Tell us a little bit about yourself!
Hello! I am Leilany Quintana, a 22-year-old makeup artist! I’m Puerto Rican and also bilingual. I graduated from high school in Florida and currently live in Chicago. I’m also a stay-at-home mother of a beautiful 3-year-old daughter! To describe my interests, I love art and mysteries!
Why did you decide to become a makeup artist?
I became a makeup artist because I wanted to learn different ways to show off art. Growing up, I colored and painted all the time. As I got older, I wanted to try something new – which was, of course, makeup.
I was also inspired by the makeup that was being done on actors. In particular, the movie, Labyrinth, was a big source of inspiration. David Bowie (who played the Goblin King) had a very unique look that you don’t see often in movies!
I started doing makeup 2 and a half years ago, and it’s been the best decision I have ever made! Personally, I believe that makeup can help show your personality or help tell your story. Being a makeup artist can also mean a flexible schedule. You get to meet people and go to places you’ve never been before. Moreover, there are SO many ways to continue learning and growing your craft!
How would you describe your makeup style? What’s your favorite makeup style?
I’d describe my makeup style as whatever mood I’m feeling at the moment! It can be a natural, classic look, a body and paint/special effects look, or even something bold. In terms of my favorite style, I’d say a bold look because I feel more like myself. Plus, you can be more creative; experimenting and having fun with different colors!
Why did you decide to pursue your certification training online instead of in-person?
Honestly, because of the pandemic. I was NOT going to let COVID-19 stop me from achieving one of my dreams! When I discovered QC Makeup Academy, they were the only school I found that was pocket-friendly! Furthermore, they also let you take your time and finish your course at your own pace… which I absolutely LOVE!
How did you discover QC Makeup Academy?
I discovered QC Makeup Academy through an ad I saw on YouTube! Ultimately, I decided to enroll because they offer a very flexible schedule, which helps a lot when you’re a stay-at-home mother.
You’ve since graduated from QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course. Overall, how was your experience in this certification program?
My experience in the Master Makeup Artistry Course was amazing! Firstly, I love how they helped provide me with all the equipment needed for my training. I literally learned so much from the course! In fact, now I’m considering doing the Pro Makeup Workshop in the future.
In the Master Makeup Artistry Course, Unit B is known for being especially challenging. What was the biggest challenge YOU faced in Unit B and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced in Unit B was the blending assignment. Before taking the MMA course, I did not know much about blending. However, I overcame this challenge by taking my time, and constantly practicing until I perfected it. After all, practice makes perfect!
How valuable were the course materials provided to you (i.e. textbooks, instructional videos, makeup kit, etc.)?
To me, the course materials provided by QC Makeup Academy are VERY valuable! Literally everything you need to complete this course is given to you – and included within the cost of the program, on top of that. How amazing!
What was your favorite hands-on assignment and why?
My favorite hands-on assignment was blocking off my eyebrows! I didn’t expect it to be one of the assignments included in this course, but I’m very glad it was. It was very interesting and challenging, but I had so much fun doing it!
Give us an example of feedback you received from your QC Makeup Academy tutor, Nathan Johnson, that has helped you to become a stronger makeup artist!
Before I met Nathan Johnson, I used to take pictures with my front camera. However, he recommended taking pictures of my work with the back camera instead. After that, I noticed a tremendous change in my makeup looks! They come out clearer and stand out more! Plus, this also helps you to get a better view of the mistakes and/or perfections you might’ve made during the application.
You graduated and earned your certification shortly after the COVID-19 lockdowns went into effect. How has the pandemic impacted your professional career over the last year? What have you done to adjust accordingly?
The pandemic impacted my professional career over the last year, in that I haven’t been able to book as many clients as I wanted to. So, in the meantime, I try to work mainly on close family and friends.
What’s the #1 reason you recommend QC Makeup Academy to aspiring and experienced makeup artists alike?
The Number One reason why I’d recommend QC Makeup Academy to other MUAs is because they’re the only online makeup school WORLDWIDE that can help you save lots of money when becoming a certified makeup artist!
What is the proudest moment in your makeup career (so far)?
My proudest moment in my makeup career so far was getting my certification! No words can describe the joy I felt in that moment.
What are your top 3 career goals as a makeup artist?
- Get sponsored by a makeup company!
- Develop my own makeup products!
- Create makeup looks for celebrities!
Finally: if you were trapped on a desert island and could only bring ONE makeup product with you, which one would you bring and why?
My concealer! I’d choose this because I could try to color correct pimples or shape my eyebrows. Fun fact: my eyebrows are my signature look!
