Movie Makeup Artist Job Description Template
Use this Movie Makeup Artist job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.
Job Brief
We are looking for a Movie Makeup Artist to create unique looks for our cast during film shootings.
Movie Makeup Artist responsibilities include designing each character’s look, applying makeup products on actors’ faces and bodies and using prosthetics to create special makeup effects. If you’re detail-oriented and well-versed in complex makeup techniques, we’d like to meet you. Please include a photo portfolio of any previous works along with your application.
Ultimately, you will ensure our actors look flawless on screen with makeup that brings their characters to life.
Responsibilities
- Coordinate with the film director and lighting technicians to get briefed on character descriptions and shooting conditions
- Sketch makeup looks for all actors, based on character descriptions
- Calculate the time required for makeup and inform actors and director in advance
- Apply long-lasting and waterproof cosmetics on actors’ faces and bodies
- Create special makeup effects using prosthetics and latex masks
- Coordinate with costume designers and hairstylists to create cohesive looks
- Inform the production team about tools and products needed
- Ensure makeup style is consistent during the entire shooting of the film
- Cover scars and tattoos, as needed
- Help actors remove makeup and prosthetics
- Store makeup products and tools safely
Requirements
- Proven work experience as a Makeup Artist in film productions or TV shows
- Portfolio with some work samples
- Knowledge of a wide range of professional cosmetic lines
- Experience with various makeup styles, like period, contemporary, natural and horror
- Understanding of makeup requirements for film characters (e.g. sculpting techniques and FX prosthetics)
- Good time-management skills
- Impeccable attention to detail
- Flexibility to work long hours during shooting days
- Availability to travel, as needed
- Certification in Cosmetology, Makeup or relevant field
What does Movie Makeup Artist do?
A movie makeup artist, also known as a film/TV makeup artist, is responsible for creating and applying makeup and hairstyling for actors and actresses in movies, television shows, and sometimes theater productions. On a day-to-day basis, their tasks may include:
- Reading the script and collaborating with the director, costume designer, and other members of the production team to understand the characters' makeup and hairstyling requirements.
- Researching and collecting reference materials, such as images, for makeup and hairstyle ideas that fit the characters' time period, location, and personality.
- Preparing and organizing their makeup kit, ensuring it is clean, well-stocked, and ready for use.
- Collaborating with the costume designer to coordinate makeup and hairstyles with the costumes.
- Meeting with actors and actresses to discuss their character's appearance and makeup preferences.
- Applying makeup and hairstyling based on the characters' requirements, which may include age makeup, special effects makeup, fantasy or sci-fi makeup, etc.
- Ensuring continuity in makeup and hair throughout the filming process by taking detailed notes and photographs of each look.
- Touching up makeup and hair between scenes and monitoring actors' appearances on-set.
- Collaborating with the production team to ensure the makeup and hairstyling fits the overall visual style and mood of the film/TV show.
- Keeping up with current industry trends and techniques through research, workshops, and attending industry events.
It's important to note that the specific day-to-day responsibilities may vary depending on the size and budget of the production, as well as the preferences of the director and individual actors.