Epic Makeup

NEW YEAR = CHANGES!

2012-01-18T16:43:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time since I have posted on this blog andI decided that one of my New Year’s resolutions would be to reach out to mydatabase and write a monthly post for those who are interested.

Epic Makeup has gone through some changes and updates in thepast year. In order to continue to provide our producers, directors, photographers, actors, corporate business and production company clients with the most professional makeup and hair services, we are excited to announce that we haveexpanded the team and I wanted to take this opportunity to introduce the newmembers:

Cathi Singh – Makeup/Hair/Body Artist:

Many of you know Cathi already. She has filled in for me on some of your projects asdepartment head and other times she has worked along side as my key artist orassistant. I first met Cathi 5 years ago and since that time, we have partneredon many amazing shoots. Besides being trained in beauty makeup for HD televisionand film, she has expanded her skills to include fashion, sports, news media,red carpet, live events, as well as becoming Epic’s certified Spray Tan Artist, which handles all tanning requests from our actors and clients.

Heather Wilson – Makeup/Hair/Airbrush/Body Artist:

I met Heather 2 years ago at The Makeup Show convention inLos Angeles and since then we have worked on several projects together,including a recent Loma Media shoot for Sycuan Casino that featured 12principal actors and 85 extras! Heather has been working in the business foralmost 10 years and she has built a large portfolio featuring her expertise in highfashion, editorial and print advertising. She is Epic’s go to artist for beauty airbrushing and her work can beenseen on the runways at New York Fashion Week.

While the three of us are trained in all genres of makeupartistry, our combined efforts of close to 40 years experience have given usthe skills to handle most on set challenges.

Recently, Cathi and I switched roles and she was myDepartment Head on the Ron Howard short film, When You Find Me, where I workedas the Key Artist.

This film is the first collaboration of Ron Howard and Canon after forming the company Project Imagin8ion. It began with a photography contest thatstarted in May of 2011. Over 96,000 entries were submitted and Mr. Howard chose8 winners. From there, a screenplaywas written using the photos as inspiration and Mr. Howard’s daughter, actress BryceDallas-Howard was hired as our Director.

Cathi and I were brought on and began our pre-productionprocess in September 2011. This is where the challenge began because Canon had secretly developeda new film camera to compete with the RED and we were using the prototype to shoot the film. We werethe first makeup team in the nation to shoot on this camera and the script had called for a“dream sequence” which was going to be shot using an infrared sensor.

We discovered that shooting in thismode the camera picked up all the blue veins in the actor’s face, but becauseBryce asked us to make the actors appear “ghost” like, the blue veins neededto disappear. We tried several different techniques and finally figured outwhat supported our director's vision.

Below is a link to Project Imagin8tion's YouTube Channel featuring the film's trailer, which is currently being prepped for thefestival circuit and a link to a very informative, behind-the-scenes video where both director and DP speak in detail about the camera's film capabilities.

2011 also brought our team many interesting new clients bothin the corporate and celebrity world. We continue to work on projects needingspecial effects, green screen shoots, HD television shows, webseries, breaking newsspots and new product media tours.

We are proud to be providing makeup and hair services to the reporters atNBC San Diego for their on-air Super Bowl promos, as well as for their newanchor marketing needs.

We gratefully continue to work with many productioncompanies in San Diego, Los Angeles, Orange County and surrounding areas.Heather is based in Phoenix, Arizona and this has helped Epic to expand itsservices out of state. We have traveled to Europe several times in the past few years for our corporate client, LifeWaveand hope to continue that service for other clients in the future!

The Epic Makeup website is getting a much needed face liftand will feature bios, resumes, portfolio pictures and links for Cathi, Heatherand myself. The current version of the Epic site is still up and running, with the new site slotted to take its place by the end of January.

Thanks for taking a moment to read this post. If you wouldlike to subscribe to this blog you can do so via Feedburner on our sidebar. Ifyou would like us to remove you from our database so that you no longer receiveupdates from Epic, please send us an email to: thepro@epicmakeup.com.

We hope that 2012 continues to bring prosperity and successyour way and the Epic Makeup Team is looking forward to working with all of youthis year!

See you on the set!

posted by: Melissa Street

The Makeup Artist and Hairstylist Symposium - an Oscar day in the life of an MUA...

2010-03-10T12:46:00.000-08:00

I recently attended the annual Makeup Artist and Hairstylist Symposium held at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater the Saturday prior to the Academy Awards. All nominated artists attend the symposium, as well as colleagues, students and family members.

This year the nominated artists are:

Aldo Signoretti (hairstylist) and Vittorio Sodano (makeup and effects artist) for IL Divo.

Aldo Signoretti started his career in Rome as a hairstylist and makeup artist on the films of Visconti, Fellini and Zeffirelli. His credits include: The Last Temptation of Christ, Troy, Gangs of New York and Kingdom of Heaven. He has won two Emmy Awards and has been honored with two previous Oscar nominations for his work in Apocalypto (2006) and Moulin Rouge (2001).

Vittorio Sodano is a native of Italy. He started his makeup career at the age of 18 as a sculptor and prosthetic makeup artist at Cinecitta in Rome. In 1989 he worked with Academy Award-winning makeup artist, Manlio Rocchettti at his special effects lab in Rome, which is the biggest specialized prosthetic makeup centers in Europe. He was also a makeup nominee for Apocalytpo (2006). His film credits include: The Black Dahlia, Ocean's Twelve, Empire of the Wolves, The Life Aquatic and Against the Wind.

Barney Burman (alien designer and creator), Mindy Hall (makeup department head) and Joel Harlow (Vulcans and Romulans creator) for Star Trek.

Barney Burman was literally born in the world of movie makeup! His grandfather, Ellis Burman, created prosthetics, special props and animatronics for such early Hollywood films as The Wolf Man (1941) and his father, Thomas R. Burman, was Oscar-nominated for the makeup of Scrooged. Barney started his own company, Proteus Makeup FX in 2004 and in addition to feature film work; he has worked on such TV series as The X-Files, Scrubs and Medium. His feature film credits include: Fame, Tropic Thunder, Mission: Impossible III, Master and Commander, Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Austin Powers in Goldmember.

Mindy Hall began her career in makeup as an apprentice at the San Francisco Opera. She pursued work on Broadway and television before landing in the film industry in the late 1980s. Mindy has been quoted describing her work on Star Trek as, “a collaborative energy! Our group worked together as one, without borders and with true unity. We overlapped our talents and skills in a wonderful way!” Her feature film credits include: Pearl Harbor, A Walk in the Clouds, P.S. I Love You and The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants 2.

Joel Harlow attended the New York School of Visual Arts interested in makeup, but majoring in animation “by default.” In 2001, Joel formed the company Harlow FX, which has since evolved into Joel Harlow Designs. He has worked in television as well as feature films, earning Emmys for Stephen King’s The Shining, The Stand and receiving nominations for Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Carnivale and Mad Men. His feature film credits include: Pirates of the Caribbean: At World’s End, Pirates of the Caribbean: Dean Man’s Chest and Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, War of the Worlds, The Ring Two, Angels & Demons and I Love You Phillip Morris.

Jenny Shircore (makeup and hair designer) and Jon Henry Gordon (hairstylist) for The Young Victoria.

Jenny Shircore was born in India and moved to England at the age of 10. She studied hairdressing at the London College of Fashion and was hired by the BBC, where she worked in the hair and makeup department for 15 years. She began her feature film career as an independent contractor with the 1985 film Dreamchild, which was inspired by Alice in Wonderland. She won a BAFTA Award for Best Makeup & Hair for Elizabeth (1998) and The Young Victoria (2009). Her feature film credits include: The Phantom of the Opera, Vanity Fair, Girl with a Pearl Earring, Notting Hill, Mary Reilly and Mrs. Henderson Presents.

Jon Henry Gordon trained at Clarendon College in Nottingham and with several major wig companies before he got the change to join the Royal National Theatre. Working on such shows as 42^nd Street, The Phantom of the Opera and The Merchant of Venice, he met Dustin Hoffman who brought Gordon with him for Merchant’s 1989 Broadway production. His feature film credits include: Titanic, Inkheart, Enigma, Anna and the King, Elizabeth: the Golden Age, Amazing Grace and

Mrs. Henderson Presents.

It was amazing to listen and learn from these incredible artists. I was stunned to know that every actor who portrayed a Vulcan in the movie Star Trek had to have their natural eyebrows removed (waxed/tweezed off) and then every false hair was pain-stakingly re-laid in order to create the Vulcan defined shaped eyebrow!

Below are a few personal photos taken at the symposium and I would like to congratulate Barney Burman, Mindy Hall and Joel Harlow for taking home the Oscar for Star Trek!

Sports Fan...a day in the life of an MUA!

2010-02-16T14:14:00.000-08:00

2010 started with phone calls from some production friends from Sloan Productions and Legacy Health Services. They were both putting together large shoots starring famous sports figures. In the past 25 years I have applied makeup on many big named sports stars like Michael Jordan, Jack Snow, The Rock and Jesse Ventura, to name just a few.

This time around, I would be working with pro golfer, Phil Mickelson, UFC Fighter, Nate "Rock" Quarry and retired NBA player, Bill Walton. I would be shooting two commercials - one for Callaway's Diablo Driver to be aired during CBS Sports' pre-game show prior to the Super Bowl and for NuVasive Creative Spine Technology.

I love working with sports stars because they understand the process of having to have makeup applied for on-camera appearances, but they are not as "fussy" as professional actors! The biggest challenge working with the gentlemen listed above was the fact that Bill Walton was 6 feet 11 inches tall and that required him to sit down in order for me to touch him up between takes! I am tall, but I am not that tall!!!

I also learned that I am very sports-challenged! I know very little about the games of football, wrestling, basketball, golf, etc. Makes it difficult to have a conversation and relate to the other "men" on the crew. No matter, I plan on sticking with knowing everything about lip gloss, powder, mascara and eye shadow!

On both of the HD shoots I turned to several products that I find easy to use on men who are not used to wearing makeup. Prepping the skin with Jan Marini's Age Intervention Prime helps matte the skin and makes for blending foundation easier.

Eve Pearl's Salmon Concealer Trio is used to cover dark circles and age spots and Eve Pearl's Anti-Shine helps to keep shine under control preventing the need for frequent touch ups under hot lighting.

NARS Powder Foundations are highly pigmented and I find that men prefer me to use powder instead of liquid or cream foundation. NARS' products are buildable and even out all skin tones. Kiehl's Lip Balm #1 repaired cracked, dry lips.

I am attaching a few behind-the-scenes photos and a video and I am honored to add these gentlemen to my resume!

Nate "Rock" Quarry, Melissa and Bill Walton - on the NuVasive set - January 2010

Phil Mickelson on set for Callaway's Diablo Driver - CBS Sports & Sloan Productions - February 2010

Click To Play

The Makeup Show/Los Angeles

2010-02-10T11:51:00.000-08:00

As a Pro MUA, I attend a few makeup "conventions" during the year. These shows are full of incredible information, hands-on workshops and classes and I get to shop for my professional makeup kit and personal makeup bag at major discount prices! Who doesn't love that?

I have been a professional makeup artist for almost 25 years and going back to makeup school to keep abreast of current trends isn't something that is easy for me to do with my family responsibilities and running my own business. Taking several weeks off from shooting would be a hardship on me financially so instead, I attend The Makeup Show put on by the Pro artists at The Powder Group. I am able to take several classes, workshops and watch live demonstrations within a two-day period, which updates my techniques and skill level, as well as gives me up-to-date information on the latest makeup artist information in the fields of television, film, photography, live events and bridal!

If you are a student, I highly recommend attending this show, which will be held in Los Angeles on Sunday, February 28th and Monday, March 1st at the California Market Center downtown. You can get a front row seat and learn from the "best of the best" in this industry. Ve Neill, Eve Pearl, Jon Hennessy, Kathy Aragon and James Vincent to name just a few, are ready to teach you the techniques you need to succeed!

Plus, if you are a beauty blogger, on Saturday, February 27th at 2:00 pm, you can join me and other beauty blogger experts as we attend a special sneak preview of The Makeup Show and their vendors. Be first to view new makeup launches for Spring and introduce yourself to new brands. This event will be led by The Powder Group's lead artist, James Vincent! If you are interested in expanding your knowledge of makeup and would like to attend this special blogger event, contact Christina Farrell via email: christina@thepowdergroup.com or christina@themakeupblogger.com.

The Makeup Show Los Angeles will be a pro-artist event for everyone in every area of the makeup industry. They will deliver the same pro-driven, artistically inspired, celebratory energy that The Makeup Show is famous for so don't miss out! Click on the links below to purchase your tickets and sign up for classes and if you see this Pro there, make sure to stop me and say "hello!" I love to network with my fellow professional artists and bloggers!

THE ONLY MAKEUP ARTIST EVENT WITH HANDS-ON SESSIONS!

THE MAKEUP SHOW BRINGS YOU THE BEST IN THE INDUSTRY!

CHECK OUT WORKSHOPS DETAILS BELOW!

TPG PRO MEMBERS RECEIVE 20% OFF ALL SESSIONS!

THE MAKEUP SHOW L.A! FEBRUARY 28 & MARCH 1

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT SUNDAY EVENTS!

CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT MONDAY EVENTS!

JON HENNESSEY

Perfect Skin: Jon Hennessey
Sunday, Feb 28- 1:45pm - 4:15pm - Studio 1
Creating the perfect canvas is essential for every application. This event is a concentrated look at color correction, concealing, foundation and contour and how to perfect those techniques with various products. You will Concentrate on developing an understanding of various foundation, powder and concealer types and formulations, their effects and versatility as well as exploring methods for shaping and contouring and shaping the face to bring out the nest of your clients features.

Editorial Beauty: Jon Hennessey
Monday, March 1 - 10:00am - 12:30pm - Studio 1
This workshop will help you develop an understanding of the process and logistics of working in Editorial and developing more fashion oriented looks in your work. Jon will discuss the editorial collaboration and creative process as well as demonstrate essential techniques and product choices in keeping your work modern, fashionable and controlled.

EVE PEARL

Master Workshop with Eve Pearl
Developing and Presenting Makeup for Television
Sunday, Feb 28 - 2:00 - 5:00pm - Studio 2
In the age when every person has the opportunity to be on television reality and makeover shows have made the demand for on-camera applications and makeup artist interviews more common then ever. Watch and learn as legendary Eve Pearl helps you see yourself on camera and create the easy applications, tips and techniques that will land you the job.

KATHY ARAGON

Red Carpet Beauty: Kathy Aragon
Sunday, Feb 28 - 10:00am - 12:30pm - Studio 1
Whether your work is with celebrities for award ceremonies or real women red carpet beauty will help you better understand and execute special event makeup. Watch as Kathy reveals the secrets to long lasting makeup that will be flawless in photographs, video and in person and develop your own style for an award winning face.

Camera Ready Makeup: Kathy Aragon
Monday, March 1 - 2:15pm - 4:45pm - Studio 3
This event is designed to help you better understand the details that make a makeup camera ready. Kathy will take you through the techniques required to transform a makeup for photography and develop your editorial eye. Learn the product and tools that can be used and share his personal procedures as well as explore the precision required for photographic applications.

ORLANDO SANTIAGO

Celebrity Beauty: Orlando Santiago
Sunday, Feb 28 - 10:30am - 1:00pm - Studio 3
In this workshop you will see the application techniques and product choices that make a makeup artist the favorite of celebrities. Learn how to assess your client's needs, listen to your clients wants and make decisions based on the situation and job at hand. You will take your beauty makeup application to super-star status in this session.

MARGARET KIMURA

Asian Beauty: Margaret Kimura
Monday, March 1 - 2:00 - 4:30pm - Studio 2
Every artist needs to know how to work with any skin tone and facial structure. Margaret Kimura shows you the skills that have made her school so successful while helping you identify and understand the commonalities and differences of your Asian clientele.

VE NEILL

Master Workshop: Presenter Ve Neill
Creating the Character
Sunday, Feb 28 - 10:15am - 1:15pm - Studio 2
From Jack Sparrow to Mrs Doubtfire, Super Heroes to Leading Ladies the
legendary Ve Neill has designed some of the most recognizable makeup looks
in the history of film. In this hands-on master workshop Ve will share with
you Academy Award winning techniques, discuss the process of designing a
makeup look for film and help you bring your makeup beyond the basics to
meet the requirements of the story and the star.

MYLES O'REILLY

Essential Airbrush: Myles O'Reilly
Monday, March 1 - 10:30am - 1:00pm - Studio 3
The Airbrush Basics Workshop will present you with a review and demonstration of the range of airbrush equipment and products on the market. The instructor will provide you with the need-to-know information that will make using the equipment a breeze. You'll be introduced to the key airbrushing techniques required for beauty and body makeup and practice basic airbrush makeup application

CHRISTINA FARRELL

Bridal Beauty: Christina Farrell
Sunday, Feb 28 - 2:15pm - 4:45pm - Studio 3
This event is perfect for freelancers, salon makeup artists and anyone who wants to add makeup to, or perfect their work in the area of bridal makeup. You will understand the best products and techniques for long-lasting, beautiful bridal makeup. Learn the must-ask questions when working with a bride/bridal party and considerations for photography and video work.

DANESSA MYRICKS

Essential Eyes: Danessa Myricks
Monday, March 1 -1:45pm - 4:15pm - Studio 1
This event is an intensive look at the most diverse and interesting part of makeup artistry...the eyes. This amazing review of eye makeup in various forms. We'll focus on creating smoky eyes, classic Hollywood eyes, using false lashes and cream liner and finding unexpected ways to use color and texture. Discussion of key elements in creating these looks including product review and technique.

JAMES VINCENT

Details of Beauty: James Vincent
Monday, March 1 - 10:15am - 12:45pm - Studio 2
Perfecting your technique, detailing your work and understanding control and precision in beauty makeup applications for everything from bridal to red carpet, commercial work to film, television and print is essential for becoming a well-known or well-respected artist. Learn to make your makeup more beautiful than ever and see how understanding the fundamentals and paying attention to the small details can make your application precise and perfect.

THE DETAILS:
· Event Fee $125 per workshop and $250 per Master workshop
· Master workshops are 3 hours, regular workshops are 2.5 hours
· Space is limited, first come first serve basis
· Master workshops participant will be provided models
· Participants will work on each other as models for all other workshops
· Models are available for an additional model fee if requested
· Makeup supplies provided
· Airbrush equipment provided
· Attendees should bring their own brushes
· Maximum 20 participants per event

To Register for the Workshops classes please email info@themakeupshow.com.

Please be sure to list your full contact info as well as the class you are interested in. You will get a respond from us in 24 hours with the information regarding the class.

Please note that all hands-on workshops are available only to attendees of The Makeup Show L.A. Participation requires ticket purchase to the show as well as fee for hands-on workshops. Please note: Presenters, topics and schedules subject to change.

PLUS MORE THAN 40 FREE EVENTS!

VISIT WWW.THEMAKEUPSHOW.COM FOR DETAILS!

DON'T MISS THESE AMAZING, INSPIRATIONAL SEMINARS!

CLICK HERE TO BUY YOUR TICKETS TODAY!

A year in review...

2009-12-31T10:14:00.000-08:00

Even though 2009 started off slowly, it is ending with a big bang! I was proud to be part of many incredible productions this year and also happy to be part of the magic that is television and filmmaking in San Diego!

As a professional makeup artist I am asked to make actors/actresses look their very best, but sometimes I am requested to make them look...scary, dead, injured and just plain ugly! 2009 seemed to be the year of special effects for me and I was happy to embrace that passion!

Here is a little background information about my special effects career; I studied for 3 years with one of the best Special Effects Artists of our time, Mr. Stan Winston. I had the privilege of apprenticing on many of his films, including Terminator (1984), Ailens and Invaders from Mars right after graduating from makeup school. Prior to that, I went to The Institute of Studio Makeup and Joe Blasco, where I took extensive classes in forensics and prosthetics.

I have been hired by several production companies this year for my special effects ability and I have created loads of free-handed tattoos, bullet wounds, burns, bruises, stab wounds, scars, zombies, etc., for many television and photography gigs! I am unable to share the details of the shoots via this blog because of protected information pertaining to my clients, but I can share with you a few pictures from my personal camera.

Many of the special effects below are created from basic, everyday material and other effects are prothetic pieces purchased from professional makeup stores and then applied to the skin and dressed with grease paint and theatrical blood.

Special effects is one part of my career and beauty is another. I am excited to be listed in the 2010 San Diego Film & Resource Guide in both categories and look forward to being part of more production crews in the upcoming year!

I want to thank DOP, San Diego Production Center, Staylor-Made Communications, Mantooth Productions, Microsoft, XBox, ComiCon, Road Runner Sports, CNN, Coastal Media Group, Bob Sloan Productions, InPoint Productions, Ken Hansen Photography, HVS Productions and Tamarisk Media Group for making 2009 a great year for makeup!

Wishing everyone a Happy New Year and hope to see you on the set soon!

Sharing secrets...a day in the life of an MUA...

2009-08-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

I am the type of professional makeup artist that likes to share my "secrets" with others! I firmly believe that if you give you will get back. When I was just starting out in this business I had a mentor who helped me along the way and would teach me not only their "secrets," but also important set etiquette.

Paying it forward is good for the soul and good for the business. I like to think that I am still learning when it comes to makeup artistry because the film and television industry changes all the time and it is my responsibility to make certain I am able to work in every medium, HD included.

New and innovative cosmetic products come out every single year and I attend many trade shows or product launch meetings in order to stay abreast of the latest brands. It is crucial as an artist to know which new (and old) products work best and should always be in your kit.

Recently, I had the pleasure of working with Bob Sloan of Sloan Productions and his team during a corporate video shoot. As usual, the crew got to chatting about television tips, tricks and of course, High Definition! I shared a few of my makeup secrets for working in HD with Bob and he was kind enough to write a great post about it on his blog! Enjoy!

The Importance of Good Makeup - by Bob Sloan of Sloan Productions

Now that we’re in a high definition video production world, more attention must be paid to the quality of the makeup job and artist. High definition images have much greater resolution than our old NTSC system showing more flaws in the skin; aging, wrinkles, etc.

On a recent shoot for a corporate website video client in San Diego, our makeup artist was Melissa Street, www.EpicMakeUP.com. Melissa has been a professional makeup artist for over twenty years and has worked on feature films; Terminator, Aliens, etc. She used a product that I hadn’t seen before that helps keep facial perspiration, (sweat), from ruining the makeup job. The product is a spray that in effect “seals” the pores temporarily.

Called Skindinavia Makeup Fixing Spray, it did a great job during our shoot as we had to use heavy lighting to balance the background scene out the window of the office we were working in. Sloan productions has been producing high definition content and website video production in San Diego for over 30 years, www.sloanproductions.com.

ComiCon...a day in the life of an MUA...

2009-07-28T08:27:00.000-07:00

Received a phone call from Microsoft asking if I would key their "making of" video and behind-the-scenes footage for the XBox Halo 3 Anime DVD. It would be shot at ComiCon in San Diego and would feature many guest speakers, including famed artists Shinji Aramaki and Mamoru Oshii.

I jumped at the chance to work for them and immediately phoned my assistant, Cathi Singh, because I had also excepted makeup work for a press junket for the movie Gamer, starring Gerard Butler, Amber Valletta and Michael C. Hall, also being shot at ComiCon during the same time. Cathi and I were able to tag team and provide total coverage for both clients!

We were also asked to provide makeup application during the live forum sessions, which Halo 3 followed Avatar and New Moon's presentations! This was challenging in the fact that there would be no professional makeup space available and no professional lightening. On the spot anti-shine would be needed and knowledge of how stage lighting would transfer onto the RED camera was crucial.

Microsoft sparred no expense in making this DVD and used only the RED One camera. This was my first experience in filming with the RED and I needed to provide my assistant with information and technique. DP and RED One camera owner, Sean Michael Johnston, schooled me on exactly how the RED works and how to use the monitor to tweak my makeup application. I was grateful to learn from this master DP and to watch him arrange lighting, camera angles, etc.

Below are a few highlight photos from ComiCon! I can't wait until next year!

IMATS - International Makeup Artist Trade Show

2009-06-26T18:48:00.000-07:00

IMATS, the International Makeup Artist Trade Show is one of the places to be if you are a professional MUA or an aspiring MUA. Started in the 1990s, IMATS is produced by Make-Up Artist Magazine and is considered the premiere gathering for thousands of make-up artists, manufacturers and enthusiasts.

5-Time Emmy Award Winning Celebrity Makeup Artist Eve Pearl, Kevin-James Bennett of Make Up For Ever, 3-Time Oscar Winner Ve Neill, John Stapleton of MAC Cosmetics and Nolan Robert, winner of the Blush television series on LifeTime were just a few of my friends who demonstrated and lectured on techniques and the business of makeup artistry.

The show also featured Dick Smith, world-renown artist and NBC’s first makeup artist. I attended makeup classes taught by Mr. Smith back in the late 80’s and he helped shape my passion, which would eventually become a 20+ year career! Mr. Smith’s credits include The Exorcist (his most controversial job!), The Godfather, Taxi Driver and Amadeus.

Greg Cannom, the man (and the Oscar winner!) behind the incredible makeup artistry in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button was also in attendance and presented a keynote address. His other credits include: Pirates of the Caribbean: The Curse of the Black Pearl, Master and Commander, The Passion of the Christ, Titanic and A Beautiful Mind.

A Panel Discussion with the special effects crew from the movie StarTrek included Barney Burman, Richie Alonzo, Steve Buscaino, Joel Harlow and Neville Page. The movie features extensive special effects makeup which enhances the character development and the panel talked about the importance of working with an incredible team in order to create one of the biggest block buster films in history!

I must also give a shout out to some of my favorite manufacturers who displayed the latest in products: Temptu, Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics, Make Up For Ever, Ve's Favorite Brushes and Eve Pearl. Of course, the professional MUA stores were all in attendance: Cinema Secrets,Naimies, Frends and Alcone, all of which provide essential products for the stellar artist and the novice consumer. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate my dear friend, Eve Pearl whose incredible cosmetic line is now being sold through Naimies!

As you can see, the Los Angeles IMATS show attracted impressive talent! A very big thank you goes to my good friends at Make-Up Artist Magazine for press passes and VIP experience! Please enjoy the highlight photos below:

Testing, testing, 1,2,3...a day in the life of an MUA...

2009-05-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

When I was a young girl I hated taking tests in school. I wasn’t very good at memorizing facts or figures and I got so nervous because I knew that I was going to fail.

Little did I know that I would grow up to become a professional makeup artist constantly “testing” my abilities and products and being paid for creating beauty (or ugliness) in the television and film industry.

Testing prior to working on set is crucial. I can’t stress this enough to those of you who are students of makeup artistry and have yet to work in the fast paced environment called the makeup room!

Testing builds your speed as an artist, your confidence and you could develop a way to produce effects that no one else has discovered. The original techniques of the makeup artists that I was taught by at makeup school, honed their skills through trial and error or “testing!”

Dick Smith, creator of many characters in films such as The Exorcist, The Godfather, Arsenic and Old Lace, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde and Taxi Driver to name just a few, always lectured our class on the art of being prepared for “anything!”

Making sure that our kits were stocked with strange accoutrement such as thin balloons, Knox Gelatin, denture adhesive and Alka-Seltzer. It wasn’t because those things were needed for us to lighten up late night deadlines in the lab or to treat upset stomachs from all the craft service food we would inhale. It was because those particular items could rescue a makeup artist in a hurry when an unforeseen change is made and the entire crew is waiting for the makeup artist to create an effect.

For example, if a gun shot was added to a scene, an actor could easily “pop” a blood filled thin balloon secured to his/her wardrobe or fresh burn wounds could be created quickly by heating up Knox Gelatin and applying it to the skin. Denture adhesive is safe to use to stick fake teeth to real teeth and wounds that had to look infected could ooze with the help of Alka-Seltzer.

I recall one particular class where Mr. Smith taught us how to create gross teeth in a hurry. All of the students rushed off to the grocery store armed with a list that instructed us to purchase Hubba Bubba bubble gum, peanuts, and a nail file and to make a quick pit stop at the craft store for some non-toxic black paint.

The next day we sat in class looking at the “tools” we were going to use and per Mr. Smith’s instruction we spread a piece of the bubble gum inside our mouths, across our upper teeth and thinned it out slightly.

Prior to that, he had asked us to cut the peanuts in half and file them down into points or jagged sharp shapes and paint them black. Then we stuck the peanuts onto the bubble gum and finished our makeup look. At the end of the class we all took pictures of our rotten, zombie creations! How’s that for innovation?

Sometimes I have to test my skill level as an artist because I need to recreate a period of time in the past. Makeup was worn different out in the old west or during the roaring 20’s. Other times, I have to product test because I need to create a fictional character like a zombie that has peeling skin and open wounds.

It is important to find a model that will sit for you during the testing process, but I have had many people turn me down especially when it is special effects trials. They either have sensitive skin or don’t want to sit for a long period of time while I poke and prod their faces with adhesives that smell gross and products that feel funny on the face. So, I have had to be my own model many times!

Below are a few photos from a recent photo shoot that required zombie type makeup and I have included my test photos as well. Because I tested all product prior to the shoot I was able to design and recreate the look on set very quickly. Enjoy!

Creating a character...a day in the life of an MUA

2009-04-01T16:59:00.000-07:00

As a professional makeup artist for the film and television industry I am frequently asked to help create a character. Usually this is a vision in the mind of the Director that needs to be brought to life on the big or little screen.

Collaborating with the Director, Actor, Wardrobe and Hair Department are crucial so that the viewing audience is taken on a journey along with the character and feels they can relate to every scene.

Sometimes the makeup is simple and basic or it can be as complicated as a burn victim full of permanent scars or fresh wounds. Knowing how to recreate period pieces, westerns, film noir, science fiction or special effects such as drug addict marks, prison inmate tattoos or domestic abuse bruising and injuries will test the technical ability of any makeup artist.

When I am asked to create or recreate a character, I rely on my collection of books, videos, the internet and I ask for several post production meetings to make sure that I am completely educated on the exact needs of the character. Making sure that I have a complete arsenal of face charts and/or pictures that the Director can look at and let me know if I am moving in the right or wrong direction, which I bring when attending those meetings.

Then the testing process begins and that too has its challenges. There are always several new product lines available to the makeup artist that have been recently brought to the mass market and there are old “tricks of the trade” taught by greats such as Dick Smith or Stan Winston, both of which I had the pleasure of attending several classes with and then apprenticing for after leaving Joe Blasco makeup school, that you can rely upon when facing a difficult task. Either way, testing is mandatory before stepping onto the set because it makes you prepared for what will be a very busy day that will no doubt be full of surprises.

Changes to the character sometimes happen in the makeup room and you have to be prepared for anything. A character requiring no effects makeup will endure a script change and inevitably need some blood work or tattoo work done.

Regardless of the budget, my name is going on each project so that pushes me to develop my skills and bring forth a creation that everyone can be proud off. After all, it is a team effort and being part of a good crew makes my work exciting and fun!

Below are a few photos of some of my recent work. I was called upon to freehand and airbrush many tattoos, as well as create several injuries for recent productions that shot in San Diego. Enjoy!

It's showtime...a day in the life of an MUA

2009-03-20T12:10:00.001-07:00

The Makeup Show - Los Angeles is a gathering of Who's Who in the professional cosmetic and makeup artist industry! The Show is presented by The Powder Group and sponsored by Make Up For Ever, Temptu, Alcone and Crown Brush. There were dozens of cosmetic brands, educators, professional artists, and other businesses related to the cosmetic industry in attendance, not to forget the hundreds of students and consumers that walked the floor as well!

I networked and attended workshops and lectures by iconic beauty industry professionals: Ronnie Spector, Ve Neill, Eve Pearl, Billy B., Elke Von Freudenberg and Sharon Gault and tested dozens of new cosmetic lines mostly used for HD. Also in attendance were legendary industry names like, Marvin Westmore, Joe Blasco, Maurice Stein and Dean and Davis Factor, as well as many professional makeup artistry schools such as MUD, Blasco Makeup School, All About Face Academy and the Westmore Academy.

MUA-TV launched their website, which is the exclusive, most elite live streaming webcast for professional makeup artists, hair stylists, skin care specialists, special makeup effects artists, makeup students, cosmetology students and cosmetic retailers. Also in conjunction with MUA-TV is themakeupspace.com, which is offering online professional makeup seminars! I hope to be a part of both of those organizations in the near future.

Please enjoy the photos below from the show:

March Madness and Dogs? A crazy day in the life of an MUA...

2009-02-20T08:21:00.000-08:00

My career is NEVER boring! One moment I am working with a celebrity and the next I am shooting a corporate video with a high-powered executive!

February brought another bunch of eclectic shoots and here are a few highlights:

Worked with Ellen Meador from EHM & Associates which produced two 30-second spots with Mr. Dick Enberg highlighting March Madness. Mr. Enberg is an American sportscaster currently employed with CBS and ESPN. He announces for the National Football League and NCAA basketball telecasts on CBS, as well as covers all four major professional tennis tournaments for ESPN. This shoot was one of the more easier projects in that Mr. Enberg had pre-rehearsed his lines and has experience in working with a prompter. Shot on HD these spots will be running on large video screens in Pet Co Park and many convention centers across the nation.

Also worked with a new client called Paw Curious and a new production company called X-Sanguin located in Sorrento Valley. Paw Curious is a website owned and operated by Dr. V - an amazing vet who not only appreciated my makeup services, but listened and answered all of my silly questions regarding my dog! Shot entirely on green screen, these webisodes will be up and running soon on their site. You can click here to check out Paw Curious or click here to check out X-Sanguin Studios.

A New Year in the life of an MUA!

2009-01-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

Happy 2009 everyone!

It has been a little slow in the world of production for the past month, but I wanted to write a quick post mostly to let you all know that I am still alive and well and waiting for the phone to ring (ha, ha, but really I am waiting...)! Typically, January tends to be a tad slow for my business and I always seem to pick up in February and by the month of March I am booked and juggling a full calendar.

I have had the honor of being part of a few noteworthy shoots in the past few months. Most importantly, I worked with Tonya Mantooth, President and Executive Producer of Mantooth Productions on a 2009 commercial campaign for Anderson Plumbing, Heating and Air, which will run locally in San Diego.

Shot at the San Diego Production Center with an outstanding crew, these spots were all shot with white background in HD and utilizes many of Anderson's staff of professional plumbers (not actors)! Needless to say there were a ton of laughs because most of the big, burly men that are out in the field all day repairing and replacing pipes, were not used to wearing makeup! Some didn't even want me to touch them - flat out refused! Some sat quietly in my chair and were pleasantly surprised when I told them they would not feel a thing...makeup is painless and washable!

I like to use Nars Powder Foundation in these types of circumstances and with these types of clients. Especially when professional actors are not being used and when my clients are men or women who have never been on camera before or in a professional studio for that matter. Nars' products are easy to apply and provide high pigmentation which means I get results and coverage immediately. Also, Nars is a great product to use for HD because of the blendability and the application goes on smooth. When non-professional actors are in front of the camera, they tend to sweat much more than professionals and Nars' powder foundation cuts shine and holds up under the studio lights.

Overall, the shoot was great and we had a ton of fun! If you are looking for a quality sound-stage in the San Diego area, check out SDPC (click here to be directed to their website). They are a fully integrated media production company capable of producing a wide range of projects.

If you are in need of a seriously talented Executive Producer, Tonya Mantooth is the person you need to contact (via Lindiken). She is one of the most professional people I have had the privilege to work with in San Diego. What I truly appreciate most about Tonya is that she is able to direct and coach each crew member in such a way that we are all on the same page and working cohesively to produce her vision for the client. It is an honor to work with her and to be part of her crew!

Here are a few fun photos from the set! Enjoy!

2008 Update

2008-11-26T08:21:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time since I have posted my current work on my blog and I am sorry for not keeping in touch - it's been very busy these past few months, so I thought I would combine some of my most interesting work in one blog post and get up-to-date!!!!

I have added several new clients to my resume including: Cisco Systems, Qualcomm, Ken Hansen Photography, Mantooth Productions, Waldorf-Crawford LLC, HSV Productions, Jenny Craig, CNN, CBS and Animal Planet. Most based in San Diego and Los Angeles, with the exception of CBS and Animal Planet based out of New York.

In early September I was invited to speak at the San Diego Filmmaker's Association. I had attended meetings in the past at the Groovy Like A Movie production house, but never spoke before so I was a little nervous. It was a very fun experience and it took me through a journey of the past and present. The board of directors asked me to also provide a visual portfolio of my work which played on a flat screen behind me during my talk. It was interesting for me to look at my past work and remind myself of what I had accomplished in the last 20 years! That term "time flies" is true. Looking at my portfolio felt like I had just worked on all of those projects yesterday! I spoke mainly about how to work with a professional makeup artist. What to expect from someone like me and how to get the most out of your makeup budget. I was asked a ton of questions about my past work on films like Terminator, Ailens, Invaders from Mars and what it was like to work with celebrities. I met and hope to see again several interesting and very talented individuals.

September also brought me CNN Headline News shot out of Coastal Media, which is a satellite company located in San Diego. Currently I have worked on several Headline News broadcasts hosted by Mike Galanos, the Nancy Grace Show and Larry King Live. This is an ongoing project and I am very proud and grateful to part of this team.

Ken Hansen Photography gave me the opportunity to work with Qualcomm for both Dr. Irving Jacobs and Dr. Paul Jacobs. Ken is an amazing photographer based in San Diego and shoots everything from corporate portraits to lifestyle magazine editorials to product advertisements. I am always learning and experiencing new opportunities in my line of work. I had no idea of the inner workings of Qualcomm and of their national and international status. It was humbling to be in the company of the Jacobs' family and listening to their world-changing accomplishments.

Tonya Mantooth of Mantooth Productions based in Solana Beach, California asked me to be part of a Maritime video she was shooting out of the San Diego Production Center. Tonya is an amazing producer/director and has a very talented crew who produce several commercials for MJE Marketing Services. I worked with Tonya for Aviatech on the New Car Dealer's Association commercial last year and blogged about it under the post - International Car Show October 2007 archive. At the end of October, Mantooth Productions also produced the 2008 commercial again for the New Car Dealer's Association which will air two-weeks before Christmas - keep your eye out! I created a 40's theme makeup for this commercial based on direction from Tonya and MJE Marketing.

October was filled with animals, computer technology turning "green" and special effects! First, CBS called and asked if I would be part of a new show called Behind the Clip airing on Animal Planet at the end of this year. Chris Leary is hosting and the first episode was being shot in San Diego.

Shot on HD by HVS Productions this show is based on fun YouTube videos of animals doing amazing "stunts" and how their owners or trainers get the animals to perform. This project gave me the chance to meet and work with Joan Embry. She has worked with and cared for many large and small animals in her lifetime and has devoted most of her time to animal causes. She owns 60-plus acres of land in San Diego, which she maintains for animals needing homes or that are rescued from their natural habitats. She is an ambassador for the Wild Animal Park and had the world's first "painting" Elephant named Carol. She brought her talented pet on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in the 70's and told us that Carol just "flung" the paint brush everywhere instead of painting on the canvas that was provided. At the end of the night, Carol had covered Johnny Carson head-to-toe in paint on live T.V.!

Ken Hansen Photography called again and asked if I would be part of a lifestyle shoot for a t-shirt company that was coming out with a new product line geared toward a very specific type of lifestyle. I was intrigued and when I met with the client they had initially asked me if I could do Zombie makeup, but I could tell that they needed more. After a few more questions, I discovered that they wanted me to create makeup based on Black Metal music. I immediately started researching this genre which I discovered started with Kiss and Alice Cooper, but has since blossomed into a type of lifestyle that band members, as well as everyday people live on a daily basis. It was cult-like and involves satan worshipping, but nevertheless, was intriguing to me as an artist. The t-shirt company called Visual Unrest has several incredible artists who create the most intense art for apparel. T-shirt lines include distinctive Military apparel to the Nightshades line (which is what I worked on with them).

Cisco Systems asked me to be part of their annual sales meeting held at the Four Seasons Hotel in Carlsbad. They sponsor the event and bring in several CIO's from major companies from all over the world. The meeting this year was going to be different in the fact that it was going to be totally "green." From the food to the set design - Cisco was going "green." I worked with the production team from The Horvath Group, which included the incredibly talented DP, Jimmy G to capture this historic event! Let's hope other major companies follow in Cisco's invisible footprint!

November had me up to my elbows in blood, positivity and how to eat right during the holiday season!!!!! First up was Jenny Craig and Waldorf-Crawford LLC. Producer/Director Marcia Crawford called and asked me to be part of a series of Jenny Craig webisodes airing in the next few weeks which will help individuals get started and maintain weight loss during the holiday seasons! This team was full of energy, talent and the amount of footage captured in a day was outstanding!

My friends over at DOP (Digital Outpost) called to ask me to use my Special Effects training to create a car bomb victim - complete with facial and body burns and tons of blood! I love all aspects of my career, but special effects is challenging and fun and I couldn't wait to get out my brushes and get started. This shoot was full of fire, explosives and the most talented DOP crew!

The past three months have been amazing and fun.......thanks everyone!!!!!

RedFire Branding...a hot day in the life of an MUA

2008-06-30T12:04:00.000-07:00

Got a call from one of the most dynamic women I have ever met! Her name is Liz Goodgold and she is a writer, speaker, marketing genius and all around cool lady!

She asked if I could help out by providing makeup for a video/photography shoot she was doing to update her website. So glad I said yes because it was such a pleasure to meet Liz and we had a blast working together (for definition of "blast" check out the pictures below).

Shot on location at Ray Street Studios in the heart of San Diego, Liz brought together a fantastic team and because of her quick wit and infectious personality, this shoot was a great success.

Here is a little background on Liz: she has 25 years experience in every area of marketing, naming, branding, advertising and new media. Her clients include Quaker Oats, Macmillan Publishing, Times Mirror, Baskin-Robbins, Univision, and AMN HealthCare to name just a few. She has been seen on CNN, NBC, ABC and CBS. Liz has been published in The New York Times and the Wall Street Journal and many recognize her from her columns in Entrepreneur magazine. Click here to go directly to RedFire Branding's website.

Variety - a diverse day in the life of an MUA

2008-05-01T11:37:00.000-07:00

The reason I love being a makeup artist is because of the variety of work that comes my way! One day I could be on a film set in Los Angeles and the next I could be on a photo shoot in a remote location of the world!

Recently, I got a phone call from a women who was looking for a makeup artist for her daughter's upcoming Sweet 16 party! She told me that she had come up with a really great idea to celebrate this milestone by incorporating one of her daughter's favorite reality t.v. shows -- the very famous and fun -- America's Next Top Model. There was going to be a catwalk, designer dresses, shoes, handbags, a professional photographer, a hairstylist and maybe even a Ms. J impersonator!! I have never been asked to participate in anything like this before and thought it sounded like so much fun! So I immediately accepted the job and off I went to the location, which was a very beautiful and private estate where the party would take place.

Now traditionally, I would have been in some sort of makeup room or trailer with my clients coming in and out and me throwing all sorts of products into my set bag and accompanying them for touch up purposes, but my makeup area in this case was an enormous bathroom - just like when I work one-on-one before a red carpet event. So, I knew exactly what to do and how to set up my supplies!

The party was a success and I will be stealing this idea when my girls turn 16 -- hope Ms. Tyra and America's Next Top Model are still around by then! Each girl at this party was treated to a professional make-over and as a party favor was given very glamorous photos of herself! I would have loved to have had a Sweet 16 like this!

It was funny how the very next day I was back in the studio working on a very professional shoot and in my makeup room with all the same supplies (plus a few others for HD purposes). It really reminded me how lucky I am to have chosen a profession where it is impossible for me to ever be bored! The diversity of my work is incredible and I am always working with some of the most amazing and talented individuals!

Check out the photos below to get a better idea of what this post is all about and feel free to steal the party idea for yourself -- just don't forget to hire me as the makeup artist!!!!

Maqpro, Paris France - a french day in the life of an MUA...

2008-04-30T14:54:00.000-07:00

Earlier this month I traveled to Paris, France for business with my very good friend and fellow makeup artist, Tricia Sawyer. Before we left for our trip, another fellow makeup artist, Ve Neil, told us to pay a visit to an incredible makeup store called Maqpro. The Maqpro cosmetic line has only two locations -- France and England. We called, made an appointment and we were greeted by the two most wonderful people, Nine and Alain.

They gave us a tour of their store and lab and told us the history behind their product line. They are "old school," which is exactly what I love! The store was packed with a variety of cream foundations, eye shadows, cheek colors and lipsticks filled with amazing pigment. It was as if I had died and gone to makeup heaven!

Alain, who has been a makeup and special effects artist for many years, was kind enough to give both myself and Tricia a makeover. This was the first time I have ever had another makeup artist put makeup on my face! Now I know what all the fuss is about (just kidding)! But, it was great to listen and learn from an amazing artist trained in France.

Speaking with Alain about different special effects techniques was something I will never forget. He was so informative and showed me their entire line - including stage blood that washes out of wardrobe with cold water! I have never, until now, found an effects blood that didn't stain the skin or clothing! French makeup techniques are similar to the U.S., but their products are high above American standard, I mean after all, they are French!

Below are a few pictures for you to enjoy and know that I have stocked my kit with all kinds of French goodies to use on my next projects! It was just the most fabulous day in Paris!!!

Special Effects...a day in the life of an MUA

2008-03-10T09:01:00.001-07:00

I love doing all types of special effects, be it injuries like cuts or gashes, bruises, tattoos, missing body parts, aging effects, gross teeth, etc., so I thought I would post a few photos from a couple of shoots I have done recently.

In the past year, almost every set I have worked on used HD, which means that when I have been asked to do some type of special effect on an actor/actress, I have to do tests prior to make sure the effect looks believable on HD. HD picks up every thing so my make-up technique has to be perfect and well blended or the final result will be horrible!

I also don't believe in the new make-up lines that are popping up with HD make-up. I have found that what I have always used is great on HD -- it is the make-up artist's technique that makes the difference! A sloppy make-up artist can get away with bad application on some shoots, but no longer if using HD!

I have posted the before and after shot for you to enjoy! The bruise shots are for an upcoming video that is for a private organization and I am not allowed to talk about it. Sorry. The aging pictures are from a student film (yes, I like to help out the up and coming Hollywood hopefuls). This girl was 17 and needed to look like an old "granny!" What a day!

Look Book Shoot - a day in the life of an MUA

2008-02-09T06:58:00.000-08:00

I was up in Los Angeles last week to help my good friend and fellow make-up artist, Tricia Sawyer, with a shoot for a new clothing company called Keep Me.

Shot on a private beach in Malibu, California, these photographs will be used for the clothing line's "Look Book" -- which is what designers use to market their garments to boutiques or department stores.

Keep Me was created by Anne des Barres and Ali Kay who noticed a gap in the marketplace when it came to comfortable, indoor lounge wear. Anne started her fashion career with Marc Jacobs International and then became International and Domestic Production Manager for the fashion house of Diane von Frustenberg. Ali attended the prestigious Columbia University where she received her B.A. in Political Science while simultaneously launching the debut collection of Keep Me at Henri Bendel.

Keep your eyes peeled for this new line which is due to hit major department stores toward the end of the month!

American Dream Cinema/PSA -- just another day at the office for an MUA

2008-01-17T10:50:00.000-08:00

Shot a great PSA for American Dream Cinema this week in La Jolla, California for the City of San Diego. The message was to keep the ocean clean and not pollute our environment because eventually all disgusting waste that should be put in a trash can or recycle bin ends up in our ocean. I live near the ocean and love the beach, so this was especially meaningful to me.

The spot breaks down like this....a tourist is walking around La Jolla enjoying the sunny day and the beach. He litters and that creates a karmic backlashing from the "city." This guy starts to have a very, very bad day. First he is doused by a sprinkler, then he is splashed in the face by a punk rocker chick throwing out dirty floor mopping water from a pizza place, he is then sprayed in the face with grass clippings from an absent-minded gardener and finally he is splashed with contaminated ocean water (all from his careless littering).

The grass clippings scene was fun to shoot because the grass had to stick all over his face and body. I covered the actor with Karo Syrup and grass -- it was soooo sticky! The grass had to be in his ears, eyebrows, back of his neck, on his chest, arms, legs -- almost all exposed skin was covered in grass, including his wardrobe. There was also a stunt team brought in on day two because the actor is supposed to "fall" off a wall and land in/near the contaminated ocean. So, the stunt double had to be covered in the Karo Syrup/grass concoction.

I was joined again with Emmy Award winning director and producers, Devin and Jeanne Scott, and the crew from American Dream Cinema was a very professional team. Shot on HD and using a Red Rock Lens, this PSA looked amazing and the client was impressed with the results. This spot will air sometime late spring or early summer locally.

Check out the photos below -- just another day at the office!

Zed Lapel Pin - a webisode day in the life of an MUA...

2007-12-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

Every once in awhile a project will come along that is really different then the main stream film or television projects I usually work on and I jump at the chance to be part of them -- enter Zed Lapel Pin.

Recently, I was introduced to a concept in the entertainment industry called the Webisode. Many major television networks are starting to use the web to "air" shorter and different versions of popular television shows like "Heroes." Viewers tune into their computers instead of the television. Popular because of the YouTube craze, the webisode is a great source for up-incoming producer/directors to get their films seen by the public and production companies, such as InPoint Productions, film and edit webisodes for many clients in the United States.

Producer Chris Roberts asked if I would be Department Head on his new project entitled Zed Lapel Pin. Shot documentary style, this short comedic film (webisode) chronicles the lives of an "air guitar" cover band by the same name, who travel to local bars and "air play" to Led Zepplin songs.

On a shoe-string budget and a ton of passion, Chris and Chad Clabaugh (the director) pulled together an amazing crew of talented locals and a cast of great actors, making the 3-day shoot a blast to work on! Here is a listing of the crew and main cast:

CREW:
Director: Chad Clabaugh
Producer: Chris Roberts
1st AD: Derek Zedaker
DP: Chris Ernst
1st Camera: Geoff Sykes
Audio: Ron Hyatt
Audio 2: Paul Mendez
Art Dept: Jordan Guzzardo
Make Up/Hair: Melissa Street
Wardrobe: Christine Supnet
PA: Emily Gonzalez
Prod. Coordinator: Alisa Lawrence

CAST:
Paul: Gavin Allen
Nolan: Mark Atkinson
Victor: Adam Marcinowski
Stubbs: Ian Gilligan
Angie: Cory Milno
Carmen: Wendy Perkins

When the editing process of this film is complete, I will try to put it up on this blog, but in the meantime enjoy the still photos below, shot by the best photographer in San Diego, Masen Larsen.

Legends -- a day in the life of an MUA...

2007-11-24T17:49:00.000-08:00

The dictionary says that a legend is: an extremely famous person in a particular field.

Recently, I had the privilege to be on the set of The Love Guru starring Mike Myers and Jessica Alba, more importantly I was in the presence of Ve Neill, Tricia Sawyer and Robert Ramos. These three individuals are legends in the film industry and have worked on a combined total of over 100 films.

Ve has been the special effects department head on some of the most talked about films of our time, including Bettlejuice, Austin Powers and the Pirates of the Carribean trilogy. She has won 3 Oscars and has 20 more nominations in the special effects industry. Tricia has done 23 films with Sharon Stone and has been the make-up artist for such celebrity icons as Geena Davis, Scarlett Johansson, Kate Beckingsale, Brittany Murphy, Lindsay Lohan and Jessica Alba. Robert Ramos is a master of hair and has been nominated for numerous Emmy Awards. His clients include Bette Midler, Stevie Nicks, Sharon Stone and Jessica Alba to name just a few.

I have admired all three of them for so long and Tricia and I went to the same make-up school back in the 80's. Being on set with these three incredible talents was like a dream come true for me and I learned techniques and tricks directly from these masters. Hey, and when you are a major player in the film industry, you get perks like a really cool make-up trailor (check out the photo of Ve's digs).

QVC - a day in the life of an MUA...

2007-11-19T21:54:00.000-08:00

Got a call from my friend and fellow make-up artist, Tricia Sawyer, who is the "personal" make-up artist to such celebrites as Sharon Stone, Jessica Alba, Lindsay Lohan, Scarlett Johansson, Brittany Murphy and Kate Beckinsale, plus she developed a cosmetic line called Tricia Sawyer Beauty and has contracted with QVC to sell her products to the world! She needed some behind-the-scenes help with her recent one-hour beauty show, so faster than you could say "lipstick," I was on a plane to Philly.

QVC is an amazing facility. The corporation is huge and it must employee thousands of people. It never shuts down -- it never stops. 24 hours a day QVC is on the "air," live to the entire United States of America and you can purchase a lipstick, hairspray and a vacuum cleaner in 10 minutes. I was impressed with their studios. State-of-the-art with high definition quality.

Tricia was selling 7 different cosmetic products from her line and had 8 models total. Myself and another make-up artist prepped the girls in the dressing room with the first "on air" sale, but from there it was really fast paced. The girls would step out of frame and one of us would be there getting them ready with the next make-up product. It went like that for a full hour and at the end of the show, each model had a full face of make-up and Tricia sold a sick amount of her product!

It was the fastest hour of my life, but a great way to spend the day!

Giving back -- a day in the life of an MUA...

2007-11-12T07:37:00.000-08:00

I am frequently asked to donate my make-up services to various organizations and feel that giving my time and effort to a company that is making a difference is very important.

Recently, the charity CHIfund approached me and asked to provide make-up services to a cast of celebrities that were giving their time to help raise funds for the Rady Children's Heart Institute. I was more than happy to give to this foundation and was eager to learn more about their mission.

I discovered that CHIfund holds an annual event with money raised going directly to Children's Hospital in San Diego. To date this organization has raised over $300,000 which helps to purchase equipment to benefit the children and families served by the Rady Children's Heart Institute. Click here to read more about this organization.

Their event was a huge success and included the following celebrities:

Cindy Ambuehl -- Out of Practice, JAG, The Bold and the Beautiful
Don Diamont -- The Young & the Restless, Days of our Lives
Adrienne Frantz -- The Bold & the Beautiful, Sunset Beach
Florence LaRue -- six-time Grammy Award Winner with The 5th Dimension and Broadway Tony Award Winner
Kate Linder -- The Young & the Restless
Kyle Lowder -- Days of our Lives
Kristoff St. John -- The Young and the Restless
Paula Trickey -- The OC, Pacific Blue, One Tree Hill, Sliders, CSI, Walker Texas Ranger, Beverly Hills 90210, Renegade
Jackie Zeman -- General Hospital
Arianne Zuker -- Days of our Lives

Below are a few photos of the suite that the make-up and hair department took over for this event which was held at the Hyatt Hotel in La Jolla, California. It was an awesome networking opportunity for me as well and a great way to spend the day.

Reality T.V. -- A day in the life of an MUA...

2007-10-30T18:02:00.000-07:00

Had a great time working for Sea Breeze Entertainment yesterday shooting a marketing video for a potential reality t.v. show. Shooting reality t.v. can be fun and very challenging at the same time because you just never know what is going to happen, but isn't that the whole reason we all tune in?

22 people were in and out of my make-up chair in 5 hours yesterday, which meant that I worked my tushy off, but when you are having a blast and the cast and crew are incredibly professional, there is no room for complaints. In fact, it is always wonderful to be included in something new and cutting edge.

Sea Breeze Entertainment is located in San Diego and obtained the Digital Outpost facility to shoot the video. I have blogged several times about the crew at DOP and again I was reunited with many accomplished individuals under that roof. Best part was working with the amazing talents of Marc Bailey from Fox 6 News and Kerstin Lindquist from Channel 10.

So stay tuned and believe me, when this show takes off everyone will want to be a part of it. Noble Fares, producer of the show said, "this should bring a new and unique dimension to educational entertainment." Sounds great to me!

International Car Show -- A night in the life of an MUA...

2007-10-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

Got a call from Sonia Weksler, Production Coordinator for Aviatech -- they needed a make-up artist for a commercial shoot for the International Car Show (click here for more info on this event). Amazing talent on this shoot -- Marlee J. Ehrenfeld, President of MJE Marketing, Tonya Mantooth, Executive Producer and Cindy Erdman, Director/DP. It also didn't hurt that there were several hot cars and even hotter models! It was a fun way to spend a night!

Corporate Video -- A day in the life of an MUA...

2007-10-14T11:37:00.000-07:00

After almost 20 years as a make-up artist (MUA) I have discovered that as much as I love to work on films and in television, corporate video is my bread and butter. San Diego seems to be a perfect spot to film anything and everything corporate. In San Diego there are extremely professional production facilities that can make shooting a corporate video a very pleasant experience. I still love film and T.V. and won't give up those jobs anytime soon, but a small corporate project is a nice break from the intensity of the other industries.

The photos below are from a shoot for Staylor-Made Communications for BAI Financial and shot at Ray Street Studios. Enjoy!

Comcast & Foreigner -- A Hot Blooded day in the life of an MUA...

2007-09-22T18:30:00.000-07:00

Got a call from my friend and fellow make-up artist Jim Sacca who asked me to assist him on a shoot in Vegas!!! The shoot was for Comcast and was a promo/interview video for their upcoming New Year's Eve concert held in Orlando, Florida at Universal Studios. The headlining band is Foreigner and so quicker than you could say, "Cold As Ice," I jammed out to Vegas to help out!

Mick Jones, Kelly Hansen, Jason Bonham, Jeff Jacobs, Jeff Pilson and Tom Gimble were all part of this shoot and it was incredible to meet and work with all of them. Mick Jones is a rock legend and brought on the talent of Kelly Hansen who has an amazing voice (and looks a little like Steven Tyler) as the new lead singer for Foreigner. Jason Bonham is the son of John Bonham and was recently requested by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant to play drums for the upcoming Led Zepplin reunion concert on November 26th in London along with Foreigner. This concert is a tribute to the late Ahmet Ertegun founder of Atlantic Records -- you can read more about this concert by clicking here!

The crew consisted of CN8 Channel and local Las Vegas crew and myself brought in from California. I have been so lucky to work with incredibly talented directors, producers, DP's and cameramen -- this crew was no exception. Also, Todd Newton from E! Entertainment Television was host of the show and was a great comic and entertainer.

The highlight of the shoot was when the entire band broke out in un-plugged versions of Foreigner's hits -- "I Wanna Know What Love Is" and "I've Been Waiting For A Girl Like You." Totally cool and an awesome way to spend the day!

Editorial-Style Photography -- A day in the life of an MUA...

2007-09-11T20:28:00.000-07:00

These shots were taken by photographer John Woolley of Aquario Studios on location in La Jolla, California. John studied fine arts at the University of California and in 1993 moved to New York to work with master photographer Annie Leibovitz, shooting some of NYC's diverse celebrity personalities. John has an editorial-style to his work and is one the best known and most respected fashion and wedding photographers in Southern California.

High Definition -- A day in the life of an MUA...

2007-09-04T19:59:00.000-07:00

Got a call from Jim Staylor who was producing a national commercial for SeQual, a privately held company based in San Diego and the developer of oxygen concentrator systems for medical, military, commerical and industrial markets.

Jim needed a make-up artist and asked me to join the esteem crew which included...

Devin Scott, Director, of American Dream Cinema. Mr. Scott and his production company are the winners of 24 Emmys, 26 Tellys, 17 Regional and National Awards, and 9 Film Festival Awards.

Mario Ortiz, Director of Photography, of Cinema Verde Grip & Lighting which is the best lighting and stedicam service company providing production support for film, high definition and video productions here in San Diego.

Jim Staylor, Producer, of Staylor-Made Communications which is one of the premier providers of corporate video, event video and interactive multimedia across the country.

To say that I was in "good company" today would be an insult. This crew was incredibly professional and made working in high definition television easy (even though we were all up at 4 a.m. this morning:).

Host Video/Green Screen -- A day in the life of an MUA at DOP

2007-08-06T15:51:00.000-07:00

Today I worked at Digital Outpost (DOP) on a "host" video shoot for the police commission. I was reunited with the crew from DOP, as well as the incredible talent of Beth Ruyak. Previously, I had shot with the DOP cast and crew on a 4-day production which can be viewed on my blog under the archive section (Special Effects entry). Once again, the Digital Outpost facility and crew were experts at their craft and extremely professional. When I first relocated to San Diego I thought it was going to be hard to find real "professional" gigs, but so far I have been proven wrong.

I hope that productions continue to film in San Diego as an alternative to Los Angeles. The local production crews that are based here are just as talented as any crew I worked with in Los Angeles and the production facilities are just as state-of-the-art!

Big Budget Computer Games -- A day in the life of an MUA that I will never forget...

2007-08-03T07:29:00.000-07:00

This is a blast from the past -- about 10 years ago to be exact! I will never forget working on this production. It all started at Westwood Studios in Las Vegas, Nevada. My good friend and make-up mentor, Jim Sacca, hired me to be his assistant on a shoot called Tiberian Sun part of the award-winning Command & Conquer series. This was the first major production I had worked on in Las Vegas and I was nervous because I wanted to do the best job so that Jim would continue to hire me. The production included major actors and actresses: James Earl Jones and Michael Biehn to name just a few.

The crew and talent were amazing to work with and I will never forget how much fun I had! Don't get me wrong -- I worked my buns off, and I learned a lot from Jim Sacca -- watching him work and listening to his instruction boosted my make-up talent 150%. He is truly a gifted artist.

Below are a few great pictures of me, James Earl Jones and Michael Biehn. Mr. Jones was a very kind man and that voice! He naturally commands attention just by saying "hello." I remember feeling like I should be bowing down to the great Darth Vader and Mufasa!!!

High Fashion -- A day in the life of a model and MUA...

2007-08-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

Over the past few decades I have discovered that I love every facet of the make-up industry. Film, Television, Stage, Print and Runway. I have worked in all mediums and have uncovered that the relationship between client and artist is filled with trust on many levels.

Except when you happen to be the make-up artist and the talent at the same time. I am posting the pictures below to show that my make-up application experience is extensive not just in the film industry, but in the high-fashion industry as well.

I know that the pictures you are seeing are of me, but I used to have to supplement my income as a make-up artist by doing some modeling on the side when I first started out. We do what we have to in this crazy industry to keep our heads above the water! Enjoy!

24 Hour Fitness -- A day in the life of a MUA....

2007-07-06T20:51:00.000-07:00

Got a call from my friend and awesome cameraman, Don Blackburn -- he said that Hartmann Studios, based out of Atlanta, Georgia, was coming to San Diego to shoot for 24 Hour Fitness and needed a make-up artist. So, I headed down to San Diego Production Center (SDPC) to help out. The shoot consisted of local crew from SDPC and crew from Atlanta.

San Diego Production Center is a state-of-the-art facility producing high-quality projects and my new friends at Hartmann Studios were extremely experienced in the craft of video production. The corporate staff from 24 Hour Fitness are some of the most passionate people to work with and they sure are in really great shape!

The entire production was shot using green screen and I thought you might like to see what a professional make-up room looks like, so I have included a picture of my little corner of the universe.

IMATS Convention - A day in the life of many MUA's...........

2007-07-01T18:09:00.000-07:00

I spent the day at the International Make-Up Artist Trade Show (IMATS) in Pasadena, California. Hundreds of make-up artists under one roof showing off their techniques!

I attended a lecture by Joanne Gair who is a very famous and talented Body Painting and Make-Up Artist. She has worked with many actresses and models such as, Demi Moore (Vanity Fair Magazine), Goldie Hawn, Heidi Klum, Elle Macpherson and Molly Sims. Joanne was Madonna's personal make-up artist during the Blonde Ambition tour and was featured in the documentary, Madonna Truth or Dare. Her make-up and body painting are works of art that bring the viewer into another world or can take you on an emotional journey. Joanne's new book titled, Body Painting Masterpieces by Joanne Gair, is an amazing book filled with her incredible masterpieces.

I walked around this convention in total "awe" checking out all of the Special Effects Artists (some where students) and the many new (and old) manufacturers. Picked up some tips and new products just out on the market and was almost tempted to enter a competition or two (just kidding).

Thank you Make-Up Artist Magazine for putting together an incredible trade show! It was a great way to spend the day!

Robert Wagner -- A groovy day in the life of an MUA.......

2007-06-16T21:43:00.000-07:00

It was a Groovy Day Baby!!! BlackEye Studios was shooting a commercial for Mercedes Benz of Escondido down in San Diego and needed a make-up artist for Mr. Robert Wagner. Mr. Wagner is a wonderful person and an incredible talent. The crew from BlackEye Studios was amazing and extremely accomplished in the world of commercial television. I have to admit that the theme song from Austin Powers was in my head the entire time I was on this set, but what a great way to spend the day!

Bob Sloan Productions -- A day at the ball park for an MUA...

2007-06-10T20:52:00.000-07:00

Got a call from a local production company in San Diego, Bob Sloan Video Productions. Bob Sloan needed a make-up artist for a PSA shoot with baseball legend Ozzie Smith. The PSA was for Aflac Insurance based out of Georgia. The entire crew on this shoot was a pleasure to work with and extremely professional.

Bob Sloan's clients include ABC Sports, ESPN, CNN, Fox News/Sports, CBS News/Sports, TBS Sports and Showtime, just to name a few. Working with Ozzie Smith was a highlight and since I am a baseball fan, I remembered Ozzie doing back flips across the field when he was with the St. Louis Cardinals and the San Diego Padres!

Special Effects -- A day in the life of a MUA....

2007-06-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

These pictures are a series of shots from a shoot for Digital Outpost. Digital Outpost is an extremely professional production company founded in 1996 and provides complete digital media services to clients across the country.

This was a 4-day shoot for the Police Commission which they will use as a training video on how to handle a crisis situation and even though the subject matter of this project was very serious, I had such a blast working with the cast and crew on this production.

I also met an incredible photographer, Masen Larsen. He has been shooting photography for the past 16 years and took all of the shots below. This was an amazing way to spend 4 days!

Tools of the Trade

2007-06-05T18:47:00.000-07:00

It is very important to have the right tools for the flawless application of make-up. Whether you are a professional or a make-up maven at home, the right brushes make all the difference. Here is what I use:

BRUSHES: I love the brushes that Tricia Sawyer has designed. She is a professional make-up artist with clients such as Sharon Stone, Brittany Murphy, Jessica Alba, Scarlett Johansson, Geena Davis, Lindsay Lohan and Kate Beckingsale. Her foundation brush and powder brush are imperative for me to have on every shoot.

My most recent purchase has been from Adesign brushes. I purchased their entire brush collection and was amazed at the high quality and amazing design of these tools. Shana Marshall, founder of Adesign, has designed a brush line that is quickly becoming an industry favorite.

MORE IMPORTANT TOOLS: Uma Shumera Eye Lash Curler, Cinema Secrets Sponges and Orange Puffs, Orange Wood Sticks, Toothpicks, Q-tips.

It is very important that if you are a professional you disinfect and clean your brushes daily with some type of brush cleaner. I recommend Cinema Secrets Brush Cleaner. Also, you should shampoo your brushes after each shoot to really clean all of the bristles/hair. Make sure to reshape your brush after you clean and before you lay it down flat to dry. If you are using your personal brushes at home and not on clients I recommend cleaning your brushes once a week.

Brushes will be the most expensive investment that you make as a make-up artist, so choose wisely and take good care of them. Brushes should last you 10 years or more with proper care.

Tricia Sawyer Foundation Brush

Tricia Sawyer Powder Brush

Adesign Master Brush Collection

In My Make-Up Kit

2007-06-04T21:15:00.000-07:00

FOUNDATIONS: Tricia Sawyer Full Potential Foundation. MAC Studio Fix. Nars Powder Foundation. Cinema Secrets Cream Foundation. Visiora Cream and Powder Foundation. Bobbi Brown Cream Foundation. Classified Cosmetic's ERA Spray Foundation.

CONCEALORS: Laura Mercier. Cinema Secrets. Ben Nye Special Yellow Highlight. Kryolan concealor palette in Light.

POWDER: Tricia Sawyer The Powder. MAC Blot Powder (all the colors) and Loose Powder (translucent). Cinema Secrets Translucent Powder.

BLUSH: La Femme Palette. Tricia Sawyer Palettes in Regina, Sharon, Brittany, Scarlett, Kate, Essentials, Essential Pretty. Tricia Sawyer Starlets in Skinny, Naked, Ambitious. Tricia Sawyer Creme Blush in Scarlett. Nars Blush in Orgasm, Zen, Passion, Sin. Benefit 10 Bronzer.

EYE SHADOW: Tricia Sawyer Icon Palettes (same as above). Custom MAC Palette containing various colors like Kid, Romp, Woodwinked, Cork, Omega, Bamboo, Naked Lunch, All That Glitters, Espresso, Greensmoke, and Beauty Marked. Kryolan creme eyeshadow wheels.

EYE PENCILS: MAC -- Ebony, Taupe, Indigo, Coffee and Uniform.

GEL LINER: Bobbi Brown -- Black, Espresso and Sepia

CREME LINER: Tricia Sawyer -- Calm Drama, Intense Drama

LIP PENCILS: Tricia Sawyer in Girl. MAC -- Spice, Oak, Brick, Berry, Shirl, Stone, Soar, Dervish, Cedar and Plum.

MASCARA: Great Lash in Black. Diorshow in Kohl. La Femme cake mascara in Black and Brown.

LIPS: Tricia Sawyer Essential Gloss in Natural, Peach and Pink. Smashbox Palette. Cinema Secrets Palettes in Red, Coral and Summer. Nars lip glosses in Sandpiper, Striptease, Chihuahua, Pillow Talk, Orgasm, Sunset Strip, Stella. Kiehls lip balm in clear. Bobbi Brown Lip Palette in Bobbi's Favorites.

SKIN CARE: Kiehls Moisturizer. MAC Prep and Prime. Smashbox Primer. MAC make-up remover cloths. MAC pre-moistened Q-tips. NeoCutis (moisturizer, eye cream, serum) -- this is the absolute best skin care line available!

TRICKS OF THE TRADE: Tricia Sawyer Smoke & Mirrors -- the ultimate smokey eye. Tricia Sawyer Eye Slept -- not a concealor, it is an eye brightner to be used under or over make-up. MAC Mixing Medium (Eyeliner) -- gel form used to turn powder eye shadow into a creme liner. Tricia Sawyer Alive -- moisturizer enhancer. Cinema Secrets Sponges and Orange Puffs. Orange Wood Sticks. Toothpicks. Uma Shumera False Eyelashes. Duo Eyelash Glue. Smashbox Eyebrow Palette (ordered off QVC/3 shades + wax). MAC Brow Gel (clear). Disposable lip wands and mascara wands (sanitary reasons -- must have!). Cinema Secrets Brush Cleaner. MAC Cleansing wipes and q-tips. Stain remover. Deodorant. Breath mints. Floss. Rubbing Alcohol. Advil. Tissue. Clean, white towels. Cotton balls.

NOTES: Most of my make-up is in a palette form -- that way I don't have to carry a bazillion products in individual containers. The best palettes are:

1. Tricia Sawyer Icon and Essential Palettes -- go to www.triciasawyer.com to view and order product. My favorite palette is called Essential Pretty palette, but I also recommend her Brittany, Sharon, Kate, Scarlett and Regina Palettes. Tricia makes my favorite blush color called Voluptuous. Her palettes are incredible.

2. Tricia Sawyer also makes a palette called The Essentials -- this is a must have for any professional make-up artist. It is a quad palette with 4 colors that can be used for blush, eyeshadow, contouring, browshaping.....the list is endless. This is a must also!!!

3. Bobbi Brown Lip Gloss palette in Bobbi's Favorite colors -- go to www.bobbibrowncosmetics.com to view and order product.

4. Smashbox Lip Palette (ordered off QVC).

I also have two more kits built entirely for Special Effects and Light Hair application. These kits contain many products by Kryolan, Ben Nye, Make-Up Forever, Sebastian, Nick Chavez, blow dryers, flat irons and a host of other "trix" of the trade!!