We recently had the chance to connect with Kao Miyamoto and have shared our conversation below.
Kao, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I used to be such a work machine that I didn’t really have much to share outside of work because most of my “free” time was spent organizing my kit, prepping for the next project, or thinking about jobs. These days, I find so much joy in the small, silly laughs I share with my husband and in watching our son grow. Seeing him change and learn new things has been one of my proudest and happiest experiences.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Kao Miyamoto Nunez, a Film and TV Makeup Artist originally from Tokyo, Japan. I’ve been fortunate to work on everything from indie films to big productions. What makes my journey unique is that I started with very limited resources and built my career through persistence, adaptability, and a deep love for the craft. Joining the Local 706 Makeup and Hair Union as a makeup artist in 2023 was an important and proud milestone for me. What I love most is collaborating with an insanely talented crew to make movie magic, bringing ideas to life with creativity and by staying flexible to whatever the set throws at me. Every set is different, and that’s what makes this work so interesting and rewarding.
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I think my mom saw me clearly before I saw myself. She knew I was into film and art, and she let me draw all the time, watch tons of movies, and we’d go to the theater together. Looking back, I realize she was nurturing that passion in me long before I understood it… and I don’t think she even realized she was doing that.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There were many times I felt like giving up especially during Covid and the industry strikes when work came to a halt. Staying positive through all that uncertainty was the hardest part, but with my family’s support, especially my husband’s, I kept moving forward. I used that time to focus on growth, sharpening my skills both personally and professionally.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief you used to hold tightly but now think was naive or wrong?
I used to think working really hard was all it took to get what you want. I still believe in that, but I’ve realized it’s not the whole picture. Luck, timing, and connections matter too. And honestly, being nice to everyone is essential, because the way you treat people often opens doors hard work alone can’t.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m with my family, especially when I’m spending time with my husband and our little one who just turned one, and we’re fully present together. I also feel that same peace on set, when I’m working alongside my team and everything just clicks. Both parts of my life give me balance and remind me why I keep moving forward.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://linktr.ee/makeupbykao
- Instagram: kao_makeupfx
Image Credits
Christian Nunez
Niko Nunez
