Lena Clark Beauty

Chicago Makeup Artist

Airbrush Makeup vs. Traditional Makeup

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I am a Chicago makeup artist that specializes in both airbrush makeup and traditional makeup application. I am often asked by anxious brides about the difference between the two and which one they should choose for their wedding day.

Before I get into the differences, I want to clear up a common misconception: airbrush makeup has nothing to do with models and celebrities in magazines “looking flawless because they are airbrushed.” In this context, being airbrushed refers to the digital editing of the images – often referred to as Photoshop. This is a process by which photos are edited (airbrushed) to remove flaws, imperfections, and wrinkles; smooth and soften skin, add or reduce curves, decrease body size, lengthen body parts, lighten skin tone, etc. Again, this process of airbrushing photos has nothing to do with makeup. [Read more…]

Behind the Brush: Bridal Photo Shoots (PART I)

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I recently had the pleasure of – and all of the work associated with – planning two styled bridal photo shoots. I am so happy that they were both successful and yielded some really beautiful images. I can’t wait to share them. I usually like to use photo shoots as a time to try new products, tools, and techniques so that I have an understanding of their best uses when a client sits in my chair. These two shoots were no different. A lot of time goes into the planning stage of a photo shoot but I won’t bore you with any of those details (unless you want me to). Instead, I’ll be sharing a few images now; and then later I’ll discuss some recent kit additions/techniques and how they performed.

Modern Breakfast at Tiffany[’s] Blue Styled Photo Shoot

This shoot involved a whole team of talented people. As this was my first time planning and managing a styled bridal photo shoot some mistakes were made and some lessons were learned, but I thank God for allowing this experience.

black bride model with natural makeup

Model #1
Unedited image from my digital camera

black bride makeup with natural makeup

Model #2
Unedited image from my digital camera

Team:
Photographer(s): Isi, Isi’s Photography; Matt, Black Tie Wedding Photography
Makeup/Hair: Me, Lena Clark MUA
Wardrobe Stylist: Ro’Shunda, The Natural Hair Bride
Models: Kimika & Erin
Wedding Planner: Fisayo, One Look Events
Stationery Design: Alero, Vividesigns
Assistant: Ajene’, Bonafide Trend Diva
Venue: City Point Loft [Read more…]

Glitz Glam & Curlz: A Bridal Affair (sneak peek)

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Here are a few amateur pictures from The Natural Hair Bride Glitz Glam & Curlz: A Bridal Affair. I am a terrible photographer, so I will be sure to post professional pictures as soon as possible.  After the first two models things moved along so quickly I didn’t get a chance to take photos of everyone.  I completed makeup for 2 models and did male grooming for 3 men. [Read more…]

Introducing: The Natural Hair Bride Glitz Glam & Curlz: A Bridal Affair

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Are you the change you want to see in the world?!

Trust me, I am far from perfect – I don’t even reside in the same area code, but being the change I want to see is an ongoing effort. I have an older gentleman friend that often tells me “you don’t complain and you don’t explain.” What I do is react. Instead of spending all of my time complaining about the things I don’t agree with, I simply pour my energy and focus into the things I appreciate.

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