As a makeup artist, it's only natural that I know my share of beauty tricks and tips. However, there's nothing wrong with getting tips from other professionals on the front line. My good friend and professional makeup artist Bradford Knight has cultured the faces of many television and movie stars -- including Rosario Dawson, S. Epatha Merkerson and Camila Alves. I recently caught up with the makeup guru to discuss beauty dos and dont's. Ladies, take notes.

How long have you been in the business?
I started doing makeup in college and it just took off from there.

What's your favorite line of makeup?
M.A.C. Cosmetics because I love their color range, and you can really find everything you need. I'm a fan of Bobbi Brown and Smashbox, but I love M.A.C. because they have a continual range of color that can match all women of color. Sometimes you find ranges within other lines with brown shades but M.A.C. is the most consistent.

Do you have any summer faves?
I don't have a favorite product, but I always have a favorite summer look -- fresh and minimal -- which includes foundation and powder as needed. I love the look of a lighter bronze shadow lightly dusted over the eyelid and finished with mascara. A fresh peach or coral cheek and a sheer yet vibrant lip shade like M.A.C. Lychee Luxe Lipglass ($14, maccosmetics.com) and Creme Sheen Glass in Double Dare ($18, maccosmetics.com). My favorite blush in life is called Fleur Power. It looks good on a full range of skin tones -- from the fairest to darker tones. It's simply the perfect coral cheek.
What's in your kit?
Fleur Power blush and what I use most often on all of my clients, M.A.C. Mineralize Skinfinish Natural ($26, maccosmetics.com). It serves as a setting powder and comes in a range of shades. The finish leaves the skin looking natural as opposed to matte and powdery.

What's the must-have product of the moment?
M.A.C. Opulash Mascara ($14, nordstrom.com) because it gives you dramatic lashes instantly. It doesn't flake and it's long-wearing. It's also water-resistant and a great way to add drama to your eyes without adding a lot of product.
What's the biggest mistake women make when applying makeup?
Poorly applied false lashes in the daytime. Make sure that your lash application is even and symmetrical and that you have chosen an eyelash that mimics your natural lash pattern.

What's your mantra?
Wear as much makeup as you feel comfortable in. Just make sure that what you choose to wear is applied skillfully and precisely.