When it comes time to schedule professional makeup for a maternity photoshoot, baby shower, or special event, choosing the right artist can feel daunting. Trust is key when it comes to letting someone give you a makeover. After all, you want your skin tone to match perfectly, your eyebrows to look polished (not overdone), and to still feel like yourself—just a more radiant, camera-ready version.
I’m here to tell you that my girl Veronica at Permanently Pretty always delivers the very best makeovers. She has been my go-to makeup artist for my maternity and newborn photoshoots in Reading, PA for five years now. Recently, I had the pleasure of chatting with her about her process, techniques for making clients look amazing on camera, and one crucial skin prep step she swears by.

How Veronica Started Practicing Makeup
Veronica began her professional makeup journey in Reading, PA, 10 years ago, but her passion for makeup started much earlier—about 20 years ago—when she first toured beauty schools. While she couldn’t attend at the time, her interest never faded. It wasn’t until 2011, when she discovered Instagram, that she felt inspired to create makeup looks just for fun. Over the next few years, she practiced diligently and honed her skills before starting to take clients.
Since then, Veronica has won several awards, including Battle of the Brushes, and completed her license in cosmetology. Her dedication to her craft and continuous growth is truly inspiring.

The Process of Matching Skin Tone and Accentuating Features
Understanding skin tone is crucial in makeup artistry. Using the wrong tones can make clients look either too orange or too ashy. With her artist’s eye and strong background in color theory, Veronica expertly matches undertones to create a flawless look.
She also uses contouring and highlighting techniques to enhance facial features. This approach helps emphasize the areas clients want to stand out while softening others.
When planning makeup for a photoshoot, Veronica considers the theme but often opts for neutral tones. These shades complement various outfit changes and align with many clients’ preferences for a natural yet polished appearance.



Makeup for Studio Lighting
Studio lighting highlights imperfections more than natural light due to its high contrast. It also intensifies “shine,” making proper skin preparation and makeup application even more essential for maternity portraits.
Veronica always begins by prepping the skin, which helps makeup lay smoothly and creates a flawless finish on camera. Her approach varies depending on skin type, but she often uses matte finishes as they photograph beautifully under studio lights for both oily and dry skin.
As a bonus tip, Veronica recommends moisturizing your skin in the days leading up to your appointment. If you wear makeup daily, taking a break for a few days can also help your skin look its best.

Trusted Guidance for Your Maternity Photoshoot Makeup in Reading, PA
Every appointment starts with Veronica inquiring about your personalized style. She asks questions about your color preferences, how bold or subtle you’d like your look, and any specific details you have in mind. This thoughtful approach ensures you’ll feel fabulous and confident.
When I asked Veronica what she would say to someone hesitant about professional hair and makeup, she shared this advice:
“I’d say makeup isn’t permanent! Your hair and makeup can always be adjusted, but it’s important to communicate things you love or definitely don’t want.”

Ready to Learn More?
Want to explore the services Veronica offers? Click here for more details.
Are you ready for your glamorous maternity portrait experience? Click here to learn more!
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