Makeup artists specialize in providing clients with various beauty looks. Some makeup artists work at beauty salons or department store cosmetic counters.
To become a makeup artist, formal training must first be obtained. This may take the form of taking college courses or working alongside an established makeup artist.
Job Description
Makeup artists specialize in customizing looks for clients based on consultation and their specifications, taking lighting and setting into account when applying makeup. Applying it requires creativity as well as an understanding of various fashion trends and style options in order to design the best looks possible for each client.
Many makeup artists turn to freelance work in order to build up a portfolio and find opportunities for work. Freelancers often start off working for free or less than the recommended industry rate on low-budget productions or editorial shoots in order to gain experience and build professional contacts. Others choose working in department stores or cosmetics companies as beauty assistants or product sales people for steady income; such positions usually require cosmetology/esthetics license from an accredited school, customer service skills, and the appropriate license(s).
Education and Training Requirements
There are various training programs designed to equip you for a career as a makeup artist. Most courses focus on teaching the fundamentals of applying cosmetic products directly onto skin. They also assist you with building up a portfolio showcasing your work; an essential aspect of job searching where your talent and connections with professionals within your industry can shine through.
Aspiring editorial and special effects makeup artists may require additional courses in art, photography and drawing in order to hone their craft. Drawing and painting are especially helpful in producing artistic renderings required to create specific looks; while special effects makeup involves learning to sculpt rubber/plastic features such as lips or noses.
Other coursework includes classes in color theory, fashion history and film production. Some states require licensed makeup artists; these requirements can differ between states.
Working Conditions
Most makeup artists work freelance or through an agency to find temporary work. Bidding for projects per project basis with rates determined by experience and networking within a specialty field; some may provide additional beauty services such as hair styling, skincare or fashion styling in order to boost income.
Theatre and performance makeup artists are experts at adapting performers’ appearance to reflect various eras or decades, using makeup to alter their look accordingly. They may also design prosthetics made of rubber or plastic and supply any necessary cosmetic products to achieve desired effects.
Some makeup artists must travel frequently, which can be costly and draining. Film and fashion industries also incur expenses related to studio space rental fees as well as equipment purchases for equipment rental needs and supplies. Furthermore, microblading specialists typically need a separate room dedicated to this service.
Salary
Makeup artists’ salaries depend upon their skillset and level of experience, as well as how much they charge for their services. Beginner makeup artists should start small by accepting clients willing to pay fair rates; this will enable them to build up a portfolio while earning trustworthiness among clients.
Makeup artists must also offer excellent customer service to ensure the comfort and safety of their clients, increasing the likelihood that they return or refer others.
Freelancing can be a rewarding option for makeup artists looking for more control of their schedule and work. Although challenging and stressful at times, freelancing can also be extremely rewarding – sign up with an app connecting makeup artists with clients if interested – you will also need to pay self-employment taxes of 7.65% of your income as self-employment taxes must also be paid on income earned from freelance work.