Get the look: Bridal makeup that looks beautiful in person and photos

Using cream-based makeup and underpainting techniques creates a naturally sculpted and radiant complexion

We independently select everything we recommend. Buying through us may earn us a commission, which supports our work. For a timeless bridal look, I believe that less is often more.

Using cream-based makeup and my favourite underpainting techniques creates a naturally sculpted and radiant complexion that looks beautiful in person and in photographs. Before: My client, Natalie, came in for her bridal trial and wanted something that felt natural yet elevated. I started by applying your contour, bronzer and blush before foundation; also known as underpainting.

This technique allows the colour to softly blend through the complexion, creating a subtle, lifted effect without harsh lines or heavy makeup. For the base, I used the Dior Forever Skin Perfect 24-Hr Multi Use Foundation Stick. I lightly blended it over the underpainting layers with a beauty blender and a buffing foundation brush to even out the skin while maintaining a natural, skin-like finish.

The creamy formula provides buildable coverage without feeling heavy, which is ideal for bridal makeup. To add a fresh, romantic flush, I applied the Essence Baby Got Blush Cream Stick, blending it onto the cheeks before foundation for a soft, seamless pop of colour. Her warmth and dimension came from the NARS Laguna Bronzer, which works beautifully to enhance the complexion with a sun-kissed glow while keeping the sculpting natural.

I defined her brows using Benefit Cosmetics Precisely Waterproof Eyebrow Definer in 2.5 with Gimme Brow Tinted and Volumizing Eyebrow Gel in 3.5 and then contoured her eyes with a bronzy eyeshadow for subtle definition. After: To complete the look, I finished with an ILIA Beauty Overglaze Hydrating Lip Gloss in Figure for a hydrated, glossy lips that complement her luminous skin. The result is a soft glam bridal makeup look that enhances natural beauty with effortless elegance — radiant, refined, and designed to last throughout the day.