It is THAT TIME OF YEAR! Can you believe it? The holidays are amongst us! You know what that means: lots of holiday festivities, food, and ...... less jobs?!... 

If you are a freelance makeup artist like myself, or looking into becoming one, you know that the holiday season can be as slow as a damn snail walking across the 405 highway in Los Angeles (there are 6 lanes!).  The jobs are there, but so few and far between, because... why? The lovely hiatus season of freelance artistry. Ahh, Gotta love it! 

In my 10 years of experience, I have taken notes every year of the busy and slow times within this lovely industry of makeup artistry. And, yes. Nearly every single year, my freelance work goes down significantly during this time. I am sure if you are reading this, you know this all too well.  This time can be GRUELING for some of us, and financially terrifying at times if I am being completely honest. Looking back at some of my experiences, I can recall feeling extremely defeated and lost as to what I could do in order to even pay my bills! Eek!

Having that said though, there are still plenty of ways we as makeup artists can make money! Over the years, I have tried MANY things to make money, and I have created something very very special for all of you! 

15 ways to make more money during the holidays!

All of these have worked for me, and I know that they can work for you too! This was originally a free online workshop that I put together in November, but I got such great feedback on the workshop and people asking for the replay afterward that I decided to re-film and make it a free online training video available to everyone! For this blog, though, I kept it nice and simple by listing out each way to make more money. If you want the details of these, make sure to click below for access to the video where I go in length about each way! There are TONS of goodies and inspiration that you will LOVE!

To have access to the FREE full length training video, simply click the photo below, or CLICK HERE!

1. RETAIL
It might seem a little redundant, but go and apply your resume to some of your favorite makeup counters and stores! Sephora, Ulta, MAC, Nordstrom, etc. these all give you the opportunity to stay within the makeup industry which is great! But! Don't forget that there are THOUSANDS of other stores that may be a great fit for you as well. If you love shoes, try Aldo. If you love candles, try Yankee Candle, etc. Plus you could get an employee discount. Hell ya! 
Another option is freelancing for a specific company such as Stila, MAC, Aveda, etc where you travel to certain locations and are brand support for these companies. Pro: they pay really well and you get to travel. Con: the sales goals are really high, so if you don't like the pressure of having sales goals, this may not be for you.
Lastly, salons are BOOMING right now during the holidays. Try to see if your local salons need extra hands with cleaning, folding towels, or reception work!

2. TEMP JOBS/AGENGIES
Google temp agencies and call them up to help find you work! I know SO many makeup artists who utilize temp agencies during this time, one in which has been employed for 2 years now through a temp agency! 

3. DIRECT SALES
This sometimes has a bad rep around it. Direct sales can be so much fun! Just make sure you don't become super crazy when it comes to selling to your friends and family...or people you barely know on Facebook. I've had to block some people for this reason haha so don't go TOO far! 
I used to work for The Body Shop 10 years ago for their direct sales line and it was one of the most unforgettable experiences. I loved the company, their products, and especially loved doing the at home parties. They were seriously a BLAST! 
Direct sales can be very lucrative during this time! Some of the top direct sales companies include:
Mary Kay
Arbonne
Avon
Rodan + Fields
Younique
Lip sense
DoTerra (totally not makeup but, omg I love this company! I totally would work for them if I had the time lol! It's worth checking out if you like essential oils)
And no, I do not rep any of these listed above, nor am I being sponsored! I just want to make it easier for all of you to click and check them out :-) 

4. AT HOME PARTIES
These can be so fun, and you can get SO creative with them. Some ideas: 
-"How to" parties
-Makeup events 
-Face painting parties for kids
-Princess Parties
-GNO Parties 
Some tips on how to charge: You could charge a door fee for tutorial parties, or individual prices per application, you can have raffles going on at a makeup event that you host or GNO parties, and for kids parties you can charge per child or a flat rate.
The options are really endless! I have done so many of these and brought in some really nice extra income from them!
If you are in the direct sales, you could also sell the products you use at these parties for even more extra side money. 

5. MAKEUP FOR HOLIDAY EVENTS
Everyone loves getting their makeup done during the holidays for special events! Maybe a store or company is having a huge celebration and would love to have a makeup artist at their event! Who knows :) 

6. GLAM APPS
I know some people hate this! However, you can totally rack in some extra cash during the holidays with these as they are incredibly busy during this time. It's worth it to just check out!
Glamsquad
The Glam App
BeGlammed

7. HAIRSTYLING/CUTTING/COLORING 
This is only for licensed professionals! But a great way to get some extra money during this time of year. Everyone needs their hair cut or colored for all the holiday festivities, so if you have a license, take advantage of this extra income opportunity!

8. CONTACT EVENTS AND OFFER YOUR SERVICES
This is different than doing makeup for people that are GOING to an event. For example, if your city has a holiday event such as a school fair or community event, you can offer your services. Just google "Holiday events in (your city)" and there will be some options that pop up. Click on the ones you feel drawn to and then look up the supervisor for that event. Call or email them and say "HEY! I would love to add my services to your amazing event. Who would I talk to about this?" And they will tell you who to get in touch with. Rates will be determined by what you agree to do for the event, their budget, etc. 

9. CONTACT PREVIOUS CLIENTS/NETWORKS
Go through all the productions you have worked on and contact the actors, models, photographers, directors or producers you have worked  with. See if they have anything going on (productions are slow, but they still happen!), and at the end of the email, mention that you are available for personal makeup applications if they or anyone they know has a holiday event that they would like their makeup done for!

10. HEADSHOTS
Actors and models tend to be slow during this time as well, which means they have the extra time to fit in some last minute head shots. Contact anyone you have worked with in the past and offer your services to them! Or google headshot photographers and email the ones whose work you admire, and let them know you are available for hiring on their next shoot! Headshot shoots can bring in some really great money. Anywhere from $50 on the low end to $500 on the high end, and they only last 1-3 hours! Yes please!

11. ASSISTANT WORK
Try calling up other artists to see if they need an assistant! They might be on a big job and need some extra hands, you never know. Also, don't discount that assistant positions such as a PA job on a set, can really bring a foot in the door with people you want to work with. If you are in a smaller city, go to your local news station and see if they have an assistant position open. Develop a good relationship with them and possibly work your way into being their in-house makeup artist!

12. PAID ONLINE SERVICES
These have worked pretty well for me in the past! I actually got a job on productionHub and have been working with that particular client for 4 years! Each of the websites listed below are always active in sending jobs via email, so take a look and see which one might be a good fit for you. They range in price, as well as what they offer. 
-mediamatch.com 
-productionhub.com
-24/seven (agency, $0)
-Thumbtack 

13. SOCIAL MEDIA MARKETING/NETWORKING
Social media is incredible! Make use of going in the Instagram/Facebook/Twitter rabbit hole and meet endless amounts of people who you could potentially work with! Connect with actors and models to offer your services for headshot, contact photographers to work on their next shoot, connect with other aspiring directors to work with on their next film! If you contact 25 people over Facebook. Instagram, or LinkedIn, I can promise that you will get a reply from atleast one person who will respond with potential work! Just make sure they aren't people with millions and millions of followers because your message will get lost in the shuffle of everyone else who is trying to reach out to them lol!

14. SELL ARTWORK/SELL YOUR STUFF!
We are all creative individuals, I mean come on! We create art on other people! So, why not utilize that and create your own art to sell during this holiday season! Make jewelry, sew some cool purses, paint or draw really awesome artwork and sell it on Etsy! You can also gather items that you don't use anymore and sell them on Amazon, Ebay or Facebook Marketplace. All ways that are great options during this time of year as SOOOOO many people are in the buying mood :)

15. PAID STUDIES
Last but not least! Now, this isn't quite in the artistry side of things, however! It is a great opportunity for artists such as yourself to get some extra money by giving your time for case studies, giving blood, or secret shoppers. I have made collectively almost $700 with these options! For one case study, I was paid $150 to give my opinion on a commercial for a fast food restaurant and it was only about 2 hours of my time for simply giving my opinion. Another study I did was for Chevy as I am a Chevy car owner. I did 2 studies for them, each were paid $200, and it was about 45 minutes of my time. So definitely check these options out if all else fails!!! 
-Adler Weiner Group
-Secret Shopper
-Giving blood (check with your local blood bank)

And those are the 15 ways to make more money during the holidays! I hope you all loved it and will be able to make more money this holiday season with some of the ideas and suggestions I listed.  Like and Comment below if this helped you! 

Also, be sure to sign up for the FREE video training I have created just for you that goes along with this blog, but in MUCH more detail, there are actually many more suggestions and ideas in the video I made, so you won't want to miss it! CLICK HERE to access the video completely free! 

I wish you all the best this holiday season! May you all be, inspired, motivated and on your way to a successful career as a makeup artist <3

XO,
​Amber

It is FRIDAY!!! And wow, has this year gone by SO FAST!... With Thanksgiving coming up this week, I am blown away that we are nearing the end of the year, and already amongst the crazy busy-ness the lovely holiday season! 

This week, we are featuring an outstanding artist based out of Sydney, Australia! (Some where I have always dreamed of visiting!) Michelle Dube is not only a makeup artist, she is the true definition of a successful female entrepreneur. Between staying busy on sets and being in charge of her online business, she still makes time for continuing education, it's amazing! She even wrote a book, Makeup Artists Inc. which is all about the business aspects of being a freelance makeup artist, how amazing is that?! I'm sure you can see why I am so AMPED for this interview, as I know every one reading this will be able to learn from Michelle on so many levels! 

1.Tell us about yourself
I am a makeup artist from the northern beaches of Sydney, Australia.   I specialize in makeup for print and tv advertising.   I have wanted to be a makeup artist since I was in high school.  I remember driving past a shoot one day and saying to my mum that that was what I wanted to do.  I just wanted to be on set.  After highschool, I took a more traditional approach to job hunting and ended up working my way up the ladder to become a TV producer, but makeup was always in my heart.  One day I just said to myself it was time to do what I wanted to do and it was then that I started working in makeup on counter at Bobbi Brown.  I haven’t looked back!
 
2.Did you attend School.
I call myself a self taught makeup artist because I didn’t attend a college or get a degree in makeup.  I have, however, done a lot of short certificate courses and workshops with amazing artists and I’ve assisted some great makeup artists.  I think the best training I received was during my time working on counter at Bobbi Brown.  Bobbi was always one of my hero’s.  I loved her philosophy on makeup and I loved her style.  Working on counter for Bobbi Brown meant I was constantly being trained and always had faces to practice on. 
 
3.What is it like working in Australia as a makeup artist?  You’re always busy with gigs.  How do you pursue them?
Working in Australia is great!  I love Sydney.   I am really lucky to have found my “tribe”.  That’s one of the things I talk about in the book – finding the people you work best with.  People work with people they like, so find your tribe of like minded people and the work will come.  I love advertising, I love the people,  I love being on set with big crews and small crews, I love working with ‘real people’ as well as models and actors.  Working in advertising gives me the opportunity to do this.  Getting work is about building relationships and then being the best makeup artist they have ever booked!  Being helpful and flexible on set is very important.  The most important tool you will ever have in getting gigs is building a list.  Again, this is something I talk about in Makeup Artists Inc.  build your list, build your relationships and be awesome on set!  You can’t fail!
 
 
4.Your work is flawless ,  Where do you get your inspiration from.
Firstly, thank you!  Inspiration comes from so many places but to be honest, I actually find it difficult to find inspiration.  I know a lot of artists who say “oh I find it in nature, or architecture or music” but I don’t!  I find inspiration in the creative process of actually doing the makeup.  For example, In the picture of the gold painted model – we started that shoot with white body paint as the main idea.  As I was painting I really liked the texture I was creating.  Then we shot a few shots and we just built from there, adding gold and the inspiration was coming from the actual creating.  I was constantly saying “oh what about this?”  “what about if we tried that?”  Those shots were published in Laud Magazine.  Inspiration for me can also come from a word or a brief.  Example “Gold” or “Pop of colour” or “summer” or some thing along those lines and then just create!
 
5.What is your favourite piece of work you are most proud of that you have worked on.
Without a doubt my greatest pride is my entry into a makeup competition here in Australia called Face2Face.  Years ago I had set myself a goal to win this competition.  I had entered several times but had never managed to get a place.  In 2016 I put everything I had into my entry.  I lived and breathed it.  I practiced.  I made the headpiece. I envisaged it.  I dreamt about it.  I even printed out a picture of the model and did the makeup look on her photo so I could see exactly how it was going to look.  It was a highlight in my life to take out first prize for these shots.   I’ll never forget that moment they called my name and afterwards holding that trophy and having my photo taken.  I’m so proud of them.

 
6.You have created an online business which is amazing. Tell us about that.
I started Makeup Artists Inc. earlier this year after I had received yet another email from an assistant asking how they get paid and “how do they send an invoice”.  I couldn’t believe that students could go to college for 1 year or more, spending more than $10,000 to learn how to become professional working makeup artists and yet they didn’t know how to get paid.  I then started asking questions and was stunned to learn that most students graduating from makeup school actually don’t go on to be makeup artists.  It seemed to me that it was because they just didn’t know how to become successful working artists able to financially sustain their careers.  They knew how to do a great makeup but they didn’t know how to run a business as a makeup artist so they gave up.   This, to me, was so disappointing.  That there were all these gorgeous young makeup artists out there not living their dream because they didn’t know how!  So, I decided to try and help them.  I decided to put all my knowledge into a book.  It started with “I’ll just show them how to write an invoice” and ended up as a 15000 word e-book.  I am now taking pre-orders for a hard copy as I’ve had so many requests and I am also looking to expand into other downloadables, such as contracts, a bridal business bundle, deal memo’s etc.  I really want to help these girls.  I have just started private coaching calls for artists who have specific business related questions they need answered.  I am also just about to launch a podcast with another makeup artist interviewing top Australian makeup artists about their journey to where they are now.  I actually can’t wait to do that.  I have so many questions!!!  It’s called “Behind the Brushes”.
 
7.It’s amazing that you have written a book as well.  Tell us about this book, where artists can purchase it and any advice you have to give others who may have the desire to write a book.
The book is the nuts and bolts about starting out.  I’ve written about things like taxes and invoicing, social media, building a list, on set etiquette, what to wear!!! I think I covered everything you would need to know if you had just left college and were wondering “what do I do next?”  It can be purchased online in my store at makeupartistsinc.com.au.  If you have a desire to write a book, my advise is to just start.  Don’t think about it too much.  Just open up a word document and write your contents page.  Aim to write 10 minutes. Everyone has 10 minutes spare.  I bet you don’t just stop at 10 minutes.  Once you get started you just keep going.  Take it one step at a time.  My dad always said to me when I was writing Makeup Artists Inc. “how do you eat an elephant?  One bite at a time”.    It is so true.  Just one word at a time.
 
8.All of us go through times of struggle as makeup artists.  What do you do during these time to keep yourself motivated?
Yes, I definitely go through times of struggle.   Social Media is awful during these times because I constantly scroll through my feed comparing myself to other artists.  I know a lot of creatives that really struggle with intense periods of feeling down and self doubt.  So, during those times I acknowledge to myself that I’m having a down period and always tell myself it will pass, It is temporary, and then I try and do either a test shoot or some form of education – a workshop or a look and learn.  I always find my motivation comes back after a workshop and nothing makes you feel more excited and inspired than an awesome test shoot.
 
9.What advice would you give to other aspiring makeup artists who want to get into this industry.
OK, I have lots of advice for artists wanting to get into this business.  1.  Treat it as a business!  Get your finances in order.  Organise your tax, bank accounts, invoicing system etc. Get ready to make money!  2.  Decide what area you want to specialize in?  Is it film, fashion, commercial, bridal.  3.  Once you have done that, start reaching out to people in those areas.  Don’t be afraid.  Just do it. 4.  Build your list and keep building it. 5.  Assist, assist, assist.   Get on set as much as you can.  6. Don’t stop trying.  Devote every spare moment to working on your business, sending emails, organizing shoots, meeting people, workshops, practicing.  Just keep going.
 
10.Describe “What it takes” to be a successful makeup artist today.
I think it takes an open mind to be successful.  Be open to opportunities, advice, experience.   Be open to assisting other artists and doing the yuk work – washing brushes, cleaning a kit, packing the car, anything it takes.   Be open to working hard, getting up early, coming home late, working weekends.  Be open to learning constantly.  Just because you have finished college you still have a lot to learn.  I still assist sometimes.  I am always learning from other artists.  I still do workshops, listen to podcasts, watch tutorials, just take it all in and be open to learning.  Lastly, what it takes to be a successful makeup artist is integrity.  Don’t steal images, don’t credit yourself for work you didn’t do, don’t undercut other artists, don’t steal clients from artists that have shared work with you.  Be a good human!

1. Please list any and all social media handles and websites info

www.michelledube.com.au
www.makeupartistsinc.com.au
instagram:  michelledube_mua
facebook: makeupartistsinc.  https://www.facebook.com/makeupartistsinc/
 

Are you feeling super inspired now?! I know I am! Michelle is one of the kindest artists I have ever met. I hope to meet her some day, she has so much knowledge of this industry, it's incredible. And her support for other artists is so refreshing to see. I love it!

Be sure Connect with Michelle on social media!
instagram:  michelledube_mua
facebook: makeupartistsinc.  https://www.facebook.com/makeupartistsinc/

And check her website out as well as her online business where you can buy her e-book!
www.michelledube.com.au
www.makeupartistsinc.com.au
​

Thank you for tuning in this Friday. Do you have the desire to create an online business, or perhaps write a book? Comment below! 

Be sure to follow us on Instagram @whatit_takesfilm
and on Facebook at www.facebook.com/whatitakesfilm 

Have a wonderful weekend, everyone!

Xo
​Amber

We are BACK and at it with our Artist Feature Friday's! We had a little Halloween Hiatus due to the season being quite crazy, as I am sure it was for a lot of you as well! It was fun, none the less. How was your Halloween?! 

This Friday we are featuring a pretty badass makeup artist, Chris Osorio. I met him  during a small private screening at E.I. where he currently attends makeup school. His overall energy was so awesome, I couldn't help but notice the strong passion he has for this industry. I must say... it isn't common to speak with students who truly know who's who in our industry (no disrespect for those who don't, just stating my observations).  It was both refreshing and impressive to say the least.

I was really excited to interview Chris, as I feel that he is such a great example of an aspiring artist who will surely go very far in his career. Everyone can take something from his interview, whether it be inspiration to follow you dream of being a MUA, or just inspiration for life lessons in general with his amazingly prophetic words and quotes he lives by.  Enjoy!

1.    Tell us about yourself (where you're from, how you got into makeup, etc)
I was born and raised in Los Angeles and ever since I can remember, I was fascinated by all sorts of art forms. From movies, dancing, singing, drawing, painting, and makeup. It was at a seasonal Halloween store when I was fifteen that I had my first experience with makeup. I was hired as a clerk for their makeup counter. I learned about blood, prosthetics, wigs and SFX makeup and it just fascinated me. It was then where I learned that I was able to create things and make them a reality.
    
​2.    Did you attend school?
Yes, I’m currently attending E.I. Professional School of Makeup. I’m in my last course and graduating next month! YAY!! :)

    3. What are your thoughts on makeup artists attending school to pursue a career in freelance artistry?
I believe it’s a great asset. It’s helped me with excellent networking opportunities and provided me with so much knowledge. Coming from someone who isn’t out of high school nor in his early 20’s, I found it essential to go to school and learn as much as I could, since I knew this was the career I wanted to pursue. 

    4. We absolutely love your work, where do you get your inspiration from?
As a millennial, I find so much inspiration through social media. It’s exciting to find remarkable artwork by fellow artists and be inspired and motivated.

    5. What is your favorite piece of work you are most proud of that you have worked on?
I would have to say I’m most proud of my “Lady Grinn” character. From the makeup, FX, location, and costume— it was such a great experience creating this entire character from the ground up. It allowed me to showcase my growth as an artist ever since starting school.​

Such a great interview, right?! 
To connect with Chris on social media, follow him on Instagram at @krs_top_her 
View his work on his website at  https://www.productionhub.com/profile/krs-top-her

Chris will be joining our team at our DVD signing event  on Sunday November 19th featuring Ve Neill, Leonard Engelmann and Carleigh Herbert. You can come meet these awesome artists and Chris! Networking, anyone?  Yes please ! (To purchase admission, CLICK HERE)

Want even MORE inspiration? Join me during our live online workshop this month! We always have so much fun, and nothing but love, passion, inspiration and some fun shared knowledge is exchanged. 

November 17th at 6:00 PM (PST) "15 Ways to Make Extra Money as a Makeup Artist During the Holidays"

and

November 26th at 3:00 PM (PST)  "How to Stand Out as a Makeup Artist" 

CLICK HERE to sign up!

Everyone have a wonderful weekend! Cheers!

​xo,
Amber

Hello Everyone, this time around we are going to talk about why Research is important to you as a Makeup Artist. Remember Knowledge is Key! 
First lets be clear on what qualifies as research: movies (of course), books, social media, magazines, etc

Research can be done in so many ways its insane, but here we are going to talk about the “why” rather than the “how.” Hopefully you know how, but maybe you don't know why. Well lucky you, you're here, and the answers are waiting below!

1- First and foremost research matters cause it makes you smart and when you're smart, life is easier. And an easier life makes for an easier career which makes you happy, which makes me happy.   :)

2- Research also matters so that when you get a job you know how to communicate certain things to the director/photographer during discussions. Like how certain looks are achieved or how much time something make take for you to do. That being said, you also should know why the director or photographer is asking you certain questions regarding your timing and/or your vision. Better communication leads to a better flowing work day which makes your actors happy :)

3- Speaking of Actors! Research is important so you know what you are putting on someone’s skin, how to put it on their skin, and how to take it off (without taking off their skin). Always know what your products are made of and be sure your talent isn't allergic to it. 

4- Going into what things are made of- knowing this info can make or break a makeup. For example, if you were doing a beauty shoot in a pool or some form of water you want to know the right foundation to use so it doesn't come off as soon as your model takes their first dip. 

The FX side of this would be knowing when to use Silicone vs. Foam prosthetics for certain looks. If its a larger creature build you don't want it to be super heavy on your actor for 12+ hours so you would use foam rather than silicone. 

5- Research also matters so you can read up on those who came before you in the industry. Whether its film or fashion there was always a master who started it all. Find out who these people are. What they did to change the game. What they did that they wouldn't do again. People have stories that they are willing to share. If you listen you’ll learn. And that, ladies and gents is priceless info. 

6- Info with a price- This would be school. (How I got my START) 
Start is the main word here because school is just the beginning. It is a good beginning though, because although it’s got quite a price tag, it also contains a vast amount of information. Learning from multiple sources for 8+ hours a day for multiple months. It’s an investment, but a great investment if you ask me! Do your research and find one that suits your needs and see what you can do about getting loans and/or financial aid.

    Research will always matter. If I could write up why it doesn't matter it would be much easier because it would be a blank page.
 Do ALLLLLLL of the research!!!!! never stop learning! Especially regarding your career. Know everything there is to know so that you never have to turn down a job. Know it all so you don't get stumped on the who's who in the industry and why. Research will help you with your confidence in your knowledge and in your skill. It will help you with your networking blocks when you go to makeup conventions or when you're on set. When you know what you're talking about, without sounding like a know-it-all, people will enjoy that. They will sense your hunger to learn, your passion for the art, your appreciation for their work, and your drive to get to that level. ​

And that! Ladies and gents, is why research matters!

Yours Truly,
Kenneth (@martinipesto)