In the film industry, a makeup artist is an artist who specializes in applying makeup and prosthetics to the human body.
Key Makeup Artist
A key makeup artist is the head of the makeup department. They are responsible for designing the makeup and special makeup effects, and they assign other makeup artists to apply everything.
Key makeup artists are also responsible for staying within budget for supplies, materials and salaries as well as researching and creating appointments for actors who may need custom dental veneers or cosmetic contact lenses for the characters they are playing.
“makeup artist at work” by mbtrama, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original
Another important task that key makeup artists must handle is ensuring that makeup application remains consistent throughout the production – either the same or change as required by the storyline, such as showing signs of aging or injury after an accident.
“Makeup Design: Aging Makeup” by Vancouver Film School is licensed under CC BY 2.0
Special Makeup Effects (FX Makeup/Prosthetic Makeup)
A special makeup effects artist is an artist who specializes in creating dramatic makeup effects through the use of makeup, prosthetics and plaster casting in order to achieve highly embellished features and fantasy-like characteristics. Special makeup effects artists are commonly used in horror and sci-fi productions.
“IMATS Vancouver 2011” by Vancouver Film School, used under CC BY 2.0 / Cropped from original
Watch this video below to see some amazing before and after makeup transformations:
“Top 10 Makeup Transformations of All Time” by CineFix
Makeup Artists In Nevada
It is important to hire a professional makeup artist with the right background for your production. In Nevada, we have many experienced award-winning makeup artists and assistants with a complete understanding of lighting, continuity and media who can provide their expertise to your production.
If you are looking for makeup artists and makeup assistants for your next project, check out our online Nevada Production Directory for a list of makeup artists and assistants in Nevada or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory! The makeup artists listed in our directory have worked on a variety of feature films, photo shoots, television shows, music videos, commercials, live productions, and demonstration videos. Their credits are included with each of their individual listings.
If you are a makeup artist in Nevada and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.