We interview make-up artist Rocío Zambrana, who has been working with us at Polar Star Films since May, when she started as an intern for the production of the fiction short film Gynoid.

Since then, we have counted on her various projects including commercials for GAES and Wuaki. Fun, friendly and hardworking, she tells us what her first steps into the world of production have been like and gives us some helpful tips. Don’t miss it!

1. Why did you decide on this career?

At first I started studying characterization for special effects, such as prosthesis or reconstruction, because my first intention was work as a funeral make-up artist. But in the end and after having been lucky enough to work for producers and having worked on several commercials, clips and other videos, I chose to follow the branch of make-up for cinema and television.

2. What are your goals? Where would you like to work?

I want to devote myself to the world of television, commercials, or even open an academy.

3. What did you expect of the profession and what you think of it now? Were you disappointed or surprised?

When I started I was convinced that I was not up to the job, but I’ve begun to realize that it’s what I really love. It has been great to find that at only 20 years old I’ve been able to work with top professionals, finish school and find work, because it is a very competitive world and, therefore, difficult to get recognised.

4. What advice would you give to people who are attempting to work in make-up for film? What problems will they find along the way?

My advice is to not get discouraged even if there is a long way to go. Fighting for what you want is the right thing to do, because at some point or another you’ll get a break. The most common problems are that people need you work done in two minutes, when it usually takes longer. You’ll be pushed hard and must face all challenges. The most important thing is that they see that you have initiative.

5. How has the experience of shooting with PSF been? Any stories?

It has been very gratifying and rewarding as you are a great team of professionals. They take into account your comfort and make sure you don’t miss anything… For me it’s a great production company. At a shoot in Arenys, I got sunstroke and had someone from production looking after me the whole time, telling me that I looked red enough to fry an egg to make me laugh.

6. Who was the first person you made up? Which celebrity would you like to make-up?

The first person I ever made-up was a classmate. And I would like make-up Lady Gaga because of the extravagance of her style, for me it would be a challenge.

7. What is the main difference between make-up for television and make-up for going to a celebration, for example?

For an advert or television, you need to use a type of high definition make-up and be more radical, depending on what’s asked for, and for an event, depending on the subject, it will vary, but it will usually be evening wear make-up that lasts.

8. What make-up schools do you recommend in Spain?

Thuya Escuela (Barcelona), Stick Art Studio (Barcelona) and Escuela de Maquillaje Menchubenitez (Cordoba).

9. Now that Christmas is on its way can you give us any advice on make-up or colours?

Use bright and loud colours, like green, red, silver and black with iridescence.

10. What is the essential item?

Concealers! They are miraculous!