Well done for posting!
I wont comment as Bagpuss has covered it. Have you done any sculpting yet as a set of custom blends would look great on those nails and hide those pesky rings of fire. xx
I definitely agree. A nice coverage powder would cover a previous tech's (or irresponsible client's) mistakes. I also am with everyone in commending you in posting large, detailed photos and being so open to learning. You will certainly be an amazing nail tech with that attitude!
Bagpuss has mentioned most of the things that need improving here, but you know, for a first set on a client, I have seen much, much worse! You know about the white...it would look much more balanced if it were shorter or the nail bed extended. The shape is really nice though, soft square. And you have very good consistancy with the shape and length (some people have to work at that, so good job!) I see this is gel. I hope this doesn't sound harsh, but I'd totally toss those tips! They are funky looking and a tip should HELP you create a beautiful nail, not hinder your talent. So that is definitely my first suggestion: get a good, nicely shaped white tip if that is what you prefer to use. Otherwise, I'd suggest clear tips and a white sculpting gel. That way, you can put the tip where you are comfortable and then put the white where it should be.
The sidewalls, as stated, need a bit of tidying. I think maybe you are applying a bit too much gel at once and it's running on you. Unfortunately, anything that touches the skin is garaunteed to lift, so this should be your top priority. Try doing more but thinner layers. Or freeze a thicker, builder layer as soon as you get done so it doesn't run, and move back and forth between hands. (Also, let me just say that a good product with good consistency will help you loads with structure, so this should get much easier after your conversion.)
The third thing I noticed most (again, previously stated) is the flat apex. This is particularly difficult to get right with gel (I know, I went from L&P to gel. Apex horrr!) Start with your gel in the middle and tease it out to the edges. Look at every nail you create from the side...there should be a nice, natural slope. It should always been thickest down the center of the nail. Getting the apex right will give you a lot more strength, also. Sometimes, with some products, you can cure the fingers upside down, giving you an apex without the work. You could try that (probably on yourself first! lol) and see if it helps.
I really do think you're on the right track. After your course, you'll be so confident and I see a very good nail tech coming out of it. I hope all this helps!
Jessica
