Illuminating success, growth and remain grounded

What was your inspiration behind the makeup looks you created for “Illuminating Success, Growth and Remaining Grounded”?

The inspiration came from what I’m personally experiencing as an artist—growing professionally, facing challenges, reaching goals, while always remembering where I come from and who I am. That’s why I chose a look that’s luminous yet structured, with glowy skin, defined eyes, and lips that speak for themselves.

To me, makeup is about making someone look like their best self—without losing who they truly are.

How did you approach the theme of growth and remaining grounded through your artistry?

I approached it from a very personal place. As a makeup artist, I’ve learned that growth doesn’t mean changing who you are, but rather refining what’s already inside you. In this project, I wanted to show that duality: the shine of professional evolution, paired with the calm and humility of staying grounded.

I worked with luminous finishes and clear structure. The skin reflects light but is rooted in reality; the eyes show clarity and direction, while the lips reflect quiet power. Every decision was intentional—to say that you can rise without losing yourself.

As a luxury MUA and fashion model, how do you merge those dual perspectives during a creative session?

Being both a makeup artist and a model allows me to see the process from both sides. As a model, I know what it feels like to be in front of the camera and how makeup translates in a photo. As a MUA, I know how to design a look that works visually and emotionally.

That combination helps me anticipate needs, give creative direction, and build looks with intention. I don’t just apply makeup—I help tell a story through the face and the lens.

Tell us about your collaboration with Christopher Otrebla, Shreya Sawant, Kevin Calderon, and Anshula Dixit. How did the team dynamic influence your work?

It was such a powerful collaboration. Christopher, the photographer, has a sharp artistic eye that made me think about makeup in terms of lighting and framing. Shreya, the model, brought elegance and strength to every pose—she brought my work to life. Kevin, the hairstylist, added structure and movement to the overall look, balancing it perfectly. And Anshula, the designer, inspired me with her clean, sophisticated, and thoughtful vision.

When everyone on a team is aligned, you create from the soul. I felt respected, inspired, and challenged to elevate my artistry.

What are your must-haves in your kit when working on high-end editorials or runway shows?

My number one priority is the skin. I always bring high-quality moisturizers, texture-controlling primers, and strong setting sprays that hold without dulling the glow. My precision brushes and a versatile range of foundation shades are essential.

I also carry cream products, ultra-fine powders, and luminizers to create dimension without heaviness. For creative flexibility, I include pigments, colorful liners, strategic glitters, and bold glosses, as well as quick-fix tools for on-set touch-ups. In editorial work, the details make the difference.

How do you adapt your makeup techniques differently for editorial clients vs. bridal clients?

In editorial, I have more creative freedom—I can go bold, conceptual, or abstract. For bridal clients, the goal is for the person to feel radiant and authentically themselves. I work with soft layering, long-wear formulas, and tones that reflect the client’s personality and essence.

The real difference is in the intention: for editorials, I create for the camera; for weddings, I create for the heart.

What’s the biggest challenge in creating looks that photograph well but still feel authentic to the model’s essence?

The challenge is striking the balance between visual impact and emotional honesty. Some techniques may look flawless on camera, but if they disconnect the model from herself, they lose power.

I aim to highlight what’s already there—to keep skin natural, textures real, and energy present. When the model sees herself and says, “That’s me—but elevated”, then I know I did my job right.

How does the fashion scene in Sacramento and the Bay Area influence your makeup style?

Sacramento has an honest, creative energy. There’s real talent here—raw stories and unique beauty. It inspires me to create from a place of emotion and authenticity. It’s not about following trends, but giving identity to each face.

The Bay Area connects me to a more editorial, luxury-driven vision. It’s multicultural, forward-thinking, and pushes me to refine my craft even more.

Between the two, I find my balance: Sacramento’s heart and San Francisco’s projection. That mix defines my style—elegant, emotional, and intentional.

How do you define success as an artist in the world of fashion and luxury beauty?

To me, success is when your work leaves a mark and tells a story. It’s not just about being published or chosen by brands—it’s about creating with meaning, and making people feel seen, empowered, and transformed.

True success is having a voice and being recognized not just for your technique, but for the emotional weight behind your art. It’s about growing without losing yourself.

How do you stay grounded while working in such fast-paced, high-energy environments?

I stay grounded by remembering why I started and who I do this for. My journey wasn’t easy, and that keeps me humble and focused. I surround myself with real people who see beyond the glamour and value the work, effort, and heart behind it.

Most importantly, my connection to Mexico keeps me centered. I carry my culture in every brushstroke—in the colors I choose, in the passion I put into my craft. My roots remind me that real art comes from the soul, not from ego.

I could be in the middle of a chaotic shoot, but at the end of the day, I’m still the same artist who started with a brush and a dream.

As someone who’s been published and continues to grow professionally, what advice would you give to aspiring makeup artists?

Believe in your process—even when no one else sees it yet. This journey isn’t easy, but it’s worth it if you lead with passion. It’s not just about mastering techniques—it’s about building your own voice through your art.

Surround yourself with people who inspire you. Stay humble, be curious, and keep learning. Don’t rush to 'make it'—focus on arriving with identity.

Your work is more than beauty—it can transform how someone sees and feels about themselves. That’s powerful. Honor it, respect it, and use it with purpose.

What do you hope people feel when they see the final images from this shoot?

I hope they see more than just beauty. I want them to feel the story behind each look—light on the skin, strength in the eyes, presence in every detail.

I want them to see a powerful woman who doesn't need to scream to be heard. A presence that says, “I’m here—and I know who I am.”

If even one person feels more inspired, more confident, or more connected to themselves because of these images—then every moment of this project was worth it.

Model: Shreya Sawant @shreya_sawant23

Creative Director/Photographer: Christopher Otrebla @chris_otrebla

Fashion Designer/Wardrobe Stylist: Anshula Dixit @anshula.dixit

Makeup Artist: Alfonso Higareda @alfonso_higareda

Hair Stylist: Kevin Calderon @calderonasd