Help with pricing!

Nov 25, 2012

Mallory C.

Hey beauties,
I want to really start freelancing as a MUA, but I'm not sure how to determine "fair" prices, or how to make a price list for my clients.

Do I charge a set price for a full face of makeup? Do I charge an hourly rate for events like weddings and photoshoots? And how much should those things cost?

I've done a few fashion show jobs, but I was on a hair and makeup team so we got paid through the company, not by the clients.

I'd appreciate any help you guys can give me!

Nov 25, 2012

Nadine S.

I have set a price in my area where I am. I am DC/VA and now that I have done few bridals I made a set price no negotiations. There will be clients who do that but with the great service, travel, plus standing and doing their makeup all takes effort.
Now I am charging $120.00 for bride only with touch up kit.
Bridesmaid $45.00-$50.00 with lashes or without
Groom mother or bride mother: $50.00
Makeup lessons I provide are by the hour: $45.00
Trials:$40.00 without lashes and $45.00 with lashes
Photo shoots I charge by the hour :$75.00
That's just my basic pricing now. I have worked hard on my portfolio too.
If you travel further for a client charge for gas. Mine is 0.60 per mile.
While you are starting build your portfolio by working on few local models and photographers maybe 1 or 2 shoots and get the high quality pictures. Hope this helps. 

Nov 25, 2012

Mallory C.

Thanks Nadine, that was extremely helpful!

I'll be doing tons of trade for print work just for my portfolio, and then I'll start incorporating a price list on my website for freelance clients.

Thanks again! 

Nov 25, 2012

Nadine S.

I would recommend the following for
Print work: if you want particular looks do those such as maybe 1 bridal and 1 high fashion. When you get a few clients and paid work from them just do another print trade work such as pin up style or classical so you have a bit of all in your portfolio. 

Nov 25, 2012

Nicol D.

I'm in the DMV area like Nadine. Look at what other makeup artist are charging to give yourself an idea. You don't to be known as a 'cheap' artist. But also price yourself fair. You gave to account for your time and talent. And also supplies. They aren't cheap either. 

Nov 26, 2012

Mallory C.

Thank you, Nicol! That makes a lot of sense.

I'm NYC, and I know a lot of artists are probably really expensive. I think being fair with prices is what I was really concerned about, but like you said, I also don't want to be a "cheap" artist either!

Thank you ladies (: 

Nov 26, 2012

Nadine S.

Good luck Mallory and also Nicol gave me the advice on my last question once you set a price do not bargain because you are talented and you work shows that. Best wishes and hope you get the right clients. 

Nov 26, 2012

Mallory C.

Thank you Nadine, I really appreciate all of your advice!