Atlanta Voyage's Bold Journeys Article

Amber, so great to be with you and I think a lot of folks are going to benefit from hearing your story and lessons and wisdom. Imposter Syndrome is something that we now have words to describe, but it’s something that has held people back forever and so we’re really interested to hear about your story and how you overcame imposter syndrome.


Imposter syndrome is such a funny thing. It's kind of the lie our brain tells us to keep us “safe” from some imaginary harm. Where your brain is acting as this overzealous security guard, constantly on the lookout for non-existent dangers. Instead of fleeing from a ferocious tiger, we’re braving the wilds of public speaking, seeking promotions, or in my case, casually mingling with top-tier celebrities on film sets worth more than a small island. (no big deal, I always remind myself)

In the early days of working as a Makeup Artist for Film and TV, my imposter syndrome was like an untamed beast! Yet, I found, taking the metaphorical leap off the cliff did wonders to silence that nagging doubting voice in my head. “Do it scared” became my life-saving mantra. It’s all about showing up, even if your knees are shaking, and proving to yourself that you can and will face your fears and that even if you fall on your face (you might and that's OKAY!), you will get back up, dust yourself off…evaluate the lesson learned, implement the lesson and stride forward.

Here’s the kicker: I’ve kicked imposter syndrome to the curb. Yep, you heard me, it’s gone. How, you ask? After over 15 years working with the faces of the rich and famous, from CEOs to silver screen stars, and even a U.S. President, it hit me—we’re all just gloriously imperfect humans! And NO ONE, I mean no one has a clue what they’re doing 100% of the time, so technically, we’re all faking it till we make it. If everyone’s an imposter, then no one is, right?

So, prioritize showing up for numero uno—you. Convince yourself that no tumble is too great, no blunder too grand, and you’re practically there. The rest is a sprinkle of luck, which is really just being ready when chance comes knocking.

You’ve totally got this, whatever your “this” may be.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

Of course! My name is Amber Michael and I am a Makeup Artist and Designer for Film/TV.  I have now worked in the industry for over 15 years (time is absolutely mind blowing!). My passion for the performing arts ignited at the tender age of five, through theatre and local commercials where I acted, danced, and sang my way into creating a new world for myself. In high school, I discovered my interest in makeup artistry, and I was able to enhance performances by applying stage makeup to myself and my peers, unbeknownst to me, marking the start of what would soon become my career. After High School graduation and throughout University, I found myself working on various projects, from stage productions to music videos, commercials, and indie films as a Makeup Artist.

In 2016 I decided to move to Atlanta to better chase my dreams of working in the Film Industry at a real professional level. Moving to Atlanta was the best decision I have ever made! (If you are called somewhere, go!) In one year I was already working on my first major Television show "The Walking Dead" where I was really tested physically (and mentally, sheesh) by such a demanding set with extreme outdoor locations, it felt very much like putting in my dues. A few years after that I was finally able to join the union, IATSE 798, which has given me the amazing opportunity to take on more major Film and TV productions. 

I have had so many dream "pinch me!" moments. And I am honestly so filled with gratitude!  I Department Headed my first Major TV show for Paramount+, "Long Slow Exhale" in 2021, I Keyed the final "Halloween Ends" reshoots with Jamie Lee Curtis (spoiler alert! She is my favorite human I have ever worked with!) for Department Head Michael Mosher, had the honor to apply countless special effects prosthetics for "Guardians of the Galaxy III'' (we broke a world record!), Collaborated with the Department Head and Designer of, and applied beautiful work for, Disney's latest "Haunted Mansion" film, and MOST excitedly was hired *personally* by film director David Yates (of the"Harry Potter'', "Fantastic Beasts" franchises) to collaborate on designing bodypaint for his latest film, "Paint Hustlers'', starring Emily Blunt.  Everything was feeling amazing!  Then, like for everyone in the industry, everything came to a screeching halt due to the strikes in 2023.  I know many of us are still reeling!

But! I have never stopped moving forward, and in this industry you have to roll with the punches. So, I have been keeping my creative mind busy by writing my blog, full of tips and tricks for production Makeup Artists and interviewing industry leaders.  Which has been very exciting and enlightening!  (*Hint hint* link below!) Who knows what the future holds, but I'll be ready!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Embracing the role of a perpetual learner is the secret sauce to maintaining relevance in this ever-evolving industry. Recognizing that the landscape is a mosaic of diverse perspectives, it’s crucial to remember that your unique viewpoint is valuable and warrants expression. Above all, consistently presenting the best version of yourself and resisting the siren call of fear, propels you to greater heights—coupled with a dash of charm and a sprinkle of humor, you will go far! So, maybe more than three haha!

One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect, and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?


 I am always on the lookout for fellow visionaries who value creativity and dedication as much as I do. Collaborating with filmmakers, photographers, and fellow makeup artists is my kind of jam! Should you feel the spark to connect, discover my portfolio and drop me a line through my digital haven at AmberMichaelArt.com, or slide into my Instagram DMs @AmberMichaelArt – let’s create something unforgettable together!

Contact Info:

Amber Michael