Becoming a Successful Makeup Artist

     Being a makeup artist is a career full of excitement and opportunities.  Whether it is working behind the makeup counter or being a freelance artist, you have a HUGE opportunity in your pathway.

     As an artist you are allowed to express your visions, while keeping the character and integrity of the client, in mind.  However, when it comes to becoming a successful makeup artist, you need to consider a few things, to ensure that you are setting a stable foundation for the future of your career.

• The very first thing that you want to do identify your goals and dreams. What area do you want to focus on (Bridal, Television, or Editorial)?  The most popular way to do this, these days are creating a vision board.  Vision boards are simply a collage of pictures that represent you and your goals and plans for the future.
• Research, Research, Research....looks and trends ALWAYS change...stay in the loop...research the internet, pull from magazines, attend workshops, and even take some courses...if you want your craft to make room for you, you must put in the time and work.
• Build a solid portfolio...having some professional images is very important in demonstrating the quality of work that you provide.
• Make yourself noticed...develop a website, join networking sites (i.e. Twitter, Facebook, Model Mayhem), and create a blog...networking is key in this business.  Establish relationships with those that are in the area in which your focus is.  They will not know about you and what you have to offer, unless you make yourself known.
• Network...connect with photographers, stylists, hairstylists, and other makeup artists...the key thing in this business is to build positive relationships. As you build relationships with these individual, remind them that you are always available to work with them. 
• Follow up is key...when connecting with those in the industry and potential clients, it is important to follow up with emails and phone calls.  Do not let more than 72 hours go by, without reaching out to them (anytime after this and you might be forgotten).  Remember, timing is crucial.
• Understand that in every project that you work on, there is always some reward.  All projects may not be paid with monetary contributions, however, the connection that was made, my be a huge payment.  Look at each opportunity as chance to maximize on your growth.
• Get a mentor...connect with someone who is already where you would like to be.  Having this person in your life can help guide you throughout your growing process.

You have the power to be as great as you allow yourself to be.  Go out and make your mark!!!!