How to become a makeup artist

 Are you passionate about makeup or obsessed with staying up to date on all the latest beauty trends? Stop putting off your passions; you can turn your passion into a lucrative career as a makeup artist.

Makeup artists usually use makeup applications to create stunning looks and unique effects for special events, fashion runways, and more. While you don’t necessarily need to go to makeup school, the career requires a sharp eye that can help tell which makeup would look great on someone based on their complexion.

If you are an aspiring artist, put down your brushes and learn first. While the main qualities of a makeup artist are creativity and experience, you need apt skills to succeed in your makeup career. Read on to learn how to become a makeup artist.

Guide to becoming a professional makeup artist

Makeup artists are creative professionals who primarily apply makeup to change how people look. Besides having passion and a strong urge to become a makeup artist, there are a few other things you need to do to perfect your skill and better prepare yourself for the career.

Here are steps and tips on how to become a successful makeup artist:

1. Hone your craft

There are numerous training and educational opportunities for aspiring makeup artists. You can enroll in a makeup course or start with the online tutorials.

While online tutorials are excellent and often free, pursuing a makeup artistry course can help you establish a better repertoire of skills you need and learn the tools of the trade, giving you a competitive advantage. Even better, a beauty school gives you the chance to build an effective network of contacts before finishing the program. Simply, there is no substitute for in-person training.

2. Get real-world experience

Practice makes perfect, and makeup artistry is no exemption. Besides formal education, you need relevant work experience to make it in the competitive world of makeup artistry.

One of the easiest ways of gaining experience in the field is applying makeup on yourself and your friends. This can go a long way to helping you perfect your craft. Importantly, even if you're a superstar at doing your own makeup, make sure to practice with your friends. Applying makeup to other people takes a different set of motor skills and coordination.

It is also imperative to try different looks on people with different skin colors, eye colors, and face shapes. This will equip you with the skill you need to work with most clients.

If your circle is small, you can look for a job or volunteer at a local beauty store or theater and practice as you learn from peers.

3. Familiarize with makeup trends

The world is evolving, and so is makeup artistry. To remain competitive and relevant in the makeup industry, you need to familiarize yourself with makeup trends and learn how to incorporate the trends into your services.

Depending on what you specialize in, take time to figure out what looks generate your interest and who your makeup artist role models are. Researching famous makeup artists and understanding how they do things can help you create a more meaningful niche.

4. Get your license

Depending on where you live, you may need a certificate to work as a makeup artist. If this is a requirement, make sure to obtain the necessary certification.

5. Build your portfolio

As with any artistry, your portfolio showcases your talent and creativity. With the consent of your clients, take high-quality before and after photos, then compile them into a portfolio. Your portfolio speaks on your behalf, showcasing what you can do, so make sure it reflects your brand in the best way possible.

Don’t wait until it is late to start building your portfolio.

When creating a portfolio, consider pinning the most creative works to create an immediate impression.

6. Network with people in the industry and look for jobs

To be honest, in the beauty and makeup industry, it is all about who you know. Most of your clients will come from referrals, so create more and more connections.

You can also apply for jobs in your local beauty salons and theaters or start your own shop. Whichever your option, you need to be friendly, approachable, and professional at all times. Remember that your clients are clients, so don’t mix business with friendship. If a friendship grows, it is fine, but remember you are there to perform a service.

Conclusion

Working as a makeup artist can be fulfilling, especially for people who are passionate about it. Hopefully, this post will help you get started and turn your passion into a career.

Pro tip: Working as a makeup artist requires long hours spent on feet, so be ready to wear flats.