The Powder Group brings back The Artist Summit!

Any reader of this blog knows I am team The Powder Group all day long.  I can't recall how I first stumbled upon them and their fearless leaders Michael DeVellis and James Vincent but my artistry life hasn't been the same since.

Back in 2008 the very first event I attended upon embarking on my pro makeup artist path was The Artist Summit, which you can read about here, and I was giddy like a kid on Christmas.

3 levels of quality education and product at my disposal minus the crowds, I was in love.

From the very beginning the team at The Powder Group was super knowledgeable and willing to answer any and every question I had, and to this day even though they have grown by leaps and bounds, that has not changed one bit.

While I adore The Makeup Show, I think that for any aspiring or seasoned artist attending the Artist Summit is the way to go.

I am uber excited that they decided to bring it back and if you act quickly you can take advantage of some great rates on the event.  I am a TPG Pro Member so I can already tell you that the event has piqued the interest of many who have already made travel and lodging arrangements so you may want to stop wasting time and make your plans and get your tickets ASAP, I am also talking to myself here.  See below for further details.

ADVANCE TICKET PRICES END

ON MAY 31 - FOR NON MEMBERS!

TPG PRO MEMBER RATE EXTENDED THROUGH JUNE 30! $100 HOLDS YOUR SPACE FOR THE ARTIST SUMMIT!

The most inspirational names in beauty will gather for the first time at The Artist Summit! From October 6 - 9, two hundred of the most driven, focused and committed professionals in the business of beauty will come together in Provincetown, MA for three days of insightful and inspiring discussion about artistry, career and industry at The Artist Summit 2013! And, now $100 reserves your space at the biggest pro event of the year! 

Produced by The Powder Group and hosted by Michael DeVellis and James Vincent, The Artist Summit will bring the pro community together in a way that no other makeup event has before. This is an entirely new The Artist Summit event and will consist of one, singular program that all attendees will participate in - so you won't miss a thing! Plus with no vendors, product exhibits or retail area, your focus can be 100% about you and your career development!

The Artist Summit has been designed to redefine and deepen the foundations of your business, strengthen your expectations and aspirations, and inspire you to create your most successful career imaginable. The Artist Summit will move your business forward and will profoundly effect your career!

The three-day event will consist of an ongoing series of one-of-a-kind seminars and talks that will include more than a dozen industry leaders presenting all new programs, each of which are exclusive to The Artist Summit. This program will never repeat itself at future The Artist Summit events, so please do not miss this one-time-ever opportunity!

 

THE ARTIST SUMMIT PROGRAM INCLUDES:

Chris McCarthy - Beyond Belief
Corissa St. Laurent - The Essential Art of Engagement Marketing
Crystal Wright - The Big Change

James Vincent - Inspiring Artistry

Kate Leydon - Incorporating Wellness

Linda Mason - An Artist's Approach
Marietta Carter Narcisse - Getting Down to Business

Michael Angelo - Redefining Your Personal Success

Michael DeVellis - The Power of Community

Michael Duenas - Achieving Intention

Sarah Lucero - Defeat is Not an Option

Victoria Stiles - Creating Your Industry Voice 

PLUS SUPPLEMENTARY WORKSHOPS

NOW AVAILABLE FOR REGISTRATION! 

Two supplementary days of hands-on workshops will be held on October 10 - 11.
These optional sessions are at additional fee and open exclusively to The Artist Summit attendees. Registration is now open for all workshops, to The Artist Summit attendees exclusively.  

  

Orlando Santiago + James Vincent Inventing Editorial

James Vincent + Sebastian Smith Understanding Digital Photography  
Dianna Quagenti + Michael DeVellis Detailing Your Work
Sarah Lucero Beautiful Makeup
Michael Duenas Hairstyling for Beauty 
Dani Fonseca - sponsored by Temptu Pro Extreme Cover 
Orlando Santiago Thinking in Black and White 
Dani Fonseca Using Color Everyday 

Erica Carr - sponsored by Make Up For Ever Bridal Beauty and Beyond   

 

To register for hands-on workshops, and for complete event details, session descriptions, presenter bios and ticket purchase information for The Artist Summit 2013, please visit theartistsummit.com, thepowdergroup.com or contact us at 212.627.7447. Please note that our presenters, session topics and schedule are subject to change.   

THE ARTIST SUMMIT IS LIMITED TO ONLY

200 ATTENDEES!

TPG PRO MEMBERS! 

NOW GET YOUR ADVANCE TICKETS THROUGH JUNE 30!

$100 DEPOSIT RESERVES YOUR SPOT!

TPG Pro member advance registration rate extended through June 30!

TPG Pro members $490.00

After May 31, rate for non-members cost will be $790.00  After June 30, rate for TPG Pro members will be $590.00

$100 Deposit will hold your space and guarantee the advance purchase rate! *Tickets must be paid-in-full by September 1. Deposits are non-refundable but may be used toward other TPG programs if unable to attend. 

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS!

CLICK HERE FOR INFORMATION ABOUT JOINING TPG PRO 

WWW.THEARTISTSUMMIT.COM

Just Shana: Real Talk * parental guidance is suggested*

Dionne Farris sang it best (if you dont get the reference I direct you to Google what you think the image is...).  I feel just like that right now...up to my head in it for real!

I gave myself a deadline that I am fast approaching, and while I have had many great experiences that many only dream about, experiences dont pay the bills.   Literally.  As I sit here my phone is off, the gas in the car is low and so are the groceries in the fridge.  At the beginning of this week I had the most awesome prospect on the horizon, probably my biggest to date and it fell through...at the eleventh hour, making me lose out on 2 days of my day rate and let me tell you something - my day rate is not low.  So you can understand my excitement and then my complete heartbreak over it not happening.

Heres the thing that no one tells you when you have the bright idea to make it as a makeup artist...this shit is hard.  I mean like real hard.  If you are fully vested in it you can probably liken it to that of being in a relationship with someone who doesnt love you as much as you love them...yeah just like that.  You invest your time trying to prove that you love it, deserve it, will do anything for it, spend a great deal of your money on it, you are all wrapped up in it and after all that you are LUCKY if you even get a call back.  And just like either you or your good girlfriend who wont leave that good for nothing dude who could care less about them, you cant tell yourself/them nothing until one day you/they just snap and say F this, Im out.  After four years I am at that point.

All I want is to make it in the section of the industry that I love, I have the experience and the talent and it just   wont happen like I want it to.  I could blame a number of things - not being as flexible as I would like to be when things come up, other artists undercutting and therefore causing productions to undervalue what makeup + hair can bring to the project, not wanting to continuously kiss ass to get my foot in the door but it would all amount to the same thing - not enough work to go around...or not enough paid work.

I get questions all the time - how did you get the courage to follow your dream, when is the right time to leave your job and pursue your passion full time, etc so on and so forth.  Look, I wish I could tell you the magic answer but the truth is, there isnt one.  Either you are going to do it or you arent and either its going to work or it isnt.  Point blank.  Its real vague because this whole damn thing is vague as fock.  My journey cant be yours cause its mine as random as that sounds.  My uncle told me something a couple of weeks ago - you know how you know you are supposed to be doing something?  Because you are doing it.

I kinda know this is for me - nah fock that I KNOW this is for me.  I havent been as sure about anything else in life but I also know that even if I do continue I HAVE to be smart and find another source of income.  It pains me to say it but I have been sending out resumes all week and not just for makeup positions.  Yes my friends I have decided to fall back on my Communications degree and Administrative background as well.  So by this time next month a number of things could be going on.  I have never held back before and I wont start now, so whatever happens I will keep you posted.

I had to take a break from my posts/vids about makeup because I look a mess.  Dried up tears, hair everywhere and no makeup would not be cute on screen but I will be back.  Just wanted you all to know whats what.  Especially those who saw my Facebook post yesterday.

*UPDATE* Even before I could finish this post I received a call about setting up an interview for a Full Time job...that call was bittersweet...

Diary of an MUA: Player 1, Level Up

We are rolling steady in 2012, kicking our shoes off and getting comfy.  Now I pretty much suck at resolutions so I tend to stay away from them.  I did however fully intend to step out from my comfort zone this year as far as my career in makeup artistry and I am pleased to say that "so far, so good".  If you follow me on Twitter or Facebook then you are already aware of the goings on, but for those who aren't, keep reading and watch the video.  :)

Since recording this video I am happy to report that I have already completed my first gig with my agency!  This past Monday I was working on about 2 hours of sleep but I got it done and the client was pleased with my work, so much so that I was offered more work in the coming months.  So hopefully that pans out because it was a great team to work with.

I have been hustling extra hard this month and it is paying off big time.  I am so very thankful for my fiance aka "the sig", he is my biggest support right now, and none of this would be possible without him.  :)  Leaving my job back in September was one of the best things that could have happened to me, as crazy as that sounds; my health is 100% better and I am living my dream.

I will be continuing to share my experiences and there is a big one/ones to report coming soon so stay tuned for that and as always thank you for visiting my little part of cyberspace.

I Wanna Be An MUA: The Basics Of Beauty 101 @ Rouge Makeup Studio

For my beauty babes in the NYC who either want to explore the possibilities of makeup artistry or expand their current knowledge here is a great deal on makeup education taking place at Rouge Makeup Studio.  Details below:

Rouge Makeup Studio

The Basics Of Beauty 101

Sunday August 21, 2011

11-4PM

Only $200!

 

This is not your run of the mill 101 workshop! You will leave with all the basic knowledge to take you to the next level in your makeup career. This workshop is designed to teach all the basics of beauty makeup. This Intensive workshop will include:




* Guide to the many career options open to makeup artists today



* The Business Of Makeup



* How To Create a Portfolio



* Testing and Working with a creative team



* Professional Kit Essentials



* Brow Shaping



* Proper Skin Preparation



* Concealer Techniques



* Highlighting/Contouring Techniques



* Proper Blush Placement



* Creating the perfect Eye



* Basic Eyelash Application



* Working/understanding skin problems



* Mature Skin



* Choosing the correct products for each situation



*Demonstration of all Techniques above



Fee: $200



Presenters: Anne DeMarco and Charles Douglas/ Co-Founders of Rouge Makeup Studio



Date: Sunday August 21, 2011 11-4PM













Please call 212-226-7350 to register.



$100 deposit required. Visa/ M/C or Amex accepted.



www.rougemakeupstudio.com 1123 Broadway at 25th St 10th floor Suite 1002

I Wanna Be An MUA: WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY

As you can see I REALLY want all you interested in working as a makeup artist to take your craft seriously.  What will set you apart from the crowd of people vying to become the next big thing in makeup artistry?  We all have the products, brushes, chairs, and any other shiny new product you can think of but not all of us possess the desire to continue our education. 

Again brought to us by The Powder Group and none other than Make Up For Ever!  If you are a TPG Pro member you get a VIP gift bag.  See below for details from The Artist Labs site:

PHOTOSHOOT, PORTFOLIO, AND AGENCY TALK WITH DAVEN MAYEDA AND VICTORIA STILES
Agency represented Los Angeles based Celebrity Hairstylist Daven Mayeda and Washington, D.C. based agency represented Makeup Artist Victoria Stiles form a dynamic education team to give you an exclusive backstage look to the industry and secrets for a successful career in hair and makeup artistry.  In this one-day class, Daven Mayeda will discuss on-set secrets and unseen aspects of the beauty industry while Victoria Stiles will share her industry secrets and tips to branding your artistry and getting you noticed.  Collectively, Mayeda and Stiles will give you a behind the scenes look to working in editorial, with high profile clients, and an insider’s look at working with an agency as well as an exclusive talk on how you can gain representation.
Daven Mayeda is represented by Celestine Agency in Los Angeles.  He has worked on celebrities including Mariah Carey and Adele.


Victoria Stiles is represented by Kess Agency in New York.  Her client list includes Vice President Joe Biden, Jenna and Barbara Bush, Robyn, Melody Gardot and Roberta Flack.  Editorial clients include Conde Nast, Hearst, Niche Media, and TIME Inc.

A note from our presenters Daven Mayeda and Victoria Stiles-

“We are extremely excited to meet all of you! Knowledge is something that should never be kept secret.   We encourage all of you to take your career to the next level and are thrilled to give you the knowledge and tools to do so!   If you are currently working in the industry and would like pro-to-pro advice with a Agency Represented artists, The Artist Labs classes are for you!”

WORKING IN THE INDUSTRY

PHOTOSHOOT, PORTFOLIO, AND AGENCY TALK WITH DAVEN MAYEDA AND VICTORIA STILES

AUGUST 28TH, 2011
WASHINGTON, D.C.

LEIPER STILES STUDIOS
Located 5 minutes from Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD)
22960 SHAW ROAD
SUITE 600
STERLING, VA 20166
PH: 571-265-7138
www.LeiperStilesStudios.com
EXCLUSIVE INSIDER DISCUSSION WILL INCLUDE:
9 AM – 12 PM
Test Talk
- Taking your test to the next level
- How to book your models, how to choose your models.
- How to make your test portfolio-worthy
- Finding a focus and identifying the direction for your shoot
- Understanding your role and requirements for the shoot
- How to effectively communicate with members of the crew pre-production regarding direction for the shoot
- Techniques in creating a storyboard for a multi-page shoot
- How to tailor your kit and tools to fit the needs of the shoot
- Dealing with different personalities on set
- Creating balance between all parties involved
- Importance of time management and how to gauge time to complete each shot
- Set etiquette, wrapping the shoot, and communication with the crew post-production
- Choosing and selecting images for your portfolio.
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM LUNCH BREAK
1:00 PM – 4:30 PM
Working in the Industry
- How to take your experience from a test to a working job.
- Identifying the main differences between testing and a client booking
- Receiving direction and working with art directors and/or photographers,
- Understanding eras and key references
- Communicating with your crew during the shoot
- Dos and Don’ts; set etiquette for a client booking
- Troubleshooting difficult situations I.E. Difficult or unsatisfied clients, inability to continue shoot etc.
- Wrapping the shoot, importance of following up with your client and keeping communication open post-production
- How to properly juggle your schedule and troubleshooting double bookings
- Creating a client contact list: When its okay to obtain contact information and ways of keeping your client informed on your latest work
- Invoicing your client
- Industry standard marketing materials: website, print book, business cards among other important marketing materials every creative should have
- Appropriate times to obtain sponsorship from a hair or cosmetic line and ways of landing a product and/or monetary sponsorship from a company
- Social Media chat – free ways to promote your work
4:30PM – 6:00PM
Agency Chat
- You will receive a comprehensive print out listing artist representatives in North America
- Portfolios: Industry standard books and how to create both a print and digital book
- Which images to put in your book
- Contacting agencies and ways of how to get your foot in the door
- Working with an agency and standard requirements an agency expects of their represented artists
- Optional portfolio review from Daven Mayeda and Victoria Stiles

TPG MEMBERS GET AN EXCLUSIVE VIP GIFT BAG AND 20% OFF ENTRANCE!

I Wanna Be An MUA: Contours and Finishes by Danessa Myricks

Yet another opportunity for artists in the area to expand that knowledge!  Do not miss out!  I just spoke with a representative at Bennett and there are only 4 spots remaining!  Make the call and take your artistry to the next level.

If you plan to attend let me know :)

I Wanna Be An MUA: Faces of Truth: Beauty Marathon

Are you a makeup artist in the D.M.V looking to expand your portfolio with QUALITY images?  Then it is a MUST that you participate in this event.  Visit Ajani's site to register.  Hope to see you there!

Metropolitan Pavillion Announces 2012 dates for The Makeup Show!!

Alright its time to get those travel plans in gear!  You have either read about it or experienced the fun all for yourself, either way its time for The Makeup Show 2012!!!  Here are the dates:

The Makeup Show LA

Saturday, February 25, 2012 & Sunday February 26, 2012

California Market Center

The Makeup Show NYC

Sunday, May 13, 2012 & Monday, May 14, 2012

Metropolitan Pavilion

 

The Makeup Show Chicago

Sunday, June 10, 2012 & Monday, June 11, 2012

 

The Makeup Show Europe

September 2012, dates TBD

 

and our newest show

The Makeup Show Orlando!

Coming in November 2012!

 

Of course I am partial to NY however I may be ready to hit LA again.  Which show do you plan on attending!

On Set - Saul's Groove

I received a lead on a small film project being shot in the area from a producer who hired me for my first feature film 2 years ago.  They always look out for me and I love them for that.  I responded to the casting and ended up booking the job!

Saul's groove is a film short written by Candace Simmons.  I, of course, could tell you about the story here but I think it would be better coming from the writer herself so head here to listen to her vision in her own words.  Those of us who reside in the D.C. area are always commenting about how small the area really is, well imagine my surprise when I found out the director/writer is actually the sister of an amazing beauty photographer here in the area - Ajani Truth!  Ajani and I are not only Twitter pals but he also went to high school with 'the sig' and I have only been trying to shoot with him for over a year.  The Simmons clan is super cool and uber-talented (check out Ajani's work here) and I have been enjoying working with them.  Hopefully Ajani and I can make a magical shoot happen sooner rather than later! 

Saturday I reported for duty and had the opportunity to work with two of the leads.  The "girlfriend" played by Chrislene was AMAZING!  I mean, we bust out in applause after her first take!  In filming you often have to do take after take after take and she didnt lose an ounce of steam.  Check her out, she definitely has the "IT" factor.  I also worked with "Saul" who also plays "Pops" which should give you an idea of how I had to work with him.  On Sunday I worked with "Dazey" the other female lead.  I didnt get to see her in action since my call time was over before they started shooting but I heard she was awesome as well.  Here are some behind the scenes shots I took.

Go With Your Gut! *long read*

So you have read about part 1 of my day this past Sunday and how I got sick yada yada blah.  Well part 2 of that day was just as crazy. 

Backstory: A few months ago I had a shoot scheduled with a well known local photographer that I was very excited for.  Well as luck would have it I ended up getting sick the day before.  I notifed the model and photog that I wasnt feeling well and I didnt think I would be able to make it.  Long story short, I was right, I couldnt make it.  Unfortunately I may have messed up any chance of working with either of them again because it seems that I flaked.  This is part of the reason why I still had to see my client on Sunday no matter how I was feeling.

Ok current story:  After I left my bridal client I headed to my scheduled shoot.  I was feeling a bit better but still not 100% but I pressed on.  Once I arrived I called the photog as directed since he indicated the front door was secure.  He indicated that he was about five minutes away.  He did show up shortly thereafter and apologized for the delay, it was due to *wait for it* him being at the free clinic and he still didnt see a doctor.  :sideeye  Not sure what I was supposed to do with that bit of info and even though it made me feel some kind of way I chose to ignore it - wrong idea #1

Backstory: When talking via email with the photog he sent me images of the models and each time made some sorta off - putting comments about their looks.  Complimentary yes but in a skeevy kinda way - preliminary wrong idea #0.1

Current: so we make our way up in the elevator and descend upon a dark hallway, kinda reminiscent of a movie where there's this long dark hallway with a series of singular lights hanging from the ceiling.  So its lit but still dark?  And still I continued to go with him - wrong idea #2

We come to a door that he has to put a code in to enter, we continue - wrong idea #3, leads us to another interior door that needs a key, we continue - wrong idea #4, finally coming to a space that is well lit, with music playing and an artist painting who greets us and asks if we are shooting to which the photog responds yes and I smille and nod. 

I am thinking ok this must be where we are shooting, white walls, lots of light, ok great.  Yeah, no...photog then points and says we are going in that room (yet another door) that leads into what looks like a supply closet come junk room - junk all over the floor, the size of a gas station bathroom at a highway rest stop, just not an ideal shooting area, but for some reason I push my views out of my head and start to set up - wrong idea #5...

He's making small talk but all I am thinking is just set up so we can finish so I can get the hell on.  Model shows up and he wants to take before photos of her...which he does...kinda...you see at one point he asks her to hold the flash thingy (cant think of the name of it right now) and then he couldnt figure out how to use it...so the model begins to ask him about his background.  He says he wanted to be a filmmaker, but then got introduced to photography and became a photojournalist instead, then graphic design, then he was in Paris for a few months, then did fashion design.  He showed us a business card he designed for a friend and honestly the caliber of work was not equal to what he said his background was. 

He stepped out to take a call and the model and I began to talk and say how we didnt trust it, something just isnt right, etc. and while we were talking something goes down outside between him and the artist dude and the artist storms out.  Photog then comes back in and shuts the door behind him.  Well the model and I didnt need any more signs, we were outta there. 

We made it out safely and were able to warn the other model who was scheduled to arrive since she was coming alone.  I share this story because I know some of you are working on building your portfolio.  Yes we need images, but we dont need them so much that our lives may be put in danger or we are put in situations where our integrity may be compromised.  After the model and I left we went to get a bite to eat and chat and realized that there wasnt even an area (bathroom, etc.) for her to change clothes! 

Definitely do your research before hand.  Check out references.  I know it can be quite costly to pay someone to take images for your port but if you can save up and go ahead and pay, it is worth the investment, trust.  Unfortunately from this point forward TF shoots will be few and far between for me unless each and every thing is checked.  I am so mad at myself for not trusting my instincts.  Let this story be a lesson for you.  Good luck to you!

What makes you think you can call yourself a makeup artist?!

While perusing Facebook the other week I came across a status update that I thought would make a great discussion...

A comment was made that one cannot call themselves a makeup artist simply because they put a feather on someone's face or something to that effect.  Implying that there is now an influx of pseudo artists out here now and that everyone doesnt deserve that title.  The comment was then followed by a myriad of replies touting their certifications, experience and the like.  I felt some kind of way about it and here is why...

Someone made the comment that you had to have gone to school for aesthetics and/or makeup artistry before you can call yourself a makeup artist and that they were upset that the licensing has since been done away with in some states, DC and Maryland included.  *PUMP THE BRAKES* Just about every well known makeup artist that I have had the pleasure of training with or listening to at a seminar, etc. has said that he/she did NOT have a license in anything, nor did they have any formal training.  That their "school" was practice and/or experience on real women at the makeup counter or they kinda fell into it some way or another. 

One who has done research of any sort should be aware that the makeup school is a modern thing.  Even the makeup section taught in cosmetology school wasnt an extensive course at one point, it was merely a chapter, if that, in a thick course curriculum where basics were taught.  Furthermore, those that do attend some makeup schools have said that they just learned basics and that the real experience came outside of the school and from reading additional books/watching videos purchased on their own.

What do you think?  Is there room for all in this industry or should certification be reinstated and demanded before jobs are dispersed?  Do you have a license?  If so, was school worth it for you or could you have reached your level of success without it?

Stay Focused!

When given the opportunity to have your work showcased in any project, you are to treat that job as if it is your one and only chance to show what you can do.  Never let your focus be swayed and never drop the ball because one mistake could mean the end of your opportunity. 

I let my focus drift a bit this past Sunday while on set for a photo shoot.  No excuses, just had three things scheduled in one day and instead of being in the moment, I kept allowing myself to fast forward to the next task at hand. 

Below is the second look for the model for the day.  Just a simple beauty look inspired by peaches and cream initially that I punched up with color on the lips.  My camera is definitely not picking up how intense the orange lip was.  I mixed it with two pigments, one MAC and one from the mineralista.  I loved it.

This is my personal blog about my love for the cosmetic industry and my makeup artistry journey.  I choose to be totally honest with it.  I am not always gonna do work that I feel is 100% and either I will choose not to share or I can share and try to help others see the error of my ways so that they can in turn not make the same mistakes.  That said, keep reading...The next look is where I lost focus...

I was so happy with how the shoot was going, the team was in sync and things were going well, a bit behind schedule but for real, I haven't been on a shoot that went as planned time wise.  

Above was the third and final look.  I looked at the model and was satisfied.  Packed up and was ready to go and thought oh let me get one more behind the scenes image.  First one I took was a bit blurry, this was the second shot.  To the naked eye it may look fine, but if you inspect further you can see that the loose powder I used to catch any fall out from darkening her eye makeup didn't get brushed away completely.  EEK!  

All I could think about was ok let me move quickly, shoot ran over and I am already a half hour late for my next appointment.  Well you know what my being hasty could have blown the entire shoot and my professional reputation.  To top it off I didn't even make it to my next appointment after all that.

Its fine to schedule multiple appointments in one day but being a scatterbrain can have extreme consequences.  Remember to stay focused no matter what!

FOTD's and Updates! *pic heavy*

This has been a busy week for me - my family and I moved a week ago from a 2 bedroom condo in the heart of the city to a 3 bedroom townhouse in the middle of the suburbs (culture shock much?  not for me as I spent my teenage years right up the road from here but "the sig" is a city dude born and bred!).  I am so thankful, grateful, blessed, you name it.  As I sit at my new vanity and makeup area (I will share soon, still getting it in order) and type this I am still kinda feeling as if I am not here in the moment, you know?

I had the entire week off from my day job but I was running non stop, getting stuff for the house, putting it in its place, transporting the fam, I mean you name it, I was doing it.  I even made time to set up meetings for future gig/client opportunities which brings us to this post. 

I have TONS of stuff to review and share with you all.  PR companies have been so giving as of late-LOVES IT!  When I started blogging I was just doing it for the love of the makeup and it has now developed its' own speed and I really have to stay on top of it lest it speed out of control.  If ever you feel frustrated or unsure, dont give up!  You never know when things you are working on will take a sudden turn for the better.  I am telling you I am living this right now. 

Another thing that is funny, I promise I will stop rambling soon enough, is I am currently reading Kelly Cutrone's book on my Kindle for Blackberry app (LOL @ the product placement), 'If You Have To Cry, Go Outside...' - shout out to Kerris @ Pumps and Gloss for letting me know about the app and it is so on point and timely for exactly what I am experiencing at the moment.  Definitely check it out, the book and the app, oh and prior to Cutrone's book I read Crystal Renn's book (again on Kindle) 'Hungry'.  Two great stories by two very strong women.

dont mind my crazy look, this was like day 4 of trying to get settled in the house

Ok so back to it - Thursday I met with an amazing young woman regarding her bridal business and how I can contribute to the team.  Well we had a wonderful meeting (In IKEA of all places, told you I was running crazy all week) and I will be doing my first wedding with the company next Saturday!  YAY! 

For the meeting I didnt want to do anything too over the top, just enough to show I understand bridal beauty is a different kind of beauty

On Friday I had another prom client so I did a bit more but I didnt want her family to think I was coming to make her look like a clown so I kept it a bit simple for that as well.

dont ask...

For this look I am wearing the new Make Up Forever Aqua Cream #5 on my cheeks and lips (more on that later)

On Saturday I drove to Manassas, which is about an hour away, to do a bridal demo and interview with another artist.  Again I needed to look polished not overdone. 

                                                                  Me and my Zuca Artist backpack (one of my best purchases ever)
Neutrals worked in my favor it seems cause I booked that job too!

Sunday I had a shoot so I was able to be a bit more creative in my look, plus immediately following I was going to the Erykah Badu concert!

The shoot went well for the most part (more on that later) but I ended up wiping all my makeup off due to the heat!

my friends and I before the concert at The Baltimore Harbor Houlihan's
EXTRA HOT but the concert was good.

Diary of an MUA: Say What You Mean and Mean What You Say

This year for me is all about moving forward in this industry as a Makeup Artist.  I will pound the pavement until my knuckles bleed if thats what it takes.  Thats how bad I want to reach the next level of success.  In order to start the new year off correctly I set up a shoot with a photographer I have worked with in the past to take some headshots for my portfolio.  We had been going back and forth for a little over the month with lighting and background ideas, I did the research for what looks I wanted to create (hard work I am telling you) and I personally contacted I dont even know how many models of varying ethnicities.  I finally got 8 models that agreed to work with us and I created looks for each of them that not only would benefit me and my port but also there's as the looks were something they didnt currently have in their books.

Everyone was confirmed, I went out and purchased any supplies needed and I was all set.  Well as is life it didnt go as planned.  Long story short - out of eight models only two actually made it (oh and that is after I hadnt heard from 2 of the first models cast and had to find 2 replacements) each and every one had an excuse as to why they couldnt make it.  Now we know that things come up that are beyond our control but you have to understand that I am serious about this so I have to admit I really took offense, but I kept a poker face about it and then I realized this will probably not be the last time something like this happens so let me suck it up and move on by doing what I set out to do with the models who did as they said they would.

I may have said this before but you MUST MUST MUST be professional at all times no matter what you do!  You never know who knows what casting director, photographer, designer, etc. and if your name comes up you would want the discussion to surround positive things, no?  I have been privy to plenty of conversation about people I have worked with in the past and it was not pretty.  I try to conduct myself in a professional manner no matter what, so hopefully when my name is mentioned its not anything negative.

Anyway here are some behind the scenes photos from the shoot for your time...

for some reason my camera made this one come out in a Sepia tone - I kinda like it though

Diary of an MUA: on set talk

This week has been super busy!  So much so that the posts I had in mind to send out got pushed WAY back.  Lets play some catch up this week shall we?

This weekend I had a shoot for an upcoming shoe designer who is launching her website in a couple of months.  She takes a shoe that you purchased a while ago or you think is boring or you just feel like revamping and turns it into a work of art.  Great concept and talented young woman.  You can follow her on twitter or contact her via Facebook for more info.

I wanted to share a few behind the scenes photos as well as the conversation shared amongst the MUAs, stylist and hair stylists.

(fake close up pics are of the models I did - gold and black and the one with the red highlights)

It was a great shoot with a great team!  Not one attitude in the bunch and I loved every single second of it (even though I had to get up at 3a to get to the shoot on time!  LOL)  I cant wait to see the final images.  Also check out the fabulous, talented and HILARIOUS Emore'J Couture on YouTube where he will be posting a behind the scenes video of the shoot.  I did NOT get on camera but the other two MUA's did so you can get an idea of the look and see the fun we had. 

Now the conversation - we were talking about the personalities that you come in contact with in this industry.  One of the MUA's stated that they think they prohibit themselves from some things because they tend to go over the line on set, etc., and that they should probably stay on the line, I chimed in that maybe even behind the line in order to be even more successful. 

I loved it because since I have been pursuing this profession I have come in contact with ALL types.  I used to wonder if I should try to emulate others in an effort to seem more "cool" or "hip" or "insert terminology that best describes the persona here" but you know what?  Ive been doing pretty good just being me.  I dont need to hype myself up to be something that I am not and I dont need to treat people less than in order to edge out the competition. 

As stated on Twitter last week MUAs and artists in general need to treat each other better.  There's enough work to go around for all of us and we need to operate as a COMMUNITY. 

Its funny because I often run into MUAs that proclaim loudly to everyone within earshot that they are "celebrity makeup artist _____" and I think to myself, thats cool but you dont have to cut your eyes at everyone else because truth be told you may very well be a celebrity mua but trust and believe that each time I am at a non paid gig, I sure enough see you there with me not getting paid!  LOL

I say all this to say be yourself and be humble and be friendly!  You will still go far because your talent will show others that you are worthy of the work. 

I Wanna Be an MUA: How to Get Gigs

I was recently asked how I continue to secure gigs so since my posts have been lacking as of late I figured it would make an ideal post.

When I first started to take being a makeup artist seriously I had absolutely no idea where to start. A few folks suggested Model Mayhem so I checked it out and I immediately felt like a fish out of water...

Tip 1: We are our own worst critic, dont doubt yourself.

No my portfolio, or lack thereof, wasnt up to par with many of the makeup artists on MM but I didnt let that deter me. I landed my very first gig from a Model Mayhem casting call that just so happened to be with a big time company.

I now had a reputable company to list on my resume. I decided to then venture to the internet for more research on possible gigs. My 2nd casting call was to be a part of the makeup artist team for an independent film being shot in the area. I contacted the producers and set up a meeting

Tip 2: Be available

A lot of the time that is all it takes. They need someone with the work ethic, minus the attitude, who is available to get the job done. I pride myself on this. I have a work ethic that just wont quit. I wholeheartedly believe this is the reason I continue to get jobs (both paying and unpaid) Yes I can do it, yes I will be there-I make a way out of no way and trust at times it is really hard but I have an awesome support system and they believe in me. During those times I find myself second guessing I think about them and it keeps me going.

Tip 3: Know your sh!t

Instead of just being a part of the makeup team for that first film, the producers believed in me enough to let me serve as the key artist and build a team of artists. It was my first time on a set but I did so much research you would think I was writing the movie. The resources are there, you just have to seek them out.

So Im gathering experience, but I still dont have a portfolio. Every summit, class, workshop I take pushes the importance of a portfolio. Well you know what? I didnt get a real portfolio until February of this year! Ive been operating as a freelance artist for over a year.

Tip 4: Hustle hard!

Networking is your friend. You MUST know that and you MUST practice it frequently. Twitter has been an awesome resource. Social media in general is a dynamic tool available to just about everyone. Use it wisely and watch the opportunities stack up.

Tip 5: Practice Humility, you are never too good for a gig

You never know what one gig will lead to. Even if you dont have the best experience it still may lead to one great picture for your portfolio, one more experience to add to your resume, a chance to talk with someone who is interested in working with you on another project. I dont turn down anything! I use vacation time, I borrow someone's car if need be, I drag my kit on the metro, I make it a POINT to try and do everything in my power to make it to a gig or shoot. Once the calls/emails stop, you are done.

Tip 6: Share the wealth

I know a lot of artists who want to break into the industry and whenever I hear about something that they could work on I extend the invitation. Even if they cant make it to that particular one I keep asking. If I havent spoken to them in a while I try to reach out and ask if they are still pounding that pavement and trying to make it work. The fashion industry in general can be cut throat and I have no desire to engage in that foolery. If I can help you in any way I will, plain and simple.

I wish I had some magic answer for how to make this thing work but the truth is I dont think there is one. Some people want the money and fame, a lot of my gigs are unpaid, my "money" comes in the form of pics for my portfolio. Some want to work with celebrities, to each his/her own. Weddings, runway, editorial, film, television there are so many avenues to take. Right now my focus is to try my hand at each and THEN determine which one I want to focus on solely IF I even decide to narrow it down.

Take the tips Ive listed and apply them to your goal. I hope this helps, we can always discuss further - so if you have any questions feel free to hit me up! I didnt have someone I could go to and ask when I chose to embark on this so I am more than willing to help anyone who wants to chat.

I leave you with an image from a shoot I did recently. Peace y'all.