Make-up artist : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to all graduates and diplomates, the following subjects may increase your chances:

• creative/performing arts;
• make-up artistry;
• hairdressing;
• fine art/visual art;
• history of art;
• fashion and textile/costume design;
• photography/film/television;
• graphic design/illustration;
• drama/theatre studies.

Traditionally, academic qualifications are not as important as creative and practical skills. It is possible to become a make-up artist without a degree or HND. However, entrance generally is becoming formalised and candidates will often undertake a number of specialist HNDs in make-up artistry as a precursor to freelance industry experience/traineeships.

Several colleges and universities have a variety of two-year foundation degreed in make-up and prosthetics. The London College of Fashion offers a three-year BA in Make-up and Prosthetics.

NVQs in relevant subjects are also acceptable, such as hairdressing, beauty therapy, media and theatrical make-up. A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is not needed.

Relevant experience is desirable, like working backstage at amateur dramatic productions or working in a beauty or hair salon, as well as any work placements or relevant unpaid work.

Job shadowing/work experience assisting a make-up artist gives insight, develops your portfolio, helps to build a network of contacts and demonstrates your commitment. Observation is one of the best ways to learn skills and techniques.

The job requires a broad-based background, including both theoretical interest, an understanding of period and current fashion, and excellent practical make-up and technical skills. Most people entering this field have taken a course in both make-up and hairdressing, as the job requires that you are multiskilled. An understanding of film and video production techniques, camera and lighting processes, styles of literature, performance and dramatisation may also be important.

Word of mouth, networking and speculative CVs are a common method of generating work. Many make-up artists use a photographic portfolio demonstrating the wide range of skills they offer.

Competition is tough and professionals are often employed on reputation and popularity. A good starting point is to think of the contacts made during study, particularly through any work experience placements. Good interpersonal and self-promotion skills are essential. Media directories help identify companies to target with a speculative CV or personal call. Professional journals are a good source of adverts as well as information on who and what is happening in the industry.

Creative Skillset: The Sector Skills Council for the Creative Industries  is particularly useful for identifying training courses, production companies and media groups. The Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematographic and Theatre Union (BECTU)  provides useful information on industry developments and remuneration guidelines. Regional arts councils, such as Arts Council England , Creative Scotland , Arts Council of Wales  and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland  Arts Council of Northern Ireland  are more general sites that provide useful links to media organisations and their websites.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.