CG Green Screen and Hi Def

Question from a reader:
Is Makeup applied differently for CG, Hi Def, and Green Screen?
Yes there are a few adjustments I make. Everything depends on the job at hand. What are they shooting, what lighting are they using, and in what format. For Example I was hired to match a look already shot for Transformer Movie. This would be added into an existing shot. So continuity was the first thing to problem solve. The actor needed to look like he did a month before. Skin Tone, wounds, cuts, and dust. Secondly we were shooting Green Screen Hi Def. In these situations I use colors that work for green screen. Warm tones or opposite colors to green keep the actor from fading into the background. Also if the light is used to add contrast and a bit on the dark side I tend to keep my colors on the lighter. Hi Def has never been a problem for me. You should already be able to blend all makeup with a sponge like an airbrush effect. That said there are many times I pull out an airbrush to save time. Look at your work closely. Blend Makeup well. Have no rough edges. Men should be well groomed. Pay attention to detail. A good DP will see everything. Even wounds are not just thrown on. Apply the same methods above to create seamless wounds for Hi Def. I usually never use powder on close ups for Hi Def but anti Shines, Bobbi Brown paper blotters. If powder is needed use no colors press powder. On the movie it was all about the color of the dust and dirt. It had to look like ground up cement, and dirt from buildings. Between art Department, wardrobe and Makeup we decided to go with the Makeup departments Ben Nye Ash Powder for the most part. Skin tones and wounds were painted with Skin Illustrator FX , Temptu Dura Pro Palette, and Stacolor Palette Full Color.

Henna Tattoos

I read in the New York Times about Henna Tattoos and the dyes that can be found in some Henna Products. Henna is a vegetable dye.In some cases you can find PPD added to the dye. PPD is only ok'd to use in hair dyes. PPD used in Henna can cause blisters and leave a dark pigment on the skin. To be aware Henna alone can also cause allergic reaction. As makeup artists test products like henna first on the inside of the wrist to watch for any allergic reaction.Also be aware of what is in the product you are using. You can find more information at the Food and Drug Administration.Information found The New York Times, By Nicholas Bakalar 2008