Makeover Photoshoot Manchester, Everything You Need To Know

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If you’ve been searching for a makeover photoshoot in Manchester, chances are you’ve never done anything quite like this before. Good. That’s exactly the point.

Alt Studio is Manchester’s alternative and vintage makeover photoshoot experience, based in the heart of the Northern Quarter. We’ve been creating extraordinary portraits since 2011 and in that time we’ve worked with thousands of clients, from complete beginners who’ve never been in front of a camera, to seasoned performers who want something truly unique.

This guide tells you everything you need to know before booking your makeover photoshoot in Manchester.

What is a Makeover Photoshoot?

A makeover photoshoot is exactly what it sounds like, a full transformation experience that combines professional hair styling, makeup artistry and photography into one incredible day.

At Alt Studio our makeover photoshoots go one step further. We specialise in vintage and alternative styles, think 1950s Pin Up, Film Noir, Boudoir, Rockabilly, Jessica Rabbit and more. You choose up to 4 of our signature styles and we take care of absolutely everything else.

You just turn up. We do the rest. 🖤

What’s Included in a Makeover Photoshoot at Alt Studio?

Every makeover photoshoot at Alt Studio includes:

✨ Full professional hair styling

💄 Professional makeup with lashes

👗 Access to our full wardrobe of outfits and shoes

📸 A full photoshoot with award-winning photographer Simon Hunt

🖥️ A private viewing session on a big screen at the end of your shoot

Everything is covered upfront. The only extra is if you choose to keep some of your favourite images afterwards, and there’s absolutely no pressure to do so.

What Styles Can I Choose From?

This is where Alt Studio really stands apart from any other makeover photoshoot studio in Manchester. We offer over 15 signature styles including:

• Cheesecake Pin Up, tongue in cheek, fun and full of 1950s Americana attitude

• Classic Boudoir, timeless, intimate and completely empowering

• Gown Boudoir, flamboyant, extravagant and seriously glamorous

• Film Noir, dark, moody and dripping with old Hollywood glamour

• Rockabilly & Cowgirl, high-waisted shorts, bubblegum and rebellious rock ‘n’ roll energy

• Bettie Page Boudoir, the original queen of alternative glamour

• Jessica Rabbit, red sequins, red lips and completely unforgettable

• Marilyn Monroe, the ultimate Hollywood icon

• The Retro Bunny, reclaimed, reimagined and completely yours

• Casino Royale, high stakes glamour and old-fashioned sophistication

• Pin Up Beach & 50s Diner, sunshine, colour and seriously good vibes

• Trans & Cross Dress, a safe, welcoming and celebratory space for everyone

• Art Nude, Wings, Pole and more

Boudoir

Can’t decide? Don’t worry — we’ll help you choose. And you can change your mind right up until the day. 😄

Where is Alt Studio?

We’re based on the 3rd floor of Swan Buildings, 20 Swan Street, in Manchester’s Northern Quarter, one of the most creative, vibrant and brilliantly weird parts of the UK.

We’re just 7 minutes walk from Victoria Station and 20 minutes from Piccadilly, making us one of the most accessible makeover photoshoot studios in Manchester. And once your shoot is done, you’re surrounded by some of the best cafes, bars and restaurants in the city — the perfect excuse to celebrate. 🥂

How Long Does a Makeover Photoshoot Take?

A full makeover photoshoot at Alt Studio typically takes 4-5 hours, slightly longer for two people. Here’s how the day breaks down:

1. Consultation, we go through your chosen styles, outfits and props together

2. Hair & Makeup, sit back, relax and let us transform you

3. The Photoshoot, Simon directs every shot so you always look incredible

4. Break, an hour to relax or explore the Northern Quarter

5. Viewing, choose your favourite portraits on a big screen with no time pressure and no hard sell

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Is a Makeover Photoshoot Right For Me?

Our clients come from all walks of life. Some are celebrating a birthday. Some are treating themselves. Some are going through a change and some have simply always wanted to do something just for them.

The one thing they almost all have in common? They arrive nervous and leave on cloud nine.

Whatever brings you through our door, most leave having experienced something they didn’t expect, a confidence, a freedom, a version of themselves they’d never seen before.

That’s what a makeover photoshoot at Alt Studio really is. 🖤

Is It Just For Women?

Absolutely not. Alt Studio welcomes everyone women, men, trans and cross dress clients, couples, all ages and all body types. We are a safe, welcoming and completely judgement free space for every single person who walks through our door.

How Much Does a Makeover Photoshoot Cost?

Your shoot is covered by your session fee which includes everything, hair, makeup, wardrobe and photography. Images start from £95 and we offer flexible interest-free payment options including Klarna, PayPal Pay in 3 and credit over 12 months.

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How Do I Book a Makeover Photoshoot in Manchester?

Booking couldn’t be simpler:

1. Get in touch via our [contact page] or DM us on Instagram @altstudiouk

2. Tell us which styles you’re drawn to

3. We’ll find a date that works — we’re open 7 days a week including evenings

4. A small £25 deposit secures your date and comes straight off your package on the day

That’s it. Your adventure starts with one message. 🖤

Ready to Book Your Makeover Photoshoot in Manchester?

With over 500 five star reviews and 13 years of creating extraordinary portraits in the heart of Manchester, Alt Studio is unlike anything else you’ll find in the city.