m.a.s.k. mission

Revealing your beauty and confidence through the use of high end make up and the most innovative techniques and ideas.

Here’s what we’ve been working on recently

Bridal Shoot Images

I was very fortunate to be involved with a bridal shoot to highlight some designer gowns. Deep in Norfolk on a very cold January day, I was part of a very creative team led by accomplished photographer John Ferguson. See also Studio LuxeThe results of the photos I have seen so far are stunning. Wonderful light and the material and gowns have been captured beautifully. As well as providing makeup, I turned my hand to creating the hair styles on some of the shots and assisted with styling hair in others. Many thanks to amazing model Ellie Goodwin who was a delight to work with. I look forward to working with both Ellie and John in future projects together. Also, I want to mention assistant photographer Jae Storer who is not only immensely talented but has a great sense of humour too! 

Glitter

With Matthew Mallet of JRM Photography and Sarah-Louise Fisher-Webb. No filters, no tricks, just makeup,  glitter and great lighting.

Gel Lighting and Burlesque Drama

The first of what I believe will be an amazing set of photos following a gel lighting high colour shoot with Kolokial Shots and model Jade Tayla. I created a fauxhican hairstyle and used bold, bright colours in the makeup scheme. As the shoot went on , the makeup became more dramatic using lots of colour, glitter and glycerin. Thank you to both Ian and Jade for indulging me with the eyelashes. Bold, strong and dramatic images.

Golden Glow

I was very fortunate to be involved in a shoot with Matthew Mallet from JRM Photography and Model Sarah-Jane Fisher-Webb. The shoot was finalised with some glitter that Matthew caught beautifully in real time. The results are amazing in both colour and black and white. We already have a few more ideas for future shoots using our beautiful, local scenery at different times of the year.

Pearl

Amazing image from Salli Gainsford Photography. Makeup by me, m.a.s.kbykaren. I had the idea of creating the dripping pearl tear effect using some rather unusual facial adornments. The best thing about creative makeup is the opportunity that you get to try something different and push all the boundaries. Salli Gainsford Photography runs a number of amazing workshops, details can be found via her Facebook page HERE.

London Fashion Week SS19

I am really excited to be going to London Fashion Week, SpringSummer19 and painting faces. I look forward to sharing some of the images of the models.

Walk, don't run!

Best eyebrow pencil ever. Ever. This is one  that I use on myself and never share. The universal shade It Cosmetics Brow Power Eyebrow Pencil. It is amazing and previously was only available in the U.S.A. Its now in the UK at Cult Beauty and is worth every penny. It is very long lasting, durable and suits pretty much every brow colour you can imagine. Go buy it here!

Now for the Droneshotz images! Ice Queen vs Autumn​

Check back in soon for details of a Tendring based model shoot based on this theme. 

Winter Berries/Autumn & Ice Queen Shoot

I am absolutely in love with this image of Leia taken by the very talented Kezz Wesley. This was a recent shoot that Kezz and Kevin AKA Droneshotz masterminded. The props and set were amazing. Almost a whole forest of Christmas trees and the most amazing gel lighting. Makeup and headdress by me; m.a.s.kbykaren

In Print Soon!

Emote Magazine is due out any day and I can finally share the rest of the amazing images.

Model: Sarah-Louise. Photographer: Ian Clifford. Makeup by me; m.a.s.kbykaren.

Big Dress Shoot

Beautiful shot of Megan in a beautiful blue gown. Photos by Pete Wilk. Makeup by me; m.a.s.kbykaren.

Office Makeup

Just before Christmas, I attended a Company in the city and was able to offer staff members makeup prior to their Christmas Event. It was a great afternoon/evening. I am fully insured and my training is accredited and so I met the requirements of the HR department. I was able to set up in one of the meeting rooms and the ladies who booked were able to come in at set times and get glam.

If this is something you might like to consider for the end of the year, get in touch early. Also available for summer balls, Valentines Day, etc.



Makeup Close up

An amazing photo of Meg's makeup as taken by Nick Halling. Makeup by me; m.a.s.k.bykaren

Floral Inspired creative makeup

A stunning image of Katelyn as taken by the very talented Salli Gainsford at a shoot on Saturday. This is an image I have been wanting to create for a while. Using lots of adornments and some lovely Natasha Denona makeup. Some workshops will be running next year; this image is for the floral workshop. Other styles and designs are available. Check out Salli's Facebook page here for further details. Creative makeup by me; m.a.s.kbykaren.

Office Christmas Party Glam

Having had some enquiries about Christmas Party makeup on site, this is a service that m.a.s.kbykaren can now offer. London, Essex and Suffolk area, along with a team of qualified MUA's, I can attend your venue and help with all your party makeup needs. I think this service will be amazing not only at Christmas but at Valentines Day too. Make contact for enquiries and quotes.

Read all-out it

I am excited for the publication of Decembers issue of Emote Magazine. I have been involved with two published shoots, one of which has gained a three page spread. Woop woop. Check out Emote's Facebook page here.

Some recent images of makeup by m.a.s.kbykaren. 

** Awaits high res images 1) Footprint Photography/Jade 2) Nick Halling Photographer/Ayeesha 3) Rick Raven (Rickspix)/Megan 4) Simon Rich Photography/Ayeesha 5) Foster Congrave Photography/Megan 6) Simon Rich Photography/Ayeesha 7) Footprint Photography/Megan 8) Simon Rich?Hannah - Base makeup only by m.a.s.kbykaren

Kat Von D Beauty Pro

I am excited to have gained Kat von D Beauty Pro Status. I can not wait to include more of their wonderful products in my kit for next year. My latest favourite is the Tesoro Gold Glitter Gel. Perfect for a stunning festive golden eye look.

NOW IN SALON

BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Exciting news as the Christmas Season approaches; I can now offer makeup and complimentary beauty services in salon at Lolly Dolly Exclusive, Frinton on Sea as well as offering my existing mobile service.

Please contact either myself or the salon for further details.



Halloween - Glam not Gore!

Am I the only MUA that dosent like all the gore that comes along with Halloween?! Having met and been in contact with Stephanie, I planned to create a makeup look for her for a local Camera Club night with a seasonal theme. No clowns or skulls. I came up with the theme of Pumpkin Bride and created a little pumpkin headdress to go along with the white veil and deathly pale foundation! On the night we shook it up with black shawls and various Halloween ephemera. Happily this photo from Carol Spicer has been published in the Halloween Edition of 26 and Beyond Model Magazine. 

Black Netting

I really like the texture of netting. A great shot from Kolokial Shots. Stripped back makeup, black and white.  With Sarah Louise.

Dramatic Gothic

In time for Halloween; this image has an air of dramatic gothic to it. To highlight the beautiful costume, I chose a bold and striking green makeup. The red floral detail in the headdress really set off the green and made the image strong, bold and dramatic. The setting for this shoot is the stunning Guys Cliffe House in Warwick. Well worth the journey for some amazing architecture , detail and a foreboding ambience. By night the house hosts paranormal tours.

Model: Samantha

Photographer: Salli Gainsford

Makeup by me: m.a.s.kbykaren

Professional Kit Building

I have been lucky to have tried and tested a vast array of brands and products whilst training on different techniques and styles of makeup. It is really important to me to ensure that my kit consists of the best professional makeup that provides lasting, photographic quality makeup.

Pro kit includes: Natasha Danona, Pat McGrath, Kat von D Beauty, Becca, Giorgio Armani Beauty, Anastasia Beverley Hills, Chromawheel, PLouise, Peaches and Cream, Kryolan, Mehron, Urban Decay, Veil Cover Cream, Nars, Laura Mercier, Mac, Airbase UK, Charlotte Tilbury, Jeffree Star, Dior, Bobbi Brown, Benefit, Morphe. Plus much more (Well, maybe a little!) 

I am proud to be recognised by many of these companies in their pro discount schemes and I am also a member of Makeup Artist Pro.



An outside photoshoot on the sea front. Inspire of the sunshine I managed to survive in my winter coat!!

The makeup was three phased, allowing the model to transform in to three different characters. Here is the blue shoot. Glossy eyes and an ombre blue lip looked amazing on this very talented model.

Model: Ayeesha Elameay

Photographer: Pete Wilk at Kudos Photography

Makeup by me: m.a.s.k.bykaren

Sweet Shoot

The first of some of the images from a sweet inspired shoot.

The shoot kind of took on life of it's own and we came away with some excellent images.

The makeup for this shoot was designed in stages and in the most dramatic section it conveyed a story of decadence and overload. Im looking forward to sharing more images from the shoot soon.

Model: Sarah-Louise 

Photographer: Ian Clifford at Kolokial Shots

Makeup by me: m.a.s.kbykaren

Tanya

With a design brief to ensure the makeup was bold and vivid; I took inspiration from the beautiful headdress and researched makeup influenced by native American Indian tribes. This also needed to be modern and fresh so that the model could carry on to an alternative shoot afterwards. Since application speed was also key, I designed and made a template to use for a perfect finish. 

I really enjoy researching history for inspiration and drawing influence from the unexpected. Knowing your references is crucial to delivering a professional look.

Model: Tanya

Photographer:Salli Gainsford Photography

Makeup by me: m.a.s.kbykaren


I was lucky to have been able to source a unique and interesting location for this shoot. Some of the old, forgotten and timeworn objects made a really interesting backdrop. All credit to the amazing model who fearlessly climbed in and on whatever we found. This image is one of my favourites.

Model: Vanessa

Photographer: Pete Wilk at Kudos  Images

Makeup by me: m.a.s.kbykaren


A recent shoot

This photo came from a shoot designed around a theme of sweets. This look just kind of happened when I was playing around with some netting and mix matching different gauges. With Kolikial Shots and Sarah Louise.

Golden Goddess

The beautiful Laura in a look designed to compliment her outfit. I used Natasha Danona Star Palette along with some Mehron gold metallic powders to create this look. 

A breathtaking image.

Model: Laura

Photographer: Salli Gainsford Photography

Makeup be me: m.a.s.kbykaren

Equestrian Styled Shoot

Styled by me with some authentic equestrian clothing and accessories.

Model: Vanessa

Photographer: Pete Wilk @Kudos Images

Makeup by me: m.a.s.kbykaren 

Roxy Jane at Guys Cliffe House

An amazing image of Roxy Jane at the Salli Gainsford styled shoot. Photography and styling by Salli Gainsford Photography. Makeup by me, m.a.s.kbykaren.

Sometimes you meet someone and their personality absolutely shines through. Roxy played her outfit and was a pleasure to paint.

Guys Cliffe House

I was lucky to be part of the Salli Gainsford Creative team on a styled photoshoot at Guys Cliffe House this weekend. The images that came from this shoot are dramatic and inspiring. The makeup looks were designed with a theatrical feel; inspired by the costumes and the models themselves. This is Sally, who played the Ice Queen look and is the nicest person you could wish to meet. Photographs: Tony Lane Photography. Stylist: Salli Gainsford. Event Organiser Jan Cottrell of  Photoshoots fame. Model: Sally. Makeup: By me, m.a.s.kbykaren

Tony Lane Photography

A great vintage image from a recent shoot. Tony Lane does some amazing portraiture work. do have a look at his Insta page. Model: Sheherazde.

Sunset Palette - Natasha Danona

I really enjoy using quality, high end makeup in my kit. Natasha Danona never fails to amaze. The beautiful Sunset Palette is full of golds, oranges and yellow toned shades. Model: Vanessa Chance. Photographer: Kudos Images. Makeup: By me; m.a.s.kbykaren

Awesome shots from the creative shoot. Photographer Tony Lane changed costumes, backgrounds and lighting to come up with some different feels to the photos.

I was able to stage the makeup; starting with soft muted colours and building them and the special effects up to a maximum. Model: Scheherazade. Photographer: Tony Lane also here.

On Location Shoot

Another shot from the very versatile Vanessa Chance on location. I really enjoy staying for the shoot so that I can change makeup with outfits, help with hair and generally hold reflectors or lights! Photographer: Kudos Images

Action Shot!

An action shot of me doing my thing. I was really lucky to be involved with a shot last weekend with some great photographers. It really allowed me to get creative and try out some different ideas. Styling and the most amazing costumes were courtesy of Salli Gainsford Photography. She also took this incredible photo. Model: Scheherazade.

Bridal Theme

A great bridal image from a recent shoot. Photographer: Kudos Images. Model: Vanessa Chance.

A few of the final shots from an amazing shoot with Kolokial Shots. I really look forward to more work with Ian; his images are amazing.

Model: Michelle Lockwood

Photographer: Kolokial Shots


Featured on Veil Cover Cream Site

I was really excited to be featured on the Veil Cover Cream Facebook site today. This was the beautiful Makeup that I created to cover up skin pigmentation. Veil can also be used as a standard cream foundation. I look forward to using it on future shoots.

Styling, Makeup and Magic

One of the amazing shots from the Harry Potter shoot. As well as painting Kira's beautiful face, I brought along a few wigs to shake up the proceedings. Photographer Tony Lane. Model Kira Butcher. Now I want a crystal ball too.

m.a.s.k.bykaren with Kolokial Shots and Michelle Lockwood

Special Occasion Makeup

Flawless camera ready foundation

using Airbase Airbrush

Photos c/o JRM Photography

Kolokial Shots and Michelle Lockwood

A breath taking shot from our makeup shoot. The power of colour and material. The make up was applied in two stages and was designed to compliment the models hair colour; getting bolder and darker as the shoot progressed.

This week I finally got to try out the power of Veil Cover Cream. It is an amazing cream foundation that is truly versatile. Aside from a huge number or colours, that allows you to highlight and contour with ease, it offers the most amazing coverage. The model for this makeup has vitiligo on her face which she wanted to cover for an even skin tone.

Vitiligo is the loss of pigment on the skin, usually in  patches and traditional makeup will not cover it. Using Veil, I was able to match the tone she wanted and create a perfect, even finish. She looks beautiful and radiant. The makeup felt light and stayed in place all day long. Veil can cover port wine stains, reddening, scarring and even covers tattoo's. It is suitable for both men and women.  Contact me for a trial.

Avante Garde Makeup Shoot

Here is the first image from an amazing shoot that I attended this week. The amazing model Michelle Lockwood was a delight to work with and thanks to the talents of Ian Clifford  AKA Kolokial Shots we managed to get some fantastic images.

I designed a two stage makeup, from pink/lilac moving to a more dramatic blue. I also created an asymmetric headpiece to add to the drama. I am starting to make some more headpieces for future shoots; I can't wait to share them.

During Bank Holiday weekend I completed the final stages of my airbrush training and I am pleased to be able to add this amazing technique to my makeup repertoire. It is light as air, very comfortable to wear, can be applied as sheer or opaque as you wish and is FLAWLESS on camera. Foundation, contour, highlight, blush and more editorial contemporary colours and affects can be achieved.

The coverage is also amazing if you have blemishes and wish to hide them for a special event. 

Here is my amazing model Beth in a very natural makeup look designed to match her outfit.

Model: Beth S

Makeup: m.a.s.k.bykaren

Final shots to share from Ballgown shoot at Haleigh Castle.

Model: Ayeesha Elameay

Photographer: Pete Wilk

Themed Photo Shoot

I was really pleased to get involved with a themed photoshoot this week at Haleigh Castle. The theme was actually Harry Potter and model Kira was a Slytherin. The makeup look was designed with greens, yellows and blues in mind. Part way through the shoot we started to shake up the styling and added some wigs. Thats when the magic started to happen! I am looking forward to sharing some of the final finished images. These are candid shots from my phone and tweaked C/O Pixlr. 

Model: Kira Butcher

Photographer: Tony Lane 

Beautiful Makeup that would look amazing for any event with a special dress. Wedding, Prom or Special Occassion coming up? Speak to m.a.s.k. about your Makeup requirements. Following a thorough consultation a design specific to your face will be created to ensure you look your most beautiful.

Photographer: Pete Wilk

 Model: Ayesha Elameay

Makeup: m.a.s.kbykaren

Glitter Cut Crease

Nothing is more exciting than getting out glitter and pigments. NOTHING! This ia an amazing two tone green eye with a  gold cut glitter crease on Kim for a special night out. Get your glitter on.

Photo and make up: m.a.s.kbykaren 

Ballgowns at Hadleigh Castle

Yesterday I had the pleasure of making up Ayeesha Elameay. Not only is she a stunningly beautiful model she is a lovely person too. I really look forward to seeing the rest of the photos from the shoot and working with Ayesha again soon.

Photographer: Pete Wilk

Model:  Ayesha Elameay and here on FB

Mimi Cafrreni

I had the pleasure of meeting Mimi recently and assisting with her make up. We worked on two themes for her shoot. The first was a cow girl image, complete with hat, straw field and dis used railway track.


Photo credit: Bill Jordan Photography 

Model: Mimi Cafrreni

Nothing sets off your make up like a wide eye and eyelashes are key to achieving this doe eye effect. Eye lash Lifting is a gentle alternative to false lashes and lasts for weeks with a little care for the first few days after the treatment. I am fully trained and insured in this beauty treatment and can 

offer a mobile, home treatment out of hours if this suits you better. Contact me for further information.

Picture credit to the very talented Matthew Mallett at JRM Photography. Here. Eyelash lift by m.a.s.k  m.a.s.kbykaren

Main title image credits



Credits for main title page images:

Model: Katie Gould

Photographer: Matt Birch

Make up: m.a.s.k by Karen


1940's Glamour

Nothing says 1940's like a red lip and neutral eye. Add some black liner and lashes and a simple but striking look is complete. This look is timeless.

Model: Lola Garlick

Always use an insured make up artist

When you are searching for a make up artist or therapist, it is so important to make sure you chose someone who has  insurance. 


Whether or not a makeup artist needs insurance has been a subject of debate for as long as makeup has been a viable career. In makeup, if you are a trained professional, not much can go wrong that can’t be fixed with a cotton swab and some makeup remover; but that does not mean that a freak accident (extreme allergic reaction, faulty product) could not occur. As professionals, MUA's need to not only have proper training and experience, but also a well thought out business plan and structure, which, should include insurance.


As a member of The Guild’s insurance, I am covered against treatment risk, public liability and product liability. The Guild is the largest insurance provider in the UK professional beauty industry with over 20 years of experience. I am also registered as a member. This means I am qualified to strict U.K. standards and am committed to ongoing training and development.

Putting products and chemicals, especially on your face and eye area is something that needs to be done by trained and accredited professionals. make sure you and your special occasion are fully covered.

The final Image

An amazing image from Michael Pretty Photography.

Model: Kira Butcher

Make up by me; m.a.s.kbykaren

Charity Photo Shoot for Relay for Life

I was really happy to get involved with a charity shoot for Relay for Life in aid of Cancer Research UK. The event was set up by Zoe Mallett. Photographs were taken by Matthew Mallett from JRM photography.  I did make up for Terri; who had never had her make up applied professionally before. She looked beautiful.

In action on an outdoor shoot. First three photos credited to Ligia Diaz; photographer and MUA.

Model Kira Butcher in Jeffree Star Blood Sugar. Even rock chicks like a bit of pink and glitter lips! Final photo credited to Kira herself. 

Lauren rocking the 'smoke ring' eye. This is a really flattering look that suits pretty much everyone and can be created in any colour; to enhance and pop your eye colour or to match an outfit. 

This look is a huge winner with adult bridesmaids; they will love you if you choose this look for them. It also has amazing staying power and Lauren can vouch that it lasted through several tough Uni nights out! Photos: m.a.s.kbykaren and lauren Ilbury. Make up: m.a.s.kbykaren.

DJ Mind Charity Shoot

Last Sunday I attended the DJ MIND Charity Shoot held at Red Brick Barn at Rockford. It was a great day where photographers, models and MUA's all got together for a shoot and of course to raise money for charity. Over £1000 was raised on the day. I got the chance to meet some very talented models and photographers and look forward to working with them in the future. (m.a.s.k in action. Photographer/MUA: Ligia Diaz)


The m.a.s.k. Story so far

Revealing beauty through professional, photographic make up for all occasions

Story Part 1

m.a.s.k.  - it stands for make up and styling by Karen. I would love to take credit for that, but can't. You know who you are; I thank you! What do I do? Beautiful make up and complimentary beauty therapy services to bring out the beauty in you. I also offer personal make up lessons, princess make up parties, male make up (think grooms) and glitter work.  I am based in the Tendring area of Essex. I am happy to travel in the South East or London areas.

Story Part 2

Using high end products, often imported from around the world and used (and recommended) by leading make up artists, I work closely with my clients to understand what you hope to achieve from your professional make up application. I am able to offer all types and styles of make up from high glam to beautiful, barely there. 

The Future

Whatever your special event, be it wedding, prom, festival or a different special occasion I can offer a reliable, professional service. I am fully trained, insured and am a member of the Guild of Beauty Therapists.

Beauty Styling

I am also fully trained in beauty therapist services that I believe go hand in hand with beautiful make up. I offer facial waxing and threading, brow bar services and my absolute favourite, beautiful and natural eyelash lifting.

Please contact me to discuss your make up requirements

07495 059111

www.maskbykaren.com

Email: [email protected]


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