How to Become a Makeup Artist for Movies
A career as a makeup artist in the movie industry can be fulfilling and exciting. The makeup artist helps bring a story's characters to life by creating looks for each actor's particular role or appearance. Formal training isn't a requirement but can be essential to the success of a movie makeup artist's career.
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Things You'll Need
- Makeup case
- Makeup brushes
- Makeup (variety)
- Airbrush & compressor
- Special effects supplies (molding, casting, and mask-making)
- Business cards
- Website
Instructions
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1
Research schools in your area or online that offer training in makeup artistry and include courses in motion picture and special effects makeup.
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2
Check if your state requires you to have a license to apply makeup. Most states and employers don't require licensing, unless you work as a cosmetologist specializing in skincare, hair removal or electrolysis and other facial applications.
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Get experience as a makeup artist by working at makeup and cosmetic counters or even in a salon or spa setting. Practice different techniques on friends and family and take photos to include in your portfolio. Offer your makeup services as a freelancer or get an internship working in a theater or costume shop.
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Learn all aspects of makeup including history, color and techniques. This will be very helpful, especially in the movie industry, since you will be applying makeup to create a variety of characters and looks. Keep up with current trends in fashion, makeup and the movie industry.
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Invest in supplies and equipment to help you succeed as a makeup artist. Don't skimp on makeup or brushes, as these are tools of your trade. As a makeup artist in the movie industry, you will also need supplies to help create character masks or facial imperfections or additions. You'll also want to invest in a good airbrush and compressor.
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Build a professional portfolio that includes work samples and medium used to show potential employers and contracts. If you haven't had the opportunity to do a specific look or character but you have the tools and supplies, find a volunteer (friend or family member) on whom you can create your desired look and photograph different angles to include in your portfolio. You don't necessarily have to wait for a job or opportunity to showcase a skill or idea that you specialize in.
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Get business cards and a personal website to showcase your work and experience online. Be sure to put your contact info, email and the URL or link to your website on your business cards.
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Network with other makeup artists and people that work in the movie industry or even modeling agencies. Showcase your portfolio when you can and promote yourself and your talents, which will help you gain exposure. Get involved in organizations affiliated with the movie industry that may be beneficial to your career, such as the Motion Picture Association of America.
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Tips & Warnings
You don't have to spend a lot of money on supplies that you will dispose of and use often, such as cotton swabs or facial sponges. Be sure to clean and disinfect your brushes or implements that you will use on a variety of people.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit makeup image by Francois du Plessis from Fotolia.com
