Stef Knight - Mastering Makeup and Prosthetics in Film and Fashion

09/19/24 • 72 min

In this episode, I sit down with the incredibly talented makeup and prosthetics designer, Stef Knight. With over 30 years of experience, Stef takes us through their fascinating journey from DIY methods in the early days of makeup artistry in Aotearoa, to becoming a sought-after makeup artist in the competitive worlds of fashion and film. We chat about their initial struggles in New York, their successful career in London, and their move back to New Zealand where they found new opportunities. Stef shares insights into maintaining a good work-life balance, nurturing their team, and how they stay grounded through mindfulness practices. Whether working on massive film sets or indie projects, Stef's passion for storytelling and attention to detail truly shine through. Join us as we explore the artistry and dedication that go into creating stunning makeup designs for the screen.

(00:01:12) Getting into Makeup "by Accident"

(00:08:18) Growing Up in Thames, Obsessed with Fashion

(00:13:26) Working as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:17:56) 13 Years as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:21:37) Deciding to Move Back to New Zealand

(00:26:09) Trying Fashion Work in New Zealand

(00:31:12) Working in Film and Using All Skills

(00:32:41) Getting into Prosthetics in New Zealand

(00:41:13) Balancing Huge Films and Indie Projects

(00:42:40) Design Process and Collaborative Approach

(00:47:05) Finding the Right Team and Personalities

(00:52:05) Meditation, Spirituality, and Clean Living

(01:00:39) Character Building and Collaborative Art

(01:05:49) Crazy Events in London and Work in New Zealand

(01:08:38) Knowing a Bit of Everything and Future Projects

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(00:01:12) Getting into Makeup "by Accident"

(00:08:18) Growing Up in Thames, Obsessed with Fashion

(00:13:26) Working as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:17:56) 13 Years as a Makeup Artist in London

(00:21:37) Deciding to Move Back to New Zealand

(00:26:09) Trying Fashion Work in New Zealand

(00:31:12) Working in Film and Using All Skills

(00:32:41) Getting into Prosthetics in New Zealand

(00:41:13) Balancing Huge Films and Indie Projects

(00:42:40) Design Process and Collaborative Approach

(00:47:05) Finding the Right Team and Personalities

(00:52:05) Meditation, Spirituality, and Clean Living

(01:00:39) Character Building and Collaborative Art

(01:05:49) Crazy Events in London and Work in New Zealand

(01:08:38) Knowing a Bit of Everything and Future Projects

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Previous Episode

Shane Cyrus - Retail, Editorial and being Unapologetic

In this episode, Auckland-based makeup artist Shane Cyrus delves into his career evolution from aspiring hairdresser to trusted makeup artist, sharing the motivations behind his shift to makeup artistry. We uncover his experiences at makeup school, the pressures of perfectionism, and his eventual entry into the professional world with MAC. Gain insight into his international retail experience as he compares the client interactions and artist communities between Melbourne and New Zealand, and between MAC, Mecca, and Sephora. Shane touches on the considerations and joys of transitioning from working at MAC to freelancing, including the impact on Shane's personal and professional life. The episodes highlight Shane's personal growth, client interactions across diverse backgrounds, the world of fashion test shoots, and the realities of setting freelance rates. Shane's reflections on creative partnerships, career milestones, and future prospects provide a glimpse into the life of a dedicated and passionate makeup artist navigating the fashion industry's exciting yet challenging landscape.

Timestamps

(00:00:22) Meet Shane Cyrus
(00:02:44) From Hairdressing to Makeup
(00:04:15) Makeup Education: Finding One's Stride
(00:06:45) Launching a Makeup Artistry Career
(00:11:46) Shane's Retail Odyssey
(00:13:02) Melbourne's Artistic Vibes
(00:15:08) Transitioning to a New Chapter
(00:16:23) Returning Home for Family
(00:18:18) Transitioning to Freelance
(00:19:03) Transition to Mecca Makeup
(00:22:43) Navigating Makeup Industry Loyalties
(00:26:54) The Value of 'Faking It'
(00:27:18) Creative Motivation in Freelancing
(00:28:32) Creative Control in Makeup Artistry
(00:30:54) Art Beyond Skill in Makeup
(00:31:56) Embracing the Freelance Journey
(00:35:44) The Role of Instagram in Business
(00:37:17) Diversity in Makeup Artistry
(00:41:32) The Art of Test Shoots
(00:45:33) The Art of Fresh Collaborations
(00:49:09) Parris Goebel Masterclass Project
(00:53:51) Anticipating Creative Endeavours
(00:55:22) Invoicing Woes for Contractors
(00:56:10) Freelance Rate Strategies
(00:56:56) The Final Three Questions

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Next Episode

Hayden Rahim - The Experience

In this episode, we kōrero with the multi-talented Hayden Rahim, a physiotherapist-turned-makeup artist and hairstylist, who explored her passion for beauty during the COVID lockdowns. This self-taught makeup maven was inspired by OG beauty vloggers like Michelle Phan, Sherree Morris, and Shaaanxo, paving her way into the industry through sheer determination and a willingness to learn.

We delve into the highs and lows of Hayden's unconventional career path, from balancing professionalism and personality in branding to understanding one's audience. You'll gain insights into her meticulous preparation process, which includes detailed prep sheets, consultations to grasp clients' needs, colour theory considerations, and a commitment to making each person feel extraordinary.

Hayden shares her philosophy of providing high-end, customised makeup experiences that transcend mere application, justifying her premium pricing through handmade, colour-matched eyelashes, meticulous facial hair removal, and a focus on transparency and client education. We also explore how word-of-mouth recommendations and satisfied clients drive her business growth, challenging traditional approaches with inclusivity, diversity, and a collaborative spirit within New Zealand's competitive beauty landscape.

(00:00:17) Hind Ibrahim's Background

(00:03:36) Self-Taught Makeup Artist

(00:04:16) Non-Traditional Path Influence

(00:07:49) Client Preparation

(00:14:10) Selling a Lifestyle

(00:21:14) Business Growth

(00:21:56) Client Motivations

(00:23:18) Diversity and Inclusivity

(00:31:12) Staff and Masterclass

(00:33:32) Certification and Deposits

(00:39:22) Flexible Deposits

(00:43:10) Learning as an Entrepreneur