Meet Cameron Blake | Special Effects Makeup Artist & Fabricator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cameron Blake and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cameron, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset, enjoying both the creative and technical aspects of running a business. After graduating from a Modern FX makeup school, I began my career as a special effects makeup artist. Initially, I thought I would focus solely on offering freelance services to filmmakers. However, after working with a variety of indie productions, I saw a common challenge: many had limited budgets and couldn’t afford professional makeup artists.

This experience sparked an idea: creating accessible special effects prosthetics that anyone could apply, while still achieving a high-quality look on camera. I wanted to design prosthetics that were affordable—priced under $15—latex-free, and easy to use, without requiring messy adhesives. By simply activating them with 91% isopropyl alcohol, they adhere securely to the skin. This approach allows student filmmakers and those with smaller budgets to avoid the cheap, Halloween-style makeup and still get great results. For more information about the prosthetics, I have a short tutorial video that can be found here: https://www.cams-fx.com/post/exciting-news-new-prosthetic-line-launching-in-january-2025

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Cam’s Creature & Character Creations (cams-fx.com), originally focused solely on special effects makeup and fabrication services. I launched the business in 2021 under a different name, but rebranded in 2023. Like any business, it came with challenges, but my prior experience in freelancing helped make the transition easier. Freelancing taught me that success is all about making connections and putting your work out there.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of work/life balance. Early on, I worked 14+ hour days, juggling everything from set work and social media marketing to applying for gigs and designing new products. This constant hustle led to burnout, which honestly set me back more than I’d like to admit. Over time, I learned that the quality of the time you spend working matters far more than the quantity. For example, I now focus on networking and marketing for just four hours a day, and I find I’m far more productive than when I used to overwork myself.

While maintaining balance is still something I’m striving for, it has made a big difference in my productivity this year, especially as I prepare to launch an exciting new side of my business. In January 2025, we will officially launch affordable, easy-to-apply prosthetics designed for student and low-budget filmmakers who need high-quality special effects makeup but can’t afford professional artists. I’ve been working on this product line since 2022, but after experiencing burnout at the end of that year, I took a step back to focus on my health. Since returning, I’ve found much more success, happiness, and balance in both my business and personal life.

I’m most excited about this new product line, as it reflects my commitment to making high-quality special effects accessible to those who need it most.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Some of my favorite spots in the city include Piedmont Park, Atlantic Station, and Sister Louisa’s Church of the Living Room & Ping Pong Emporium. I also love walking the Beltline to explore the shops, food options, and enjoy the nice weather. One memorable day, a friend and I went on an ‘oddities adventure,’ checking out Doll’s Head Trail, Rainy Day Revival, and Junkman’s Daughter.

Though I don’t dine out often, I highly recommend The Local for the best wings—especially their Korean BBQ variety—and Ginya Izakaya for delicious Japanese cuisine.

My all-time favorite spot, though just outside the city, is Old Mill Park in Roswell, GA. The walking trails, beautiful waterfall, and river provide a peaceful escape from the hustle of city life.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank Ken Misaki for encouraging me to pursue this business and for being there through every brainstorming session. His support and invaluable feedback have played a crucial role in helping me shape the business into what it is today. Without his guidance, I would be much further behind in reaching the milestones I’ve achieved.

Website: https://cams-fx.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cams_fxcreations/