1. Can you tell us a little about your background and training?
I am what is referred to as “Industry trained”. I started out in the Modeling side of the industry, and from there became interested in the art of make up and styling. I studied every book I could get my hands on, practiced on everyone who was kind (and courageous) enough to let me, and found working artists who were willing to share their expertise and clients with me. I built my resume and portfolio by working with a local talent agency in their photo shoots, and by test shooting with photographers. I also marketed myself to production companies and other venues.
2. What is your favorite or most exciting aspect about your job?
There are so many great things about what I do, but it’s easy to pick what I love most about my job; making people feel better about themselves. I absolutely love to see someone leave my chair not only transformed on the outside, but hopefully on the inside too. As an artist, I’m amazed at the uniqueness each of us is given, and much of the time, I find the things people dislike most about their appearance are the very things I think make them beautiful in a way that is theirs alone.
3. What is the best advice you would give someone looking to become a Stylist/Make-Up Artist?
There are many options to choose from to become an artist/stylist, but no matter what you choose, you have to be willing work hard, study, practice, and network. Build relationships with those already in the industry. You may have to work for free or even at a job that is less than ideal for a while, but the experience and insight you gain is well worth it. Most importantly, be persistent. There are many ups and downs when building your career, and there may be times when you want to walk away. But if this is something you truly want to do, then believe me that hanging in there is well worth too.
4. What are some must have items in your Make-Up kit?
I like to carry 3-4 shades of foundation-that way I can mix them to match any skin color. Also, two shades of pressed powder-colorless, and yellow-these shades should work on most people for touch ups on the set. In addition, stock your kit with basic skin care. Fragrance free moisturizer, disposable skin cleansing cloths, and a toothbrush made for babies. That one sounds weird, but comes in really handy when you use it along with lip balm to remove chapped skin from lips (an adult brush is too harsh for the delicate skin on the lips).
5. When you are booked for a job, what questions do you ask before the shoot?
I start by asking approximately how many people I will be working on. That helps me determine how much product and tools to stock in my kit. Next, I ask where the shoot is taking place-indoors or out, and the time of day. If it is a film project, I like to know what type of camera is being used (i.e. HD) I also ask if the project is being shot in black and white or color. All this info determines the type of make up I will need, along with the techniques I will use to apply it.
6. What do you tell talent they should do to prepare for a shoot?
Ask if the wardrobe (that includes shoes and accessories) is provided, and if there will be a stylist/make up artist available. Even if the answers are yes, as a professional, you should always carry a completely stocked model bag.
For ladies, that includes a complete set of make up supplies, tweezers, nail file, a variety of the latest style jewelry and shoes, panty hose in nude, black and beige (get the “sheer to waist type) and hair products and tools.
For guys, a variety of current style shoes, concealer, powder and hair products/tools as well a shaving kit.
For both guys and ladies, double sided masking tape, clothes pins and butterfly clips (the kind you find at the office supply store) and a face shield to protect your hair, make up, and clothing when getting dressed (you can find these at beauty supply stores). Be sure to pack some of stain remover too. It’s also important to have a travel clothing steamer or iron.
For clothes, solid T shirts (no logos or writing), jeans (not ripped or worn out) shirts, blouses and black and khaki flat front style dress pants (flat front compliment almost all body types in both genders).
As a general rule, it’s best to show up on set with a clean face and straight hair. If the job was booked through your agent, it’s important to call them with questions about specifics. If they don’t know, they will find out for you. Be sure not to contact the client directly unless you’re directed otherwise by your agency.
I am what is referred to as “Industry trained”. I started out in the Modeling side of the industry, and from there became interested in the art of make up and styling. I studied every book I could get my hands on, practiced on everyone who was kind (and courageous) enough to let me, and found working artists who were willing to share their expertise and clients with me. I built my resume and portfolio by working with a local talent agency in their photo shoots, and by test shooting with photographers. I also marketed myself to production companies and other venues.
2. What is your favorite or most exciting aspect about your job?
There are so many great things about what I do, but it’s easy to pick what I love most about my job; making people feel better about themselves. I absolutely love to see someone leave my chair not only transformed on the outside, but hopefully on the inside too. As an artist, I’m amazed at the uniqueness each of us is given, and much of the time, I find the things people dislike most about their appearance are the very things I think make them beautiful in a way that is theirs alone.
3. What is the best advice you would give someone looking to become a Stylist/Make-Up Artist?
There are many options to choose from to become an artist/stylist, but no matter what you choose, you have to be willing work hard, study, practice, and network. Build relationships with those already in the industry. You may have to work for free or even at a job that is less than ideal for a while, but the experience and insight you gain is well worth it. Most importantly, be persistent. There are many ups and downs when building your career, and there may be times when you want to walk away. But if this is something you truly want to do, then believe me that hanging in there is well worth too.
4. What are some must have items in your Make-Up kit?
I like to carry 3-4 shades of foundation-that way I can mix them to match any skin color. Also, two shades of pressed powder-colorless, and yellow-these shades should work on most people for touch ups on the set. In addition, stock your kit with basic skin care. Fragrance free moisturizer, disposable skin cleansing cloths, and a toothbrush made for babies. That one sounds weird, but comes in really handy when you use it along with lip balm to remove chapped skin from lips (an adult brush is too harsh for the delicate skin on the lips).
5. When you are booked for a job, what questions do you ask before the shoot?
I start by asking approximately how many people I will be working on. That helps me determine how much product and tools to stock in my kit. Next, I ask where the shoot is taking place-indoors or out, and the time of day. If it is a film project, I like to know what type of camera is being used (i.e. HD) I also ask if the project is being shot in black and white or color. All this info determines the type of make up I will need, along with the techniques I will use to apply it.
6. What do you tell talent they should do to prepare for a shoot?
Ask if the wardrobe (that includes shoes and accessories) is provided, and if there will be a stylist/make up artist available. Even if the answers are yes, as a professional, you should always carry a completely stocked model bag.
For ladies, that includes a complete set of make up supplies, tweezers, nail file, a variety of the latest style jewelry and shoes, panty hose in nude, black and beige (get the “sheer to waist type) and hair products and tools.
For guys, a variety of current style shoes, concealer, powder and hair products/tools as well a shaving kit.
For both guys and ladies, double sided masking tape, clothes pins and butterfly clips (the kind you find at the office supply store) and a face shield to protect your hair, make up, and clothing when getting dressed (you can find these at beauty supply stores). Be sure to pack some of stain remover too. It’s also important to have a travel clothing steamer or iron.
For clothes, solid T shirts (no logos or writing), jeans (not ripped or worn out) shirts, blouses and black and khaki flat front style dress pants (flat front compliment almost all body types in both genders).
As a general rule, it’s best to show up on set with a clean face and straight hair. If the job was booked through your agent, it’s important to call them with questions about specifics. If they don’t know, they will find out for you. Be sure not to contact the client directly unless you’re directed otherwise by your agency.
