Why Research Matters

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)