What does Brikasia mean, and how do you pronounce it?
When I first launched Brikasia after I graduated high school, I was going to work on it with my two friends, Rosie and Alyssa. We took bits and pieces of our names and mashed them up to create “Brikasia”. We knew we didn’t want a generic blog name, like Beauty by Brianna or something like that. Little did we know that people would butcher our blog name even after we politely corrected them! Meh, c’est la vie. Anyway, my two friends ended up going away to college (while I was staying home to go to a local college), and had to abandon our Brikasia project. So then there was just me, just like it still is today. And fun fact: it is pronounced bree-kah-see-ah, not brick-asia.
Do you make Youtube tutorials?
I used to. Actually, when I first got into the online beauty community, I didn’t have a blog at all! I was only on Youtube, and would faithfully upload new tutorials twice a week. I seriously do not know how I had that much time on my hands. Also, I’m a little embarrassed at how awful I was back then, but it was a great learning experience! My video camera no longer works, so I’ve put the kibosh on making Youtube videos. But I have hope for the future!
Are you a makeup artist?
Yes, I am. I have been for about four years. If you follow me on Instagram, I tend to post bits and pieces of my professional work on there. If you live in the Central Florida area and are interested in hiring me, here’s a link to my portfolio.
What kind of camera do you use?
I have a pretty old Nikon D3000 camera. It’s actually discontinued. I think the updated version of it is the Nikon D3100. I’m a lil’ pissed off because apparently right after I bought the D3000, they discontinued it and launched the D3100 which has VIDEO. My camera does not have video, and the quality of pictures is less than stellar. Ranting aside, I use the AF-S Nikkor 50mm 1.8f lens.
Do you Photoshop your images?
There is a really long answer to this, but simply put: Yes. I have significant skin issues that can take away from the makeup, so I will edit these issues out. Other than that, I just color correct so the makeup can look true-to-color.
What do you use for lighting?
I only use natural light. My desk is set up in front of a big ol’ window, so I just set my camera up in front of that and BOOM. Gorgeous lighting. The downside is that I can only take pictures when the lighting is good outside… But it is totally worth it.
Where are you from?
Florida! I spent most of my childhood in New York, so I identify more as a New Yorker than a Floridian. Ethnicity-wise, I am 100% Puerto Rican. Boricua allllll the way.
What do you use to edit your Instagram pics?
I am completely infatuated with the VSCO app on the iPhone.
I’m interested in booking you as a makeup artist for my wedding/special event/etc. How can I get in touch with you?
Sweet! I would love to work with you. I’m based in Central Florida on the Space Coast, and you can get in touch with me right here.