How did you become a make up artist?
I used to be a hair dresser and did a few test shoots, nobody was doing makeup so just
asked if I could do it – that was the very beginning.

What is the key to your success?
I never really thought I was successful yet but I think I developed my own style by
always thinking about how I can put together something special.

What’s your advice for anyone wanting to become a make up artist?
Enjoy it and concentrate on what you are doing.

What is your signature make up?
I am good with colours.

What job are you most proud of?
I have just finished my beauty book and I’m publishing it with the photographer Rankin
in July in London, then LA and Tokyo in August. I’m super proud of this book!

 What was it like to work with Rankin and to create a whole book?
It was a two and half year long project, I had total freedom and really enjoyed
working on every single shot. He is very open-minded and encouraging, amazing beauty photographer.

Did you come up with the concept? If so where did you get the inspiration?
My theme for this book is ‘cyber’ and I expressed that in so many different ways - my own cyber beauty.
Every shot is inspired by a different element, like flowers, animals, insects, 80s,
Japanese street fashion, Xray, aliens, fashion illustration etc.

How many hours of work is behind a book project?
 We shot during two years but it’s actually done in just over 20 days, it was hard
to organise everyone together as I had specific request to set designers, hair
dressers, stylists and nail artists.

Would you like to do another one?
Yes, I would like to do a second book but with a different concept.

What do you think will be the next big make up trend?
More graphic and stronger.

What is your top make up tip?
Always curl your eye lashes

What is your favourite product in your kit?
Soft Focus Foundation by MAKE – this new brand has an amazing foundation and
colours.

Any exciting future plans?
My book launch in three cities!

What’s your favourite city?
London

What do you dream of?
That book will inspire lots of young people!

Ayami Nishimura by Rankin will be published in July. 

I grew up in a small town , everyone knew I wanted to be a hairdresser . Before my last school year was up I had 2 offers to start an apprenticeship. I was very fortunate.

What is the key to your success?

Believing in myself, setting goals and then going after them . I think being professional and reliable at all times clients appreciate greatly.

Which job are you most proud of?

There are so many its difficult to name just one.

I did a perfume film this year with LA director Martin Scorsese . It was pretty “special” to work alongside such an iconic director as he , especially as he is from the film world we don’t have much easy access to these big Hollywood directors in fashion .