Expressing Yourself as a Makeup Artist

 Have you ever looked in the mirror while you applied makeup and thought about how fun it would be to help others look beautiful in makeup and actually get paid for it? A career as a makeup artist is well paying and there are a plethora of different ways to ply your trade, such as advertising, television and film, theatre, modeling agencies, and special events such as weddings. Here are some guidelines for what takes to express yourself as a make-artist:

• Develop Your Skills – Do whatever it takes to personally develop your skills in applying makeup. Try out many different makeup brands and experiment with different combinations on your face. Purchase "how-to" books for being a makeup artist. Look at magazines and online sites for the latest trends in fashion and makeup and for tips on applying makeup. Study and learn about the techniques of successful makeup artists. Look at photos of models with make up and try to learn about and mimic the style.
• Enroll in a Cosmetology School – A cosmetology school will have programs that will enable you to gain the skills and knowledge needed to advance to a higher level of makeup artistry and make you more marketable for jobs. Many cosmetology schools will also have job placement programs to help you secure a job after completion of the program. Choose a school that is accredited and has instructors that have experience in the makeup industry. For more information on educational opportunities for pursuing a career as makeup artist, click here.
• Volunteer – In order to build up a reputation as a makeup artist, you may need to volunteer to do gigs for minimal pay. Network and show others your skill level by offering your services for small television or film productions or local organizations. You could also practice on your friends and family, and then give them business cards to share with others.
• Train with a Specific Manufacturer – Many makeup manufacturers offer training and certification programs for their brand. In addition to giving you additional training, this helps boost your resume in the eyes of prospective clients and employers.
• Online Presence – Build up an online presence by creating your own makeup website or blog, or create a profile on a career or social networking site. Write an informative bio. Include clear pictures that demonstrate your skill level.

Sources

FabJob.com (2012)
eHow (2011)