From a hobby to a career in film, TV and fashion make-up

Above: the Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make up Services) class of 2021 in the new Make-up studio at NIDA.

‘Many of the tutors on this course are professionals already working in the fashion, film, television and theatre industry,’ explains Sandra Wograndl, make-up artist, hair stylist and tutor on intense one-year Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make-up Services). ‘They often ask the students to assist them, in places like Sydney Opera House, production companies working on video clips, short films, TV commercials and fashion shoots.

‘Since they left the course last year, several of our students have worked on major productions, for example Frozen the Musical, and film productions with Hollywood studios or cosplay exhibitions like Supanova, ’ said Sandra.

Above: Ahdinda Ley (left) and Lachie Masters at work at NIDA on 'era looks.'

Ahdinda Ley discovered her flair and passion for makeup during lockdown in 2020. Originally from Byron Bay in northern NSW, she had been following a path to engineering through university, and then had ‘a light bulb moment in lockdown’.

‘I thought what do I really want to do? What do I have the drive for now? There’s no time like the present I thought. I had a quarterlife crisis. At the same time I was loving creating looks on my family and friends. I spoke to everyone I knew and they encouraged me to apply to NIDA.

‘I really wanted to learn from the best, with NIDA’s reputation and prestige, and get the best skills.  Shoot for the stars I thought, so I applied and got in. It was the greatest day when I got in! My life has changed!’ said Ahdinda.

Above: the Diploma of Screen and Media (Specialist Make up Services) includes hair styling and wig work.

Joshan Ramadani discovered his talent for make-up in 2020 during lockdown in Canberra. ‘I was bored in quarantine and wanted to pick up a new hobby. I started working on myself with make-up at home with my parents and discovered that I really loved it. At NIDA, I love working on big looks, avant garde styles, and would love to get into fashion and film – I am excited to work on special effects as well.’

From the Northern Beaches of Sydney, Lachie Masters always knew he would be involved in the performing arts. ‘Make-up and styling was the only choice for me. I want to be the best in the industry. I love crazy looks and drag looks and exaggerated styles. That’s what I love about studying at NIDA  - we work on so many different looks! Meeting people here with their connections and experience makes it less scary to go out into the industry – we know how it works.’

Feeling inspired? All fees for NIDA courses are free for 2021 applications if you apply by 30 September. Apply.nida.edu.au for all the information. CUA51020 Diploma of  Screen and Media (Specialist  Make-up Services).