I start 2026 slightly downbeat. My knee hurts and cursing getting older. Then I think, get a grip. I have been a make up artist for over 40 years and still love it today. Surely, I actually have age on my side, being able to work with older women with empathy, wisdom and an ability to give them a beautiful natural glow.
Also!
About five years ago I took an enormous leap to the other side. Normally only doing make -up for women in front of the camera. I decided to give it a shot (literally) and stood the other side of the lens to photograph the women I made up. Concentrating on women 50+, I got to work on creating a body of work.
Beginnings of a photographer
As part of getting a grip I thought I would take a look back at my photographic journey. So I had a chat to my friend Mel, who I met through one of my Graceful Disgraceful Make up Experiences. She had booked on as a stranger to me. I remember it well as she was holding back on confirming her place, turns out she was recovering from Covid. So that clearly takes us back to a time cemented in history which we will probably never forget.
Mel and I hit it off and I asked her if she would sit for me as I wanted to record make up sessions for my blog. Mel has wonderful silver hair, totally perfect for the image I wished to create. Turns out Mel photographs rather well, which has led to many fun filled sessions together.
From those early days of shooting with my not very flashy Samsung phone camera to my now Nikon camera we have got some great shots. Mel kindly still uses some of the very first images on her socials. Later she asked me to shoot some images to support a career change, but most excitingly I took some headshots for an acting website that landed her a very lucrative job!
What in 2026?
I have spent the last five years saying I am not a photographer, just a make up artist that records her work. 2026 I have new ideas, I am going to try and be brave.
Mel
Girls will be boys -Our first shoot shot on my phone- can read on blog
Get a Hat story– blog story
Career change – Life as a Celebrant
Mother of the Bride
Dry days ahead – Blog story
Silver eyes and Graceful Disgraceful Woman
The money shot – Head shots
Thanks Mel can’t wait for the next one!
All photography and make up by me
If you need a wonderful celebrant you can contact Mel https://melgordoncelebrant.co.uk/contact
Portrtaits
If you are interested in finding out more about photography experiences please click on the link below and email me for further info and bookings. karen@karenlockyer.net
I shot this image of Mel for my (in)Visible exhibition.
