Q&A about hiring a makeup artist
On-Location Professional Airbrush Makeup Artistry
by Makeup Artistry by Liz
I answered a bunch of questions from Thumbtack when I set up my profile; figured I’d post them here as well!
What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
First and foremost, look closely at the makeup artist’s portfolio. Does the work and quality reflect what you are seeking? Does the artist demonstrate skill working with different skin tones? Does the makeup look natural and seamless in photographs, or heavy/unblended? A professional makeup artist should be able to show a range of current photos of their work.
If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?
High definition cameras have changed the way we do makeup, from the products themselves to the application techniques (including airbrush), and makeup that looks fine to the naked eye may not translate to a photo. A professional artist who has worked with pro photographers will understand how to ready your face for the spotlight.
What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?
1. Ask to see their portfolio, if it isn’t already accessible online.
2. Ask if they have any references from clients similar to you (you can also sometimes look up reviews online), or a client list.
3. Ask them about rates, and give them as much information as possible so they can give you an accurate quote. Don’t forget to include the date you are interested in so the artist can determine their availability. And always remember (if you’re reeling from sticker shock!) that an artist’s rates are determined by the scope of the job and the time involved, as well as their experience, preparation, and product cost.
What important information should buyers have thought through before seeking you out?
Since I work almost exclusively on location, potential clients should be able to indicate where I will be traveling to. I also need to know either how much time I will be there or how many people I will be making up, so that I can provide an accurate quote. Clients are always encouraged to share pictures of looks that they like so that I can get a sense of their preferences and style – communicating with images is always better than with words. (“Smokey eye” means different things to different people!)
What do you like most about your job?
A. I love bringing out everyone’s natural beauty – enhancing what is already there and making it shine. I especially love the reaction my clients have when they see themselves in the mirror! I also love the creativity, incorporating color theory and contouring in ways that are unique to every face I work with, and being able to vary the effect – from the natural, no-makeup clean look that is my specialty to more dramatic looks that are so much fun to do – with just a few strokes of my brush!
What are your most common types of jobs?
My work is divided into two main categories: commercial/industry and private client (hence my two websites!) My commercial work includes advertisements and promotional materials (print, web and video), as well as editorial fashion projects; my private client services include bridal makeup and photography sessions (such as headshots and portraits). I also offer lessons and consultations to private clients as well as groups.
Do you do any sort of continuing education to stay up on the latest developments in your field?
Absolutely; I am always adding to my skills! I have taken workshops from Temptu airbrush and MAC Pro, and am an active member of the Powder Group (an association in NYC that offers programming and education for professional artists). I also read and research extensively, and am always up for learning new techniques. I’m a knowledge junkie!
