If you're interested in pursuing a media career as a makeup artist and hair stylist for TV and Film, you're in the right place. This article will give you some advice and guidance on the skills, qualities, and responsibilities you'll need to succeed in this exciting and competitive industry.
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This week, we're exploring the skills, qualities, and training needed for careers as hair and makeup artists in television, film and media productions.
This article is only for guidance and is not an exhaustive list, but it should set you on the right track and point you towards websites that can help you explore this career role further.
If working as a makeup artist is your dream job, I'm also here to help you refine your CVs, polish your portfolios, and improve your interview skills.
1. TV and Film Makeup Artist
In the fast-paced world of media, the role of a makeup artist and hair stylist is crucial. These talented professionals go beyond just enhancing the physical appearance of actors, models, and presenters. They play a key role in bringing characters to life and creating a captivating visual experience for the audience.
From television shows and films to theatre, photoshoots and fashion shows, the makeup artist and hair stylist collaborate with the creative team to develop the desired look for each project. They can transform actors into historical figures or create fantastical creatures for a sci-fi film. Their expertise lies not only in traditional makeup techniques but also in special effects, prosthetics, and wig styling.
The demanding nature of media jobs requires makeup artists and hair stylists to be flexible, adaptable, and creative problem solvers. They must stay up-to-date with the latest trends, products, and techniques to ensure they can deliver the desired look. Additionally, they need excellent communication skills to understand the vision of the director or designer and translate it into reality.
A hair and makeup artist is responsible for creating and maintaining actors' appearances on camera, working closely with the director and costume designer to ensure a cohesive look and play a crucial role in bringing the characters to life on screen.
2. Starting Out Tips
As with most film work, you will find that the work of a MUA is freelance, self-employed, and a mix of short and long-term contracts. You will need to establish yourself as a business and become familiar with self-employment guidelines, taxes, marketing, and networking, including establishing a portfolio of work to show prospective clients.
Gain practical experience by working on independent or student film projects.
Network: Attend industry events and join professional organisations that can help you find work and advance your career.
Workshops: Consider taking courses or workshops to improve your film hair and makeup skills.
Scripts: Get used to reading scripts and understanding the characters.
Portfolio: Work collaboratively with photographers, models, and actors just starting their careers. Working together, you can start to build a work portfolio and expand your referral networks.
3. Makeup Artist Salary
How much does a makeup artist get paid?
The average UK salary is variable and depends on your experience level, the size and type of production you work on, and the company you work for.
Most of the work in this field is freelance and self-employed and involves a mix of short and long-term contracts. The added bonus is that you may get to travel the world for work and work with some of your favourite celebrities. Every day will be different, making it an exciting and dynamic career choice.
Related Post: Six Free Websites for Finding TV, Film and Media Jobs
4. Media Jobs: Skills and Qualities
Still interested but unsure if you have the right skills to become a makeup artist?
Makeup Artists should have the skills and qualities of:
Attention to detail, self-motivation, and resourcefulness.
Good dexterity.
Having good stamina, resilience, and adaptability.
Ability to design and research.
Creative and innovative thinking.
Good at networking, self-promotion, and communicating.
Understanding the different aspects of the film and television industry.
5. Useful Subjects
Below are some subjects that could help you on your journey towards a career as a MUA.
Art and Design
Beauty Therapy
Business Studies
Cosmetology
Drama
English
Hairdressing
Maths
Science Subjects
The National Association of Screen Make-up and Hair (NASMAH) is a free resource offering information and guidance to professional and educational organisations. It is worth exploring as it offers advice and practical makeup tips.
Related Post: How to Write a CV for TV and Film Industry Jobs
6. Makeup Artist Responsibilities
A typical day-to-day working on set as a MUA may involve:
Researching and designing hairstyles and makeup, considering budget and the production setting.
Taking photos to ensure continuity and liaising with production to ensure the look is consistent and coherent.
Creating and demonstrating special effects/makeup processes on the skin.
Working onset and adding touchups to actors' makeup and hair.
Keeping up-to-date on health and safety.
7. Where to Find More Information
Still interested in working as a Hair and Makeup Artist? Here are some places to find more details about the role.
Listen to the Podcast Episode: Holby City to House of the Dragon: Makeup Designer Vicky Voller
A Day in the Life of a Make-up Artist
To provide you with some more insights, I contacted some seasoned makeup artists to pull back the curtain on their daily routines and the essential skills they employ. Discover the insights shared by a Chief Creative Officer & Master Makeup Artist on what a typical day entails in this fascinating field.
"A day in the life of a makeup artist like me is always an adventure! I kick things off by organizing my kit and chatting with clients about their dream looks—communication is everything! My go-to skills are contouring, blending, and nailing that perfect colour match. Staying on schedule is a must, whether I'm glamming up a bridal party or working on an editorial shoot. Every detail matters, from brows to lips, and I love perfecting each one. But what really makes my day is the connection with my clients—making them feel beautiful and confident is the best part of the job. It's these skills and the joy of transformation that make every day so exciting and rewarding!"
Kristin de la Renta, Chief Creative Officer & Master Makeup Artist, KDLR Beauty Labs
9. Related Careers
Curious about other TV production and Media job roles? Have you considered any of the below?
Beauty Therapist: A beauty therapist is a trained professional who specialises in providing various beauty treatments to clients. They offer various services, such as facials, massages, waxing, nail care, and makeup application. They also offer advice on skincare and beauty products and guidance on maintaining healthy skin. They work in various settings, including spas, salons, and hotels.
Body Makeup Artist: A body makeup artist is a professional skilled in applying makeup to the body, typically for special events such as weddings or photoshoots. They use various techniques and products to create a flawless and even skin tone, cover up blemishes, scars, or tattoos, and enhance the skin's overall appearance. Body makeup artists are adept at creating the illusion of muscle definition and contouring the body.
Makeup Designer: A makeup designer creates makeup looks for various productions, such as films, TV shows, theatre performances, fashion shows, and photo shoots. They work closely with directors, producers, and costume designers to ensure that the makeup complements the project's overall vision and helps bring the characters to life.
Photographic Stylist: A Photographic Stylist is a professional responsible for creating a specific look and feel for a photoshoot. They work closely with the photographer and the client to understand the desired outcome of the shoot and then use their expertise in fashion, makeup, and hair styling to create the desired look. They select the wardrobe, accessories, props, and colour palette to complement the overall aesthetic of the shoot.
Wig and Hair Specialist: A wig and hair specialist specialises in styling, cutting, and colouring wigs and hairpieces. They also advise clients on hair care and maintenance. In addition, they may work with individuals who suffer from hair loss due to medical conditions, helping them find a wig or hairpiece that suits their needs. They may also be responsible for repairing or altering wigs and hairpieces to fit the client's head size and shape.
Conclusion
Hopefully, by now, you will better understand what it takes to become a makeup artist for film and TV. If you need further advice and guidance, why not book a FREE discovery call to explore further how I can help you take your first step towards your dream career?
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If you are interested in watching some videos and discovering more creative careers, then you may enjoy my career resources, which can be found here.
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