Starting as a Freelance & Business

Nov 2, 2012

Alicia S.

I really want to start doing makeup as a freelance artist in my spare time. I am the "go hard or go home" competitive type of person so I really want to do things professional and in good taste. I don't want to be the random girl you went to school with that wasn't a "girly girl" but randomly does makeup. I've researched on becoming a freelance artist building a kit, clientele and portfolio but I feel a bit overwhelmed when I think about the whole business side of it, like trademarking a name, whether or not to do contracts when I just start out, taxes, receipts and all that stuff that can get you into trouble if it's not done properly. I have a vision for the business, a name I like...a concept I guess, I just need advice on the business side (prices of products, what to charge, and anything else) Plz Help! : )

Nov 2, 2012

Katie S.

Shany cosmetics has a kit which has approximately 5 palettes, including concealer blush and eye shadows. I think that that palette would be very handy to have and from what I recall it is a pretty reasonable price! Good luck! I also want to do freelance when I am a bit older :) 

Nov 2, 2012

Adalae M.

Some people hire or get a friend who has more knowledge in the business side. For prices, see what other places charge. I know Mac can cost up to $80, other places maybe $50. You may want to choose a particular brand of makeup you like to get a "name" if you what I mean! The best thing for prices is to look around and decide what you can profit from but still draw customers too. Hope I helped some!! :)

Nov 2, 2012

Alicia S.

That does help, thanks

Nov 2, 2012

Crystal S.

I want to do the same thing alsways have since I was about 8 or 9 lol and now I've got people doing their full outfits and make up hair and nails. I usually don't charge much just depends on what the client want done...and if they have their own things or if I actually need to bring my things. 

Nov 2, 2012

Belinda W.

I've always thought I would have to go to beauty school before ever being able to charge someone for doing their makeup. Boy have I found out how wrong I was. I have no tips, I only come to say good luck and share your tips when you become a big name artist! 

Nov 10, 2012

Jaelei Y.

First you want to check your state regulations for being a freelance makeup artist. In the state of Wisconsin, you have to have a cosmetology or esthetics license to charge for doing makeup. A lot of states do not. I went to cosmetology school because I love doing makeup. Doing hair has also become one of my passions so now I can do both. Sometimes it's more beneficial to know more than one skill so you can offer the whole package. I can also gain more clients through a salon. Building a makeup kit is expensive because you want to offer quality products especially for professional jobs. I recommend going on makeupmania.com or photoreadycosmetics.com. They have palettes especially for foundation, instead of buying individual foundation bottles. Hope that helps!

Nov 10, 2012

Jaelei Y.

You also should have in-depth knowledge about skin types and skin care in order to have a great canvas to work on. You also have to think about what products do or do not work on certain skin types. 

Nov 10, 2012

Lexi J.

BH cosmetics is a really great way to start off. You watch Queen Of Blending she does a great tutorial with their cosmetics! I just bought a couple pallets from them and they are great! And inexpensive 

Nov 16, 2012

Alicia S.

Thanks for the feedback

Nov 19, 2012

Meg B.

I thjnk what Hawkes meant was www.camerareadycosmetics.com, they are great and have quite a range of quality products that are meant for MUAs.

Nov 19, 2012

Meg B.

my phone keeps auto-correcting me, that's "I think what Jaelei meant..."

Nov 19, 2012

Nadine S.

It was hard for me as well when I first started. I would suggest that try to build your portfolio. Connect with local photographers who work with different models and say you want to build your portfolio. This way you can get free professional images to show clients. Pick a brand name you want to work with. I work with MAC, Smashbox, NYX and such. Try buying from costal scents they have palettes of different kinds and are cheaper. Hope this helps you. 

Nov 20, 2012

Aishah S.

You have to start at the bottom, I know it sucks but it will billed up your confidence. Start charging is fare to you, I started my freelancing last year and I still charge $25 not because I don't think I deserve more but because I'm trying to build a big clientele. I use all types if makeup don't listen to everyone and anything!! Try out all types if makeup in your price range at first then move on to different things. My kit has things from elf, Mac,urban decay, benefit, Ben nye. Etc. Make your self a contract that is short and simple!

Nov 28, 2012

Alicia S.

thanks for the info

Nov 28, 2012

Nicol D.

Freelancing for a company or working for them is really the best way. You get to deal with all types of customers and personalities and that will prepare you.

As far as your kit, I slowly built mine. There is so much out there but you have to find what works best for you. But make sure you get quality foundation. Foundations with SPF in them will cause people to look washed out in pictures. Invest in the Graftobian warm palette. I wish I had known about that when I started. lol

Good luck! 

Dec 3, 2012

Ari W.

to the person that mentioned shany cosmetics....never buy their brushes...i bought a set not long ago and they are like the worst brushes i ever owned...

Dec 22, 2012

Simonee W.

I would recommend doing a retail makeup course or just doing ur makeup cert u needa no face shapes.. What people can have what if there allergic to a product u can ruin their wedding or photoshoot. 

Jan 7, 2013

Emily H.

I have been a pro makeup artist/stylist for 10+years and I spent the first part of my career (and still do) focuses on building my skill and education there. Almost 5 years ago, I started freelancing and the resources for building your own business are just not as available as finding a class on doing a smoky eye. I am lucky that my undergrad degree is in PR and business and I have worked for some amazing business owners. Last year I launched a mentoring/coaching program for people who are in your position, looking to excel in their own business and build a freelance business (that is profitable!). Check out moneymakingmakeupartist.com, I post some free resources that you may find helpful. I also run a 3 week intensive bootcamp business coaching program that is all done online. The next one starts in a week and I am filling now, let me know if you want to snag a spot, I will get you at the current special offer price ($300 off!). check out moneymakingmakeupartist.com. I would love to help you build your business!

Jan 12, 2013

Amy W.

This is just a random little bit of advice ..If you want to buy affordable but good quality things to start with, try bhcosmetics.com :) Super affordable!

Jan 12, 2013

Amanda N.

I wet to school for photography, and I would assume makeup is the same. As far as the business side goes, if you are just starting out, don't stress to much. It is all about building a clientele. So, be prepared to do a lot for basically free or next to nothing. You gotta make your name known before you can start charging "comparable" prices to others that are already known.

Jan 12, 2013

Mary B.

I agree with what everyone is saying, working at a makeup counter gives you the best experience. I personally worked at Sophora which gave me a great deal of knowledge with skincare. My experience working with Mac Has been absolutely priceless. That is ultimately your foundation. You have to know your clientele and how to work with a range of skintones and types. Also I wouldn't be too selective while building your make up kit not everyone has the same preference. Always always always take pictures of your work. This can include pictures of your friends and your family while you're getting started. Then switch those pictures out as your experience grows. Keep in mind that not everyone can pull off a Kardashian look!!!! Never try to give someone something you know they can't pull off. The idea with make up is to enhance beauty.