What Is a TV Makeup Artist and How to Become One
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What Does a TV Makeup Artist Do?
As a TV makeup artist, you create various makeup and prosthetic looks for on-camera talent for a live broadcast production or recorded TV show. You may work regularly in a studio or on a set elsewhere. Likewise, you may work alone or with a team of makeup artists. Your duties vary depending on the type of TV program. You may use cosmetic products to accentuate an actor or guest’s appearance on a talk show. Or, you may use prosthetics to create certain features for a TV character according to production guidelines. As part of your responsibilities, you must ensure continuity by applying the same makeup for each actor for the duration of filming.
How to Become a TV Makeup Artist
The qualifications to become a TV makeup artist vary depending on the requirements of a TV network or production studio but typically include a few years of experience, makeup certification, and familiarity with techniques specific to TV, such as High Definition makeup. Many makeup artists learn their skills on-the-job by working as an assistant to a TV makeup artist for a few years. TV networks usually prefer you to have a cosmetology license, the requirements for which vary by state. If you want to work on scripted TV shows, it’s helpful to take courses in special effects makeup.
