The Makeup Artist: Isabella Schimid

The Journal is a place where we celebrate makers, artisans and creatives — those who shape culture with intention and craft. Here, we share their stories, honour their artistic process, and illuminate the beauty of creation.

Isabella Schimid is one of Australia’s most respected makeup artists, known for her refined touch and effortless ability to enhance natural beauty. With over two decades of experience across fashion, editorial, and advertising including for the likes of VOGUE, marie claire, VENROY and ALEMAIS, her artistry has shaped countless campaigns and inspired a new generation of creatives. As the chosen makeup artist on set for Haléau’s brand campaign shoot, Isabella brought her skin-first signature to life. Whether backstage at a runway or working with global icons, her focus remains the same: creating skin that feels real, radiant, and alive… 

You’ve built an incredible career as a makeup artist — can you tell us how you first got started in the industry?

I began my career as a skin therapist, working for the amazing Nerida Joy — now a renowned therapist in LA with a large celebrity clientele and an international reputation as an educator. She encouraged me to follow my dream of pursuing makeup. Film and TV were my first loves because I was drawn to storytelling and character creation. After 10 years in that side of the industry, I transitioned into fashion and editorial work through collaborating with a photographer.

What do you love most about makeup artistry, and how would you describe your personal style or philosophy when it comes to both makeup and skin?

I’m a huge skincare and makeup product junkie — I love products, and I even love packaging! What excites me most is creating a character and making skin look its absolute best. My style is very skin-focused: it’s all about bringing out the best features and concealing those we’d prefer to minimise. Personally, I gravitate towards healthy, natural-looking skin, subtle definition around the eyes, and just the right amount of concealing.

Can you walk us through your creative process for creating the makeup look on Aude Mangharam for Haléau’s campaign? How did you aim to reflect Haléau’s “skin-first” philosophy in the final looks?

This project was a dream because it was so focused on skin. I literally gave Aude a facial as soon as she arrived on set, starting with an oxygen treatment, a mild lactic peel, and a hydrating mask. I finished by using my Lyma laser to boost glow and refine texture. Once her skin was healthy and luminous, Haléau’s Pearl Baume was the perfect finishing touch for that radiant, skin-first glow.

We know Haléau’s Pearl Baume is all about that luminous, natural glow. Were there particular ingredients you were excited to work with, and how did the cream-balm texture influence the way you approached Aude’s look?

I was so excited to try the Pearl Baume. I loved how smooth and glowing it looked on the skin, and how beautifully reflective the pearl powder was — luminous without ever looking glittery. And the packaging — the shape, the finish, the overall design — it’s everything.

How does working on a campaign like Haléau’s stand out for you personally? Is there a moment from the shoot or a particular detail you’re especially proud of?

I adore shooting beauty campaigns, and this one felt particularly special because of how skin-focused it was. Watching the sunlight hit Aude’s skin, reflecting that luminous sheen, was incredible — the Pearl Baume truly made all my glowing skin dreams come true.