A smooth base
Let's start out with the most basic tip for a headshot: a smooth base.

If you know ahead of time you'll be taking pictures, exfoliate your skin the night before. Don't rub too hard, or you'll be as red a beet. Exfoliation of the dead skin cells makes your base apply smoother, and your skin will keep a matte finish longer. Just purchase a simple, over-the-counter exfoliation scrub. There's no need to run to the salon for a microderm abrasion. Men can exfoliate too, there's nothing too feminine about great skin care!

Cosmetic choices
One of general problems about women not liking how they look in pictures is their choice in cosmetics. We often pick colors we enjoy in life, but they aren't colors that look good on us. Also, we think that when we are getting pictures taken, we need to slather on more makeup than usual -- but this isn't the case.

Cameras aren't like they were in the old days, and overly pink cheeks and thick eyeliner can make you look painted up like a clown. Use the guide below to understand color choices you should make for cosmetics based on eye color.

• Blue eyes: use colors like purple, gray and dark blue.
• Green/Hazel Eyes: greens, tans and purple.
• Brown eyes: the more natural the color the better, you can use browns, beiges and greens.

Beware of Spider Eyes!
A common mistake women make with eye makeup is putting on too much mascara. Mascara is generally waxy, and it can easily clump up on your lashes, giving you the dreaded "spider eye." Cameras will pick up this bulky mess, but there is a trick to avoid it.

It doesn't matter what the advertisements say, there is no such thing as a no clump mascara. It doesn't matter how many ridges scrape off the brush before you use it, mascara always lingers in the wand, meaning you always have the potential to get nasty results. Look at Figure A to see an example of messy mascara.

FIGURE A

This is an over-the counter, popular brand of mascara that claims to be mistake proof, with an innovative wand to prevent clumping...look at all the glop on the tissue! Click picture for a larger image.

The picture shows just how much product can possibly end up on your delicate lashes. However, this picture also shows the trick to beautiful, photogenic lashes. Use a tissue or soft cloth (no toilet paper, it can leave lint on your brush) and wipe the bristles of the wand. In one motion, drag the tissue up the wand. You can apply two coats to the lashes, as long as you wipe the brush both times. You'll love the clump-free, picture perfect results!