MUA Monday: Zoe Walters

I have a fab makeup artist to share with you this week, the wonderful Zoe Walters. Zoe is an experienced, freelance makeup artist based in London and Cambridge.

When did you realise you wanted to become a makeup artist?

The moment I discovered the magic of makeup! Cheesy but true, I decided on a career change in my thirties and makeup became my new vocation.

Where did you train and did you enjoy it?

The research was endless on which course, how long should I train for, which school was most credible... the process was exhausting however, I decided on that is was more important who trained me rather than where I trained. I owe a big mention to David Horne who was at Jemma Kidd then (now David is with the very credible Illamasqua). I loved every second of his education delivery, approach and motivation. The journey since has been personal and I learn from everyone I work with.

Was it hard to become established and get regular work? 

You are only ever as good as your last job, a career as a makeup artist has ups and downs - unless you become top of your skill and become legendary work will come to you, you don’t have to find work. You have to be relentless, determined and act with discretion, be reliable and have professionalism to gain credibility and be memorable.

What is your favourite style of makeup to do?  

I have a passion for producing what the brief is, that’s where the love comes from! I have 2 preferences; Beauty because you have to have very clean lines, good attention to detail as it shows flaws, your skills are showcased. Editorial because the image tells a story, makeup has to be in synch with hair, nails, styling and setting, therefore you are only as good as the team you work with.

Is there any style of makeup you hate? 

I like all forms of makeup... I try to avoid theatre, body painting and catwalk just because I have less artistic interest in those fields.

What are your future goals in your career?
In 2012, I achieved a lot and grew as an artist, I also found a new love, the creativity of doing Nails it's very rewarding and very few people are very good at it. I was very fortunate to be apart of the backstage beauty team on XFactor, I was a judge at Olympia Beauty and I got work featured in some pretty awesome magazines. 2013 is about consolidation and being inspired, I want to work specifically on building my nail talents and continue to work on quality publications and work with the best people in the industry. I’d like to do another big TV show, Britains Next Top Model has my name on it!

What is your top makeup tip?
Experiment with products and their use, they might say they are for a specific use but with a little imagination they could be quite brilliant in another context. Your skin care is the key to great looking skin. Obvious but true!; invest in products that suit your skin, drink water (yawn yawn, I know!). Keep your eyebrows in check, well shaped and the right colour for your skin tone. Don’t EVER underestimate the power of good brows!!!

What has been your favourite makeup trend in 2012?
I think whatever suits you is a trend that’s right for you, I’m not terribly trend driven. Anything eyes and brows win my heart every time.

What are your favourite high end and budget brands? I could be here a while!!!! 

Budget/Mid Brands: Body Shop, Botanics, Rimmel, Benefit, Barry M, Tresemme, Max Factor

Mid/Luxury Brands: Giorgio Armani, Rodial, NARS, Chanel, Sisley, MAC, Dior, Guerlain, Hourglass, Makeup Forever, OPI, Nails Inc

You can also find Zoe in the following places:

Website // Twitter