A make-up artist is a professional who works with clients to apply cosmetics. Make-up artists are a vital part of the entertainment industry, often found in the celebrity world or working as film or stage professionals. A cosmetic professional truly earns the title of artist when it comes to getting a celebrity ready for an awards ceremony or applying just the right amount of scarring to an actor for a hospital scene.
Make-up artist training can take place in a practical or educational setting. Many people learn to apply makeup in high school or college for theater productions or for friends. Many universities and community colleges have theater and film programs that offer classes and even specialized degrees in stage and screen makeup. Beauty schools frequently offer training and certification for those who prefer realistic make-up.
A make-up artist must establish a name for himself or herself through word of mouth and portfolios. Many designers keep a design portfolio on them at all times so that they can demonstrate their abilities to potential clients at any time. Some may include samples from jobs with fashion magazines or even candid newspaper photographs of their work, in addition to formal portrait examples of previous work. Make-up artists for film, television, and stage may also include a DVD of their work with their portfolio.
Working in film, television, or stage make-up is an excellent way to stay current with makeup trends. Some make-up artists specialize in creating ghouls, ghosts, fantasy creatures, and special-effect designs using a combination of prosthetics, airbrush, and traditional makeup techniques. Others prefer to do realistic stage and screen makeup, using just the right amount of eyeliner, blush, and concealer to make a starlet’s face glisten in the moonlight or a leading man’s eyes gleam in candlelight.
Make-up artists who aren’t in the entertainment industry frequently work in salons and spas. Many provide special occasion services for bridal parties and other special occasions such as school proms. They might also form a partnership with a hairdresser to offer more comprehensive services and packages.
Make-up companies are another option for a make-up artist. The artist may be involved in the development of new products, colors, and trends in these positions. Some employees may be given the opportunity to design iconic images of the company’s products for advertising and marketing purposes. In order to promote the capabilities of their products, a make-up artist employed by a specific company may also perform makeovers and work with fashion publications.