Being a makeup artist takes a good amount of effort, do you have what it takes to become a professional?
Follow our step-by-step guide to gain insight into what it takes to be a pro makeup artist, how much money you can make, and more.
What Do You Need to Become a Professional Makeup Artist?
A makeup artist applies makeup according to a client’s requirements and skin profile. Getting the right training and credentials is crucial to deliver a fantastic experience for your clients.
With the backing of a good makeup school, you will have the skills and paperwork to demonstrate your professionalism as a makeup artist.
Creativity is crucial for makeup artists to improve their techniques and align with their client’s briefs.
Additionally, a good grasp of beauty trends and the fashion industry will count in your favor when deciding to become one of the industry professionals.
What Services Does a Professional Makeup Artist Offer?
There is a range of beauty services and industries you can delve into as a makeup artist. Here is a list of some of the common jobs you can do after obtaining your makeup certification:
- Makeup for film and TV shoots
- Bridal makeup and beauty
- Red carpet and special events makeup
- Professional photography makeup
- Theater makeup
- Fashion Makeup for the runway and fashion weeks
- Beauty consulting in retail or privately
4 Important Steps of Professional Makeup Artistry
If you don’t know where to start your career in makeup artistry, read on and learn about the different actions you can take to become a pro.
- Enroll in an accredited Makeup Artist School
Make sure you select a makeup school with solid industry credentials. You can often tell a good school apart from another by reading up on the trainers. Your goal should be to learn from experienced and professional teachers.
- Build an amazing portfolio
As a makeup artist, you must sell your skills through a visual makeup portfolio. Use the practical component of your makeup course to achieve this or get some family and friends together to be your practice models for your makeup applications.
- Make connections in your network
From clients to hair stylists and key communities in the industry, make sure you use your communication skills to build a network that will increase referrals.
- Keep up with current trends in the industry
The beauty industry is constantly evolving. You are responsible for staying on trend with the latest styles, products, and brands to provide relevant customer service.
Search for beauty bloggers and beauty professionals on social media as a starting point. Beauty writers are usually at the forefront of what’s hot and what’s not in the beauty scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
The most often asked questions about professional makeup artist schools, careers in makeup, and the beauty industry are listed below.
How much can you earn as a pro makeup artist?
A certified makeup artist can earn an average of $15-$125 per hour (Canadian Dollars), depending on experience and location. There are extra earnings from overtime or tips, which are related to specific job specs.
What is cosmetology school?
Beauty school or cosmetology school terms are used to describe institutions that offer accredited courses in various disciplines in the professional makeup artist program. These specializations can range from hair styling to special effects makeup, such as fantasy makeup.
Why is social media important for makeup artists?
You can build a virtual network of key players in the beauty industry through social media. In this network, you can keep up to date with current trends, such as beauty vlogs, and you can also get noticed by clients, beauty brands, and other professional makeup artists.
You can also create a visual online portfolio of your work for the public to view.
Why do you need a makeup portfolio?
When applying for jobs, a client will often ask to see a visual representation of your work so that they can gauge whether you are a good fit for the assignment or not.
A good portfolio is well put together and represents your skills, creativity, and uniqueness.
What are the benefits of a professional networking group?
Like an online network, a professional networking group will help you garner more attention for your skills and reputation as a professional makeup artist.
In an industry as competitive as the beauty trade, it’s essential to broaden your network and build your contacts to secure more jobs and gain higher status in the industry.
What is a freelance makeup artist?
Freelance makeup artists run their own and manage all aspects of said businesses. Being a freelance makeup artist has many benefits, including flexibility, independence, and control over how you spend your time.
The downside to working as a freelancer is that there are no guarantees about income. You must manage your finances carefully and ensure that you cover all aspects of running a successful business.
What should you do to become a pro makeup artist?
To become a professional makeup artist, you must first create a portfolio that shows off your talent. Then, you should begin building relationships with people who can give you opportunities to showcase your work.
Final Thoughts
Becoming a professional makeup artist is just a few steps away. Get accredited, build your portfolio and your network, and the doors to the beauty industry will open for you.
For more information on makeup courses, visit CMU College.
