Makeup artists use a range of cosmetic products to enhance their clients’ appearances. They may work for magazines, theater, or the modeling industry.
Many makeup artists begin their career at department store counters, where they can gain experience and build a portfolio of their work. This gives them an advantage when applying for more competitive jobs within the industry.
Training
Makeup artists must complete an intensive course of study to earn their license as makeup artists. This instruction covers everything from applying and removing cosmetics on live models or mannequins, to setting up workstations and maintaining tools and supplies.
Most of these programs also include business training, which is essential for running your own makeup business. Along with essential skills like initiative and physical stamina, you need to be able to effectively manage your time.
Your education as a makeup artist can lead to employment at numerous places, including dermatologist’s offices, salons, film sets or backstage at theater productions. You may even choose to become an independent contractor by offering your services for weddings and photoshoots.
In addition to your formal education, it’s beneficial to build a network of peers who can assist you with learning new techniques and developing business skills as you go. This could be through events, volunteering your services, or establishing yourself on social media channels.
Experience
Makeup artists typically work freelance, so they must be adaptable and willing to work long hours.
They may need to work weekends if they are required to do makeup for special events. This can be a stressful situation for them and their families, since they must often travel far distances in order to get to and from work.
A makeup artist’s resume should showcase a diverse range of experience. This demonstrates their capacity to apply different types of cosmetics on various clients and facial shapes and types.
Portfolios
A makeup artist’s portfolio is an integral component of their career. Not only does it showcase their best work, but it can also draw in new clients.
Crafting an impressive makeup artist portfolio takes patience and commitment, but the outcome is worth all the effort. A well-presented portfolio can help you stand out from competitors and attract higher paying jobs and clients.
As a first step, select only a few outstanding photos (and avoid overloading your portfolio with hundreds). Arrange these images logically so there is an overall “flow” between the images.
Include a range of images and styles, from clean makeup to editorial looks. This will demonstrate that you are versatile and capable of crafting various looks.
Additionally, include before-and-after photos to showcase drastic or subtle transformation. Doing so will compel your audience to engage with the photos and share them on social media, increasing the number of followers you already have.
Choosing beggars
Makeup artists employed in film or television often don’t require a university degree to land a job. Some even work as freelancers, allowing for flexible scheduling options.
Makeup artists, whether employed in an office setting or from home, should be paid for their skills and experience. Not only should they be compensated for time spent on a project but also the cosmetics and other materials used to achieve the look desired.
Unfortunately, some individuals fail to understand the worth of creative work and attempt to obtain it for free. They usually do this by promising exposure on social media channels or other forms of exposure.
Artists who offer their services often face a major frustration due to this practice. Many artists turn to the Choosing Beggars subreddit, with over 2 million members, to expose those attempting to obtain free artwork.