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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist |
Becoming a make-up artist requires dedication and
perseverance. I am not a professional make-up artist but I do consider myself
as a make-up artist solely based on the fact it is my hobby and a huge interest
of mine which I discussed in my make-up
story. I have knowledge in this industry and I understand it is competitive
and cutthroat. It is my dream to one day generate a business out of make-up
artistry and other social interests I have in order to empower people through a
therapy and eventually develop homemade cosmetics. However, right now I am more concerned with developing other skills
through my degree in law but I hope to one day use my degree as the backbone of
ideas. The question, "how do I become a make-up artist?" is something
I am asked by a number of individuals so I thought I
would address this and compile some answers in a written and audio
format through this post and a video for those who prefer to listen rather than
read and vice versa. So now that the housekeeping is out of the the
way, let's move on to the topic at hand. In short, ANYONE can be a make-up
artist as long as you have perception and commitment to what you wish to
achieve as make-up artist. Make-up artistry transcends age, gender,
race, culture and social norms. In this question and answer guide, I aim to be as articulate and as detailed as I possibly can. I have divided the topics into 36 areas some of which do overlap with each other. If you prefer concision, you can watch my video where I have trimmed the fat and made suggestions within 10 points. Hope you this helps any of you dreaming of becoming a make-up artist.
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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist - photo by Paul Warwick |
1) What is a make-up artist?
A make-up artist utilizes the human body in order to create
a multitude of looks for a variety of media productions including theater,
television, film, fashion, photography, catwalks and online platforms such as
blogging and vlogging. There are many different types of make-up artist who
focus solely on areas that interest them such as beauty, bridal, prosthetics
& special effects. In order to be successful in this industry takes great
dedication, determination and high level of skill. Awards are given to those
who are exceptional in their profession within the
entertainment industry including from Academy, Emmy and Golden
Globes. In America, you need to have acquired a license before working as a
make-up artist but in other areas of the world you can be self-taught or gain
a qualification. Many make-up artists are
freelance meaning their time is flexible. Make-up artists use a
range of techniques in order to achieve specific looks. When you eventually choose
what type of artistry you want to be involved in you should base this on your personality and general interests, for example, if you are someone who likes continuity then perhaps film and television make-up is the way forward but if
you like innovation, fresh ideas and conceptual change, perhaps editorial and
beauty make-up is where you see yourself heading.
2) What types of make-up artistry are there?
Many types. Fashion make-up is used primarily in
magazine photography as well as on the fashion runway and catwalk but can
also be seen in film and television work. Avant-garde make-up is
for projects that require experimental themes in a range of media outlets. Theatrical/stage
make-up is used on the stage and is not as refined as film, television or
fashion. This type of make-up uses different products than those used
for photography as it needs to work well under stage lights and
be seen on the actor's faces from the audience's
perspective. Theatrical make-up is often a way to over-exaggerate
facial features and is perhaps the main source of inspiration for
many drag performers. Special effects/SFX/prostehctics
make-up use of special techniques which enhancing physical features to
exhibit abstract and fantasy characteristics. The use of
prosthetics and plaster casting are also required for projects that entails
non-human appearances such as monsters and body painting. SFX use a variety of
products including tear sticks, fake blood, bruise wheels, and wax to give the
illusion of distress, burns and wounds. Airbrushing make-up uses air-operated device that sprays
liquids including alcohol and water-based makeup by a process of vaporization.
This is a popular technique for film, television and digital photography as higher definition cameras can detect more detail. Airbrushing allows for optimum
coverage in thin layers in order to avoid a dense and heavy appearance, unlike
stage make-up. Bridal make-up artists are highly skilled in this area as they
will understand that a bride will need to wear just enough make-up for it to photographed. Bridal make-up is part of multiple popular industries and has grown in popularity over the years. It is viewed as a separate branch of make-up artistry which incorporates the techniques of fashion, photographic and special occasion make-up. The artist is providing a luxury service to an individual client who desires to look and feel good rather than just a model who can be touched up on the set of a shoot. Bridal make-up ranges in style as it all depends on what the bride wants so anything goes from glamorous to contemporary and ethnic. High definition make-up utilizes light reflectors
and mineral ingredients such as minerals to give the skin a flawless finish. This is sometimes the preferred method of applying make-up for film and television instead of airbrushing as it is not as expensive.
3) I want to be self-taught, how should I do it?
We are living in a technologically advanced era where
everything is easily accessible and information is passed in seconds. This has
made learning from one another via social media and
the Internet easier but gone are the days when you admire an artist's
work in Vogue or Cosmopolitan and wonder how it was created. Becoming a
self-taught artist is as simple as ever. Gone are the enigmatic days
where the beauty industry secrets and illusions were hidden from the
public as now we can access tutorials at the click of a button. You need
to immerse yourself in watching tutorials on YouTube. My favorite content
creators on YouTube for technical skills, product knowledge and
general inspiration are Pixiwoo, Dustin Hunter, Wild Kat
Makeup, Karima McKimmie, Chrisspy, LetzMakeUp, Julia Graf, Sharon Farrell,
Shonagh Scott, Wayne Goss, Vintageortacky, MissJessicaHarlow,
Samantha Reilly, Nikki Tutorials, Tanya Burr, Jackie Aina, Shaaanxo Lisa
Eldridge, Alex Faction, GoldieStarling, Sadaf Wassan,
Myeyeshadowisodd, WOW Presnets, Zane MUA, TheMakeupChair, CinnamonJules,
Batalash, Patrick Starrrr, Missjbm22, Michael James, Radha Jones,
JamaicianMakeupArtist, Desi Perkins, Jkissa Makeup, EasyNeon, and Glam
& Gore. Be wary that YouTube often promotes a culture of wanting everything that is shown in a tutorial. Try to see past this and use products that are comfortable for you and not just because they are popular. You should watch a mixture of people who
have different skin tone, type and texture to yours so you can
learn more about product suitability. Books are great way of expanding you
knowledge, especially for basics like color theory, brushes and sanitation.
You should read books that will teach you things outside your
comfort zone. You should also invest in timeless books that are
filled
with indispensable and timeless make-up philosophies such as literature
from Way Bandy, Bobbi Brown, Kevyn Aucoin and Rae Morris. Artists like them
offer fantastic specialized advice so perhaps
also invest in books which are filled with
image references only as they will
continuously inspire you. You can also find
books specific to bridal, SFX and theater make-up if this
is the type you want to learn more about. Other ways you could learn
as a self-taught make-up artist is by researching celebrities who
do their own make-up like Dita Von Teese and Joan Collins.
Drag queens, theater performers, dancers, artists and local make-up artists can also be sources of education. Some of the best
worldwide recognized make-up artists are self-taught - Way Bandy, Val
Garland and Pat McGrath are just a few.
4) Do I have to attend a school to become a make-up artist?
Not necessarily but courses can help build your confidence
and skills. It can help you network and make friends with like-minded people.
Taking a class that is mentored by an established artist can also help you
build a thick skin as you will need this in an environment that
is criticized by peers and clients. This is an industry where you
need to be like Jekyll and Hyde in certain aspects. What I mean by that is
to have the ability to withstand harsh criticism but also be
open-minded, observant and impartial to changes and adaptations. Going to a
school will help you build your interpersonal and communication skills as well
as allow you to become comfortable with a variety of eye and face shapes, skin
tone and textures. Attending a class will help you become more approachable and
professional as many schools encourage you to bring in friends and family and
sometimes models to enable you to work with a variety of people. Schools will
also encourage you to take pictures of your work and others will have a
professional photographer to take studio images as part of course fees in
order to kick-start your portfolio. Remember that going to school
and earning a qualification has other benefits. Some brands will only
accept qualifications as proof of vocation as part of the required documentation to
obtain professional and student discount. Same goes for some employers. Of
course, you can be self-taught artist - look at Pat McGrath's career.
Formal education has some major advantages and of course
some disadvantages. If you are from Northern Ireland, I have compiled a
list of make-up
courses available in this area. This may also be beneficial to you if
you are from the UK and Ireland as there will be overlaps in the types of
courses available. Even of you are not from those areas, reading
the post on where to do a course may inspire you to look at your local area for
make-up artistry and other industry related courses as having extra skills will
set you apart from others competing for the same job you are applying for.
Don't forget that the technical skills as a make-up artist are always expanding
so even after your course you will still be learning and improving your
ability. Attending a course will not bring you a better job, that is up to
your individual professional ability and personal
self-confidence. If you are an established and professional make-up artist, attending short courses may re-introduce to new trends. I believe that people would never stop learning and you may just acquire new skills from meeting new teams of both like-minded people and those who are the complete opposite.
5) I left school a long time ago and want to change
my career. I want to join a make-up artistry class to begin my new
vocation but I concerned that everyone else is younger than me.
Try not to
be concerned by this. It takes all sorts to make the world turn. We
can all learn from each other - each generation can teach the next
and prior generations. Age should not matter as we all develop
at our own pace. Insecurities about age should be the least of your
worries.
6) Should I photograph my work?
Yes absolutely. This will be the start of your
portfolio and will also help you
to improve your skills. Make-up looks different in real
life than it does when translated into pictures. This is why for
photoshoots, I tend to apply more heavily than for a daily look. Make-up
in photographs does not look as vibrant so keep this in mind
when taking pictures of your work.
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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist - photo by Yvonne Martin |
7) How do I build up a portfolio?
There are a number of ways to build up a printed portfolio.
You could either hire a photographer and book models. Once you have entered
into a contract with them, they are legally obliged to honor the
verbal or written agreement. If you have paid for their services, you are more
likely to receive a higher standard image. Depending on the school you attend
for make-up, a photoshoot will be provided along with the costs of course.
Another way to start your portfolio is by contacting an amateur
photographer and collaboration together on a time for time
basis. You can advertise for one on social media or go to your local
further higher education college and universities and approach
photography or media student who wants to build their portfolio also. You
can use the same approach should need help with hair and nails. For models, ask
your most confident friends as confidence in front of a lens will outshine
typical beauty. This is the way I have built up my portfolio as it is the least
demanding and I can pick and choose who I want to collaborate with and when I
am feeling up to it. If you do decide to collaborate with others, be prepared
that people will drop out of initial agreements - this can be disappointing and
frustrating especially if you have planned the looks out
with careful consideration. Please be understanding when
this happens as the reality is everyone involved is simply just mutually
benefiting the other and it is not a professional relationship (by professional
I mean money has been exchanged) and life has other priorities. It
can also be annoying when the photographer in this situation does
not send the images or else you only get a few. In this case, you could
gently ask them once or twice and if that does not shift them, you
can be confrontational without being aggressive and suggest you are
willing to wait just a little a bit longer on the images. You can remind them
everyone involved did their best to create something special and gave up their
time and resources. If that still does not push to send anything, move on and
you can decide to not collaborate with them in future projects,
nor recommend their services to anyone. Please remember to not
be vindictive about anyone as unnecessarily speaking in
a negative and obnoxious manner about others talks more
about you than it does about them. When collaborating with a photographer,
choose a mixture of dates, times and locations as well as faces in order to
gain a multitude of looks and feelings. Ask the photographer for a some body
and head shots so that clients can see the detail of your work. You should also
have an array of looks including bronzed, masculine, androgynous, vintage,
evening, dramatic, avant garde and bridal, but pay most attention to your
natural work as these are the ones that mainly get you booked for jobs. If
including bridal in your portfolio, make it look as professional as possible
with the model wearing a wedding gown. I suggest updating your portfolio so
that it fits with current trends, period looks and the seasons. If you decide
not to collaborate with a photographer at all, you can choose some friends and
family members to model for you. Once you have done make-up and hair, get them
to stand in front of a white wall or background and take their picture with a
good quality camera. You can edit by adding and subtracting light with software
such as PicMonkey and Picasa. This is something I have done
frequently and can be a really enjoyable and therapeutic experience
for both you and your model. If you decide to print your images, choose an
A4 black photography binder. They can be expensive but look smart and
professional. Fill the book with your favorite images and size them slightly
smaller than the binder. I suggest putting your best work at the very front and
very back of the binder as potential clients tend to look at
these first. SHould you choose to be your own photographer as well as
make-up artist for your portfolio, I suggest keeping your bridal work separate
from your other images. A potential customer base of a wedding party are more
than likely not going to be interested in your latest drag make-ups, as fierce
as they are! If you do not wish to have a printed portfolio you can opt for an
online portfolio. This is a great way of networking with people on an
international level as more prospective clients will see your work. You
can pay for a web hosting service through Go
Daddy and you can register your domain there. Paying for website
will guarantee you more professional communication features. However,
before you commit to a domain, firstly try out being a make-up artist for six
months to a year before paying for a service you are not fully committed to.
Secondly, consider the professional name you want to be known by. The name
you thought looks and sounds good when you are 22 may make you cringe
at 28, trust me. I have been that soldier. I suggest opting for your name
or another version of it especially since clients will wish to connect with you
on a more personal and dignified level - and frankly, that begins with your
name. I like to be known online as Neala Olivia which are my first and middle
names. I will always have this name and I am glad I have used this name in the
past 18 months as since then I got married and changed my surname which is what
i am known to be my friends and family. The point is, the link is with the
first name, Neala, so that when people hear it or see it they can link me in a
professional and personal manner. There are also fee website hosting services
such as Wix but they don't look as
good as Blogger, Tumblr and Wordpress. I tend to click off a
website as soon as I see Wix in the domain name. Blogger, Tumblr Wordpress can
eventually be streamlined into your own domain so perhaps these
are the better ones for starting out. The only downside is once you post
something new, older posts are bumped down so a wesbite that allows clients
scroll through thumbnails is ideal. Remember for portfolios that are featured
heavily online, you are susceptible to criticism. This
is when you need a thick skin and become apathetic.
Although you want to impress clients, you still need to remain true to
your own values and artistry as you will enjoy your vocation more if you please
yourself more than trying to please everybody else.
8) Should I learn other skills like nails and hairdressing?
Yes, without a doubt. Having extra skills in hairdressing,
nails, wig making and holistic therapies will make you stand out
from the crowd. This is something I talk about in more detail in my guide
to make-up courses. Scroll down to the bottom of that post of you are not
interested in the courses.
9) How do I start to build my kit?
Start buying a few essential items that can help you
practice your looks. You will also need to invest in some skincare, brushes,
make-up remover and sanitation products. You can learn more about these beauty
basics from a number of reputable and detailed make-up artistry books. I have
an entire video dedicated to starting a make-up kit for
beginners but of course I would suggest these products to
established professionals as well. You absolutely do not have to
invest in the big brands. In fact I have two dupes videos that you can
watch here and here which show
you alternatives to popular make-up products. I am a firm believer
that make-up and beauty products all come from a small number of conglomerates
and are branded differently in order to reach a wider demographic -
the same way companies brand products and services in the
food, household and media industries. I can say with conviction that
when you buy from a popular brand you are paying for the name and the
packaging (still doesn't stop me from buying it, I tell myself it is for
research purposes, ha!) when you choose the original over the dupe. Beauty and
make-up is big money for large multinationals and so I want to share
information with you that can help you better understand the corporate culture
side of make-up artistry. If this is something you are interested in learning
more about you can check out my posts on secrets
of the superbrands and make-up
manufacturing. By the way, conglomerates, if you read this, you can send me
anything you want - one in every color. Anyway, back to the kit essentials. So
we have covered that is it acceptable and vesting to have drugstore and
inexpensive brands in your kit. Same goes for non-branded and lesser well-known
palettes from eBay - they will still perform well. One thing I would
say is to invest in good quality foundations as these are often the hardest to
find cheaper dupes for. Invest in a variety of brushes so
that you can create different effects on the eyes, lips and face. You
should salso invest in some skincare. You could opt for things that are
suitable for all skin types like cucumber based products, however it will
benefit you and your client by making your job, and blending easier if you
purchase skincare products that will individually be kind to oily,
dry, combination and sensitive skin. You don't have to buy expensive
brands for this as drugstore products will cater to all types of
skin. Try not to get to misled by the hype surrounding supposedly cult
status products. All that matters is that it works for you. I have been
disappointed with products that so many people seem to worship on many
occasions. All that being said, it is a good idea to invest in some luxury
items for your clients (bridezillas) as having brands like Chanel, MAC, YSL and
Urban Decay will satisfy your client in believing you to be competent in what
you are doing. It is sad to say but most of us want the brand and our general
perception is that we feel good when we recognize something
familiar. Have some choice brands in your kit along with some lesser known ones
will enable you to do two things; 1) Instill confidence in your client and
2) Enable you to pass information to your client who
would like to save money. Knowledge is power and will get
you booked for the next job.
10) How do I become comfortable working on with clients and
how can I make my client feel comfortable?
As already stated, practice on a variety of faces from your friends and
family and ask for their honest feedback. This will
help build your confidence and that thick skin we
talked about earlier. Make-up is a luxury service for people so
ensure you can make your client feel as comfortable as possible. Do this
by talking to and laughing with your client. You can remain professional but
you still want your personality to shine through as this is a factor in getting
booked again. You if have just eaten before starting to work on
someone's face, freshen your breath. Maintain good levels of
personal hygiene and carry around some toiletries and make-up to
feel refreshed throughout the day. Also wear some make-up (although not always
viable in weather conditions and bright studio lights of on film and television
sets). However, if brows and dewy skin are what you are known for, always have
these features looking fabulous. Think if your face as a human business
card and the bookings will just keep rolling in. If you smoke, QUIT!
No, seriously, if you smoke, then I am telling you now there is nothing worse
than someone working on your face and body or even just in
close proximity to you who smells of a cigarette poorly covered by
an indiscreet perfume. Often clients are too polite to say, 'your
smell is making me wacnt to retch,' but believe me, you will not get a call
back from that client if you do not conceal the smell correctly. For this I
recommend brushing your teeth, rinsing your mouth with a
mouthwash, sanitizing your hands, applying a floral or fruit scented
lotion on your hands and around your mouth, cheeks and chin. Finally spray
your hair and lightly mist your body with a fragrance that is not to
overpowering. This is much better than just using a perfume on it's own.
11) I have made a mistake on my client, what should I do?
Don't panic, it's only natural to make mistakes. This is how
we develop our skills and learn. If is something small like eyeliner or shadow
placement, it can be easily removed with a cotton bud and some make-up remover.
If is something like mismatching foundation to the skin, this may need to be
removed and re-applied. Good ways to avoid common mistakes are to continuously
step back and look at your model's face or have your model
in front of a large mirror so you
can intermittently check your progress. Remember that less
can sometimes be more in order to make a look striking and raw. Listen to
you inner voice - if you have planned someone to look a certain
way, especially for beauty and editorial work, you can change your
mind and either add or subtract from the make-up to make it look better. Ask
your colleagues such as the photographer if he thinks a particular look will
good on camera or ask for details on what type of lighting will be used so that
you will have an understanding of what the camera may wash out or pick up too
strongly. Don't be harsh on yourself if you haven't noticed any mistakes
but someone else has. It's only make-up and can be fixed.
12) What is TFP, PFT and TFT and should I collaborate with
others on this basis?
TFP means time for print, trade for print, test for print
and time for pictures. PFT is just an alternative abbreviation meaning print
for time. TFT is another way for saying time for time. They all have
the same meaning is these are used in the creative industry
between models, photographers, make-up artist,
hairdressers, stylists and nail technicians. Everyone involved
in the project agrees to not being paid but the photographer
will usually provide a number of images to all who are
involved for portfolio reasons. Another way of saying it is
TFCD meaning time or trade for CD, where the model and make-up
artist collaborates with the photographer in exchange for a CD
of the images. TFP is a great way for make-up artists starting out in the
industry as a way to gain experience, meet people and make friends. Of course
this has drawbacks, as earlier mentioned. There is no guarantee that
the photographer will hand over the images despite everyone
giving up their time. If you enter into an agreement between the
parties involved then you are not obliged to change the agreement on the
day. This has happened to me where I have been asked to apply a natural make-up
so I only bring what I think I need only for the model or photographer
to want a more dramatic look. Whilst it's not a problem to make last
minute changes, it can be frustrating especially if you are stuck in a certain
location for a prolonged period of time and not being paid. Although you should
be flexible and open-minded to changes, always put your best interests first
and of you don't feel comfortable or your boundaries are
being pushed you can just leave, especially if you are
being asked for things you did not initially agree to. For a short
while yes, do TFP/TFT to build upon your skills and see how your work
translates into other media formats but if you want this to be a career rather
than a hobby, you need to start charging a payment rate for your time. It's FEE
not FREE - a girl's got to eat and pay bills after all.
13) How can I assist an established artist in
my community?
After you complete your make-up course or if you decide to
be self-taught, you could assist an established make-up artist in your
community as you will get to observe the reality of being a make-up artist. If
you become an assistant remember this will be some of your best education
as it is practical. Approach them, be nice and respectful. either in
person or via
email. Utilize email etiquette especially if you don't
personally know them as this will alert their attention and will
show them you want to be viewed as a professional. When meeting them in person,
dress appropriately and wear make-up to show your
skills. Assist them for a while, perhaps for free and build a
rapport with them. Hopefully they won't be long recommending you for
paid jobs. Ideally an assistant should be fast, enthusiastic, quick thinking,
be able to plan ahead and primarily be a second pair of eyes to the make-up
artist you are assisting. Present your portfolio in a way that
showcases your best complexion work. If you can do skin, the
rest will come later and an established artist should know this. Assist for
anyone you possibly can and broaden your horizons to new places outside your
community. Once you have assisted for a number of make-up artists you will have
gained the knowledge of all their styles plus you have began to develop your own
tsyle. Typicall you will be cleaning brushes and running around until the
artist will let you apply make-up. Assisting a make-up artist is your first
rung on the professional ladder so treat this as you would even if you were
sitting behind a desk in an office. -
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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist - photo by Matthew McHugh |
14) How can I maintain a professional and competent manner?
As a student you can do this
by eagerness and willingness to learn. As a professional you can
do this by eagerness and willingness to learn. You can also do this
by asking what your client hopes to achieve for the
service you are providing them. Be yourself, to a degree. You can
laugh, talk and be relaxed with your client but remember that they
are not your friends and the majority of clients do not want an insight
into your personal life. For me, if I am paying for a service such as getting
my hair done, the major issue I have is the hair stylist talking to her
colleagues about their weekend and lifestyle choices instead of
concentrating on the task I am paying them to do. I know
I should like Hitler but I am want make-up artists to understand that
their are boundaries in this industry and they should be adhered to at all
times. Also heed what was mentioned previously regarding smoking and
eating before touching your client's face.
15) I am not that skilled at winged liner/smokey
eyes/contouring etc... Can I still be a
make-up artist?
Fear not. The answer is simply practice, practice, practice.
Practice on yourself, your friends and your family and do this on different eye
shapes, face shapes, skin tones, skin textures and skin types. Honestly, I am
not confident in winged liner but I am confident in other
areas. Firstly, focus on perfecting the natural look as this is a
look that often be done using too much make-up and this is a look that
will get you booked if you do it really well. Some of my favorite make-up
artists like Ellis Faas concentrate on making the skin look healthy and
flawless and if you become known for that technique alone, you will be booked
time and time again. Contouring is a shady area (get it?). Contouring
was popularized by drag queens in order to give them more
exaggerated feminine appearance. Then celebrities loved it and
then YouTube and Instagram happened. But the reality is, it can be too much for
daytime and can make a face look older. Contouring is a technique that was
typically used for theatrical and media make-up and
not specifically for everyday use. Understand the
difference between subtle daytime cheek contouring and full on RuPaul
glamazon contouring . That being said, if your client has asked for a
natural, youthful make-up and wants it, you can advise them on what I have just
stated but ultimately they are paying you for a service and you need
to indulge their fantasy make-up and oblige their requests. For
smokey eyes and winged liner, keep on practicing and you will hone your craft.
Remember that because you lack in one area, you can more than make up for in
another and also NEVER STOP LEARNING. Immerse yourself in learning and be observant
of anyone and everyone,= willing to teach - from video tutorials to books, you
will always discover new knowledge that will inspire you.
16) How can I stand out from the other competitive make-up
artists?
Get your name and face everywhere, learn who everyone is and
make sure everyone knows you. Work with enthusiasm and be prepared for long
hours. Widen your skill set and keep on learning industry related
things such as hairstyling, wig making, nails and other beauty
therapies. Narrow the type of make-up you do. Editorial make-up is different to
red carpet make-up as is bridal work different to SFX. By narrowing the type of
make-up you are known for, your name will become synonymous with one
or two particular areas and clients will contact you for
jobs in that area. Branding yourself in a specific way with extra skills
will set you apart from the competition. Create a tag-line on
your website or business card that includes what your brand is
about, such as bridal, SFX, teaching, celebrity make-up artist etc.
By finding your niche, you will be much happier in you job. Some are
more comfortable selling products, some prefer bridal work and others prefer SFX.
My niche is empowering others through knowledge so perhaps a
developing make-up therapy, blogging, vlogging and teaching would be
my chosen areas. Also just be yourself and let your
personality shine through.
17) How do I become known as a make-up artist in my local
community?
Be nice and treat people with the same respect that you want
to be treated. We are human beings first and make-up artists second. So be kind
as respect should not be earned, it should be given based on the fact that we
are all just human. Word of mouth is still a very powerful tool, especially in
this inundated age of social media. Become known for your own individual style
of make-up whether that is skin, abstract, eyebrows, lip art or
graphic eyeliner. You should know what is to be expected of you, behave
appropriately and be able to analyze a brief. Be busy at all times, ignore
your phone and don’t interrupt others. A proficient and competent artist knows
when to make necessary changes like powdering the face if it is shiny or
sharpen up a winged liner instead of waiting to be asked. Be humble and deflate
your ego even when you have been asked to remove all make-up at the request of
the photographer, the stylist, the senior make-up artist or your client.
18) I've had a bad experience, should I quit being a make-up
artist?
No way, don't give up on your dream because of
someone else's unnecessary negativity. Take a short break for a while
in order to re-focus and re-energize and you will feel differently. If everyone
quit from having a bad experience then we'd be penniless and
never achieve our goals. It took me while to refine a way to
deal with criticism as I used to fight fire with fire but sometimes an
introverted approach will speak more loudly and clearly than being emotional
and melodramatic. If someone says something disrespectful to or about
you in public, say something in private to them but keep working if it is
a client unless they are abusive. Like Jinkx Monsoon tells herself,
let it roll off you like water off a duck's back. You may need to toughen up as
this is a ruthless and relentless industry where you will need to be
equally cutthroat in order to achieve your goals. A
make-up artist should be able to thrive on a challenge so turn your negative
experiences into positive ones.
19) What about makeup 'rules'?
Every artist has their own beliefs and and what
they deem to be rules and guidelines. You will see that in books and in
practical experience. Accept that everyone is different and what works for you
may not for someone else. Don't let other's criticism of your make-up
rules get to you - this is a creative industry after all and we can
all learn from each other. As long as you and your client are happy, that is
all that counts. Yes, there are general guidelines such as not putting an
oily foundation on oily skin unless you client wants to look extra dewy. You
can advise them it may not last long or could look shiny in photos but if thats
what your client wants then so be it. There are no hard and
fast rules about make-up and if you read somewhere that you must always take
certain steps for the best complexion or the best red lip, remember that
everyone is colored and shaped differently and those stpes might work for one
person but either less or more for another.
20) What is the difference between a professional,
an amateur and a novice make-up artist?
It is not years of
experience like people tend to think of it - the difference is money. When
you exchange your service for money, you are a professional. An
amateur does not mean less experienced, it simply means that make-up is your
hobby or pastime and you can still call yourself a make-up
artist, just not a professional one as you do not accept money for your services.
You can be a highly skilled artist as an amateur or poorly
skilled one as a professional. A novice is someone who is completely new to the
industry such as students and graduates of make-up artistry and will be
inexperienced in the industry.
21) How much money will I earn?
Retailers, agencies
and employers will have a set rate for you. The more experience you
have the more you can request from clients. If you are
freelance, consider the area where you live and determine your prices. You
can set your own price-list by checking out the prices of local
make-up artists and wither match or undercut them. You could attract clients
with monthly and seasonal promotions and also with
publicized competitions in order to generate regular clientèle. Don't
forget to call the tax-man if you are self-employed. Make-up
artistry is not an exceptionally high paid profession, so if you want to be a
make-up artist for quick fame and fortune you have been misled. Work for
passion and fervor, not for money.
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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist - photo by Yvonne Martin |
22) How many hours would I be expected to work?
This depends on
which avenue of make-up you pursue, whether it is SFX, beauty, editorial, film,
retail or freelance. On television and film, it is long and
often unglamorous hours. You can be working in the baking sun or
freezing cold. On photoshoots it can still be long hours as you will often need
to change the look. For film and photography, you have to be entirely committed
as you can work from early starts to late finishes. Freelance jobs are
unpredictable but you can determine the amount of hours you could work
depending on each job as brides may take about 2-3 hours but a Hallowe'en,
seasonal or formal/prom make-up could take up less time. In retail
you could work part-time or full-time hours and typical hours are 9-5.
23) Should I join an agency?
Agencies are good
for larger media platforms such as television, film and editorial work. They
will also find production work for you. If agencies do not interest you, try
contacting local actors guilds, screen agencies and inquire about leaving
business cards on their premises or if they would feature you as a brand on
their website.
24) Freelance or retail?
Entirely up to you. Choosing either depends on your mindset,
your support network and your financial situation. If you are
just starting out, you could opt for a mixture of both. You could make it your
objective to work on a make-up counter with goals of incorporating more
freelance work such as weddings and special events into your spare time. This
way you can build your reputation and your clientèle up slowly
without neglecting your main money maker. Be mindful that when
working for brand at a counter, you are representing them so perhaps you should
not be too vocal about who your employer is if you are active in
online beauty communities where you discuss other and feature other
brands. Since it takes time to build a reputation and clientèle,
start as a side job doing makeup for events or brides on the weekends.
25) How can I obtain professional discount on brands and products?
Many brands require that you have a recognized qualification in make-up artistry before they offer pro discount. You will also need to produce other evidence such as a license or professional ID if you are based in the US or a business card, tear sheet, call sheet and website. Each brand and company will vary in discount amount and what is required in order to prove your identity. Some brands will also offer Keep in mind that brands you see at department stores will not usually offer their discount at the counter. More than likely you will have to email the company to apply for discount and then either place an order via telephone or online to receive your discount. Karla Powell has a great guide on who gives what in terms of discount. Many companies will also offer student make-up artists a discount at a lower rate compared to professionals and they may also offer industry related professionals a smaller discount such as photographers, hairdressers and beauticians. Brands that offer big discount are MAC, Urban Decay, NARS, Make-Up Forever and Illamasqua.
26) I would much rather be a make-up artist on YouTube, how
is this possible?
This is not an easier option. It still takes dedication
and perseverance only in a different way. You would need to engage
your audience on a bi-weekly basis or more and stay up to date with new looks,
product reviews or any type of make-up and beauty related video that you are
passionate about. Basically, start your YouTube channel and have a blog to
coincide with it. Stay active on other social media in order to appeal to a
wider audience.
27) I have a job. Should I quit it in order to focus on
becoming a make-up artist?
This depends on your financial situation and whether you
have a support network (parents or a partner) that can make you feel secure
until you have built up a. My advise is to start practicing to see if you like it before taking on extra industry related jobs outside your regular working schedule before building it in to a full-time career.
28) Should I get insurance?
Yes if you are a professional. Public liability cover will help protect you as a make-up artist providing a service to the general public. Find a policy which suits you. You can get quotes online from a simple Google search. If you are an amateur make-up artist or an online blogger, this may not apply to you as you are not providing a public service in exchange for money.
28) Should I get insurance?
Yes if you are a professional. Public liability cover will help protect you as a make-up artist providing a service to the general public. Find a policy which suits you. You can get quotes online from a simple Google search. If you are an amateur make-up artist or an online blogger, this may not apply to you as you are not providing a public service in exchange for money.
29) I don't like wearing make-up that often. Should I wear it
going to work?
As stated earlier, think of wearing make-up to work and
about your daily life as your face is the first place people take notice of
when you reveal you are a make-up artist. You face can be your initial
promotion when engaging with others face to face - kind of like a
human business card.
30) How should I advertise myself?
Online portfolios as previously mentioned is your most
attainable option, as is social media sites. This way you can connect with
potential clients and colleagues. You can also pay
for advertise in newspapers and make-up and beauty magazines or
for free on Gumtree and Craigslist. You can send images from
your portfolio to theaters, production companies, agencies and any
other potential client. Approach your local colleges, shops and salons without
a make-up service and ask of they would be willing to put an advertisement up
in their window or if they would allow to leave your
own customized business cards in places where students
and customers would see them. These are potential clients who may
have formals, proms and weddings to attend. You business cards should be
simple, clean and bold and should include your name, profession,
website, email address, address (if you have a studio outside your home),
phone number, link to you online portfolio and an image of your work. You can
also make yourself known to wedding planners, party planners, make-up
counters and events coordinators. Word of mouth is one of the most powerful
tool in order to be publicized. Building a reputation can take years
so don't give up on yourself.
31) Which social media platforms should I be using?
I would suggest start with a few if you are not savvy in
this area. The most popular ones are Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, Google+ and Pinterest. Pinterest are great
for showing off your portfolio and Pinterest is great to collect inspiration
shots and create mood boards. There are also apps and sites that allow you to
upload your pictures and videos which are specifically designed for
make-up and beauty only. These are Make-Up Geek, Preen
Me and Beautylish. Another one
to become involved in is Model
Mayhem as this is a networking site for make-up artists,
photographers, models and stylists to display their portfolio. You
can connect with other members and you can browse for talented and
innovative people in your local area in order to collaborate with and
create photoshoots. You can sign up for free and post casting calls. The
great thing about Model Mayhem is you can look at a
person's profile and see how experienced they are in their field
as well as if they are willing to do time for print or time for time.
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| How To Become A Make-Up Artist - photo by Catriona |
32) Why do I not have many followers on my social media
sites?
Maybe you aren't using hashtags, maybe you're are using the
incorrect ones, maybe you are posting too frequently or not enough.
All I can say is people can be fickle so just be patient and your time
will come. Remember that social media sites displays numbers of likes, followers and comments and having a huge number does not equate to being a
successful make-up artist. Measure you success by your own abilities and not be
anyone else's. It is easy to be dazzled by others who have larger numbers of
followers but that may not translate into the body of their work so focus on
yours and adhere to your own values and surely, your numbers will increase.
It's about impacting individuals, not numbers.
33) I keep seeing negative comments about other industry
professionals, how can I manage negativity on social media?
Ignore them. Delete the comment of it is aimed at you and
quickly move one. Inspired by words from Elle, I
strive to be the change I would like to see. Help others as
it shows you are confident in your ability and will portray that you
are not threatened by other's talented. Don't become involved in disputes about
the talent or professionalism of a fellow artist as will simply make
people question your reputation as a professional.
Steer away from commenting on posts that discredit others such
as models, photographers. retailers and remain positive . Each
to their own - whether you have been a make-up artist for ten days
or ten years, don't make it your business to defame or degrade someone.
Nor should you add to another person slandering and
disesteeming others. Focus on yourself.
34) How can I overcome my insecurities as an artist?
You can check out my video on how I feel about insecurity and
you can read my detailed
blog post on this topic. in general and how I try to
overcome it. Since then I have since read more on this subject and
can offer four short pieces of advice; 1) Never compare yourself
to others, 2) Become self-aware of your words, 3) Surround yourself
with supportive people and 4) Take a break when
you become discontent and feel frustrated. I find this helpful
if you would like to read more about overcoming insecurities.
35) How can I stop comparing myself to other make-up artists
who seem to be more successful than I am?
Believe it or not, comparing yourself to others is habit
with withdrawal symptoms and one that I still struggle to break. Of
course observing other people can inspire you but comparing yourself
to others negatively feeds you insecurities. You can read this guide to stop
comparing yourself to others as it has some really useful
tips on this subject. One quote I try to live by is, "A
flower does not think of competing with the flower next to it, it
just blooms." This can really aid in breaking the habit as it
will help you re-focus on yourself and your own ability, beauty
and intelligence.
36) Are there places I can go to network specifically with
other make-up artists?
Yes and you can discount off products and some industry magazine subscriptions at them too. The most talked about one is perhaps IMATS - the International Make-Up Artist Trade Show. This runs in a number of high profile areas on an annual basis per location including London, New York, Toronto, Los Angeles, Sydney and Vancouver. The UMAE - the United Make-Up Artists is the UK leading version of IMATS. Then there is The Make-Up Show which has shows in L.A, NYC, Dallas, Chicago and Orlando every year. These shows are global platforms which connect make-up artists, schools, brands and public figures to showcase technical abilities and discuss the make-up artistry field.
Be passionate, grounded and work hard to put your
vision into reality. Never stop learning! Good luck in your career.
