Why You Should Consider Becoming a Film Makeup Artist

Beauty school graduates often struggle to find a job. This is partly because they don’t know where they want to work. Makeup graduates have the opportunity to work at makeup counters or in salons. Or they can find exciting work as a film makeup artist.

Job seekers who opt to work in the entertainment industry have a rewarding, yet challenging, career ahead of them.

What are the Benefits of Working as a Film and Television Makeup Artist?

Working on a film set is very different from working in a salon or makeup counter. You’re expected to prepare the stars of the movie or television show for the camera.

Here are some of the best parts:

• Meet important people in the entertainment industry. These contacts will make it easier to find work in the future.

• Applying film makeup is not the same as applying everyday or wedding makeup. Makeup artists can learn skills on a film set that they won’t learn anywhere else.

• Makeup artists work on actors and actresses. They may get the opportunity to meet their favorite celebrities.

• Film sets are busy and chaotic. Anything can happen in the entertainment business! A film makeup artist will never have a dull day at work. No two days are ever the same.

• A makeup artist may have opportunities to travel. Some films are shot in exotic locations.

• Do well and your employer will hire you for lengthy periods of time. If this happens, you will not have to worry about finding freelance work for a while. Movie crews are often hired on 3 to 9 month contracts.

The Pitfalls of Specializing in Film and Television

While working in film is exciting and well-paid, it is not always sunshine and roses. Before a makeup artist looks for film work, they should make sure they understand the nature of the business.

Keep in mind:

• The work is tiring. Crew members work long hours and are on their feet for most of the day.

• Sometimes workers can go hours without doing anything, while filming gets delayed. Many people say that waiting around is the most difficult part of working in film. Unlike celebrities, crews don’t have trailers where they can relax between shoots.

• People in power are sometimes temperamental. If something goes wrong, crew members can get fired at the drop of a hat. There is less job security in this type of role.

• While traveling can be a lot of fun, working in a foreign environment is may be tough. Makeup artists are sometimes expected to work in less than ideal areas and situations. For example, if the set is on a mountain, you may be expected to hike up a hill with your gear.

Makeup artistry is a wonderful career choice. This is especially true if you are passionate about beauty. Unfortunately, this career is not for everybody.

Motivated and hardworking graduates, that can think on their feet, thrive on film sets.

If you’re looking for easier work and/or job security, you may be better off working at a makeup counter. However, if you put in the time and energy, you will reap the rewards of working in entertainment.