Does anybody know if there is a specific course where you can train to become a make-up artist? I can only find beauty courses, which inc's waxing etc! I just want to do a course pref at night just for a make-up artist?

Thanks

Honestly the best thing to do, is to find a make up artist and beg to become their assistant. Many in the field think schools are a waste of time and money, and on the job training is the best way to go about it.

The thing is I cnt rly afford to give up my job (unless I could get paid being an assistant or just help them at night?) I'm also not sure about how to go about finding a makeup artist?

x

Hey Lil, I didn't get to fully answer your question, so here goes.

Becoming a working make up artist is a long process, it takes a good 3-5 years to build up a portfolio. What I would suggest to you is this. Start by playing and practicing. My favorite thing would be to go through a magazine, and find a look and try it out. If I could not get my hands on a friend, then I would practice on myself. I learned a lot this way. Once you feel comfortable with a couple of different things. Start looking for local photographers in your area, and put your self out there to start testing. Most everyone works for free, and you usually pay for copies of the photos. Its great if you can find people who are also starting out, so you can learn as you all go along. Then once you have that done, find a couple of make up artist and start shopping yourself out as an assistant. You might get paid, and you might not. As with any creative industry, there are so many people who want to break in, you end up working for free a lot. But if it is something you really want, go for it. Practicing on friends, testing with photographers is something you can do in the evenings and weekends.

Another route you might take is working at a make up counter. This way you can get some experience, and get paid doing it. I would look for counters that use trained make up artists: mac, stilla, nars I think. This way when you go to start testing, you will feel a bit more comfortable.

Research make up artist, find out what is going on in the industry-what's in for spring, colors and such. Go to the counters and play in the make up. Learn what textures you like, how make up differs from company to company what the new trends are.

A message board I have found to be useful in the past is http://pub123.ezboard.com/bmakeupandrelatedindustries it is a US based board, but the artist there are very helpful and willing to answer questions. There is a lot of information, and advice there.


I hope this helps.