in its best light (literally).

During your trial, I'll usually ask, "Who's your photographer?" That question isn't just to be polite—it's to give me an insight into how your makeup might translate into your photos. If I know the photographer, I'll already have a good idea of their aesthetic. If I don't, I'll look them up and do a bit of research.

Tailoring the Makeup to the Photography

Here's where the real magic happens.

If I know your photographer's style leans very warm, I'll avoid going overboard with warm tones in your makeup—because warmth in both makeup and editing can result in a look that feels too saturated. Likewise, if their style is very light and airy, I may need to deepen certain tones or intensify features slightly to prevent your look from washing out in photos.

Why This Matters

I've been doing bridal makeup for nearly 18 years, and one of the biggest things I've learned is this: makeup doesn't exist in a vacuum. It lives in context—with your dress, your lighting, your setting, and yes, your photography. That's why when you book me, you're not just booking someone who "does makeup"—you're booking someone who understands how makeup works within the whole visual story of your day.

So when I ask, "Who's your photographer?", now you know why. It's just one more layer of thought that goes into creating a look that not only makes you feel incredible—but photographs beautifully, too.

If you are looking to find out more why not visit my contact page to find out how I can be part of your special day.

Credit Joe Bickerton Photography