Try-it-out Tuesday: striking {out?} & questions

     One of my goals for blogging is to develop my style completely -- not just the clothes, but the shoes,  accessories, and makeup. Makeup is somewhat daunting. The rows upon rows of products, the infinite colors, and sometimes the eye-popping price tags ...
    During my blog reading lately, I've really been admiring the bright lips other bloggers have been wearing. I decided to give it a try on Saturday night. Below I'm wearing lipstick from Nuance (Salma Hayek's new cosmetic line) in Paprika.

    The Mr. called it "striking," but he wasn't sure if he liked it. I felt the same way -- every time I looked in the mirror, all I saw was my very bright mouth.
    My Saturday night photos don't convey how bright the lipstick appeared (I did blot it heavily and then apply Burt's Bee's Red Dahlia tinted lip balm over it). See the photos below for a better idea of the color:

Not blotted

       I also realized that bright lipstick is an entirely different creature from lip glosses or tinted lip balms -- careful, precise application is a must. I didn't notice any feathering or bleeding, but I wasn't wearing it for very long. Do you use a lip liner? A lip brush to apply? And any tips on how to wear a bright lipstick?  (I kept my eye makeup neutral here -- not that you can tell from the photos. Related question: how do you get your makeup to show up in photos?) Lastly, do you prefer a bright lip with certain types of outfits or colors? If you have advice, I'd love to hear it. :)
     Happy Tuesday!