Lilly: 6 Months [Coralville, IA Child Photography]

Sweet Lilly...I can't believe my niece is 6 months old already! It seems like not that long ago we were all anxiously waiting her arrival. I love this girl to pieces, and here's a little peek at her session!

Kayla's Top 5 Makeup Tips for Photos

I am so lucky to have such an incredibly talented makeup artist on my team here at Jen Madigan Photography. Kayla* comes to every newborn session to get mom camera ready so she can relax and enjoy the day! This service can also be added onto any session, and I typically recommend to my brides to be that they do a makeup trial for their engagement session. It's a great way to feel extra pampered, and to potentially test out a look or a makeup artist for your big day. For those that choose to do their own makeup for their session, here are Kayla's top 5 tips for a camera ready look!

1. Prime Your Skin - When you are preparing yourself to be in photos, applying a primer before makeup is vital. It reflects light, creating the illusion of invisible pores and smooth skin. It also ensures your makeup will last through a hot summer day!

2. Conceal - The light that is necessary for great photos also brings to light any blemish we have! Try dabbing on a light-diffusing concealer in a hue that matches your skin tone. This will help diminish blemishes, under-eye circles and dark spots.

3. Contour Cheekbones - Use a matte bronzer under the cheekbones to create a sculpted look. Finish off with a soft blush on the apples of the cheeks!

4. Highlight Your Eyes - This is the time to add a little more eye makeup than usual. Lashes have a tendency to get lost on camera, so make sure to use a dark mascara. Adding eyeliner that slightly thickens as you reach the outer edge of your lid will help lift your eyes.

5. Finish and Set - Powder your forehead and nose to avoid looking extra-shiny in your photos! You can even carry blotter sheets with you, or a small compact of powder.

*Kayla is a licensed hair stylist and makeup artist at Tru Salon in Coralville.

Jenna + Dan [North Liberty, IA Engagement Photography]

Jenna and Dan braved the gnats for their Kent Park engagement session two weeks ago, and were such troopers despite the bugs and muggy weather. These two are planning a November wedding, and I am so thrilled to be a part of their day. I hope you like this sneak peek of their engagement session!

Jenna and Dan - Thank you so much for a great session! Can't wait until this fall. :)