Charlotte Makeup Artist

My Favorite Foundations of ALL TIME!

Happy Tip Tuesday Friends!

Tonight, I want to chat about the question I am asked the MOST frequently when it comes to makeup, what is my favorite foundation? It is time to discuss this hot topic! Fortunately, or unfortunately depending on you view makeup, this is not a one size fits all question. As an artist,I do believe there is a product for every skin concern, type and color. When I think about what makes a foundation great for me, I think it about a few things: How does it make the skin look? Ease of application? Can my client wear this foundation for a long period of time and in various climates? How does it look behind and in front of the camera? Is the shade range versatile? ( <-- very tricky)

So my TOP three foundations absolutely KILL IT when it comes to all of these questions. Time and time again I recommend them to clients and I use them in my kit weekly. Any product that makes it into my kit, and stays there, is a win in my book. With such a wide array of foundations on the market today, it would be impossible to cover them all.... But believe me when I say I have tried SO many...so this may be short, but your options are not:)

  So without further ado... And in no particular order:

1. Lancome Teint Idol Ultra Longwear Foundation

Why?

This foundation's staying power is top of the line. No one should ever wear makeup for 24 hours, but with this foundation, it is possible. It easily covers imperfections on the skin and builds without looking cakey. The shade range is AMAZING!!! Regardless of your skin's undertone, this foundation has you covered ( literally and figuratively).  I love how comfortable this foundation is from the moment it's applied. It photographs so well and works in every climate. You skin looks healthy and even!

2. Laura Mercier Silk Creme Oil Free or Moisturizing Formula

Why?

This is my most days and definitely my desert island foundation. Regardless of skin type ( normal, oily, dry, young, mature) this foundation looks fantastic. There are two formulations and I keep both in my kit. This foundation comes in a smaller bottle than most on the market, because it's almost pure pigment. So if you are looking for options, this foundation can do that. Applied directly to the skin it will give you medium to full flawless coverage, but, it can also be mixed into your favorite moisturizer for a sheer wash of color. My brides who want coverage, but do not want to feel like they are wearing makeup, love this foundation. It is also great for sensitive skin as its free of fragrance and parabens. Be sure to apply with a sponge for optimal wear!

3. Makeup Forver Ultra HD Foundation

Why?

Two words- Gorgeous Skin! This is what everyone tells me when I wear this foundation. This product was developed for film and specifically HD cameras. It works with almost all skin types (extremely oily gals will need a great oil controlling primer) and feels so lightweight. I love the color range and it applies like a dream with either a brush or sponge. This foundation has medium coverage, so it is a great choice for special events in warmer climates ( AKA the South!) and for my more natural clients!

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What is your favorite foundation? I'd love to know!!!

XOXOX

Norelle 

Melissa Lynn Hunt 2017 Senior Shoot!!

If there is one thing I have learned more than ever lately... It is...Have a SAY YES ATTITUDE...and enjoy what you do every day..Ok..that is actually two things, but you get the idea! So last year when I had my first opportunity to work with Melissa Lynn Hunt,  I said..YES!! Little did I know that working with her that first time{and her amazing Senior Models} would open up so many doors for me to be creative. I was also quickly reminded of how important it is to get up every day with purpose in your work and a true love for you do. Melissa does that every day, and I feel honored to be on a creative team with her behind the camera. She cultivates positivism in these young women through encouragement, kindness, friendship and love... Over the last few weeks, I have watched young ladies come alive in front of the camera. It has been such a special experience. I look forward to working with the #mlhseniors again <3

A few weeks back, Melissa had her kick-off shoot for her upcoming Seniors. This was the most fun I have had on a photo shoot...maybe.... ever. Remember I just said....love what you do every single day...Well this was on of those days where I was BEAMING with love for what I do. I had the pleasure of being on the beauty team for hair and makeup with Layne Barter, of Layne Barter Makeup, and Sabrina Laine, with Be Pretty . We had a BLAST glamming these gorgeous gals for their Powder Puff Football shoot. Melissa provided the music, the energy and the inspiration for this amazing day. Many of the girls had never had professional hair and makeup, so it was such an honor to take them through their first experience. 

These are some of my favorite pictures from the team shoot and a few individual shots of the girls I worked with that day. Enjoy the pictures!

And remember...Love what you do...everyday <3

 

xoxo

Norelle