5 Minute Face Talk - Pro Makeup Tips for Film and TV

Episode #091. Creating realistic burn makeups and effects can be quite the creative hurdle. After all, we are usually required to leave the performers' eyes, nose, mouth, and oftentimes, hair untouched, as if they are miraculously impervious to the natural effects of physics. So how do you create a realistic burn look with some serious limitations? Sometimes, you might have to bend the rules, and sometimes you have to take a bit of a leap, but all times, you can use some nifty, quick techniques and go old school - because a lot of the best out-of-kit makeup techniques can still be relied on in this day and age to create effective and somewhat realistic burns effects.

Episode #90. Listen for a moment, as we delve into a classic yet often overlooked makeup technique: beard cover makeup. I'll share some essential tips, products, and techniques to perfect this skill and ensure your character's look is polished and period-correct. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, you'll discover the importance of mastering this technique for achieving a flawless finish, even with today's advanced camera technologies. So, if you're ready to elevate your makeup game and tackle beard shadows like a pro, let's jump right in. Mattifying Moisturizers Color Theory and How It Applies To Makeup

Episode #089. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we'll explore the essentials of upgrading and streamlining your makeup brush kit without breaking the bank. Take a look at affordable yet high-quality options for foundation, eyeshadow, and special effects brushes, along with tips on selecting versatile and synthetic brushes. Plus, I’ll share some insider tips on maintaining and caring for your brushes to extend their lifespan. Whether you're fresh out of makeup school or simply looking to expand your collection, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you build a well-rounded kit on a budget. Let's get started!

Episode #088. Have you ever felt the pressure of time constraints in our industry? "How long is it going to take?" "How much longer will you be?" Ring any bells? Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we explore how to become faster and more efficient in prosthetic makeup applications without sacrificing quality. We'll dive into essential tips for preparation, station setup, multitasking, and maintaining focus under pressure. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just starting out, these insights will help you streamline your process and manage the stress of tight deadlines. Stick around for valuable advice that'll save you time and enhance your creativity.

Episode #087. This episode of 5 Minute Face Talk explores a topic that's all too familiar for makeup artists the world over getting caught up in the minutiae. We've all been there - obsessing over that perfect winged eyeliner or the precise blending of prosthetic edges only to find ourselves stuck and unable to move forward. In this week's episode, I'll share my own experiences and challenges with perfectionism in makeup artistry, offer practical tips for prioritizing the bigger picture, and introduce some time-saving techniques to keep your creative flow going. Plus, keep an ear out for a free guide that can help streamline your makeup process. So, if you're ready to stop sweating the small stuff and boost your productivity, stay tuned! Get my "free time-saving in your makeup process" guide!

Episode #86. Take a stroll with me, if you will, into a critical and often overlooked skill for all makeup artists: adaptability. Whether it's last-minute script changes, unexpected weather, or even working out of an entirely different makeup trailer, the ability to pivot is paramount. How do you keep your cool when everything around you is shifting? How do you maintain your artistry when the environment is less than ideal? The secret lies in embracing change and viewing it as an opportunity for growth. So, take a listen and discover strategies to become a more flexible and resilient makeup artist. Learn how to think on your feet, adapt to new situations, and transform challenges into creative solutions. And remember, in the fast-paced world of film and TV, adaptability isn't just a skill—it's a necessity.

Episode #085. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we'll paint the town red, or at least our eyebrows, well, sort of. It's been the bane of many a redhead's life, trying to find an eyebrow pencil that not only matches their hair color, but complements their complexion. Remember a time, not too long ago, when that solution was virtually non-existent? Well, thankful times have changed, and now there are plenty of wonderful warm options for eyebrow definition, so we decided to take a delve into the best of eyebrow pencils for red, auburn, orange, and warm-shaded hair tones.

Episode #084. Want to know the best quick fixes and top tips from the world of movie makeup and skincare? Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, I'll be diving into the wonders of Opsite Spray, a versatile medical spray that can step in as a flawless makeup sealer, and some secret alternatives you might not know about yet. We'll also explore ingenious solutions for unexpected on-set challenges, such as using a humidity blocker for facial hair pieces and multi-functional treasures like Lucas Pawpaw ointment and pressed powder palettes. Join me as I share practical advice and resourceful tips to help you handle any makeup mishap with confidence and creativity. So, if you're ready to boost your on-set toolkit and discover some incredible product hacks, stay tuned! No time to listen? Check out the shownotes page below. >> Episode Shownotes

Episode #083. This episode takes a vital detour from the usual creative discussions to focus on a skill that’s just as essential in the world of professional makeup artistry: the art of negotiation. We’ll dive into key strategies for securing your worth as a movie makeup artist, especially if you're starting out. I’ll share a personal anecdote or two (cause you know I love doing that!), valuable tips, and techniques to help you navigate negotiations effectively. Plus, stick around till the end for a special downloadable guide to keep handy for your next deal. Let’s ensure you’re valued for the incredible work you bring to every project. Ready to boost your business savvy? No time to listen? >> Download the Free Negotiating for Makeup Artists Reference Guide here

Episode #082. Inside this, episode 82 of 5 Minute Face Talk, I'm diving into the world of setting sprays and makeup sealers. You've seen them on the shelves, heard the buzz, and maybe even used one or twelve. But what's the real difference between these two powerhouse products? And more importantly, which one should become your go-to best friend, depending on your skin and makeup needs? From intense theatrical makeup that must endure the heat of the spotlight to everyday beauty routines that simply crave a bit more staying power, setting sprays and sealers offer unique benefits. But are they really interchangeable? How can you maximize their potential in your makeup routine? So take a listen and discover the top picks I've gathered over my years in the industry. From the robust Ben Nye Final Seal (spoilers!) to the ever-so-gentle Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist, we'll explore how to choose the right product for every scenario. Tune in and learn the tips and tricks to achieving flawless, long-lasting makeup that stands up to the test of any environment. Because makeup is all about creativity, and with the right know-how, you can master it all!

Episode #081. Let's face it. It feels like everyone's a makeup artist today. From the barrage of (unrealistic) reality tv shows that have made celebrity synonymous with the term makeup. To the unbalanced ratio of makeup schools and students to actually makeup jobs available, it can feel like makeup artists are truly a dime a dozen. So what can you do to ensure that you are seen as the serious, dedicated and driven makeup artist that you are? Well, there are actually plenty of things you can do. Steps you can take, and approaches you can make that go a mile-long way to building your reputation and gaining you work in this creative and competitive field. This episode sheds light on some of the lesser known steps you can take to get known, and stay known, and how you can improve the odds when you're taking your first scary steps as a professional makeup artist.

Episode #080. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, I share a trade "secret" that was taught to me years ago. it involves a lip primer. Just one simple lip primer. But used in a way entirely different, almost opposite to the way its intended on the packaging. But how does that work? How do you make a product work by using it in an entirely opposite fashion to the way it's intended? Well, that's the beauty of makeup - there are no rules in makeup. So take a listen and find out exactly how to stop your lipstick from bleeding or feathering with just one simple product. And use it in a way that breaks the rules!

Episode #079. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we explore a logical, yet sneaky little way to get started building your favorite (and fancy) foundation brands in your kit, without having to take out a loan that could buy you a small island in the Caribbean. You should be able to use whatever luxury foundation makeup you like. And the fact that some pricetags are triple digit, shouldn't dictate that you can't use them. Or create the best complexion finishes that faces that you make up deserve. So lets take a look at this brand new way of thinking, and approaching foundation that allows you to have the best of both worlds: use the brands you dream about, but how about not necessarily investing in 29 shades, most of which you'll probably have to throw out before you even finish them anyway. There is a solution. And you can use your "dream makeup". This episode will show you how. And it just takes a little bit of theory... Episode Website

Episode #078. We have gotten to the episode that no one wants to hear about, or really, talk about either. The rather unsexy topic of personal injuries and looking after your body on set as a movie makeup artist. There seem to be unwritten laws when it comes to working on movie sets. You're not allowed to ever appear to be tired, sore, or injured. And heaven forbid if you are any of these things, that they get to you. This bravado should've gone out with powdered wigs, but for some strange reason, it still exists today. Well, I want to tell you that the hours we are required to put in each day and week, are not the norm, and don't make you a hero when you're enduring them with an injury. All you're doing is harming yourself, so inside this episode, we cover the common reasons physical strains and injuries can occur for makeup artists on set. And what you can do to prevent them, and manage them both at work, and off the clock. So check out epsidoe 78 of 5 Minute Face Talk, and prevent that next back strain just waiting to happen. Episode Website

Episode #077. We all start somewhere in this wonderful career of makeup art, don't we. And for almost all of us (except those elite and utterly gifted few who miraculously rise to the top or higher on their first makeup outing) assisting is the usual first path we tip toe upon. Makeup assisting is a brilliant way of life in the field of makeup, but there are a shocking amount of misconceptions that seem to be commonplace so I wanted to explore those and help you appreciate the nuanced beauty, validity and epic importance that is the role of makeup assisting. Episode Website

Episode #076. Ever got that call to create that character covered in mud? Or perhaps a cracked doll face look? And then they tell you it has to stay on for 8 hours without touch ups? I know, me too. And it seems to happen a lot. And the thing is, when you haven't created this type of mud makeup look before, it can be hard to know the right materials to start with - is it ok to use real face masks on the skin for that long? So many questions. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we explore some of the lesser know techniques and materials that work a treat and will absolutely stay put for as long as you need them to. So listen on as we explore the world of the mud makeup look. Episode Website

Episode #075. Showing up for your very first day on set, working as a movie makeup artist can be daunting. It can be overwhelming. Who are all these people? Where do I need to go? And where are the toilets? Let's get down to basics inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk and uncover the single most important piece of information that will get you started on the right foot, and help minimize some of that overwhelm when it comes to working your very first day on set as a movie makeup artist. How exciting!

Episode #074. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we are exploring the crucial topic of basic sanitizing within the world of makeup: why 70% isopropyl alcohol beats 99% when it comes to sanitizing your beauty tools and workspace. And there will be no chemistry degree required! Learn why that extra bit of water in the 70% solution makes all the difference, making it a far more effective choice for killing germs. Plus, we'll explore when and why you might still need that 99% option in your kit. Sanitizing is one of the most important aspects of good practice within makeup artistry, so if you want to freshen up your knowledge or perhaps you need some convincing to soften that tie to your old-favorite 99% alcohol and learn why it's definitely not the best choice to keep a clean and sanitized makeup kit, listen on. Episode Website

Episode #073. Inside this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, we'll get cracking at some of the easiest ways to take down the shine in your makeup applications without using powder. Sometimes powder can be too heavy, to drying, or just too much makeup for the look are trying to achieve, so learn these easy alternatives that you may already be relying on, or maybe not. There's definitely more to mattifying makeup than your old tub of Leichner back in the day. So whether it's to create a natural look, or whether you have a creature prosthetic makeup that's just too shiny, you have options to take down the level of shine on the surface of the skin. Episode Website

Episode #072. Inside this 5 Minute Face Talk episode, we're going to tackle a vital aspect of our daily grind as makeup artists: time management. We'll explore three essential (and often unspoken) tips that will help you make the most out of your precious minutes in the makeup chair, ensuring you stay efficient and stress-free. So, if you're eager to enhance your skills and streamline your process, climb aboard and save some time! Episode Website