Behind the Brush: Pro Makeup Techniques

If your foundation always looks a bit off—maybe too yellow or too pink—you don't need a new bottle. I often fix a base by lightly dusting a contrasting loose powder over the top. If the base looks too yellow, a soft pink powder pulls it back to neutral; if it looks pinkish, a yellow powder balances it out. It is a small trick I use on set to get that perfect, camera-ready skin tone before I even start with contouring.

My Approach to the 'Perfect' Base

When I'm on set for a brand campaign or editorial, the goal is skin that looks real, not mask-like. I rely on high-performance staples like Charlotte Tilbury and NARS, not because of the branding, but because they hold up under studio lights.

Why Preparation Matters

Before any makeup touches the face, I focus on the 'pre-game.' This means color correction, hydration, and setting sprays that can survive high-voltage flashes. Whether I am working on a bridal look or a high-fashion editorial for a magazine like Vogue, the principles are the same:

• Blending is non-negotiable: I always ensure the neck and shoulders match the face to avoid that 'floating head' look, especially when dealing with tan lines or pigmentation.
• Texture over Coverage: I prefer buildable layers. It is much easier to add coverage where needed than to remove cakey foundation that has settled into pores.
• The 'Soft' in Soft Glam: My signature look involves minimal product, focused placement, and a focus on keeping the skin dewy, not greasy.

Can I teach you this?

People often ask if they can learn these techniques for their own routine. Yes, I do offer personal makeup lessons where we go through your current kit, get rid of what doesn't work, and build a routine that actually lasts for your daily life. It is not about buying more products; it is about knowing how to use what you already have to make your features pop.