This post is for all you Aspiring Professional Makeup Artists out there who have no clue about how to make a living being a Makeup Artist. It is challenging because income is usually not steady when you are starting out and off days always equate to no-pay days as well. Also, it is not as glamorous as what the famous and top makeup artists make it look because before you get to that level of fame, it is a lot of hard work and most often, passion, blind faith and sheer believe are what is going to make you pull through the darkest time. However, as tough as it is, it is still an amazing career and most often very rewarding.

These 3 steps or tips that I have shortlisted are written based on my personal experiences and what my mentors have taught me. I hope through these 3 short tips I can shed some light for you!

1. Identify which part of the Makeup Industry you want to be in.

There are many types of Makeup Artist that is needed in the industry. From Beauty Makeup to Special Effects, from Films to Prints. To be successful, you have to know which part of this industry you want to be in. However, the only way to be very sure is to have a go at all the departments in the industry, meet the people and have a taste of what they are like. Only then you will be able to be honest with yourself about which you wish to go deeper into.

2. Continue to do Test Shoots with photographers/models/directors/stylist/art director

This is the only way to build up your portfolio and to have experience in what is needed to be a Professional Makeup Artist. The more you do, the better you become.

3. Work as a Makeup Artist with major cosmetics brands

Before I went solo as a Freelance Makeup Artist, I was with Estee Lauder and Chanel. Those 4 years with these 2 big brands as a beauty advisor has taught me more than I can imagine and the cosmetics available for you to play and experiment with is something that I still wish for now. Also, meeting all sorts of people and having to assist them in picking the right cosmetics allow me to brush up on my understanding of people’s needs and understanding of hues and tones on different skin tones. If you are serious about being a Makeup Artist, being with a major brand and being on the cosmetics department of a shopping mall is the best place to learn.

If you have other tips to share with everyone else, please do leave some comments!

Cheers!

Gwen
MakeupToys