Makeup [Spiral-bound]

Chap 1: Makeup as Self-discovery - This part is an autobiography of her life as a makeup artist. A fun part to read to know her makeup philosophy. I often find that it is good to understand an artist's philosophy before start reading her book. (e.g, Some people dislike Bobbi's book because they think that the looks are boring. But by reading the introduction, you would know her appreciation for natural beauty and that book is actually for everyday makeup.)

Chap 2: Basics - This part is no basics! There are a few of step-by-step photos but not many. Most important of all it shows the techniques of wearing makeup. E.g, different ways to apply eye shadow, different placement of blush to correct face shapes and some lip color mixing tricks. It doesn't teach you one method as in Bobbi Brown's book. It rather gives you a few ways and let you decide on your own.

Chap 3: Glamourizing Technques: It features some perioud makeup info and some glamourizing techniques. There's a step-by-step guide to smoking eyes, a comprehensive info on contour, putting on false lashes, etc. This part is nice if you want something beyond everyday look. It's quite easy to follow.

Chap 4: Freestyle makeup- Linda Mason is an advocate of freestyle makeup- a style which has no rules at all, you just apply color with your intuition. You may not like every photo in this section, but I think one should always appreciate the creativity in her. This part is truly an art. You must see with your heart but not only your eyes. This chapter is the gallery of her 'art'. At the end of this chapter, she would also tell you what do use in freestyle makeup.

Chap 5 + Chap 6: Professional Makeup & Becoming a Makeup Artist-These 2 parts are particularly for aspiring makeup artists. It tells you some work information, e.g, working on location, how to start out and the makeup kit. Not really everything you need to know, but it is good if you want to see a general picture of the industry.

Generally speaking, I like this book very much. As I have mentioned above, you may not agree with every picture in it. Some pictures are too old fashion in today's eyes, or you just don't like some of the freestyle makeup. However, you can definately see the creativity in Linda Mason towards makeup. She does not conform to any rules, any color spectrum. Her passion for colors matches my makeup philosophy very much, that's also a reason why I like her book so much. Moreover, being an aspiring makeup artist without much basic knowledge, this book gives me some good advices but not premade beauties as in Kevyn Aucoin's or NARS's book. It really encourages creativity. I would recommend people who want to learn about makeup techniques but not looking for premade looks (if you want something to follow, try Kevyn's Making Faces and NARS) and those who really believe in makeup as an art form. However, if you are a professional looking for technical tips, e.g, lighting, or ingredients in makeup, this is not what you are looking for.