Rnicole
what is the career path to a successful make up artist/ grooming specialist?
I am extreamly interested in make up and the ability to transform the way people look. I already have expirence applying makeup to students for theatrical preformances. I want to know what I would have to study in college, what steps I would have to take once I graduate and about how much it would cost to launch my career? #college-majors #theatre #makeup #grooming
2 answers
Jenn Kang
Jenn’s Answer
Hello~
There are special schools specifically geared towards makeup but a degree is not necessary or required to have a successful career in makeup artistry. The key thing in gaining the experience and to continually practice in perfecting your skills. The most important is working on a portfolio that will showcase your talent for clients, photographers, agencies,etc. For the basics, I would check out M.U.D. (Makeup Designory) and Makeup 4 Ever School. Both are located in NYC and for M.U.D., they also have a school in California as well. Most makeup schools will have very similar curriculums so it is really what you do during and after you graduate.
Given that you have some experience in applying for your fellow students in theater, you want to first decide if you'd want to continue makeup for the performing arts or go towards fashion/beauty which is where I've mainly been for the past 13+ years. Performing arts makeup would require heavier and more exaggerated makeup application so that the audience can see from afar under those bright stage lights. That wouldn't translate well for a model close up for a photo shoot spread. There is also special effects makeup which strays from the glamorous end of makeup but requires a lot of creativity. i.e. creating monsters, demons, zombies, etc.
As to how much it will cost to launch your career, it really depends. You will definitely need to invest in makeup brushes and in building a kit for what type of makeup artistry you want to get into. You can do video tutorials on Youtube, get business cards and
website to market yourself, look into getting your own cosmetic line or makeup studio. In the meantime, really focus on the skills and a portfolio. Talent, drive, personality and passion is what is going to take you everywhere.
Good luck with everything!!
,
This is really cool and interesting to think about. Thank you
Teal
Ken Simmons
Ken’s Answer
Hi rnicole!
Here is a web site that will be helpful for you to learn about the field:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sNTog6JhgG8
Keep me posted. I would like to help more if I can.