How to go from Makeup Enthusiast to Makeup Artist!
In a lot of states (I can’t speak for all) there is no professional licensing requirement for freelance makeup artists. Meaning, there is no regulatory agency that oversees this aspect of the beauty profession, so whoever wishes to work in this capacity may do so at her/his own risk.
On one hand, this means that if someone had a watercolor paint kit from the dollar store and a cotton ball could call themselves a “makeup artist” - but they wouldn’t likely get hired for a wedding party or get called for a local magazine publication.
So building trust with potential clients and your network at large is incredibly important if you want to become a true professional and make that cheddar.
There is a lot to say about showing off your skills on yourself, to be sure. I know y’all can snatch those looks on instagram.
But it definitely takes artistry to work on someone else’s face that you’ve never worked with before. Understanding features that are different from yours, playing with depth and skin tones and variations can grow your skills quickly.
So brush up on your sanitation skills (no double dipping!) grab a friend, grab some makeup, and grab a camera.
Ask for friends who are aspiring photographers and models while you’re at it - this way you can all work to hone your skills in your passions. There is a lot to be said about cross promotion - it builds trust and your network builds quickly too!
If you don’t have any friends in person that you know would be interested in such an opportunity, shout out on social media/craigslist/local forums if anyone would be interested in collaborating for a styled photoshoot - even declare a “model & vendor call”
You’ll be delighted about who comes forth with a line of scarves they are knitting and would love some photos for their instagram, the aspiring model who needs some more exposure, the photographer who is looking to grow their network - and bam! You’ve got a team.
You will be amazed at how your confidence in yourself and your talents will rise when paired with others leading with their hearts - the synergy is beautiful, for when people bring their best selves together, magic happens!
The more often you share your work, reach out for new experiences with models of different skin tones, work in different genres and opportunities, take courses, watch tutorials, the quickly your skills will develop and your network’s trust in you will deepen.
You don’t really need “permission” to become a freelance makeup artist. (Unless your local laws require licensing!)
You just have to allow yourself to push beyond your own limiting beliefs, reach out to others to collaborate and watch the magic unfold!
