One of the main fields that makeup artists find themselves in, is the entertainment industry. This can include movies, theatre, reality shows, television sitcoms, concerts, etc. Makeup artists apply makeup to the actors or performers before the event. They can work individually, or as part of a team. In this capacity, you may work with the stylist, to make sure that the colours that you use work with the wardrobe. You may have to switch looks quickly, to get them ready for a new scene or song. You may need to read the script and sketch out a few designs, to appease the director. They have a vision for their stars and it is your job to fulfil it. Maybe the scene takes place in a different time period and you will have to research how they wore their makeup back then. You really have to know the character, time period and wardrobe and create a look that is perfect for that particular job. This can be a bit more challenging than a simple makeover, or a daily application for a reality star. However, there will be a need for that as well. If they have a big event, you may need to style them differently. They are leaving you in charge of finalizing the look. And you will have to work hard to capture their vision. Be ready for some irregular hours in this industry. You will work long hours for several months straight, if you are making a movie. You may have several months without work as well. You may need to relocate for a certain period of time, if they are shooting in a particular location. These are the things you should be aware of. If you land a job in a television studio, you can expect to work long hours. It is normal for those working in this capacity to work over forty hours a week. Makeup artists apply light makeup to news broadcasters and special effects makeup. It is completely normal for the makeup artist to stay throughout the filming process, to touch up the makeup or change it for various scenes. They may also stay until the end, to properly remove the makeup so that the clients are not wearing mascara overnight and drying out their eyelashes to the point that they fall out. Makeup artists also work in the fashion industry, preparing models for runway shows, photo shoots and advertisements. They may be employed in the capacity of maintaining a model with regular applications, to keep up their image. For example, if a model is a spokesperson, the makeup artist may be asked to do their makeup every day before they leave their apartment, so that if they are seen, the image is upheld. As a makeup artist, you are also "selling" the makeup, clothing and accessories of your client. Therefore, it's important that you show a keen eye for every detail. It's important to understand how lighting effects the look and apply the makeup accordingly. Many makeup artists work in the cosmetic services industry full time. They go to cosmetic industry events and sell makeup to clients in department stores. They answer questions about products, give makeovers and demonstrate various techniques. Other service industries include spas and salons. In these service jobs, a makeup artist gives facials, makeovers and consultations and builds up a client list. They make recommendations to their clients and apply makeup for special events, like weddings. You will need a degree or certificate to work in a salon or spa. These makeup artists are also called aestheticians, if they are licensed. These are the things that you may want to strive for. You may want to become certified and licensed, so that you can work anywhere in the industry. If you decide to work on your own and not for a company, you can be a freelance makeup artist. Here, it is very important to make sure you are networking and marketing your skills. Having your own website is a great idea for freelance work. You need to make sure you can display your portfolio and hand out business cards. Attend fashion and cosmetic industry events, to develop contacts. Gain the trust of your clients and continue to work with them. It may take a few years, until you can successfully rely on freelancing alone. Then you can start to build your business further and even employ other people.