Behind the Image is an ongoing MODELS.com series taking a more personal look at both established and emerging creative talent.
Porsche Poon | Image courtesy of Total Management
Porsche Poon, Makeup Artist
Hometown: Hong Kong
Based: London/Paris
Representation: Total Management
How would you describe your work? What’s your trademark?
I’d describe my work as a mix of raw and dramatic, I’ve always loved strong contrasts. A lot of people I work with also tell me there’s a bit of “punk” in my style, which I take as a compliment.
How did you first discover your passion for makeup?
I first discovered my passion for makeup at a very young age. During our Sunday family dinners, I would watch all the women at the table, my grandma, my mum, and my aunties, redoing their lipstick. It felt like a ritual, almost like a little cult. From that moment, I knew I wanted to be part of that world.
Was there a specific moment that made you realize this was your career path?
I have always known I wanted to work in the fashion and beauty industries. I dipped my toes into the corporate world for a bit, working in PR and marketing for a beauty brand, but I quickly realized that the nine-to-five office life was not for me. One day, I was on set with the brand’s makeup artist, and everything clicked. This was what I was meant to do. I eventually quit my job in Hong Kong and moved to London to pursue my dream.
What’s your process for conceptualizing a look? Do you start with references, color palettes, emotions, or something else entirely?
For my personal beauty work, I usually start with whatever I am interested in at the moment or the emotions I want to express. When it comes to references, I prefer browsing graphic books rather than looking at real-life images.
Are there specific materials or textures you love working with? Are you drawn to certain finishes?
My preferences are always evolving. Currently, I am particularly drawn to cooler, greyish tones and cream or powder products. A year ago, I was obsessed with using a 3D printing pen. I love experimenting with unconventional materials, but there is one finish I always come back to: skin that looks as raw as possible. No matter how theatrical or experimental the makeup becomes, that fresh, real skin underneath keeps everything grounded.
What non-fashion influences (art, film, literature, music, etc.) shape your creative perspective?
Comics, manga, and anime have a huge influence on me, from X-Men and ONE PIECE to The Powerpuff Girls, and even the romantic series. I am inspired by their use of lines, shapes, and color.
What’s one thing outside of your work that you’d like people to know about you?
I am extremely curious and a massive fan of documentary series, whether it is TLC, BBC, or anything in between. I am especially drawn to crime and psychological documentaries. Feel free to DM me on Instagram with your recommendations!
What have been the biggest challenges you’ve faced professionally? What advice would you give?
One of the biggest challenges I have faced was a miscommunication on set. The model thought she was done and removed her makeup, but she still had one more look to shoot, and I had only ten minutes to redo it. My advice is that communication is absolutely key. Do not panic. Focus on resolving the situation instead of reacting to the problem.
Selected Work
Akuol Deng Atem by Elizaveta Porodina | Image courtesy of Total Management
Atmos Magazine November 2025 Cover
I chose this photo because I love how impactful the image is, and it is one of the most creatively involved projects I have worked on so far. The process was very open and fun, and we all had a voice in shaping the shoot. For one of the images, we tried to create the feeling of rain without actually getting the model wet. Playing with lighting, makeup, crystal beads, and different elements was incredibly joyful and inspiring as a creative.
Penelope Ternes by Guen Fiore | Image courtesy of Total Management
Harper’s Bazaar Italia #20 May 2025 Covers
My first-ever cover for Harper’s Bazaar Italia and its impact on my career is still unfolding. However, it is definitely a dream come true and something I’ve always had on my bucket list.
Mia Goth by Petra Collins | Image courtesy of Total Management
Modern Weekly China November 2025 Cover
I love Mia Goth, and this is truly one of my favourite shoots of the year. Modern Weekly China gave us a lot of creative freedom. Beyond making her look beautiful, Petra Collins and Kingsley Tao wanted to create a character for the story, and it was so much fun to be part of that creative process.
Hannah Motler by David Ferrua | Image courtesy of Total Management
Vogue Ukraine July 2025 Cover
My first-ever beauty cover with Vogue Ukraine was a milestone for me. This shoot gave me the chance to showcase a high-glam look with my own twist. The brief was essentially 80s glam, and the rest was left up to me to create. I suggested approaching the makeup with the idea of imbalance within classic, perfected beauty. You will notice thin, drawn-on brows with slightly different color ratios on each side, as well as uneven color placement along the waterline in some of the looks.
Arca by Hugo Comte | Image courtesy of Total Management
Byredo Astronomical Mascara Spring 2022 Campaign
My first-ever beauty campaign. This makeup represents the style I love to create: raw, clean skin with a touch of drama.
Iris Law by Carlijn Jacobs | Image courtesy of Total Management
Versace Dylan Purple Fragrance 2022 Campaign
My first time in Mexico was for my first worldwide fragrance campaign, where I got to tan Iris (Law’s) face and body. This project has had such a significant impact on my career.
