Tina Turnbow Shares Her Journey of Becoming a Successful Makeup Artist
Photo: Getty Images1/4What is your beauty philosophy?
"Enhance a woman's unique beauty, don't mask it. To me, there are no flaws or imperfections, just one of a kind features that make one face different and special from another. My dad, who was a hairdresser, always said: 'Play up your good points and make the most of what you've got.'"
What prep work do you do before meeting with a client?
"With an actor, I'll usually google them to find images. I tailor my makeup kit to their skin tone and to what we'll be doing, whether it be red carpet, editorial, press, or an ad. For beauty and fashion pieces, the editors usually send inspiration pics for the story. Sometimes, we have a quick phone chat to discuss ideas and possible product needs."
Photo: courtesy of Sephora2/4What products are always in your kit?
"I always have a huge array of pencils, for eyes and lips. All natural skincare by Dr. Hauschka, Tammy Fender and Collective Wellbeing, to prep the skin. To cover, Tinted Moisturizer by Chantacaille and Armani Fluid Sheer, Three Custom Color Ready-to-Wear concealer palette, MineralFusion concealers, and face powders by Josie Maran and Tarte. For lips, Chubby Sticks by Clinique and Clark's Botanicals Ultra Rich lip balm. For a glow, I like Fresh Here Comes the Sun bronzer palette. Mascaras change all the time, but I especially like Clinique's Lash Power and Tarte's Smart Mascara. For blush, I like YSL's Crème De Blush and for the prettiest pop of pink I use Revolution Organics Beauty Balm in Blushed. If a little shading is needed, Kevin Aucoin's Sculpting Powder in medium gets it done."
What advice do you have for teens who would like to work in the industry one day?
"Take some art classes and start drawing! A makeup artist is like a painter and a hairdresser is more of a sculpter. For makeup, drawing, working with color, and blending are key. Practice on yourself and friends and take photos of your work—hands-on learning is the best. Assisting a good person is also essential, even just watching and picking up tips. Be a sponge! Also, intern and network with people in the industry. Study and research all you can about artists and photographers whose work you admire. Finally, pick the brain of people like me and read Teen Vogue!
Photo: courtesy of Crosby Carter Management3/4What's it like doing a celebrity for a big event?
"It's exciting and sometimes there's a nervous energy. It's important to be calming and supportive for your client and make sure they feel pretty and confident, so they can put their best foot forward. They're the ones in the spotlight in front of the cameras and thousands of people, after all! Between the hair, clothes, jewelry, and makeup, it's really a team effort to get them ready and it can be very satisfying to see it all come together. I love that moment when they look in the mirror and smile."
What products do you usually recommend a client bring with them after they get their makeup done?
"Blotting papers or a powder compact, lipstick, a few Q-tips, and, if there's room in the handbag, a concealer."
Photo: Getty Images4/4How did you break into the beauty industry?
"I went to a modeling agency in Chicago (where I'm from) with a selection of drawings of women's faces. I colored in the makeup the way I would if I were doing it on a face. I also did my makeup very nicely that day. The agent there said if I did makeup on models the way I did in the drawings and on myself then I'd be off to a great start! She scheduled me on some test shoots right away with models and that's how I got my portfolio started. I continued working at it and getting jobs until one day I decided I'd never be satisfied and always regret it if I didn't try my hand at makeup in New York City. Plus, I had seen the work of Pat McGrath and Dick Page—both whom I admire greatly and I was inspired. I also set a goal to assist one of them. Once I moved to New York, I went to Pat's agent to show her my book. Pat had just moved to NYC from London, so the timing was perfect. My first assisting job was with Kate Moss and Christy Turlington for Calvin Klein. I was in awe! I went on to assist others, and worked on shows as well. After doing more work on my portfolio, I got an agent who was willing to help me grow—I guess she saw some potential in me!"
Is there a specific type of training that people need to complete to become a successful makeup artist?
"Learn through trial and error. If the right instincts are there, you'll be okay. It's a matter of polishing, practicing the skill, and taking chances. I didn't go to beauty school, but I did go to art school. Surround yourself with people who can help, encourage, and support—a team of folks with similar interests and goals."
