In Shelly Beach, the Makeup professionals listed here also serve the nearby towns of Killarney Vale, Bateau Bay, Blue Bay, The Entrance. Contact any of them directly on WhatsApp — no middleman, no commission.
About Makeup
Reading the artist's portfolio
Look for at least 10 recent photos taken in natural daylight. Check skin tones close to yours and lash density. Note brushwork on the jawline and temples. A consistent portfolio across 3 years signals reliable technique. Avoid edited or filtered images that hide texture.
Communicating skin conditions in advance
Share any active dermatitis, rosacea, eczema, or recent procedures like chemical peels done under 14 days. Disclose retinol use and oral medications. Sensitive skin may need fragrance-free or mineral-only lines. A 48-hour patch test reduces the risk of visible irritation.
Tools and hygiene standards
Brushes and sponges must be cleaned with brush soap between clients. Disposable applicators are used for mascara and lip product. The artist should carry alcohol spray for shared palettes. Check that tools arrive in a closed case. Dirty tools spread bacteria and cause eye infections within 24 to 48 hours.
Working with the photographer
HD or airbrush foundations reduce flashback under flash photography. Avoid SPF-heavy products, which reflect white light. Matte finishes photograph better than dewy ones for outdoor sessions. Schedule the makeup 90 minutes before the first photo. Bring blotting powder for shine control during long shoots.
Foundation matching and undertones
Test 3 swatches along the jawline in daylight, not store light. Undertone matters: warm, cool, or neutral. A wrong match shows grey or orange casts on the neck. Request samples to wear for 6 hours before final approval. Coverage should even without heavy layering.
Painted versus airbrush finish
Painted application uses brushes and sponges, taking 35 to 50 minutes. Airbrush uses a 0.5 mm nozzle spraying silicone or water-based pigments, taking 20 to 35 minutes. Airbrush lasts 2 to 4 hours longer on hot skin but costs more. Ask which method suits your event.
The trial session
Book the trial 30 to 45 days before the event. Bring reference photos showing desired intensity, color palette, and finish. The artist photographs the look under natural and artificial light. Trials take 90 to 120 minutes and let you adjust coverage, liner shape, and lip color before the main day.
Removal and skin recovery
Use micellar water or oil-based cleanser within 12 hours of the event. Avoid scrubbing. Apply a fragrance-free moisturizer after cleansing. Skin may feel tight or show minor redness for 24 hours. Skip active ingredients like retinol for 2 days after heavy makeup to let the barrier recover fully.
Lighting conditions during application
Daylight bulbs rated 5000 K to 5500 K show true color. Yellow tungsten light hides redness and dark circles. Ask the artist to use daylight plus a mirror at eye level. Final checks should happen in the same light type where photos will be taken.
Contracts, insurance, and payment proof
A signed contract should list service type, date, hours, total fee, and refund rules. Public liability insurance of at least 1 million covers allergic reactions and stains. Pay deposits by traceable methods. Keep a printed copy of every chat and approval email for safety.