Graduation Makeup That Photographs Well

Build a polished base, define your features with slightly more intensity than daily wear, and prioritize products that won't fade during the ceremony.

  1. Prime and perfect your base. Use a mattifying primer on your T-zone and a hydrating one everywhere else. Apply foundation with a damp beauty sponge for seamless coverage that won't look cakey in photos. Set with translucent powder, focusing on areas that get oily.
  2. Define your features strategically. Contour lightly under your cheekbones and along your jawline with a cool-toned powder. Add warmth back with blush on the apples of your cheeks. Fill in your brows with short, hair-like strokes for definition that shows up in photos.
  3. Amplify your eyes without going dramatic. Use neutral browns in your crease for definition, then add a slightly shimmery shade on the lid. Line your upper lash line with brown or black liner, keeping it thin. Finish with two coats of waterproof mascara.
  4. Choose lips that last through speeches. Exfoliate and moisturize your lips first. Apply a long-wearing liquid lipstick in a shade that complements your natural lip color but slightly deeper. Blot and reapply for staying power.