How to Choose a Make-up Artist

As a professional make-up artist, I try to be very careful not to judge the work of other make-up artists. But it is my duty as a card carrying member of the ‘I Am a Diva Club’ (it should be a club), to issue a warning to the unsuspecting men and women who fall prey to those who don the name “professional make-up artist.”  Ordinarily, I’d pass on a subject like this, but after seeing so many people with bad make-up done by “professionals,”  I’ve reconsidered. Here are three rules to help you avoid a makeover that just isn’t making it.

Rule #1: Check out the artist

First impressions are everything. When meeting a make-up artist for the first time make sure you look for the obvious: tastefully applied makeup. Now it is true that everyone has different styles and their style may not necessarily reflect your own; however, style isn’t what’s most important–it’s application and appearance. Is he or she put together? Does he or she seem to have good taste? And don’t be afraid to switch make-up artists especially if their hygiene isn’t as fresh as it should be.

Rule #2: Body of Evidence

Let’s say you meet with your artist and he or she is going au natural–they’re not wearing make-up at all. What do you do? Ask for a portfolio. Professional make-up artists should have a collection of pictures showcasing their work. Even if the photos consist of a few camera phone pictures, the point is they should have some of their work for you to view. Also, look for a variety of styles and techniques so you can can see the range of their capabilities.

Rule #3: Go for a Test Drive

Every make-up artist should offer you a trial session or a consultation. This is extremely important especially if you need make-up for a special occassion like a wedding or prom, etc. A trial session gives you the chance to make an educated decision before your big day. Could you imagine planning for your special day and everything turns out perfect, except your face? The reality is this happens but it doesn’t have to happen to you. Also, make sure the artist chooses the right type of make-up for the right occassion. For example, make-up for a photo shoot is going to be very different than the make-up used to make-over a person going out on the town.

In the end, it’s all about trusting your “beauty sense”. If something doesn’t feel right about your make-over or it’s taking too long, trust your instincts and get out of there as quickly as you can–without making a scene!

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