Make-up Artist

Make-up artists apply make-up and style the hair of performers and presenters. They may work in film, television, theatre, on commercials, pop promos, corporate productions, fashion shows and live performances, and photo shoots. The type of make-up used depends on the production. It can range from a contemporary 'natural look' for a television presenter, to period styles for historical dramas, 'casualty' make-up (blood and bruises), or the application of small prosthetics.

Depending on the production, a make-up artist's work may include:

• selecting and purchasing supplies
• research and design
• doing 'corrective' make-up and hair tidying for presenters and interviewees
• applying make-up to actors
• fitting hairpieces, bald caps and prosthetics
• keeping careful notes and taking photographs to ensure continuity.

Hours are long and irregular, and include evenings, weekends and public holidays. The work is usually indoors, sometimes in small, cramped environments. Location work can involve working outdoors in all weathers. The work can also involve long periods away from home. The job may be unsuitable for those with sensitive skin or certain allergies.

Salaries may range from around £15,000 to £45,000 a year.

A make-up artist should have:

• make-up and hairdressing skills, including corrective, glamour, period and ageing
• artistic and technical skills
• a good eye for colour and detail
• communication skills
• the ability to put people at ease
• an interest in storytelling and character building.

Most make-up artists are freelance and employed on short-term contracts which can last for just one day or a few months. Opportunities may be found in theatre, television and film, corporate productions and commercials, and with photographers working on magazines or advertising shoots.

Although not essential, most make-up artists have undertaken training. There is a wide range of relevant courses at various levels in hairdressing, make-up and beauty therapy. Practical experience is essential, possibly gained by working in beauty or hair salons.

Make-up artists usually train on the job, learning from more experienced colleagues. They need to keep up with new techniques and materials throughout their careers. Short courses are available at private make-up academies and also through trade organisations, such as the Hairdressing and Beauty Industry Authority (HABIA) and the National Association of Screen Make-Up Artists and Hairdressers (NASMAH).

Progression for make-up artists is dependent on establishing a reputation and being offered the opportunity to move on to higher profile productions. With the right skills and experience they may progress to chief make-up artist or make-up designer, or specialise in particular techniques or effects. Some make-up artists go on to teach or set up their own academies.

Further details