We got in touch with hair & makeup artist Erin Skipley to learn more about her and the business of beauty. Enjoy!
How did you become a hair and makeup stylist?
I grew up on a farm in WA and always thought I would go back to training horses. I wouldn’t have dreamed I would be doing what I do! I started doing makeup while I was attending the University of Washington and took a part-time job at a makeup counter. At that point, I started collaborating with theater majors on various independent film projects, hanging out on sets with photo-friends, and doing fashion shows whenever possible. After seeing what a cool job hair and makeup people had, I changed my course and headed to a makeup school in LA, and added hair styling to my resume.
What do you like about your job?
I have the best job in the world. For one thing, it’s new every day! Freelance work is the best, never a dull moment. It gives me the opportunity to collaborate with talented and interesting people, and I’m constantly learning. I love it.
What are some recent projects you’ve worked on?
I’ve had some really fun projects lately; most notable are a commercial for Sony, a cover of Fortune Magazine, a gorgeous bridal editorial and cover for The Knot, a spring look book for Amazon, and a holiday campaign for Nordstrom.
What’s been your most exciting project?
The most exciting project ever was a two-week shoot in France for a couture bridal and dress designer. We had a week shooting all over Paris with an amazing model and another week at a chateau in St Julien d’Lars in the Loire valley. We shot from dawn til dusk, stopping only to eat great food. Evenings were spent in front of a massive fireplace drinking wine and having great conversations. Even though we froze at night in the old castle, it was the most magical time, and the crew was so great. Not sure if anything could ever top it.
What’s your dream assignment?
I’d love to do an island shoot for a week or two, involving some kind of super cool boat, hiking, and campfires at night.
Next time you’re looking for a Hair stylist or Makeup Artist, use our Find Crew page. If you are a Hair stylist or Makeup Artist and you’d like to be listed, let us know!