Keep in mind that, while tutorials are a great starting point, there’s no substitute for in-person training and experience.
Apply makeup to people with different skin colors, face shapes, eye colors, and ages. This will help you develop the skills you need to work with a wide range of clients. Begin to put together a “kit”—the brushes, makeup, and other tools you use regularly. These can be drugstore brands to start out. As you develop your career, you’ll be able to afford more expensive products. [3] X Research source
Clients may request that you recreate a certain look that a celebrity had at an awards show or in a magazine. You will need to learn the terminology involved in makeup artistry so that you can effectively bring your clients’ descriptions to life.
Typically, makeup training programs run 300-600 hours and can be completed in less than 6 months. [6] X Research source Going to school is not a requirement for becoming a successful makeup artist. It may give you a boost in a very competitive field, however. [7] X Research source
Full cosmetology programs require 1,500-2,000 hours and last 12-24 months. [9] X Research source During cosmetology training, you will also learn other beauty services including hair, nail and skin care.
Retail experience is helpful for landing jobs in department and beauty stores, since your job will be selling cosmetics in addition to your makeup artistry services. Search for a company that is dedicated to training its employees in applying makeup, rather than focusing entirely on sales.
If they can’t commit to an internship, ask if you can shadow them for a day or two. Even a few hours of observation could teach you tons of new techniques.
Consider doing trade-for-print work with models.
You may even need to volunteer your services in the beginning stages of your career to develop more content for your portfolio.
If you’re still early in your career, it’s acceptable to take photos with your phone camera. Just make sure that your photos are well-lit and crisp. [15] X Research source
Your portfolio should exist both online and in print. The benefit of an online portfolio is that it reaches a larger audience and can be promoted through various forms of social media.
You may be called upon to work fast in stressful environments, like cramped backstage areas at fashion shows or outdoors in inclement weather during shoots. In this field, looks are led by the editor, designer, or fashion photographers rather than the makeup artist. You’ll often work as part of a stylist and hair team to help prepare models.
Precision is important when working as a makeup artist in this industry. The crisper and clearer our television screens get, the easier it is to tell if someone’s makeup isn’t perfectly applied.
Use word-of-mouth to promote your talents. Ask friends and family to consider hiring you to do their makeup for weddings, parties, or other formal occasions
