New-York-Times-yisellsantos

Having local jobs and having jobs where you have to take an airplane are two different things.  Not different in the sense of work but different in the sense of traveling with your kit.  Many of you already know that living and being a city girl, I already heavily condense my kit to better my public transportation.  Taking your kit in a crowded train is no joke.  The less I carry, the better.  To see how I condense my makeup kit, please check out my past post: What's In My (condensed) Kit?

If you are not checking in your kit (highly recommended):
Packing your kit for flight can be a tad tricky.  According to TSA Regulations: "you are permitted to carry on containers of liquids, gels or aerosols of 3 ounces or less in a 1 Quart clear bag."  This means you can stuff that bag till it can't fit anymore so long as all the products in there aren't over 3oz.  You cannot have more than one 1qt bag so don't think that you can have multiple 1qt bags filled to the max.

What does this mean for you?  This means that unless your containers are already 3oz or less, you will absolutely have to condense your liquid foundations, brush cleaner, moisturizer etc.

If you use FACEatelier and are like me and buy them in the smaller pro size, then you don't have to condense them (unless you want to).  The FACEatelier pro bottles are travel friendly and already come in a .68oz bottle. Although the glass bottles are 1oz, I highly suggest condensing them into smaller bottles.  You'll fit more product into your 1qt bag and you don't have to worry about them breaking.  The same goes with the MUFE HD.  The MUFE HD bottle is also 1oz and fits TSA regulations but seriously, can we talk about how bulky that bottle is?

For a wonderful post on how to condense your foundations please visit this blog.

So, what will you need?

1 Quart Storage Bags

If you own a Zuca Pro, your bag most likely already came with a TSA friendly 1qt bag.  That's what I use to store all of my liquids.

1qt clear bag with all my liquids

A better look at what's in the clear 1qt bag

What are things that are considered liquids/gels?
*Liquid Foundation
*Some Creams such as Moisturizers, Makeup Removers etc.
*Hand Sanitizer
*Brush Cleaner
*Toner
*Lip Tars

Now, if you check in your kit (which I don't recommend at all), then you don't have to do any of the above.  I personally don't like to check in my kit because I've heard too many horror stories about airlines misplacing and/or losing their bags.  Without your kit, you cannot work and trust me you do not ever want to be caught in that situation.  The only bag I check in is my personal stuff which has my clothing, personal toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste etc.  If the airline happens to misplace or lose that then my job isn't at jeopardy.  I can always rebuy a pair of jeans and a toothbrush if needed.

If I'm doing hair, I also check that in.  It's easier and cheaper to replace a can of hairspray and a hair dryer than buying a whole makeup kit.  Plus, many stores let you return stuff if you're "unhappy" with the product (hair irons, dryers etc.)

A few of my favorite places you can visit for smaller containers to condense:
Yaby Cosmetics
Muji
Qosmedix
Container Store
Manhattan Wardrobe Supply

Another advice I'd like to give is to always carry your business cards or your resume with you at all times.  You never know when the TSA wants to get picky with your bag.  Having proof that you are traveling for work and that you are in fact a makeup artist (and not just some weirdo with a bag full of cosmetics) just might save you.

Condensing my kit was the best decision I've ever made.  It weights way less and until this day I've never had a problem with the TSA.  This storage solution really does work out for the best.  Happy condensing!

I'm always doing beauty and catalog so when the opportunity to do an editorial arose, I couldn't pass it up. Enjoy!

Everyone knows that your kit doesn't only consist of just makeup.  There are a lot of things that we use other than makeup that are essential to our kits and essential for us to work.  Mascara wands, Q-Tips, Sponges etc.  But what about those "just in case" items?  You know...those items that aren't used much but you keep them around...well...just in case.

First I'd like to start off with an apology.  I haven't posted in quite some time.  I have been quite the busy bee both with personal things and work.  Since the last couple of times I've posted, my husband enlisted and left for the Army, I got signed with an Agency and I've flown back and forth for both work and Military Spouse business.  I've also been taking some driving lessons to refresh my memory.  Yes, I'm 30 and I don't have a drivers license.  I live in NYC and I live 2 blocks from the train station.  Never needed one but since I'd like to eventually own a car someday, I'm finally getting this done.  Next up, swimming lessons! HA! Anyone got a cloning device?

What's new? I did a shoot with model Cynthia who I shot with before a VERY long time ago.  It was nice seeing her again.  I had an amazing team and the pictures are quite amazing if I do say so myself.

I've also had a video of me working along with my images put together.  I'm not one to be in front of the camera so it was weird having someone record me as I worked but it turned out to be pretty cool.  I'll add more footage of me working (and maybe even talking - YIKES!) as time goes by.  Thank you to Norm for shooting this and putting this video together in such short notice.  You're the best and I owe you dinner.

When I recently posted a picture on my Facebook Page of my kit in a small Eve Pearl shoulder bag I immediately got requests to post what was in the bag.  Well, ask and you shall receive!

Personally, I don't feel that I need to have a million and one things in my kit to do my job.  Most of my jobs are catalog, commercial, tv/film, corporate and some bridal.  I only carry what I need and I pack according to the job.  If I'm doing a corporate client, why do I need to take my blue, yellow and orange liptars?  Why bring my green eyeshadow?  I don't need it.  I'm obviously not going to use it.

• Powderpuff Squad Blush Palette (sadly discontinued and the company no longer exists - had this for ages)
• Foundations - Depending on the job I switch them out.  Today I had my MUFE HD packed and yes I can make any color I want out of those 3 colors (118, 128 & 177).
• MUFE Camo Concealers
• Setting Powders - FACEatelier & Laura Mercier
• Gel Liners - Tarte Amazonian Clay in Black & Brown
• Yaby World of Pearl Paints palette, for those "just in case" moments
• Q-Tips
• Cotton Squares in a plastic soap carrier
• NARS Laguna Bronzer
• Lipglosses
• Mascaras, Lash Curler (heated and regualar), Tweezers and Scissors 
• Toner, Moisturizer, MUFE Sens' Eyes, Hand Sanitizer, Alcohol, Brush Cleaner 
• Mascara Wands (in the mini Cozzette Vessel) 
• Elizabeth Arden 8 Hour Cream
• Laura Mercier Primer 
• MUFE Uplight
• Duo Lash Adhesive
• Book of Eyeliners and Brow Pencils
• MUFE Flash Palette (never leave home without it)

That's it!  I still have a little room left if I wanted to include some Lip Tars if I wanted to.  I don't need anything more than this to make the job happen.  I like to make my life and my commute as easy as possible.  And trust me, living in NYC, the easier the commute, the better it is.

SAMPLE AD:
"Looking for Makeup Artist to shoot for amazing clothing line.  TFP (no pay) but you'll get photos for your portfolio, great exposure and you get to work with amazing people.  You'll only be needed for 2 hours.  If we like you and this does well, we'll pay you for future work.  Check out our site [website link here]."

Wait what?!

Let me share with you a little story.  Let me start by saying that anything I write on here advice wise is because I have gone through it personally.  It has happened to me, I have witnessed it.

When I first started as an artist, I was so eager to shoot and took pretty much anything that came my way because I needed the practice and experience.  I also took the "TFP we just need you for 2 hours and great for exposure" jobs and I know for a fact that they will NEVER call you again and will NEVER "pay you later if it does well".

TFP (Time For Prints) is when no one at all gets paid but walks away with some pretty good (or even amazing) photos.

This ad wants you to do a shoot where they will eventually make money selling their clothing but the team that helped put their awesome ad / lookbook / whatever together gets nothing.  How is that fair?  Also, that whole "we'll hire you again if we like your work" line is crap.  They obviously hired the artist because they like their work.  Why does the artist have to suddenly prove themselves?

These type of job ads are taking advantage of our newer artist who don't know any better.  New artists who will see this as an actual really good opportunity when it isn't.

We need to stand together and put a stop to ads like this.  It's because of artists that keep taking "jobs" like these that people will continue taking advantage.  This is why our industry is suffering and why many artists no longer get paid what we used to.  Negotiating and completely getting robbed are two totally different things! You want us to work?  Pay us!  Simple as that!

$2 shipping for shadows (no matter how many you get)
$5 shipping for 12 well
* Shipping might vary if you get shadows and the palette.  Please feel free to email me if you have any   questions at contact[at]yisellsantos[dot]com
* Email me at contact[at]yisellsantos[dot]com to let me know what you'd like

Many claim "must have" items in their kit.  Be it an eyeshadow palette or a blush but when I mention that the Make Up For Ever (MUFE) Flash Palette is a MUST in their kit, most of the time I'm looked at with a questionable face.  "What do I need that for?", "What do you use it for?"  Well, let me tell you what you can use it for.  EVERYTHING!!  Yes, everything!

Because you guys are such awesome people I've decided to do a wonderful giveaway.  I want to share my love for Yaby Cosmetics with everyone.  Some already own Yaby products and some don't (yet).

Yaby was developed by Toroto makeup artist Liz Yu, when searching for a solution to condense her ever-growing kit.  After going through a number of DIY kit solutions, (which were all eventually replaced due to difficulties in finding easily sourced DIY materials) Liz decided the only solution was to create a more permanent and easily customized way for all artists looking for an answer to their kit's organization.



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Official Rules
The approximate value of this prize is $136.00.

No purchase necessary to enter or win.  The contest runs from April 17, 2012 to April 21, 2012 at 12:01am  EST.

Eligibility 
This contest is open both to US Participants and Internationally.  Once the padded envelope or box leaves my hands, however, it is at the mercy of the postal system and customs.  Yes, all shipping costs are on me!

How to Win
One (1) winner will be selected though a random drawing after the contest closes.  All entries must be received on or before April 21st, 2012 at 12:01am EST.  The winner will be notified via e-mail or message (as applicable).  The winner will have 48 hours to claim the prize after initial notification.  If the winner fails to claim within 48 hours, an alternative winner may be selected.

Business Cards...that lovely 2 x 3.5 piece of paper that you give out...that people keep...that plays a part in getting you work.  A while back I had done a blog post on business cards.  I stated that keeping it simple is the best way to go but if you wanted to add a photo, it had to be tasteful.  Well, my opinion on that has changed.

As artists, we see a blank canvas and we just can't resist filling it up with art and color.  Some people like to put images of their work on their cards and some don't.  Putting an image on your card is totally up to you but remember, it can make or break your card.  Which is why when I am asked "should I put an image on my business card?  If so, how many images should I put?"  My answer...NONE!  Yup, you read that correctly.  None.

Here's why:
* If I put a clean beauty image on my card and hand it out to a fashion client, they're going to assume that all I do is clean work and cannot execute a fashion story.
* If I put a fashion image on my card and hand it out to a catalog/TV client, they're going to assume that all I do is fashion work and won't be able to execute clean every day makeup.

So in turn, I've just lost work because the client assumed that I can only do the kind of makeup that is on my business card.  "But, Yisell, they can always just go to my site and see that I have lots of other work."  Yes that is true...but do they really go to your site?  Does anyone go past page 1 or 2 when searching Google?  Once they see the photo on your card, they won't see a reason to go to your site.  But if there's nothing there, the WANT to see more.  Like the lovely Michael DeVellis once said "Putting a photo on your card tells only ONE story."

Also, what if you've given away your business card 5 yrs ago, and your current work has gone a major improvement?  If I'm looking for a makeup artist or an assistant, all I have is that picture from 5 yrs ago that isn't the best.  What do you think is going to happen?

What should be on your business card?
* Your full real name.  Not "luscious lips makeup" or "sparkles of glitter".  First Name and Last Name (ie: Yisell Santos).

* What you do.  "Makeup Artist", "Hair Stylist" or maybe you do both "Makeup & Hair".

* Your website, which should be your first and last name.  Not "sparklesofglitter.com" or "makeupblush.com".  It should look like this: yisellsantos.com or jessicachoimakeup.com.  Why?  Because "sparkles of glitter" is NOT your name!  I don't say "hey, so glad to see you again sparkles of glitter", I say "hey, so glad to see you again Jane Smith".

* Your email address.  Preferably it should be with yourname.com.  Not gmail or yahoo or aol. (ie: contact[at]yisellsantos[dot]com).

* Your phone number

What should not be in on your business card:
* Photos (as per discussed above)

* Crazy Clipart (or as I like to call it "Foo Foo").  What registers as foo foo?  Clip arts of glosses, mascara wands, powder puffs etc.  Those are extra unnecessary things that your card does not need, causes a distraction and can make your card look amateurish.
NOTE: Foo Foo is not to be confused with Logo's.  Logo's are perfectly ok to have (see Liz's card below).

Here are some examples of really great business cards (phone numbers have been blocked out for privacy purposes):

Filing your taxes and keeping receipts/records of everything is a daunting task but a very necessary one.  Keeping track of invoices, receipts, pay stubs, tax forms etc. is one of the most important things as a full time freelance makeup artist.

A Secret Weapon for Skin Care
by Laura DeAngelis, NASM CPT, AFAA Group Exercise Instructor 


No doubt you visit Yisell’s blog and website for great tips about how to keep your skin looking its best. Whether it’s a skin-smoothing body scrub for the shower, oil-free foundation for the face or night cream to keep those Crow’s feet at bay, many of us invest in products to maintain a healthy glow from head to toe. Well, guess what? There’s a secret weapon that can help these products do their jobs even better. It’s called exercise.

There are a several ways exercise can improve your skin’s appearance:  

1. Bye-Bye Toxins! Whether you break a sweat with a morning run, after-work interval training on the elliptical machine or a Zumba® class, sweating cleanses the body of toxins that can actually clog pores and cause breakouts.
2. Boost Your Blood Flow! One of the countless benefits of exercise is that it increases blood circulation throughout the entire body. That means better delivery of oxygen and nutrients to all your organs, and your skin happens to be the largest organ in the human body. Considering many of us purchase skin care products based on the beneficial nutrients they contain, exercise is a way to compliment those products from the inside out by pushing essential nutrients to the skin so your skin can radiate a  natural glow.
3. Get Rid of Stress! It’s no secret stress has a laundry list of negative effects and wreaking havoc on your skin is one of them. I can honestly say a good workout has always been able to right whatever ailed me whether it was a stressful day at work or a challenging time in my personal life. Stress can also lead to flare ups of certain skin conditions including psoriasis, so exercise can be one way to this aggravating factor in check.

One final note: It is crucial to keep your body fueled with the right foods if you want your workouts to produce maximum benefits, including healthier-looking skin. As a lifetime Weight Watchers member, I follow what I call the “everything-in-moderation lifestyle,” and my daily diet is filled with healthy options like fruits, veggies, whole grains and lean protein. Here’s a link to an article that lists some specific foods that have been linked to better looking skin.  

If you’re still looking for some motivation to incorporate fitness into your life, hopefully knowing you’ll be on your way to achieving that healthy glow from the inside-out will get you moving and start your journey to have fun, be fit and feel fabulous!


Laura DeAngelis is an independent personal trainer in New York City who received her certification through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). She’s also a certified Group Exercise Instructor through the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America (AFAA) and a Licensed Zumba® Instructor. When she’s not training, Laura currently works as the Director of Production at West Glen Communications, Inc. where she also hosts “Health & Home Report.” For more of Laura’s health and fitness tips, check out her blog at LauraLovesFitness.com

In a world where there are so many creative minds all in one room, many times your peers don't realize that they're crossing the line from suggestion to direction.  I'm always open to suggestion.  If you can improve on something, why not?  But when your peer is actually giving you direction and over stepping the boundaries, something needs to be said.

I had this happen a few months back where the stylist of a production I was working on was doing a lot of over stepping.  He felt that because he was friends with the director of the project, that he can tell me what to do.  He was pushy, loved to hover instead of doing what he was originally there to do and I even caught him "adjusting" makeup & hair! As many of you know me, I wasn't having it.  I took steps to make him aware that he was over stepping his boundaries.  Sometimes following these steps works and sometimes it doesn't.  Whether you want to deal with it or not is completely up to you.  Here's what I did:

• I spoke to the AD (Assistant Director) about how I felt.  She pulled him aside and expressed how I felt (that didn't work).
• I spoke to the 2nd AD (that didn't work either).
• I pulled him aside myself and expressed how I didn't appreciate his constant over stepping (that worked for all of 2 days).

In the end, the production and I didn't see eye to eye so it didn't work out, but I can't say that I never said my piece.  It works the same in photoshoots.  Be open to suggestion but the minute it feels like someone is over stepping, stand your ground.  If one runs you over, they all will and you've lost all control of the situation, and that's never good.  You don't have to be mean about it, but a simple "I appreciate your input and I'm very open to suggestions but I feel that you're trying to take over creatively...."  That may or may not work and it may or may not feel tense for a while but you have to express how you feel.  You were hired for a reason and that's to do makeup.  Because the client trusts that you can execute the job.  If they wanted wardrobe to do it, they would of hired them.

A Little Extra...
Did you know that in the real (union) world of TV/Film if anyone over steps their boundaries you can be fired on the spot?  Whether it's hair or makeup or props, you're there to do what you were hired for and in no way are you to over step or give any kind of suggestion (unless you're the director, producer etc).  A friend of mine who's in the union told me a story about a makeup artist who lint rolled the actor (that's wardrobe's job).  Although she meant well, she over stepped and was heavily reprimanded.  If you're makeup, you're makeup.  That's it!  You can't go around handing out bobby pins (that's hair) or giving out band aids (that's props).  Take care of what you were hired to do and everything will go smoothly.