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

Episode #099. In an industry built on opinions, having thick skin isn’t optional - it’s essential. In this episode, I’m talking about perfectionism, criticism, and how to handle feedback like a true professional without losing your confidence (or your sanity). If this series all about confidence and perfectionism really speaks to you, check out my newly refreshed course " Why Pro MUAs Feel Like Fr...

Episode #098. Perfectionism feels like professionalism - until you realize it’s the very thing keeping you stuck. In this episode, I unpack how “high standards” quietly fuel imposter syndrome and what actually builds confidence as a makeup artist. Want more help with understanding imposter syndrome in the makeup world? Grab my course and tackle it once and for all. Loved this episode? Let’s stay c...

Episode #097. Learn about one of my all-time favorite, and most popular resources - Movie Makeup 101. If you're in the first few years of your makeup career (or even if you're further on - I've had so many peers and even idols take the course!), or even simply toying with the idea of becoming a makeup artist, this episode is for you. It's simply a celebration of something that started as a little...

Episode #096. In this episode, we're going to tackle a question that every makeup artist faces sooner or later: how do you actually , like genuinely stand out in an ocean of talented artists? I’ll be busting the myth that having the biggest best kit or sharpest eyeliner skills is what makes you memorable, and show you why your true superpower is something you're literally looking right in the face...

Episode #095. Building your first professional makeup kit can feel exciting… until the price tags start adding up and the panic sets in. In this episode, I break down how to build a pro-level makeup kit on a beginner budget - without wasting money on products you’ll regret or outgrow too fast. We’re talking smart investments, where you can save, and how to think like a working artist instead of a...

Episode #094. Inside this episode, we’re tackling a challenge that every new makeup artist faces sooner or later: the most common mistakes people make when working with prosthetics. I’ll break down why trying to do too much too soon can leave you overwhelmed and frustrated, and I’ll share practical steps for building your skills the smart way - starting small, and mastering your techniques one pie...

Episode #093. This is actually episode 93 (not 90!) and explores a sentimental favorite - the Ben Nye Bruise Wheel. Sure, it's been around for decades, but it's certainly not getting old. This product SHOULD be a mainstay in pro makeup artist kits the world over. Versatile, user-friendly, perfect for artists of all levels, you can't go wrong with the bruise wheel, and there's not a bad word to be...

Episode #092. This episode touches on the often overlooked and underutilized makeup effects material that is foam latex. We focus on how it can be a wonderful material for hairpunching and why it's days are (or should be) long from over. Loved this episode? Let’s stay connected! ✨ Just getting started in your movie makeup career or studies? Start Movie Makeup 101 today - the best FREE makeup cour...

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...

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 flawle...

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 y...

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...

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...

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 envi...

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...

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...

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 t...

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 inten...

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, ded...

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...

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 d...

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,...

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 tha...

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...

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...