Beyond the Basics
Technical Skill Is Only Half the Job
When I started university, I thought great makeup was mostly about technical application. Over time, I realised the strongest work comes from concept, storytelling and confidence in your ideas. Learning how to research, develop moodboards and communicate visual direction became just as important as learning prosthetic techniques. I also learned that experimentation matters more than perfection. Some of my strongest projects came from trying unusual ideas, making mistakes and pushing concepts further than I originally planned. Creative growth rarely comes from playing safe. Another huge lesson was understanding photography and lighting. Makeup can look completely different once photographed, especially within editorial or stage environments. Learning how makeup translates through the camera changed the way I approached every project.
The Five Things I Wish I Knew Earlier
Your first idea is rarely your best idea. Push concepts further. Documentation matters almost as much as the final makeup itself. Strong photography changes everything. Makeup is collaborative. Communication and attitude are just as important as technical skill. Experimentation builds your style faster than copying trends. Confidence comes from repetition. The more projects you complete, the more naturally your creative identity develops. University taught me far more than application techniques. It taught me how to think creatively, adapt under pressure and develop my own visual language as an artist.
