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Makeup Artist - TV and Film

Makeup artists working in television and film help convey the personality of characters. They use makeup to improve, enhance, or alter the appearance of the actors and actresses. Makeup artists may be asked to create different appearances for a character, such as a black eye, old age, or bloody wounds. Makeup artists often analyze characters, do research, and confer with the director and the actors to create just the right look for a specific character. The artist works with the costume designers ad production hairstylist to coordinate colors and must be able to recreate makeup so that the characters' appearance remains consistent despite out-of-sequence filming.

Prospects

Most opportunities for this kind of work are in New York City, Los Angeles, and Hollywood. However, opportunities are also available in other areas of the country where television stations or film production companies are located.

Qualifications:

Training and educational requirements for makeup artists vary. A college degree in television, film, or theater is often helpful in learning skills. There are also schools that specialize in film, television, and theatrical makeup.

Information Source:

100 Best Careers for Writers and Artists. New York: Macmillan, pp. 200-201.