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 ...
Dec 09, 2024•15 min
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 makeu...
Dec 02, 2024•17 min
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...
Nov 25, 2024•12 min
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 insig...
Nov 04, 2024•12 min
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 int...
Oct 28, 2024•11 min
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...
Oct 21, 2024•11 min
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 in...
Oct 07, 2024•17 min
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 ...
Sep 30, 2024•18 min
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 f...
Sep 17, 2024•21 min
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 sim...
Sep 02, 2024•21 min
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. ...
Aug 26, 2024•15 min
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...
Aug 19, 2024•9 min
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 d...
Aug 12, 2024•20 min
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 reaso...
Aug 05, 2024•12 min
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, va...
Jul 29, 2024•12 min
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 ...
Jul 22, 2024•7 min
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...
Jul 15, 2024•7 min
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 ...
Jul 08, 2024•7 min
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, ...
Jul 01, 2024•8 min
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...
Jun 24, 2024•15 min
Episode #071. Let's take a look at an aspect that's all too familiar for many of us in the makeup and theatrical arts world: bald caps. We'll break down the different types, materials, and techniques that can make or break your bald cap application. Regardless of whether you're a seasoned pro or a budding makeup artist, you'll learn practical tips to improve your next bald cap effort. So, if you're ready to conquer your bald cap fears and elevate your makeup skills, let's jump right in. Episode ...
Jun 17, 2024•19 min
Episode #070. Wanna make a werewolf? Inside this 5 Minute Face Talk episode, I’ll break down the step-by-step process for you, from initial design considerations to the final touches. We'll go over invaluable tips and tricks that I've picked up over the years. So whether you're gearing up for Halloween or just love a good transformation, this episode will give you everything you need to pull off a beastly look. Unleash your inner creature and craft a show-stopping werewolf look, let's go. Episod...
Jun 10, 2024•20 min
Episode #069. Take a scroll with me as we explore a topic that's become crucial for makeup artists in today's digital age: utilizing Instagram as a powerful portfolio tool. I'll explore the ins and outs of leveraging this social media platform to showcase your work, build your brand, and connect with potential clients and colleagues. So, if you're ready to maximize your online presence and tap into the vast opportunities Instagram offers, let's jump right in. And is it necessary to have an Insta...
Jun 03, 2024•22 min
Episode #068. There's no better time to explore the liberating world of cordless makeup tools and devices than right now. From cordless hair dryers to portable airbrush makeup systems, I'll discuss the pros and cons of going cordless and share with you some top picks for your makeup kit. If you're a curious professional makeup artist, and keen about cutting the cord and embracing a more mobile approach to your makeup routine, then stay tuned for some valuable insights and product recommendations...
May 28, 2024•15 min
Episode #067. Let's explore a crucial yet often underappreciated aspect of makeup artistry: the background makeup kit. I'll walk you through the entire contents of my own meticulously curated (and much loved) BG kit. Learn why each item earns its spot and how it all comes together to keep your workload manageable and your back ache-free. If you avoid kit organization like the plague or wonder how to streamline your on-set essentials, this one's for you. Let's dive right in and uncover the secret...
May 20, 2024•14 min
Episode #066. If you're a new makeup artist to the film and tv industries, you'll want to sit up because I have some very good news for you! I have put together 7 of the very best foundation makeup products that should consider to be in your makeup kit at the very beginning. Some are expensive, some not so much. But the good news is, that to go with these recommendations are some surefire industry secrets that will help you stock your kit while saving money, making great product choices, and ens...
May 13, 2024•21 min
Episode #065. Have you noticed the numbers on your foundation bottle getting higher? Remember when it didn't matter how many hours your foundation claimed to last on your face? I'm sure I'm not the only one who has seen a recent uptick in the hours some makeup products are claiming to work on your face. And has 50hrs really become the new 24hrs in makeup terms? Take a listen to this episode of 5 Minute Face Talk as I explore this weird beauty one-upmanship process as the power of beauty marketin...
May 06, 2024•8 min
Episode #064. In this, my third "Beauty Breakthroughs" episode of 5 Minute Face Talk, that focuses solely on my sharing my favorite new discoveries, products that just wow me to the moon and back, and just really great things in the makeup world; I share with you a very recent discovery. And have a bit of a rant about stuff on the makeup station at work. Episode Website
Apr 29, 2024•9 min
Episode #063. No one wants to see that Insta photo of themselves days, weeks, or years later and wonder, "why nobody told me" I looked like I was going through my Covid-Sourdough phase. Well, the truth is, nobody knew. Because the sneaky phenomenon that is flashback doesn't;t appear before our eyes, only before the camera - or one that take your photos with the flash ON. Learn exactly what causes flashback, how to avoid it and some of the best products you can use to ensure there's not a trace o...
Apr 22, 2024•9 min
Episode #062. Do you have a favorite antishine or mattifying makeup product that has alas, fallen prey to the makeup fun police I like to call "DISCONTINUED?" There's nothing worse than going to pick up your go-to product, that you've trusted and relied on, year after year only to discover it has been discontinued. And for some reason, that seems to happen with an uncanny regularity with antishines and mattifying creams. So inside this episode, I lament on some of my favorite anti-shines from ti...
Apr 15, 2024•7 min
