Photo shoots are crazy in general. When we first arrive it can take over an hour to get everything from our cars into the “staging area” (whatever that may be - a studio, hotel room, unoccupied office, etc.), organize all the clothes, shoes and jewelry that have been pulled (borrowed) from local designers and stores, and get the hair and make-up artists all set up. At the same time the photographer is usually getting all his equipment set up as well. When each 10 Most Beautiful winner arrived we had her try on several outfits to see what would look best. Often, “the perfect look” doesn’t work for one reason or another so we always have to have plenty of pieces on hand to choose from. And since these were “real people” and not models, we wanted to make sure they loved the clothes we put them in and that they felt as beautiful on the outside as they are on the inside. After that they went into hair and make-up where they were pulled, prodded and poked to a glamorous end. This whole process can easily take a couple hours. While our subject was getting all dolled up, those of us working with the wardrobe began steaming the clothes she was going to wear to make them look perfect. This is usually about the time we would get in contact with the photographer (setting up elsewhere - in this case on the streets of the city) to coordinate having our winner ready just about the time he and his crew were ready. In the meantime, the next winner would arrive and the process began again. As she got into hair and make-up chair we took the first person to be photographed. Shooting 10 women in two days is not easy. Staying on schedule is very important - and very difficult - but somehow we did it! Once the issue is out, our web department will post a behind-the-scenes video so check back for that. When you see the issue it should be very interesting to then check out the backstage footage. We hope you enjoy the 10 Most Beautiful spread! You can even pre-order the issue here.

1. For volume, get some velcro (or self grip) rollers. We do a lot of talk about how to achieve voluminous hair here, mostly focusing on miracle salves. But here’s a technique you can stick with. Grab a section of hair (maybe an inch or so) and heat the section while turning the hair through your round brush. After it is heated, roll it around the curlers and spray with hair spray. Fekkai makes a great one that keeps hair brushable, not stiff. After you hair has cooled, remove the curlers and voila! It’s volume. You can buy the rollers at your local drugstore.

2. When you want to step your makeup up a notch, try contouring. Most of us wear makeup every single day—a quick brush of blush, swipe of mascara, dab of gloss, at least. And when we have a special event to attend, we simply add a bit more to the eyes and maybe a more vibrant shade of lipstick. Those are the basics, right? But I knew there had to be something more. Something that we could do that would really make a statement, give us the “who’s that lady” impact. The answer is contouring, and the technique is simple. Use a highlighter and lightly brush in onto the top of the cheek bones (just below the outer corner of the eye). Use it sparingly, though. It should only be noticeable when it just catches the light. Then apply the darker shade—a bronzer will do—just below the cheekbone, on the side of your cheeks. If you’ve applied too near the apple of your cheek, you’ve gone too far and will look sallow. This technique will take your look to the next level.

I learned so much more these past two days—more beauty tips and tricks from the 10 Most Beautiful finalists, but also their words of wisdom. These truly are remarkable women. Women you’ll learn all about in the Winter issue of D Beauty. Go here to pre-order your copy.