As with any of the relationships in your life, the key to any good makeup look is a solid foundation. There are three main ways to apply foundation: with your fingers, with a makeup sponge, and with a brush. Each has its merits and faults, depending on your skin, budget, and desired final look.The good news is that to the naked eye (and the iPhone lens), the three application techniques are nearly indistinguishable.Just look at the three photos below. In each of them, I’m wearing one pump of the Lancôme Teint Idole 24 Hour Long Wear Matte Foundation, but the way in which I applied it was different. You’d probably never notice if I didn’t tell you.Can you guess which application method was used to apply foundation in each of these photos, between fingers, a sponge, and a brush? The answer will be revealed at the bottom of this article. Hannah Schwob for NYT WirecutterCan you guess which application method was used to apply foundation in each of these photos, between fingers, a sponge, and a brush? The answer will be revealed at the bottom of this article. Hannah Schwob for NYT WirecutterCan you guess which application method was used to apply foundation in each of these photos, between fingers, a sponge, and a brush? The answer will be revealed at the bottom of this article. Hannah Schwob for NYT WirecutterCan you guess which application method was used to apply foundation in each of these photos, between fingers, a sponge, and a brush? The answer will be revealed at the bottom of this article. Hannah Schwob for NYT WirecutterBut with a more careful eye, you can notice subtle differences, and each application method has pros and cons. So, how do you choose the best way to apply foundation for you? It depends a whole lot on if you plan on being photographed or not, a bit on the texture of your skin (or lack thereof, for some lucky ones), and a bit on your skin type. Ahead, we share everything to consider when it comes to your blending tool of choice.