Our 8 Favorite Makeup Artists in NYC for 2023

Getting your makeup done professionally may not be something you do every day. But when it’s time to get glammed up for a special occasion — such as a wedding, party, or photoshoot — you might need to hire a professional to do it right. Whether you’re planning an Instagram campaign or your first YouTube video, we’ve picked out our favorite makeup artists in NYC for 2023.

Of course, makeup for the stage, screen, and runway has its differences. Therefore, it’s crucial to choose an artist who specializes in the type of makeup you have in mind. If you need a venue for your photo or video shoot, too, check out Peerspace. As the largest online marketplace for hourly venue rentals, we offer a range of locations that you can rent to suit events of all kinds. From fully equipped photo studios with props to sun-drenched Bowery lofts that look great on Instagram, choose a stylish backdrop and a professional makeup artist in NYC for a stunning photoshoot! Now let’s get on to our list.

1. Jonet Williamson

Jonet Williamson’s Instagram profile describes her as a “pro makeup artist and male groomer, made in New Orleans, based in NYC,” which means she’s just the right pick for a photoshoot with models of any gender, skin tone, and style. From colorful eye shadow to neatly trimmed facial hair, Jonet can handle beauty, fashion, portrait photography, and more.

Her work has appeared in magazines such as Essence, Marie Claire Latino America, and Male Model Scene, as well as in the “My Dad Smiles” campaign for Shea Moisture. Her celebrity clients include Nicole Murphy, Debra Messing, and basketball stars Reggie Miller and Chris Webber. She’s clearly one of the most talented and versatile makeup artists with experience on photo and video projects alike.

2. Annabelle LaGuardia

Annabelle LaGuardia provides “makeup artistry” all over the NYC and tri-state area. She works with brides to craft a “naturally elevated version of themself”. Brides-to-be love Annabelle’s “Perfect Fit” complimentary chat prior to booking her services. She also offers on-location services for engagement shoots, bar and bat mitzvahs, and other events. A native New Yorker, she has over 21 years of experience with makeup studios before launching her own.

While Annabelle is one of our favorite makeup artists in NYC for hire, she’s also a great pick for DIY types, too. Offering private lessons for $200 per hour, you can take some of her techniques home. It’s a great value to learn how to do your own makeup before your next photo or video shoot.

3. Cheek 2 Chic

https://www.instagram.com/cheek.2.chic/

Cheek 2 Chic is the home of makeup artist Christina F. Richardson, who offers a “personal approach to the art of makeup.” Her career began behind the counter, providing her with in-depth knowledge of the cosmetics market. This is an expertise that she shares as a professional stylist and makeup consultant. Hire her as a personal makeup consultant to pick out the perfect cosmetics for you and book her mobile services as the stylist for your bridal photos or wedding.

Christina is an MUA with tons of positive reviews from past and current clients. For example: “Christina is a true professional and takes pride in her exquisite work. She totally masters the look you ask her to give you. I’m thoroughly impressed with her work and her personality. Christina will be my go-to makeup artist forever. I’ll also be recommending her to family and friends.” Can it get better than that?!

4. Deborah Altizio

If you need a makeup artist for an editorial shoot rather than for a wedding, check out Deborah Altizio. Her work has appeared on the cover of Harper’s Bazaar, Modern Luxury Weddings, D’Scene magazine, and more. She grew up in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before moving to New York, and applies her family’s philosophy — “beauty comes from within” — to her work.

Deborah works with celebrities, social media influencers, and fashion photographers to create images that range from the traditional to the artistic and experimental. Hire her for an indoor shoot at a professional photo studio, or outdoors at a memorable New York City location.

5. Romana Makeup

For more than 15 years, Romana Lai has been a go-to in the hair and makeup services sphere in New York City. She has a hand-picked team of talented hair and makeup pros who specialize in weddings, fashion, and advertising. In fact, their work has appeared in national and global advertising campaigns. Oh, and New York’s famed annual New York Fashion Week? Romana Makeup has been there, done that, too. Rely on this incredible team when you want hair and makeup services that are undeniably you, yet a fresh, gorgeous version of your usual self.

6. Major Face

Major Face is a modern “beauty service company” that’s run by makeup artist and hairstylist T. Cooper. It features a unique, edgy style that’s perfect for an artsy or experimental photoshoot. Her team works with models of any gender or skin tone to provide makeup, hairstyling, men’s grooming, extensions, and more. They specialize in corporate and celebrity clients and are available to work at your hotel suite, runway show, wedding, or on-set production. The team can also provide a lipstick bar or braid bar, as well as other grooming services for corporate functions.

Major Face’s celebrity clientele includes Megan Thee Stallion, Billy Porter, and Bruce Willis, to name a few.

7. Makeup By Maya René

Maya René is a New York-based makeup artist who studied at the Makeup Designory School. In addition to working with major fashion brands like Adidas, she is the founder of the Office Glam Team, which brings hair, makeup, and nail services to corporate clients in NYC. Maya has appeared in articles on Buzzfeed and Refinery29, offering tips on the bronzers and blushes products that work best on people of color. Maya is one of the best makeup artists in NYC for modern women seeking out a unique, personalized touch.

8. Akasha Haze

Akasha Haze describes herself as a “face painter” and “plant mama,” which should give you some idea of the kind of aesthetic you can expect to find in her work. From outdoor shots to conceptual art, Akasha’s work features liquids, flower petals, and other stylistic flourishes. And believe us, these touches catch the eye on Instagram or your print advertising campaign. Whether you’re planning a shoot on the beach or in a studio, Akasha will make sure your models stand out.

Bonus: Amanda Shackleton

Though based in New York City, Amanda Shackleton and her team consider themselves “on location” beauty pros who can travel to you wherever you need them. She is a trained hair and makeup professional who learned the trade in London, England, and has since grown her business exponentially. On her website, you can check out her bridal, fashion, and beauty portfolios and even see pricing details.

Amanda’s hair and makeup work have graced the pages of Cosmopolitan, Marie Clare, Modern Bride, and Glamour magazines. Oh, and her client list? This is one of those times when dropping names is okay. In fact, Rosario Dawson, Harrison Ford, Matha Stewart, Cyndi Lauper, and Sarah Michelle Geller have all relied on her expertise.

Makeup artists in NYC: conclusion

These are just a few of our picks for the top makeup artists in NYC in 2022. From professional beauty services that can handle corporate events to makeup consultants who can offer you a personal tutorial before your big day, these makeup artists can accommodate photo and video shoots of all kinds.

Be sure to nab your MUA and their team and book a stunning Peerspace to make their work come to life for a photoshoot. And remember, makeup artists don’t necessarily offer hair styling and other services, so if you need additional support, call up the Peerspace Concierge service for help. From booking a studio to renting camera equipment, we’ll tap our network of local hosts and vendors to make sure you have all the resources you need for a professional shoot! Also, be sure to keep an eye on our Photography Resources to learn about the latest trends and the best pros to partner up with to inspire your next project.

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