How to Be Editorial Makeup Artist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Jun 7, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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The use of makeup has become increasingly popular in recent years and its impact on people's lives has been profound. Over time, many individuals have become more confident and comfortable in their own skin thanks to the transformative power of cosmetics. This, in turn, has led to the rise of an entirely new profession: editorial makeup artists.

These professionals specialize in enhancing the features of models and actors for photo shoots, fashion shows, and other media events. They use a combination of makeup products, such as foundation, eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick, to create looks that are both beautiful and appropriate for the occasion. Their work helps bring to life the visions of photographers, directors, and other creatives, making them an invaluable asset in the entertainment industry.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a high school diploma or equivalent. Although not mandatory, having a basic education will help you to understand the demands and expectations of a career in editorial makeup artistry.
Pursue a college degree in makeup artistry, fashion or related fields. Many schools offer courses and even degree programs in makeup artistry and fashion. You will be able to learn the specifics of makeup application, color theory, facial anatomy and more in these courses.
Take classes or workshops in editorial makeup artistry. This can help to supplement your college courses and provide you with insight into the specific techniques and trends used in editorial makeup artistry.
Get an internship at a fashion magazine or makeup studio after completing your degree or coursework. This will provide you with valuable experience and contacts in the fashion industry.
Network with other professionals in the field of editorial makeup artistry. This includes attending trade shows, beauty conventions, and fashion events.
Create a portfolio of your work that showcases your skills and creativity. Include photos of your work in magazines, fashion shows, photo shoots, and other events.
Apply for jobs as an editorial makeup artist. You may be able to find work as an independent contractor or a staff artist for a magazine or other publication.

Being a successful and capable editorial makeup artist requires hard work and dedication. Staying ahead of the curve requires keeping up with the latest trends in makeup styling, staying informed about the newest products and techniques, and having a creative eye for makeup application. It also involves networking with other makeup artists and industry professionals, building relationships, and continuously learning new skills and techniques.

having a strong portfolio of work to showcase is important in order to attract new clients and maintain current ones. Finally, having a professional and organized work space is essential in order to ensure that your environment is conducive to producing quality work. By following these steps, editorial makeup artists can stay ahead and remain capable in the competitive world of beauty.

You may want to check Makeup Consultant, Cosmetic Counter Makeup Artist, and Special Event Makeup Artist for alternative.

Job Description

Preparing and applying makeup to clients for photo shoots, fashion shows, television broadcasts, and other media events
Working with clients to create requested looks and styles
Working with photographers, directors, and producers to create desired looks for editorial shoots
Maintaining a clean and safe working environment
Ensuring that all makeup products and tools are in good condition
Advising clients on the best products to use for their skin type
Researching and implementing new makeup techniques
Keeping up with current trends in makeup and beauty
Collaborating with other members of the production team to ensure a successful shoot
Creating special effects makeup looks

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of makeup techniques and products
Ability to create a variety of makeup looks and styles
Understanding of current trends in the beauty industry
Attention to detail and creativity
Ability to work quickly and efficiently
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Good organizational skills
Ability to work well under pressure
Ability to take direction from photographers and editors
Knowledge of skin care and color theory

Being an editorial makeup artist requires a wide range of creative and technical abilities. One of the most important skills to have is the ability to understand the clients vision and create a look that reflects it. This involves being able to interpret the clients wishes, analyze their facial structure, and create a makeup look that complements their features while also making them look their best.

editorial makeup artists must be able to work quickly, as they often operate under tight deadlines. They must also be highly knowledgeable in the latest trends and techniques, as well as the best products to use to achieve the desired results. Finally, having excellent communication skills is essential in order for editorial makeup artists to effectively collaborate with photographers, stylists, and other team members.

All of these skills combined allow editorial makeup artists to create stunning, eye-catching looks that capture the attention of their audience.

Special Effects Makeup Artist, Special Occasion Makeup Artist, and Beauty School Instructor/Makeup Artist are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in editorial makeup?
What experience do you have working with editorial makeup?
How would you use makeup to convey a specific message or emotion?
How do you stay up to date on the latest trends and techniques in editorial makeup?
What techniques do you use to create a natural look that still stands out?
How do you ensure the makeup looks great for photos, video, and other media?
What challenges have you faced in your editorial makeup work, and how did you overcome them?
What would you do to make sure that the makeup looks great under all lighting conditions?
Do you have any tips or tricks for making sure that the makeup stays in place throughout a photoshoot or video shoot?
How do you collaborate with clients and other artists to create a look that meets their vision?

Common Tools in Industry

Foundation. A liquid or powder product used to even out skin tone and create a smooth base. (e. g. L'Oreal Paris Infallible Pro-Matte Foundation)
Concealer. A product used to cover blemishes or dark circles. (e. g. Maybelline Instant Age Rewind Eraser Dark Circles Treatment Concealer)
Blush. A product used to add color and dimension to the cheeks. (e. g. Milani Baked Blush in Luminoso)
Highlighter. A product used to add a glow to the skin. (e. g. Fenty Beauty by Rihanna Killawatt Freestyle Highlighter)
Eyeshadow. A product used to add color and definition to the eyes. (e. g. Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow)
Eyeliner. A product used to line the eyes. (e. g. Make Up For Ever Aqua XL Eye Pencil Waterproof Eyeliner)
Mascara. A product used to lengthen and thicken the eyelashes. (e. g. Maybelline Lash Sensational Mascara)
Lipstick. A product used to color and define the lips. (e. g. MAC Matte Lipstick in Ruby Woo)
Brushes. Various sizes and shapes of brushes used for blending makeup products onto the skin. (e. g. Morphe Brushes Glamabronze Face Palette)
Sponges. A tool used to blend makeup products onto the skin for a seamless application. (e. g. Beautyblender The Original Makeup Sponge)

Professional Organizations to Know

The Professional Makeup Artists Guild
The Society of Make Up Artists
The Make-up Designers Guild
The National Association of Makeup Artists
The Makeup Artist Association of Canada
International Make-Up Artist Trade Show
International Beauty Show
Professional Beauty Association
Professional Beauty Federation
Association of Beauty Professionals

We also have Product Demonstrator/Makeup Artist, Specialty Effects Makeup Artist, and Make-Up Department Head jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Hair Stylist. A person who specializes in styling, cutting, and coloring hair.
Makeup Artist. A person who applies makeup to enhance a persons appearance.
Hairstyling. The art of creating hairstyles by cutting, coloring, and styling hair.
Color Theory. The study of how colors interact with each other and how they can be used to create harmonious color combinations.
Airbrush Makeup. A form of makeup application in which makeup is applied with an airbrush to create a more natural look.
Skin Care. The practice of caring for the skin to maintain its health and appearance.
Special Effects Makeup. A form of makeup application which uses prosthetic pieces and other materials to create realistic effects.
Body Art. The practice of adorning the body with paint, jewelry, or other decorations.
Photography. The art and science of capturing images on film or digital media.
Editorial Makeup. The use of makeup to create a look that compliments a particular editorial theme or fashion trend.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Editorial Makeup Artist?

An Editorial Makeup Artist is a professional specializing in makeup applications for editorial photo shoots, fashion shows, runway presentations and other creative projects.

What skills does an Editorial Makeup Artist need?

An Editorial Makeup Artist should possess excellent technical skills in makeup application, as well as a good eye for detail and creativity. They should be knowledgeable in current trends in beauty and fashion.

How much does an Editorial Makeup Artist typically earn?

Rates for Editorial Makeup Artists vary depending on their experience, location and the project. Average rates for freelance Editorial Makeup Artists range from $75 per hour to $300 per hour.

What kind of products do Editorial Makeup Artists use?

Editorial Makeup Artists typically use high-end beauty products such as foundations, concealers, eyeshadows, lipsticks and mascaras. They may also use special effects makeup such as airbrush makeup, prosthetics and special effects products.

What type of clientele do Editorial Makeup Artists usually work with?

Editorial Makeup Artists typically work with fashion designers, magazines, photographers, advertising agencies and other clients in the creative industry.