TFP or TFCD!

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I have one question: How many times should I do makeup applications for TFP (trade for photos) or TFCD (trade for CD) before it becomes beneficial? 

Aug 16, 2011

Soma S.

As MANY times as you need to build a portfolio choc-full of pictures you are proud to show off as your own! I get a good photo every 1 out of 20-100 shots... and even then, it's just "Good". Make sure you put up your photos for critique by your peers, friends, family and fellow makeup artist/enthusiasts. Take whatever they have to say with a grain of salt, and improve on top of that. When you can finally look at a picture and say, "Damn... that was me behind all of that?!" - then I'd say you're ready to show the world and make them realize just how good you are.  =)

Thanks Soma S.

Aug 20, 2011

Soma S.

No problem! I have a portfolio class I'm going to be taking soon [not makeup related] - but my program is VICIOUS. Every semester, there's an average of at least 1 person crying in one of my classes... and I've been in this program for a few years now...

Critiques are best done by people willing to tear your work to pieces though - because if you've created something you put your heart and soul into, and you fully believe and support everything that it has come out to be... you'll be on point when people ask you questions as to "Why did you do this...?" or "What made you decide to put those two colors or schemes together?!" - and you'll be able to charm the pants off of any hater and sell them your ideas.

Good luck!  =)

That was great advice Soma! It's always nice to see people taking the time out to give helpful info.  :-)

@Soma that's great advice. As for your class have you ever cried? 

Aug 23, 2011

Soma S.

^Hahaha... I hold it in until I walk my happy ass to the parking lot and get into my car. Class critiques are the worst because everyone sits in a half circle around you and it's like a shark feeding frenzy. =P

...but yeah, no one has seen me cry yet. Most of my tears are at 7:30am right before submission deadline and I'm working frantically to get something turned in on time and presentation-worthy.  =)

Aug 23, 2011

Ungenita P.

In the beginning I think it's important to work for FREE to develop your confidence, sharpen your skills, learn the industry & network.

A problem that I see for MUA with TFP is they don't always get copies of their work. It's important to know who's in charge of delivery of the prints & follow up.

Once you work for FREE don't be afraid to offer your services at your $$$ rate for the next shoot especially when they rave about your work. That's the time to book the next paid gig.

Too many MUAs are taken advantage of. You have to strike a balance between working for FREE & getting paid. Otherwise you run the risk of being a "Starving Artist".

Start treating your artistry like a business!

It doesn't matter if you've been in business 1 day, 1 month or 1 year. Know your rates. Get comfortable talking about what you do. If you're not sold how do you expect someone else to buy your product/service.

What is your day rate?
What is your hourly rate?
What is your kit fee?

What types of services do you offer? Do you do makeup for individuals and/or teach makeup lessons?

Pick a niche...

Yes, you are a Makeup Artist but there are many industries within the beauty industries.

Bridal/Weddings
Print/Celebrity
Film/TV
High Fashion/Runway
Consumer/Retail

What is your USP (Unique Selling Point)? This is what will separate you from the other artists. It's competitive but there's no competition (only 1 YOU!) when you clearly define yourself in the marketplace.

You can invest in your kit but also Invest in yourself!

There are some great portfolio building classes out there. @MakeupbyMario teaches a class where you actually complete a professional look on a model. Another way to build your book.

Network with other MUA, MUA hire MUA! Every working MUA that I know always talks about starting out as an assistant. Make an effort to meet and get to know as many working MUA as you can. Let them know you're available NOW!

Assist! Assist! Assist!

Effectively communicate what you do, tell everyone about your services, be professional and always FOLLOW UP!

To Filling Your Bank Account,
@UngenitaBeauty