The Breed Magazine - Volume 2

F
ashion Week is just around the corner. Every September a horde of creatives bounces from New York to London to
Milan to Paris to see what creations and trends designers are showcasing, to work on teams for hair or makeup,
photograph the shows or just photograph the fashion giraffes who attend. Working backstage as a photographer, hairstylist
or makeup artist is like a rite of passage in many professional careers. But how does a newbie to the industry get
there, and what is some of the essential etiquette an artist or backstage photographer may need once there? As an artist
who has both assisted and keyed fashion shows in New York, London and Paris, here are some of my top insider tips.
Makeup Artists or Hairstylists Look at past Fashion Week shows to see who the key artists and stylists were (key
meaning the makeup artist or hair person who designed the look and was in charge). Find their Instagram and who their
agent is, then email them—BUT keep your message short and to the point. If you don’t have a website, you better have a
clean and kickass Instagram. Agencies and artists need to see a visual representation of your work. It’s best to hit them up
four to six weeks before the shows. Leave all of your contact details and do not hound them. If they like your work they’ll
get in touch. If you are super-new, let them know. Say you’re willing to clean brushes and carry their kits or fetch coffee.
Make yourself seem indispensable. I learned more by assisting than I did in makeup school. Another option is to see which
brands are sponsoring the shows, such as TRESemme or Maybelline. You can try to contact them directly, as they often
will also be hiring.
If you get booked for a show, realize that many call times are super-early and that you better be on time. A key artist will
demo the look right from the beginning of the show’s call time. Models need to do hair, makeup and nails, plus fittings and
a run-through, in just a few short hours, so every minute is precious. Key artists are busy and won’t appreciate having to go
through everything again for someone who’s late.
Pay attention during the demo. Video it or take notes if you have to. Be aware of not only the products they use but also
what types of brushes they use. If you are really struggling to do something, it’s better to get help from another artist than
to waste time. If waiting for a model backstage, make yourself useful. Clean the area you’re working in or offer to grab
water or drinks. These little things will be noticed.
Social Media Every key artist works differently, so ask before taking any photos. Also, don’t post anything until after
the show’s over—don’t spoil the show! Make sure you use appropriate tags. If you assisted, say that you did the makeup,
but also mention who you assisted and tag that key artist. Tag the designer too. Many backstage areas will list tags and
hashtags to use. If you’re doing an InstaStory or Snapchat, make sure it’s the appropriate time to do it. I once had a bunch
of assistants Snapchatting when the models were lining up just a few minutes before showtime. This is the crunch time for
fixing last looks, not filtering dog ears on yourself!
Photographers Glam teams know you need your shot, but if you see that they are really stressed out working, try not
to butt your way in. Give the artists space or just ask, “Hey, can I grab a shot?” Artists are always happy to get their work
photographed, but it’s better to warn them. Also, be respectful of the girls changing backstage and where your lens is
focusing.
Other tips
• Bring a snack and water. Not all shows have food, and if you’re working back-to-back shows on your feet, it’s important to
keep hydrated.
• Make sure makeup brushes and hairbrushes are clean. Bring something to disinfect and clean them between models.
• And if you are a makeup artist, you MUST have foundations and powders for ALL skin tones, from the palest alabaster to
the darkest shade. If you don’t have a variety of foundations to blend around, you won’t be prepared.
• Wear comfy shoes—you’re working, not hitting the catwalk. You’ll be on your feet and running around.
This Month’s Product Hot List
(A) Charlotte Tilbury Filmstar Bronze & Glow A gorgeous homage to the golden age of Hollywood, it’s almost too
pretty to use! The powders themselves contour and highlight with a beautiful subtlety. They leave the face sculpted and
glowing without looking dirty or overly frosted. ($68, charlottetilbury.com)
(B) Sephora Collection PROfessional Makeup Case Compact yet very roomy. Super-lightweight with removable
compartments. I love this bag, as it holds a lot more than you would expect and is very durable. ($100, sephora.com)
(C) Real Techniques PowderBleu Collection Inspired by the luxurious coats of blue squirrels, these brushes (don’t
worry, they’re cruelty-free and synthetic) feel incredibly luxurious. Real Techniques brushes are awesome for your makeup
kit, blend beautifully and won’t bust your piggy bank. Created by YouTube makeup artist sensations Sam & Nic, aka
Pixiwoo, the brushes even have video tutorials so you can get maximum use out of the tools. (realtechniques.com)
Follow me for more insider looks into the world of hair and makeup on Instagram @racheltoledomua.