A 75-minute Halloween character session with theatrical makeup, wardrobe styling, and a guided studio portrait experience in River North.
About this EventHalloween Transformation Studio: Makeup, Styling & Portraits
Halloween Transformation Studio
Step into a small-group Halloween studio session built around makeup, styling, and portrait photography.
- You do not need a finished costume.
- You do not need makeup experience.
- You do not need to know how to pose.
Arrive in a simple base outfit, choose one of three original visual directions, and work through a guided transformation with the studio team.
The session combines theatrical-style cosmetic makeup, temporary wardrobe layers, accessories, and an individual portrait setup.
All visual concepts are original interpretations. The session does not recreate or advertise specific copyrighted film, television, comic, game, or celebrity characters.
Choose a visual direction
Gothic Portrait
Dark textures, veils, collars, layered accessories, and dramatic makeup designed around your own features.
Shadow Fairytale
Capelets, crowns, wraps, textured fabrics, and story-inspired details with an original fantasy direction.
Creature Study
Color, texture, faux-fur or scaled accents, and lightweight costume elements used to create an original creature-inspired look.
Exact accessories and styling elements vary by availability and participant fit.
What to wear
Arrive wearing a simple base outfit.
Black, gray, white, navy, brown, or another neutral shade works well.
A plain top with pants, a skirt, or a simple dress is enough.
Studio wardrobe pieces are temporary styling layers and remain with the studio after the session.
Please avoid arriving in clothing that is difficult to move in or that you would be concerned about bringing near cosmetic products.
No experience required
The session is designed for first-time participants as well as people who already enjoy makeup, styling, costume design, or portrait photography.
The host and photography team will guide the process.
No participant is required to use a cosmetic product they do not want applied.
A styling-and-portrait route is available for participants who prefer to skip character makeup.
Makeup and skin considerations
Cosmetic products used during the session are selected for cosmetic or theatrical use.
Disposable applicators and separate product portions are used where appropriate.
Participants should tell the makeup artist before application if they have a known ingredient sensitivity.
Products will not be intentionally applied to visibly broken or irritated skin.
A specific product or ingredient cannot be guaranteed suitable for every participant.
Contact lenses, prosthetic lenses, prescription items, and medical products are not part of the experience.
Portrait photography
Each in-person participant takes part in an individual portrait segment.
The photographer will provide simple direction for positioning and expression.
The number of final edited images depends on the ticket selected.
Portrait delivery instructions and estimated delivery timing will be provided during the session.
Photographs are not automatically used for advertising or social media.
Any promotional use requires separate permission.
Age requirement
This session is for guests age 18 and older.
TIMELINE7:10–7:20 PM: Check-in and visual-direction selection
7:20–7:25 PM: Welcome, skin/product preferences and session briefing
7:25–7:55 PM: Makeup rotation
7:55–8:10 PM: Wardrobe styling and finishing details
8:10–8:30 PM: Individual portrait rotation
8:30–8:35 PM: Removal notes, portrait-delivery information and session close
