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Check out my description of my makeup artistry services on Thumbtack.com...
I have been a professional, two-time award-winning, freelance makeup artist since 1997. I specialize in airbrush while expert at all aspects of makeup and hair design for TV, film, commercial and print. I also offer makeup instruction for a select few.
Q&A from Thumbtack.com
Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?
Technical skills are important, but it takes years to educate your eye. As a makeup artist it is all in the detail and I have spent all of my time since 1997 perfecting my recognition of what I am seeing. This gives me an edge on others without the years of training.
What do you like most about your job?
I never get tired of watching red spots disappear like magic when I am airbrushing a foundation. The look on someones face when they look in the mirror and see a perfect complexion that looks like there is no makeup.
What questions do customers most commonly ask you?
"What product do you use?" My answer is: what ever works best for what I am doing.
If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?
Less sometimes really is more. I didn't believe this for many years but it is true.
Do you have a favorite story from your work?
Too many to tell! My work is my passion and I am learning and growing in my technique and my personality with every job that I do.
What do you wish customers knew about you or your profession?
It isn't "just makeup". It is important especially when there is a camera involved. Not just anyone (meaning the camera guy, or some random person) can do this!
What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
Make it clear as to what you want and are looking for and then don't be afraid to pay for a professional.
What important information should buyers have before seeking you out? For example, someone looking to have their room painted should know how big the room is, whether or not the ceiling requires painting, if there is trimming or crown moldings, etc.
"What are you trying to achieve? Where are you going to do this project? How many people need what?" Make sure that you are prepared to provide the time and budget to achieve the results.
How did you decide to get in your line of work?
I did everything else and this was what was left. Actually I had a passion for hair design from the time I was very small, but circumstance got in the way. But when I was in my late 40's, it all came around again and I finally was ready to pursue my passion.
What are your most common types of jobs?
I do lots of commercial work, print and brides. I do some film work and then the rest is just random. I am starting to do spray tanning and body painting.
Tell us about a recent job you did that you are particularly proud of.
I worked on a little short film recently. Most of the crew were people who have done this for many years. It appeared to be truly beautiful, and I think it will end up being something I can be proud of when it is finished in post.
Do you do any sort of continuing education to stay up on the latest developments in your field?
Yes! I am always learning. I take very expensive one on one classes when I find someone who does something I feel like I can use help with. I go to hair shows and makeup shows and never stop reaching. I am still astounded after all these years to find that there is sooo much to learn about makeup.
What are the latest developments in your field? Are there any exciting things coming in the next few years or decade that will change your line of business?
Products are always changing. The airbrush and good makeup to go into it has been the last thing that really changed my industry, in my opinion. There are many out there who do it now but not as many who know how to do it well.
Describe your most recent project, what it involved, how much it cost, and how long it took.
Well, I just wrapped that film I was mentioning. It was 3 days and something between 40 and 50 hours. It cost me product and parking and a great deal of time. But, again, I think that it will be something to be proud of.
If you have a complicated pricing system for your service, please give all the details here.
Much too complicated to tell here. My day rate is $600 plus parking. Each job is different and has to be handled differently. I have made as much as $800 in a two hour period and as little as $100 for a 12 hour day.
If you were advising someone who wanted to get into your profession, what would you suggest?
Not to do it if you are trying to make a living or support children. Also to make very sure that you are passionate about this work. Then, get professional training, which by the way, I provide.
Seattle, WA