Collaborating with NYC Makeup Artists for Your Boudoir Look

 When I first started my journey as a boudoir photographer in New York City, I quickly learned one important thing: the right makeup artist can completely change the energy of a photoshoot. Boudoir photography is all about feeling confident, sexy, and beautiful. And makeup? It helps bring that feeling to life.

New York is full of talented makeup artists. Every corner of this city seems to have someone who knows how to highlight cheekbones or find the perfect shade of red lipstick. But not all makeup artists are the same, and not every artist is the right fit for boudoir photography. That’s why working together—really collaborating—is so important.

In this article, I want to share what it’s like to work with NYC makeup artists, why it matters, and how that teamwork can help create the perfect boudoir look for anyone stepping in front of the camera.

The First Step: Finding the Right Artist

The first part of working with a makeup artist is finding someone who understands the vision. Boudoir isn’t about heavy makeup or trying to look like someone else. It’s about bringing out your natural beauty in a way that makes you feel powerful and confident.

I look for artists who have experience in beauty makeup, not just fashion or theatrical makeup. Someone who knows how makeup will photograph in soft lighting. Someone who listens. I usually meet with makeup artists before recommending them to clients. I look at their portfolios, ask about their favorite products, and chat about the kind of looks they love to create.

Once I find an artist who gets the vibe I’m going for—soft glam, glowing skin, maybe a bold lip if the client wants—it’s time to build trust and start creating together.

Talking with Clients

Before a shoot, I always talk with my client about the look they want. Some want a natural “no makeup” makeup look. Others want something sultry and dramatic. And some people just don’t know—maybe it’s their first boudoir shoot and they’re a little nervous.

That’s totally okay. That’s why we have these conversations.

When I know what my client is thinking, I can bring in a makeup artist who fits that style. We create a mood board together with pictures that show makeup styles they like. That way, everyone—me, the artist, and the client—is on the same page.

The Magic of the Makeup Chair

One of my favorite parts of a boudoir session is watching my clients in the makeup chair. At first, they might be quiet. A little unsure. But as the artist starts working—adding a little shimmer here, brushing up brows there—I see something change.

They start to relax. They chat. They smile. They look in the mirror and say, “Wow, that’s me?”

It’s not just about looking beautiful. It’s about feeling cared for. About taking a moment to be pampered. In a city as busy as New York, where everything moves fast, that moment of calm is a gift.

Working Together During the Shoot

During the photoshoot, the makeup artist doesn’t just leave after applying foundation and lipstick. A good artist stays nearby, watching for smudges, shine, or hair out of place. They’re part of the team, helping me make sure each shot looks amazing.

Sometimes I’ll say, “Let’s add a little more highlighter here,” or “What do you think about changing the lip color for this outfit?” And we decide together.

It’s truly a collaboration. We’re both there to help the client feel like the best version of themselves.

Dealing with Different Skin Tones and Types

One of the reasons I love working in NYC is the diversity. My clients come from all different backgrounds, and that means different skin tones, skin types, and beauty needs. A great makeup artist knows how to work with everyone.

They bring foundations for all shades. They understand undertones. They know how to work with oily skin, dry skin, sensitive skin—you name it. That’s so important.

I’ve had clients tell me they’ve never had their foundation match so well, or that no one ever knew how to do their eyeliner before. That kind of care and attention makes them feel seen and respected.

Building Long-Term Relationships

Some of the makeup artists I work with, I’ve worked with for years. We’ve built real friendships. We support each other’s businesses. We celebrate each other’s wins.

When you find an artist who makes your clients feel amazing and helps your work shine, you hold on tight. And in return, I help promote their work. I tag them in social media posts, recommend them to other photographers, and shout their names from the rooftops.

Because the truth is, a boudoir shoot isn’t just about the photographer. It’s about the team. And makeup artists are a huge part of that.

Helping Clients Prepare

Before the shoot, I send clients a little prep guide. It includes tips like:

• Drink water the day before

• Moisturize your face

• Avoid trying new skincare products

• Come with a clean, makeup-free face

This helps the makeup artist do their best work. It also helps the client feel ready and confident when they walk in.

Some clients are nervous about wearing false lashes or bold lipstick. That’s okay. The makeup artist will always ask questions, test things out, and make changes until the client is happy. That’s part of the process.

Confidence Is the Goal

At the end of the day, the goal of boudoir photography isn’t just to take pretty pictures. It’s to help someone feel good in their own skin. To help them see themselves as bold, beautiful, and worthy of love—especially from themselves.

Makeup helps with that. It’s not about hiding flaws. It’s about celebrating features. Enhancing what’s already there. And when done right, it’s a powerful tool for confidence.

When a client walks out of their session glowing—not just from highlighter, but from joy—I know the team has done its job.

Final Thoughts

If you’re thinking about doing a boudoir shoot in NYC, know this: you’re in good hands. The makeup artists here are skilled, creative, and passionate. And when you combine that with a supportive photographer and a clear vision, magic happens.

I’m so grateful for the artists I’ve worked with over the years. They’ve helped me grow as a photographer and helped my clients feel amazing. Together, we create more than photos—we create experiences that last a lifetime.

Contact us:

Boudoir Photography by Your Hollywood Portrait

247 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, United States

646-209-8198