Makeup in the digital age: Looking your best on camera
Do you spend the whole day on video calls and feel like the screen never quite does you justice? Or maybe your selfies look a little “off”? You’re not imagining it. Screens flatten your features, soften colours and contrast, and emphasize shine. Instead of blaming your devices, follow our practical guide to creating camera-friendly makeup. Get ready for a fresh, bright complexion in photos and videos!
How screens change the way you look
You’ve probably noticed it: a laptop webcam, a phone camera, and even professional equipment never capture you exactly the same way. Camera sensors and lenses tend to smooth out the natural contours of the face, reduce contrast, mute colours, and amplify shine across the T-zone. On top of that, the bluish light from your computer screen can make your skin look dull.
The bottom line: a base that’s too light will look ghostly on camera, while poorly blended matte tones can harden your features. Definitely not the look you want. The fix is simple: adjust your makeup routine on days you’ll be on video or snapping photos. A few basic principles can help you bring back shape and radiance on screen.
Creating a camera-ready complexion
Depending on your skin type, focus on using a moisturizer to avoid a flat, dry finish, or use a mattifying primer to control shine in the T-zone. Select a medium-coverage foundation with a natural finish, such as semi-matte or satin, depending on your personal preference. Skip ultra-matte full-coverage bases or heavy powders that tend to highlight texture on camera. And yes, concealer is a must to look well-rested on video. Blend it well and match your shade carefully to avoid harsh lines. Finish with a touch of loose powder on the T-zone to set everything without dulling your glow.
If you want to take it a step further, add a hint of highlighter to the areas that naturally catch the light, such as the tops of the cheekbones and the brow bone. Add dimension by lightly contouring under the cheekbones and at the temples with a cream or powder product one or two shades deeper than your skin tone. Finish with a touch of blush for an instant pop of colour. These small steps add depth and brightness in both photos and video calls. A light mist of setting spray ties everything together and softens any overly powdery finish.
Makeup for eyes that draw attention
On camera and in photos, the human eye is instantly drawn to someone else’s gaze. So take advantage of that and define your eyes to make them stand out. Start with your brows: brushing, shaping, and filling them in gives the face instant structure and balance. Finish with a bit of brow gel to hold everything in place.
Once your brows are set, move on to the eyes. A soft line of pencil along the lash line boosts definition and makes your eyes look more open. Complement it with eyeshadow shades that bring out your natural eye colour. When in doubt, opt for warm neutral shades, such as chocolate brown or a glowing golden beige. The reason? They are always flattering. And feel free to play with a subtle touch of shimmer or metallic shadow. It adds depth and instantly catches the light.
By following this simple guide to digital-age makeup, you’ll feel confident and look your best, no matter what screen you’re using!
