Your Makeup Career Archives

Mar 26

How to Become a Makeup Artist During COVID-19: 5 Ways to Get Your Name Out There!

By Nadia Calabro Career Advice, QC Student Ambassador, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 3 Comments

Wondering how to become a makeup artist during the COVID-19 global pandemic? QC Makeup Academy’s Student Ambassador, Nadia Calabro, is here to help! Nadia is a graduate of QC’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Skincare Course.

Today, she reveals her Top 5 Tips to help you get your name out there in the industry.

Competition in the Makeup Industry

It goes without saying that the professional world of makeup artistry is a competitive one. It seems like nowadays, there’s a makeup artist on every corner! Makeup has always had a big place in the world. From the beginning of time, women and men alike have been using it to enhance their beauty in some way.

But like with everything else, the world of makeup has evolved. It’s never been as big as it is now! One of the main reasons for this is social media and the thousands upon thousands of influencers who use it. As a result, people are encouraged to dig deep into their creative side and take a chance on this career. The younger generation is likewise becoming inspired, too.

It’s a lot more common these days for the love of makeup to eventually blossom into a professional career. Thus, more and more people are entering the beauty industry. This means that they’re also creating an abundance of competition!

But Competition is a GOOD Thing!

That being said, don’t be intimidated by your competition. In an industry like this, there’s room for everyone. The key is knowing how to get your name out there.

Luckily, there are plenty of ways to do this! Okay, let me rephrase that… There WERE a lot of ways to get in your name out there. You know, before COVID.

I guess I don’t have to state the obvious elephant in the room. But just in case someone still needs to know, we are currently in the middle of a global pandemic. With the constant lockdowns and social distancing measures in place, it’s harder to showcase your skills without having anyone to physically work on.

But don’t fret, my friends! Yes, what I am about to say may seem like it’s meant for people living in a different world. But that’s because one day, all of the points listed below will be valid again. So, if you want to stand out from the rest, grab a pen and take notes!

How to Become a Makeup Artist: 5 Tips for Getting Your Name Out There

1. Get Properly Educated!

Don’t rely on social media videos and trends to take you places. That’s not the same as a legitimate education from a reputable makeup school. Instead, learn how to do basic and proper makeup applications. The right knowledge will allow you to take your skill-set anywhere!

2. Dig Deep and Learn About Yourself!

Find the areas where you excel and specialize in those. Having a niche that you dominate in will grab people’s attention. As a result, they WILL want to work with you!

3. Believe in Yourself and Take Chances!

No one ever got noticed by sitting on the sidelines. Right from the get-go, put yourself out there. Is it possible to fail? Of course – but no one has ever fully succeeded without failing at least a little first.

Don’t let your fear of failure get in your way. Confidence is a huge part of success. So, walk into all jobs knowing you CAN and you WILL do great!

4. Let Your Creativity Shine!

Get those creative juices flowing and be original. It doesn’t take much to be a copycat. I mean, really, we can all recreate something. But it takes TRUE skill and passion to be original. It’s easy to fly past posts on social media that all look the same. But how many people will stop and stare when there is something they’ve never seen before?

Be that something!

5. Proactively Network!

Make smart and meaningful connections that will expand your business and enhance it. Makeup artists are needed in a lot of different areas. Once you connect with the right people, they can share and promote your name to get you more business.

For example, it’s always a great idea to connect with a hair salon or hairstylist. This way, whenever they have a client who has a special event, they can recommend you to do their makeup. Another good networking opportunity is to find a photographer. They could be willing to promote your services to their brides. Maybe they’ll even be willing to collaborate with you on a stylized photo shoot, which will definitely help you get your work out there.

Build a team of like-minded people around you that will motivate you and help you to succeed!

Getting Your Name Out There During COVID-19

Listen, I’m not blind to the effect COVID-19 has been having on the beauty industry. Like you, I am right smack in the middle of the mess; pretty much just trying to pick up the pieces. I know we can fall into the trap of letting it all weigh us down.

But the truth is, this is not the end. When we push aside all the things we cannot do, we’ll discover that there are still many things we can do. One of the things the pandemic has taken away is our ability to socialize. Since there aren’t a whole lot of events, weddings, or large celebrations taking place, the need for professional makeup applications has decreased.

Turn That Frown Upside-Down!

But sitting around and feeling defeated isn’t going to do you any good! Why not use this time to create awesome looks for future weddings and special events? Why not maximize your social media presence to promote these looks, so people can get hyped for the future?

You can easily create these looks on yourself. Moreover, you can use the people who are in your immediate social circle as models (so long as they agree, of course). Without having a constant flow of clients to showcase your work, now is the time to get more comfortable with allowing people to see the face behind the name.

As for makeup artists, our clients’ faces are always the focal point of our business. But it may surprise you to know that people like to put a real person behind all the social media hype. Being able to know who the person providing the service is – before booking an appointment – adds a sense of comfort and familiarity.

So, create videos where you speak about your love and passion for what you do! Express what being a makeup artist means to you and what you hope to give back to your clients. You can also create tutorials, demonstrating how you apply makeup to your own face.

When you let your followers – or better yet, your potential clients – into your world, you establish trust even before the first encounter! Your hands-on work is what used to speak for you. Now we live in a world where you have to adapt. Allow your knowledge to show people that you are more than just a brush to a face!

How to Become a Makeup Artist in 2021

Starting a new career is always a scary thing. But once you have made the choice to become a makeup artist, there a few simple steps you can follow that will help jump-start a very successful future!

Tip #1: Make sure you’re choosing this career because you love it.

I know it sounds cliché, but the beauty industry can be pretty cutthroat. Your skin must be thick to overcome every obstacle. You’ll be faced with many “no’s”, a lot of, “Can you redo this?”, and plenty of, “I don’t like that”.

When your heart is truly in the work that you do, it’s easier to look past the negatives and focus on the positives. Personally, I had to teach myself to see every comment as constructive criticism. That way, I could use it as fuel to become better.

Tip #2: Research the average makeup artist income in your area.

How much does a makeup artist make where you’re living? This is important information to know.

In a perfect world, our careers would be based solely on what we love to do. The money would never be a factor. But the reality is, we don’t live in a world where we can work for free. So, make sure the salary is something that actually works for you!

Look online to see the different makeup artist job opportunities that are currently available in your area. For each job you find, make sure the qualifications are required. Once that’s done, research into the different makeup artists currently operating in your town/city. What sort of services do they offer? How much are they charging?

For me, seeking out my competition gave me a lot of good ideas for my own business. I was better able to determine the things I wanted to do for my own business, as well as the things I didn’t.

Tip #3: Get the proper education.

Yes, I know I said this already. But it’s so important that I’m going to say it again!

These days, in a world dominated by social media and influencers, there are many people who call themselves “trained” artists… but have never taken a legitimate makeup class in their life. Don’t become just another social media artist.

Take a reputable course and learn everything there is to be learned about our industry. Build your skills and knowledge, to the point that the sky becomes the limit. I’d received a makeup certificate through beauty school. At first, I thought that was enough. But once I was really in it, I realized that there was SO much I didn’t know.

Equip yourself for the world beyond the computer screen. Professional makeup artistry is, after all, done in 3-D. Trust me, you will thank yourself later! In fact, this ties into my next tip, which is…

Tip #4: Find the right makeup school.

Research into different makeup academies and make sure the one you choose is a reputable one. Go to their website and confirm their credentials. If they’re a trustworthy school, they will be accredited in some way.

Next, review their course outline(s). Make sure you’ll be learning everything that you need and want. After that, see if they’ve got any reviews from past and present students. This will help you get a feel for the kind of experience you can expect and what you could be able to accomplish.

In my case, the only other thing I needed to consider was how I was going to learn while still being a mom to my children. So, I had to make sure I was going with the best online school – one that could give me flexibility, without jeopardizing my education.

For me, there was no doubt that QC Makeup Academy was the one!

Tip #5: Don’t be afraid to dive right in.

Practice makes perfect. In our industry, hands-on training is key! So, build your confidence by first believing in yourself. Once you’ve done that, start putting your craft to the test!

As soon as I could, I brought in family and friends to practice on. I made sure to get exposure to different facial structures and tones. This way, I had a variety of pictures for my portfolio! Moreover, I could expand my capabilities, which I knew would allow me to work on a much larger variety of clients in the future.

Once COVID-19 lockdowns went into effect, I made sure to keep up with my practice by working on myself. I began using my own face to try a wide range of different looks and techniques!

Tip #6: Create different social media platforms.

You should also create a business website, too. These things will help you to connect with people and showcase who/what you’re all about.

Pick an aesthetic that’s uninformed, appealing to the audience, and aligns with your brand. Most people gravitate to pages that have a collective look and feel. So, pick a color scheme and stick to it! Your pages should be a reflection of who you are as a person and an artist. Moreover, it should scream out to your target audience.

You want the people that visit your page to know what you specialize in, without necessarily having to read anything. I always try to share posts through my social media and website that are both professional and personal. Even a business page can be a reflection of yourself.

This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to be showing your face, however. Rather, you could always share motivational quotes that inspire you, ways you honor self-care for yourself, etc. Basically, little personal touches that give your audience insight into who you are. I make sure that I am a little piece of each post so that I remember to always stay original!

Thank you for reading along! I hope I could be of some help to you. If you’d like to connect, I can always be found in the Virtual Classroom on Facebook. Please also feel free to leave a comment below. I would love to hear your feedback and I’m always happy to answer any questions you may have!

Become a makeup artist in as little as 3-6 months by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Mar 12

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How to Stay Motivated During Your Makeup Classes

By Luzaan de Bruyn Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 3 Comments

Having trouble getting and/or staying motivated in your makeup classes? QC Makeup Academy graduate and Student Ambassador, Luzaan de Bruyn, is here to help! Luzaan is the proud founder of Beauty by Luzaan and specializes in traditional, SFX, and airbrush makeup.

Mental Health During COVID-19

Let’s face it: things have felt way more challenging than normal ever since the pandemic began.

COVID-19 has had a significant impact on how we interact with others and go about our lives. For many of us, our jobs and education are just some of the aspects of our lives that have had to undergo major change. For these reasons, the topic of mental health has been more important than ever over the past year.

After all, combining such high levels of stress with so much uncertainty is guaranteed to have a significant and wide-reaching impact on one’s mental wellbeing.

Perhaps you’ve found yourself struggling with your mental health since the pandemic began. Maybe you’ve always battled mental health issues. Either way, I want you to know that there’s nothing wrong with you. Human beings aren’t programmed to feel ‘happy’ or ‘normal’ all of the time. It’s okay to not be okay sometimes.

Life can be a struggle on the best of days. Throw in a worldwide pandemic, and it’s completely understandable that you might feel sad, distressed, worried, confused, anxious, and demotivated right now.

My point is, everyone reacts differently to difficult situations – and that is COMPLETELY normal!

Why You Might Be Struggling to Stay Motivated in Your Makeup Classes

If you’re currently enrolled in professional makeup classes, you might have noticed over the last year that it’s getting harder for you to feel motivated. It might feel even harder for you to stay motivated.

The good news is, this isn’t a reflection of you. It’s not that you’re doing something wrong. The vast majority of people – from all walks of life, in all types of professions – have been feeling the same way lately.

Here are just a few reasons why we’ve all been struggling with motivation over the last year:

Your life was drastically turned upside-down without any warning.
Social distancing and extreme isolation, while necessary, are things that none of us were ever prepared for or used to.
A pandemic as large as the COVID-19 crisis has caused a sense of fear – not just for ourselves, but for our family and friends, too.

Losing My Own Motivation

I’ll get real with you… I have a heap of mental health illnesses and I’ve struggled more with them since this pandemic started. The pandemic forced me to lose control over my ability to see family and friends. Furthermore, it hindered my ability to book clients for my makeup business.

As a result, all of this has taken a toll on my mental health. My anxiety and depression have been particularly affected. I’ve had assignments to do in my makeup classes, with no one to do them on. Not to mention, my children were suddenly home all of the time, which meant more of my attention was needed on them.

All in all, I got terribly demotivated. I felt emotionally drained and incredibly stressed out. I was constantly worrying about everyone’s health. Very quickly, I found myself sitting on the couch and binging movies all the time. I wasn’t even looking at my makeup classes at that point.

3 Tips for Staying Motivated in Your Makeup Classes

While I still have days where I struggle to find motivation, I have discovered a few key tips that have helped me over the last year. Hopefully these tips will help you get back into the groove, too!

1 – Remind yourself why you care!

The same drive and purpose you’ve always had are still inside you, even if your makeup classes don’t feel as important to you right now.

First, think about your ‘why’. Why are you taking makeup classes? Why do you want to be a professional makeup artist? And why do you care about getting this certification?

Think about your dream career and how the makeup classes you’re taking NOW will help you progress towards this goal. Now imagine yourself two months from now…

Scenario #1

In the first scenario, two months has passed and you haven’t once logged into any of your makeup classes. You haven’t read one text booklet or watched one instructional video. Needless to say, you certainly haven’t completed any assignments.

Does this course of action line up with your ‘why’?
How do you imagine you would feel about yourself in this scenario?
Would you be satisfied with your progress?
How would it feel to not have progressed at all in your makeup classes?

Scenario #2

In the second scenario, you have been actively making time for your makeup classes. You’ve been forcing yourself to keep up with your practicing and your assignments. Even when it feels difficult, you have a set schedule that you always try your best to follow. You work on your makeup classes and assignments – maybe not every single day, but as much as your mental health will allow.

Does this course of action line up with your ‘why’?
How do you feel about yourself in this scenario?
Would you be satisfied with your progress?
How would it feel to know that you’re that much closer to getting your professional certification?

Spend time reflecting on how you feel in the second scenario. Do you feel proud? In control? Relieved? If you find yourself demotivated, come back to this tip and think about this again.

2 – Set small daily goals!

Goals give us direction. The best goals are concrete and achievable. Aim for 5 daily To-Dos.

Start writing a list of things you want to accomplish. Here are some questions to keep in mind:

What tasks are essential for your makeup classes?
Which tasks can you break down into smaller, more easily-manageable tasks?
Which aspects of your makeup classes make you feel good?
Can you find a way to make the most of these particular aspects each day?
How will you unplug and relax?

Once you’ve finished writing out your list, perhaps you’ll find that it’s still a bit too big. That’s okay, there’s no need to feel overwhelmed. Instead, just break down this list and make it even smaller!

Pick no more than 5 things you want to focus on each day.
Make sure that at least one of these goals is personal and not for your makeup classes.
If any tasks are too big and can’t be done within a couple of hours, break them down into one or two steps and only focus on those specific steps.
If you only get 4 out of 5 goals accomplished, celebrate anyway! You will feel more productive and motivated than you did last week.
Each night before bed, adjust your list for the next day. This way, you’ll wake up with a game plan!

3 – Pair the work you do in your makeup classes with something fun and interesting!

Sometimes, the thing you HAVE to do just don’t feel like much fun… but there might be ways for you to make them slightly more interesting!

Set a scene for your makeup classes and your assignments! Pick a comfy spot, light some candles, grab a glass of wine (or whatever your drink of choice is), and create a playlist of favorite songs. This way, work won’t feel like work!
Prepare a special treat that you’ll only get to have while working on your makeup classes! This will create a positive correlation between your training and indulging on this delicious treat. Soon, you’ll find yourself eager and excited for study time.
Have a virtual call with a friend or fellow student while practicing your assignments! Sometimes, the best way to get motivated is to have someone else cheering you on.

These 3 tips are ones that I’ve tried and tested. They’ve helped fuel me immensely! I’ve always been known to get demotivated quickly, even before COVID-19. These are my go-to ways to get myself back into my makeup classes quickly and efficiently.

Perks of QC’s Online Makeup Classes

When it comes to reputable makeup classes, QC Makeup Academy’s online school is the best of the best. Based on my experience as both a student and a graduate, here are my Top 2 reasons why you should pursue your professional makeup training with QC!

Pro #1: Convenience and Comfortability

A major benefit of online makeup classes is the convenience of it all. As a student of QC Makeup Academy, you can log into your courses and work on them whenever YOU see fit. Since there’s no physical classroom you need to attend, all you need is a good Wi-Fi connection and you’re good to go!

You can do your course from quite literally anywhere in the world. During the pandemic, having the option to get professionally trained right in the comfort of your own home is a pretty rare luxury. It’s definitely a perk you wouldn’t be able to find in any brick-and-mortar school!

Pro #2: Availability and Affordability

With online makeup classes, the opportunities available to students are limitless! Since you can attend QC Makeup Academy right from your living room, you can save on commuting and student housing costs. An added bonus about virtual learning is the flexibility of studying remotely. You might not realize it, but by completing all of your makeup training via an online school, you’re gaining valuable skills that’ll serve you well in the real-world.

Unlike with brick-and-mortar learning, online schooling uniquely prepares you for a professional marketplace where remote options are commonplace. As the COVID-19 pandemic pushes students to alternative education routes, online makeup classes ease the financial burden of traditional college – while still giving you the same high-quality education!

Having our lives turned upside-down in such a short time does NOT mean that we have to give up on our dreams of becoming professional makeup artists! QC Makeup Academy makes makeup classes possible, even when stuck in isolation and socially distancing.

Now I’d like to know: how has COVID-19 affected your learning experience and career dreams? Do you have any tips for staying motivated?

Comment below, as we would love to hear them! And don’t forget to join QC Makeup Academy’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook. Once in there, come find me and say hi! I love connecting and will be happy to answer any questions you might have.

Thank you for reading. Lots of love to you all! 🙂

Learn more about QC Makeup Academy’s wide variety of makeup classes and get started today!

Mar 10

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5 Perks You’ll Only Find Through Online Makeup School [video]

By Sarah Seguin About the School, Career Advice, Education, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

So, you want to be a professional makeup artist. Awesome! Now the question is: should you pursue your certification training through a brick-and-mortar or online makeup school?

5 Unique Perks You’ll Only Find From an Online Makeup School

Jordan Garcia is a student of the following QC Makeup Academy programs:

Join Jordan as he reveals why he enjoys getting professionally certified through QC’s self-paced, online environment. As an added bonus, Jordan also breaks down 5 awesome benefits you can ONLY find with an online makeup school.

Watch Jordan’s full video below!

Want to connect with Jordan directly? Join QC’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

A Quick Recap

There are LOTS of benefits when it comes to training with a reputable online makeup institution. However, these are the Top 5 perks that Jordan discusses in the above video:

Online makeup schools offer more affordable tuition than brick-and-mortar schools.
Unlike in-person classrooms, the learning environment is much more flexible (often being self-paced) with most online schools.
Since training can be done from quite literally anywhere you want, online makeup school is much more convenient.
Rather than having one tutor mentoring an entire classroom, your online tutor will be working with only you. Thus, your training will be much more personalized!
As a QC student in particular, you gain access to a much larger network than you would in most brick-and-mortar schools.

Remember: the right online makeup institution will offer the exact same quality of learning as you’d find in a brick-and-mortar school. In fact, a lot of people who’ve trained in both environments have stated that online makeup training (from a reputable school, of course) has been even better than in-person classes.

Perks of Enrolling with QC Makeup Academy

There are countless reasons why you should pursue your certification training with QC Makeup Academy! Here are just some of those reasons:

QC has an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau!
We’ve got over 245 positive reviews on Facebook alone!
QC has been a trusted pioneer of online learning since 1984!
Our competitive tuition can be paid in low monthly installments!
Plus, we offer monthly promotional deals to help you maximize your training while saving even more money!
You’ll receive both a digital and physical copy of your course materials!
Hands-on assignments will give you tons of real-world experience!
Your tutor will be a real industry professional with decades of experience!
After every unit, your assigned tutor will provide you with extensive, personalized audio feedback!
If you ever have any questions, our awesome Student Support Team is available 7 days a week to help!
When you graduate, you’ll receive an internationally-recognized certification!

Enroll in an online makeup school and pursue your dream career safely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Get started with QC Makeup Academy today!

Mar 04

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QC Makeup Student Ambassador Amanda Ramey

Becoming a Makeup Artist as a Busy Mom [video]

By Sarah Seguin About the School, Career Advice, Education, From the Experts, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Are you a busy, full-time parent with a hectic schedule? Do you also dream of becoming a makeup artist and launching a successful career you can be passionate about?

If so, then QC Makeup Academy‘s Student Ambassador, Amanda Ramey, is here to help!

Becoming a Makeup Artist as a Busy Parent

Amanda Ramey is a graduate of the following QC Makeup Academy certification programs:

Master Makeup Artistry Course
Pro Makeup Workshop
Special FX Makeup Course
Airbrush Makeup Workshop

In addition to her makeup career, Amanda also works full-time as a tattoo artist. On top of all that, she is also a full-time mother of two children!

So, how does Amanda juggle all of her priorities? How was she able to complete her professional training (in SO many courses, no less) and become a makeup artist with such a busy schedule?

Her answer: QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online training!

Watch her full video below to learn more.

Want to connect with Amanda directly? Join QC Makeup Academy’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

Becoming a Makeup Artist with QC Makeup Academy

Amanda reveals a handful of reasons why QC’s remote learning environment is the PERFECT match for full-time parents who want to become professional makeup artists. Here are just 3 of the perks she discusses in her video:

QC’s online courses eliminate the need to travel or take time out of your personal schedule! Unlike brick-and-mortar makeup classes, there are no due dates and no rigid schedules to follow. Thus, you can train at your own pace and in your own space. If that means one hour a week, once the kiddies are in bed, then that’s totally fine!
You get 2 full years to finish your training! Being a full-time parent is a major commitment in-and-of itself. Your goal of becoming a makeup artist shouldn’t get in the way of your parental priorities. Thanks to QC’s 2-year time limit, there will never be any pressure to rush assignments (or your training in general).
QC’s courses are EXTREMELY affordable! As a full-time parent, you might very well be on a strict budget. That’s okay! Becoming a makeup artist doesn’t need to break the bank – not when QC offers low monthly payment plans AND monthly promotional deals.

Even MORE Reasons to Enroll with QC Makeup Academy

There are tons of other reasons why your journey to becoming a makeup artist should start by enrolling with QC! Here are just a few more benefits of being a QC student:

You’ll be training with a school you can trust! QC has been a pioneer of online learning since 1984. We also have an A+ ranking with the BBB and over 270 raving reviews on Facebook.
Like to learn in different ways? We’ve got you covered! Not only will you receive digital AND physical copies of your course textbooks – you’ll also get instructional videos, quizzes, and hands-on assignments.
Get TONS of makeup discounts from big-name brands! All QC students and alumni are eligible for a wide variety of makeup discounts. Plus, depending on the program you enroll in, we’ll send you a starter makeup kit as part of your course materials.
Your QC tutor will be a legitimately pro! Every QC tutor is a real beauty expert with decades of experience in the industry. Plus, they’ll provide you with regular audio feedback throughout your training to help you grow.
Upon graduating, you’ll receive an official certification! All of QC’s certifications are internationally-recognized. As a result, you’ll be able to work anywhere! Moreover, a professional certification on your resume is SURE to impress clients and employers alike – and get you more bookings!

Make your dream of becoming a makeup artist a REALITY in 2021. Enroll with QC Makeup Academy today and graduate in as little as 3-6 months!

Mar 03

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makeup career youtube video blog article Veronika Kelle march 03 2021 feature image

Boost Your Makeup Career with Veronika Kelle’s Top Tips! [video]

By Sarah Seguin Career Advice, From the Experts, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 8 Comments

Want to boost your makeup career, attract more clients, collaborate with new vendors, and gain more success in 2021? If so, QC Makeup Academy‘s Student Ambassador, Veronika Kelle, is here to help!

Veronika’s Top Tips to Boost Your Makeup Career!

Veronika Kelle is a graduate of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Special FX Makeup Course. Based in Phuket, Thailand, Veronika offers clients a wide variety of professional makeup services. Her specialties include glamor, bridal, special effects, and makeup for film and television.

Today, she draws on her professional training and real-world experience to answer some of the most frequently asked questions she gets from aspiring MUAs. In addition, Veronika also provides her top tips for taking your makeup career to the next level!

Watch the video below to find out what they are!

Want to connect with Veronika directly? Join QC Makeup Academy’s free Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

A Brief Summary of What You’ll Learn

In the above video, Veronika shares her advice and personal experience on all of the following topics:

Finding models;
How to contact potential models;
Putting together a stylized photoshoot;
Finding vendors to collaborate with;
Building your professional network;
How to create an original character;
Getting and staying motivated;
And the importance of makeup certification training.

Boosting Your Makeup Career with Professional Training

Do you truly want your professional makeup career to be successful? If so, then there’s NO substitute for reputable training! By getting properly educated in makeup artistry, you can be fully confident in your qualifications and skill-set. Moreover, your clients will be able to trust the quality of the services you can provide them. Not to mention, you’ll have a real certification to add to your resume!

Here are a handful of reasons why you should pursue your certification training through QC Makeup Academy:

QC has an A+ ranking with the Better Business Bureau! Plus, our certifications are internationally-recognized!
We’ve also got over 270 raving reviews on Facebook alone!
QC’s tuition rates are affordable for all budgets. As a result, you can pay upfront or break things up with our low monthly payment plan. It’s up to you!
Our learning environment is entirely remote and self-paced. Thus, you get to train at your own schedule, from the comfort of your very own home!
Get up to 2 whole years to complete your program!
Gain digital access to your learning materials. Plus, we’ll mail a physical copy right to your door, too!
Practical assignments will provide you with tons of hands-on training!
Your QC tutor will be a real beauty expert with decades of experience in the industry!
As an added bonus, your tutor will give you regular audio feedback throughout the entire course to help you grow!

Start the makeup career of your dreams by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy today!

Feb 26

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4 SFX Airbrush Makeup Techniques to WOW Clients!

By Sarah Seguin Airbrush Makeup, Makeup Tips and Tricks, Special Effects Makeup, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Airbrush makeup is always an excellent service to add to your beauty business. Not only is it a hot commodity among clients – it’s considered a rarer service. This all means that you’ll definitely be able to stand out from the competition, increase your bookings, better your reputation, and boost your income!

While airbrush makeup is well-known in the bridal and editorial world, it’s also a staple in special effects makeup, too. So, how can you take your airbrush game to the next level? First, you’ll obviously need to master the basics. Once you’ve done that, you can then advance your skill-set by learning some truly awesome SFX airbrush techniques.

What are some of the techniques we’re talking about? Let’s have a look!

4 SFX Airbrush Makeup Techniques You Need to Know

1. Working with Stencils

Stencils can be used on the body, the face, or even particular areas such as the eyebrows. Typically, they’re made from sheets of plastic or thick paper. However, as you gain more experience, you can dabble in creating your very own.

When used correctly (and carefully), stencils offer a quick and easy way to add fine detail and flair to your SFX airbrush makeup design. If creating a character, eyebrow stencils are a popular way to completely reshape the arch, thickness, and overall look of the person’s brows. Just made sure you completely block out their natural eyebrows first!

Pro Tip: Not sure how to block out eyebrows? QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course will teach you everything you need to know!

2. Using Brighter Pigments and Unconventional Colors

Typical airbrush makeup applications will tend to rely on natural, traditional colors. But when you step into the world of special effects, airbrush makeup often maximizes its full potential when brighter, bolder pigments are used.

You’ll also have the freedom to work a lot with unconventional colors. You’ll quickly discover that it’s surprisingly easy to change a model’s skin tone to a deep purple, a brilliant blue, or a stunning green when using an airbrush machine (just to name a few examples).

Cady Heron really put it best when she said, “The limit does not exist.” 😉

Pro Tip: Just remember that when working with heavily pigmented makeup, it’s always easier to layer darker colors over lighter ones.

3. Creating Patterns

One of the most effective ways to make your SFX airbrush makeup POP is by creating some sort of pattern on the model’s skin. For example, with an airbrush machine, adding spots of varying sizes is an effortless process. Another idea is to apply airbrush makeup over a pair of lace tights of fishnet stockings, in order to create precise lines and detailed designs.

Pro Tip: Creating character makeup? You can also use airbrush makeup to develop signature patterns that are 100% unique to and consistent with the character!

4. Combining Airbrush Makeup with Different Techniques

If you truly want to dazzle your clients and leave them in awe, show them the full extent of your skills by combining airbrush makeup techniques with other fundamental techniques you’ve acquired throughout your training!

For example, why not use airbrush makeup to create a stunning, intricately-detailed makeup look – and then add some traditional eye makeup by hand? Alternately, how about combining airbrush makeup with prosthetics?

The point is, SFX airbrush makeup is a game-changer in-and-of itself. But once you realize that it can be combined with all the other techniques you know, too, there’s no stopping the kinds of looks and designs you can create! You gain access to an untapped level of creativity explored in very few other areas of makeup artistry.

Pro Tip: Never worked with prosthetics before? Learn this (and so much more) in QC’s Special FX Makeup Course!

Want to delve deeper into this, as well as learn even more about airbrush makeup? QC Makeup Academy’s online Airbrush Makeup Workshop will get you professionally trained and ready to work on clients in as little as 3-6 months!

Here are a few other perks to enrolling in this 3-unit program:

Get digital AND physical copies of your textbooks!
Expand your learning experience through instructional videos, quizzes, self-assessments, and more!
Practical assignments will give you hands-on training – which you’ll do with the airbrush makeup starter kit included in your course materials!
Your tutor will be a industry expert in airbrush makeup, with decades of experience!
Get a full 2 years to complete your program (but feel free to finish sooner, if your schedule permits it)!
QC’s self-paced online learning environment allows you to train from home, on your personal schedule – meaning no deadlines!
You can connect with your fellow peers and begin building your network by joining our Virtual Classroom on Facebook!
Upon graduation, we’ll mail you a physical certificate that demonstrates that you’ve been properly trained in airbrush makeup!

Ready to get started? Enroll in QC’s Airbrush Makeup Workshop today!

Feb 19

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What NOT to Do in Your Editorial Makeup Portfolio

By Charlotte Ravet From the Experts, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Building your editorial makeup portfolio? Renowned MUA, Charlotte Ravet, reveals 5 mistakes you need to AVOID making!

Charlotte is the proud owner of her very own hair and makeup business, A Date With Charlotte. From bridal, to editorial, to film and television, and everything in-between – Charlotte’s extensive makeup training allows her to provide a wide variety of services that cater to ALL types of clientele!

Her extensive resume includes working for Prada, L’Oreal, and even the cast of the hit show, Glee! A developer of educational programs, Charlotte has even been awarded Best Makeup Educator of the Year by the Australian Industry Makeup Awards.

Building Your Editorial Makeup Portfolio as a Newbie

As an MUA, you will build your makeup portfolio over the years. Now, starting your portfolio from scratch might sound overwhelming at first. But with the right strategies, you’ll quickly build relationships and take part in jobs that’ll provide you with quality photos of your work.

Even as an industry professional, I am constantly building my makeup portfolio. As the standard, I make sure to include important publication work, as well as looks I’m especially proud of. On top of that, I also try to display my most recent work. For me, this means it’s 3 years old or less.

Here’s the problem: if you don’t know what you’re doing, it can be all too easy to put together a BAD makeup portfolio. The key to avoiding this is to not make amateur mistakes. It’s natural to have a few hiccups in the beginning (that’s what learning is all about, after all). But you can bypass a lot of these common errors by following the tips I’m about to discuss.

So, here are a few things I have learned throughout my career that can help you today. In fact, these are all things I wish someone has told ME not to do in my makeup portfolio when I first got started!

Photo by Anniss+Barton Photography.

5 Mistakes to Avoid in Your Editorial Makeup Portfolio

1. Choosing the Wrong Model

Your best friend might be stunning, but that doesn’t mean she’ll be a great model on camera. One of the most important parts of your makeup portfolio is showcasing the right models. So, you’ll need to choose them wisely!

The quality of editorial work is largely based on the model and how they portray your makeup look. When seeking out models, remember: “photogenic features” does not simply mean the person is pretty. Rather, it also means interesting and unique. Your model should also know how to pose (and have more than one pose in their arsenal).

How to Choose the RIGHT Model

So, how should you go about finding the right models for your makeup portfolio? Start by taking a look at their portfolio of work!

You’ll want to see variety in their photos. Take a close look at their poses and expressions. Keep an eye out for any singularities, too. For example, do they have freckles? Curly hair? A cute gap between their tap? It’s never a bad thing to have a model with discernable features that help them to stand out!

Your model needs to best suit the makeup you will create. If you’re going for something creative, you might be looking for specific features in your model. Good skin is also really important, since blending needs to be flawless (and with a light coverage) for editorial work.

Photo by Anniss+Barton Photography.

2. You Only Showcase ‘Creative’ Looks

Creative makeup is very popular amongst MUAs. After all, it’s one of the best ways we can express ourselves. You might love using bright colors, glitters, and textures. (I do, too!) However, your makeup portfolio shouldn’t only demonstrate creative looks.

If it does, you might put off potential clients. It could also give the wrong impression: that this type of makeup is all you can do. Clients will seek out makeup artists who can bring their visions to life. If you only show one specific style and it doesn’t align with theirs, you’ve just missed out on a booking opportunity.

How to Showcase Variety

Your makeup portfolio should display a variety of different looks and styles. For example, the most requested look tends to be the “no makeup” look. If you do editorial makeup, chances are good that you’ll work for fashion labels and skincare brands. Look at the advertisements to get a proper idea of what’ll be expected from you.

You’ll notice that very often, the model’s makeup is quite natural. Even if it’s not what excites you the most, this is the type of makeup which can give you regular, paid work. This is just one example, of course. But it illustrates the importance of showcasing different sides of your makeup skills in your professional portfolio.

If you want to broaden your range and master many different types of makeup, professional training is the best recommendation I can give you. So, get certified and learn the skills needed to create ANY type of editorial look!

Photo by Anniss+Barton Photography.

3. You Don’t Understand the Story

An editorial series is often created around a story. The story is the actual mood; the link between the looks you’ll create. For example, an editorial series could be ‘80’s makeup with a modern twist’ or ‘colorful summer outwear’. If you don’t understand the story behind the series, your makeup won’t reflect the message your client is trying to get across.

It’s very important to clearly identify the expectation of your client and/or the photographer. Your makeup might not be the focal point of the image. Plus, the makeup will also need to work with the hairstyle, the lighting, the clothes, and the model themselves. If the looks needs to be more natural in order to create a beautiful image, that’s just the way it is!

I’ve often worked for hairdressers, creating a collection for awards. Very often, the hair is creative and colorful. While the makeup can be slightly creative, too, the focus is meant to be the model’s hair. As such, it would be a mistake to create overly avant-garde makeup for this type of shoot.

How to Understand the Story

Communicate with the client and/or the photographer! If the story behind the shoot is unclear to you, don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’s better to admit you need some guidance than it is to stay silent and produce the wrong results. The latter will just waste everyone’s time and give off a bad impression on your part.

Photo by Anniss+Barton Photography.

4. Your Editorial Makeup Portfolio Lacks Editorial Looks

It’s sometimes hard to explain what editorial makeup is. After all, you can find a lot of different styles which will work well when photographed. There’s no “one-size-fits-all” definition.

Still, the whole purpose of your editorial makeup portfolio is to display, well, editorial makeup. You’ll need to showcase at least some of the standard techniques/elements within your work. And it shouldn’t just be one technique used on a bunch of different models either. There are tons of different techniques you can demonstrate, so take advantage of that!

How to Create an Editorial Makeup Style

Here are a few tips for creating an editorial look in your makeup portfolio that’s suitable for magazines:

Keep the skin natural! Use color correction, skincare, and cream contour for the most natural result. Avoid thick foundation and apply powder very lightly.
Be careful with concealers! It’s easier for a photographer to edit a small breakout with no makeup than trying to correct layers of concealer. If your model has a small breakout, you can leave it with no makeup on.
The foundation color matches both the face and body perfectly! You’ll notice that very often, the skin on the body is slightly more yellow than the face. If you create a pink complexion on the face, but then your model rests her face on her shoulder, the difference WILL be noticeable.
Be careful with the eyebrows! Filling up all of the model’s eyebrows with product is not going to work for editorial makeup. Instead, focus on creating natural eyebrows by using feathering movements with an angle brush. You can also conceal the eyebrows using a bit of concealer and a mascara wand.
Play with texture! Shimmer products are not the only way to create highlights. A lip balm applied on the cheekbones will create a beautiful glass skin effect.

5. You’re Not Prepared

Beautiful images for an editorial makeup portfolio require work and preparation. Before applying makeup on your model, you should have a clear idea of what the lighting is, what the editing will look like, and what the final images should (ideally) look like. I have also learned that reaching out to photographers with some ideas is a great way to build a relationship and begin a collaboration.

How to Go Into a Job Prepared

Instead of simply sending a link to your website and asking for a meeting, share the moodboards you’ve created with the photographers you want to work with! Great photographers are often busy. If you want to get their attention, show them that you’re also a trustworthy professional who has ideas!

Then, once you’ve discussed and finalized a moodboard, you can plan your looks ahead of time, in preparation for the shoot. That way, when the time comes, you’ll be fully prepared and ready to do your best work!

My Final Advice for Your Editorial Makeup Portfolio

When working on photoshoots and building up your portfolio, remember to always be yourself! Be unique and love what you do. Exposing yourself artistically is also exposing yourself to criticism – and that’s fine! You can’t please everyone and this is okay. Always reach for the best you can do, be organized and professional, and enjoy every minute of the creative process.

Ultimately, this will be your key to a strong makeup portfolio – and your career’s success!

QC Makeup Academy’s Portfolio Development Workshop will teach you everything you need to know about building your makeup portfolio. Take your career to the next level by enrolling today!

Feb 17

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QC’s Master List of Makeup Discounts!

By Sarah Seguin About the School, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Want access to AMAZING makeup discounts from big name brands? 💄 Enroll with QC Makeup Academy and gain access to all sorts of incredible deals!

Student Ambassador, Jordan Garcia, Reveals ALL of QC’s Makeup Discounts

Jordan Garcia is a student of QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry, Pro Makeup Workshop, and Skincare courses. Today, he breaks down every single makeup discount offered to QC students and graduates.

Watch the full video below to discover which big name brands QC has partnerships with, what YOUR discount will be, and how you can redeem it today!

Want to connect with Jordan directly? Join QC’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook today!

More About QC Makeup Academy

QC Makeup Academy has been proudly pioneering the online learning experience since 1984. We’re accredited with an A+ ranking from the BBB and our internationally-recognized courses are done online. This means that as a student, you can get professionally trained at your own pace, in your own space!

On top of the makeup discounts discussed above, here are some more reasons why you should enroll with QC:

QC’s tuition rates are extremely competitive! However, we also offer low monthly payment plans and monthly promotions to help with costs, too.
Your tutor will be a real industry expert! Thus, you’ll get trained by someone with years of experience.
You’ll receive a digital and physical copy of your course materials!
If your course comes with a makeup kit, this will be mailed right to your door, too!
After each unit, you’ll receive extensive audio feedback from your tutor! As a result, you’ll be able to grow and become an even stronger MUA.
Your assignments will give you plenty of hands-on experience!
You’ll get an internationally-recognized certification or certificate after graduating from ANY of QC’s courses!
Once you enroll in one course, you can take ANY other course for 50% off. So, add to your qualifications at half the price!
There’s an entire QC community for you to connect and network with!

Want to Become a QC Student Ambassador?

Interested in becoming a Student Ambassador for QC Makeup Academy?

Here’s what we’re looking for from you:

You’re at least halfway through one of your QC courses
You have a B+ average or higher
You’re interested in writing blogs and/or filming videos for QC’s platforms
You wish to build your skill-set for your own career endeavors
You’re passionate about QC Makeup Academy and want to help get QC’s name out there
You want to help other students in their own journeys

Does this sound like you? If so, we invite you to learn more here and submit your application today!

Tip: Discover exactly what you can expect when you become a Student Ambassador by reading this article!

Unlock your makeup discounts today by enrolling with QC Makeup Academy!

Feb 16

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Why I’m Taking QC’s Global Beauty Workshop

By Katie Stegeman Education, Global Beauty, Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Katie Stegeman is a QC Makeup Academy Student Ambassador, graduate, and current student. Today, she discusses the reasons why she’s chosen to enroll and get professionally certified in the Global Beauty Workshop.

A Little About Me…

Hi, everyone! My name is Katie Stegeman. I’m a stay-at-home mom of five (soon to be six) beautiful babies. I am also a professional makeup artist. When I first started my training at QC Makeup Academy, I had very little training in makeup. The only makeup I did was on myself – and I’ll admit, it wasn’t the greatest.

Since enrolling with QC, however, I have become a professionally certified International Skincare Consulting Professional (ISCP) and have received a certificate in virtual makeup services. I’m also currently working on completing the following additional courses:

Master Makeup Artistry
Pro Makeup Workshop
Hair Styling Essentials
Airbrush Makeup Workshop
Portfolio Development Workshop
Global Beauty Workshop

The Global Beauty Workshop is actually what I’m here to discuss with you today. I’d like to give you some insight into why I chose to get trained in this particular area of makeup artistry… and why YOU should, too!

What is Global Beauty?

Global beauty is so important for every makeup artist to understand. Ideally, any kind of person should be able to sit in your makeup chair, and you should be able to identify and understand:

Their skin tone;
Their undertone;
The texture of their skin;
Products to use;
Products to avoid, etc.

Why is Global Beauty Important?

This extensive knowledge is VITAL to your success! Global beauty training allows your skill-set to be inclusive to everyone. After all, not all skin is going to be the same. One client’s skin might react one way to makeup, while another’s will react differently.

Plus, global beauty training will make you well-versed in all the different types of skin tones. You don’t want to be known as the makeup artist who can only work on one tone, do you? No! You should be able to work with fair skin tones, dark skin tones, deep skin tones, golden skin tones, and everything in-between!

Speaking from personal experience, global beauty training has already helped me advance my makeup techniques. As a beauty expert, clients are relying on you to understand their specific needs. This is the ONLY way you’ll be able to give them their ideal results.

For example, say a client wants a traditional South Asian bridal look. You’ll need to understand everything – from the primer you’ll need to use, to the type of coverage this look requires, etc. Traditional South Asian bridal looks are very different from its modern counterpart.

Global beauty training has its place in editorial and media makeup, too. Not all skin tones will show up the same on camera. Each skin tone has its own needs and requirements in order for it to look its best with this particular medium.

I haven’t even covered the tip of the iceberg, to be honest. When you get trained in global beauty, you’re going to be learning a LOT of invaluable information that you didn’t know before. You’ll even be taught things like henna tattoos (which I’m particularly interested in learning about). If your goal is to strengthen your resume and take your career to the next level, my point is: global beauty training is the way to go!

Why I Enrolled in QC’s Global Beauty Workshop

I enrolled because I’m always trying to absorb as much information as I possibly can. When I started with QC Makeup Academy last year, I didn’t have a lot of makeup knowledge. I wanted that education. My training needed to be as diverse as possible – and QC’s Global Beauty Workshop definitely meets this criteria.

A lot of the makeup artists in my area are not trained. To set myself apart, I wanted to gain a legitimate foundation. I wanted a reputable certification I could physically showcase to others. This way, clients would notice that I was different from the others… and it’s been working!

Enrolling in QC’s Global Beauty Workshop has already booked me clients! I know it will only continue to aid in my business from here.

What You’ll Learn

It would be impossible for me to fit the entire course curriculum into this article, because there’s just so much incredible information taught to you. However, here’s a short list of some of the skills you’ll learn by enrolling in the Global Beauty Workshop:

Understanding and working with a wide variety of skin tones;
Corrective makeup for different skin tones;
Special focuses on deep skin tones, fair skin tones, medium & olive skin tones, and golden skin tones;
Bridal, editorial, and other specialized looks for various skin tones;
Building your makeup kit;
Working with henna;
Marketing your services;
And so much more!

The course itself is less than 40 hours long. However, you have up to 2 full years to complete it. A lot of grads found that by devoted 1-2 hours per week on their studies, they were able to graduate in as little as 3-6 months (sometimes less).

The best part? Once you’ve graduated, you’ll receive a physical copy of your Global Beauty Workshop certificate to proudly add to your resume!

Applying My Global Beauty Training to Real Life

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve actually since booked even more clients, thanks to my global beauty training with QC. These are clients I know I would not have booked otherwise, because they had very specific needs that required the proper training on my end.

Here’s a perfect example… There was a client in my area who was looking for a makeup artist with experience in darker skin tones. As it turned out, the overwhelming majority of MUAs in our area did NOT have training in this. (Admittedly, where we live is not overly diverse.) Because I was the only makeup artist who saw the post and knew how to work with darker skin tones, I booked the job!

Becoming a trained global beauty makeup artist has made SUCH a huge difference for me. Taking this workshop has given me that little extra training that proves to go a LONG way. I now properly understand international makeup techniques and can work with any client interested in my services.

What Being a QC Student Looks Like

Within a day or two after enrolling in the Global Beauty Workshop, I received direct online access to my digital course materials. Not long after that, QC mailed a physical box of materials right to my doorstep. These physical materials included books, henna tools, and a cream concealer. Instructional videos, quizzes, and assignments are also provided as part of the digital resources.

If I’m being completely honest, I recommend ALL of the classes at QC Makeup Academy. The tutors have been outstanding! They care about helping me become the best makeup artist I can be. I truly appreciate all of their support and feedback. The Virtual Classroom on Facebook has also been one of my favorite parts about being a QC student! Being able to connect with other students, grads, and instructors is wonderful.

I’m a busy mom, so the self-paced course timeline has been invaluable, too. The Support Staff at the school have also been amazing. There are days when my children need more from me. Being able to take a day/week/month off to be there for my family is immensely helpful!

Before enrolling, I’d looked at QC Makeup Academy’s reviews. I did a lot of investigating into what the students had to say about the courses and their experiences. It took me a long time to make the decision to enroll. But looking back, I am SO happy I found QC Makeup Academy. It’s changed my life – and it can change YOURS, too!

Thank you so much for taking the time to read what I had to say. I truly appreciate it! If you want to come connect with me and other students before signing up with QC Makeup Academy, you’re welcome to join the Virtual Classroom for a 2-week trial. Feel free to find me there and ask any questions you might have. I’m always happy to help!

Ready to become a master of makeup? Take your career to the next level by enrolling in QC’s Global Beauty Workshop today!

Feb 11

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How to Become a Makeup Artist: The Importance of Constructive Criticism

By Cheri Stevens Student Ambassador, Your Makeup Career 2 Comments

Want to learn how to become a makeup artist? QC Makeup Academy Student Ambassador, Cheri Stevens, reveals why being able to accept constructive criticism is crucial to your career’s success! Cheri is currently enrolled in the Master Makeup Artistry Course. Read her full Ambassador Feature here!

What is Constructive Criticism?

So, you have a passion for makeup and have decided to turn it into an actual career. That’s awesome! You’re in for an exciting journey – but it won’t be one without hard work and dedication. If you’re serious about your craft and want to know how to become a makeup artist in the professional world, one of the key things you’ll need to be able to do is accept constructive criticism.

Constructive criticism is a very necessary tool. As an MUA, you’re more than likely going to encounter it more than once throughout your career. If you try to become a makeup artist and assume you’ll never be given feedback or critiques, it’s going to be a very jarring awakening when it eventually happens. This is why it’s important to go into your new career with realistic expectations.

Constructive criticism can come in many forms. Here are just a few general examples that one might hear in everyday life:

Someone critiquing your outfit: “These colors are good, but they don’t best complement your features. These colors would look amazing with your hair and eye color!”
Someone critiquing your cooking: “This chicken looks a bit too pink; it might need some more time.”
Someone critiquing your hairstyle: “This hairstyle doesn’t flatter your face because it’s more meant for [such and such] face shape. If you ever wanted to try adding some layers, I think that’d really draw attention to your awesome bone structure!”

Constructive Criticism vs. Insults

It’s important to know that constructive criticism is NOT the same as being insulted or disrespected. The latter is meant solely to bring you down and has negative intent. Constructive criticism, on the other hand, is meant to help you. Moreover, it’s necessary for personal growth.

When someone is honest with you and providing constructive feedback, their intent is positive. They’re trying to help you see what could be done better, so YOU can do better next time. Now, I get it: receiving constructive criticism can sometimes suck. No one overly likes to hear when what they’ve done wasn’t perfect.

But imperfections are what make us human. Everyone gets constructive criticism at some point (or many points) throughout their life. But it’s important that you try your best to take with an open mind – especially while you complete your professional makeup training.

After all, if you really want to know how to become a makeup artist, the key is going to be remembering that constructive criticism will ultimately help you become the best artist you can be!

How to Become a Makeup Artist: Constructive Criticism as an MUA

Makeup artistry is a VERY competitive field. You will not be the best right away, nor will you be the only one. Constructive criticism in our field is necessary so that we can learn proper techniques and grow as an artist.

What might we hear as makeup artists, in terms of constructive criticism? Here are few examples of feedback you might get, particularly while getting trained:

“Watch your symmetry with the eyes.”
“Your blending needs more practice.”
“You need to better color match for the correct skin tone.”
“Try to do less of a blocked eyebrow and more natural, hair-like strokes.”

Why Critique from Others is Essential

Constructive criticism plays a fundamental role in the learning process. As an artist, the learning process never truly ends – you just get better at what you do. But there will always be room for improvement and growth. If you take offense to everything that’s being said about your work, you aren’t really listening to the people who are trying to help. As such, you’ll keep making the same mistakes over and over again.

As a result, this will severely impair your success in the field. You’ll only have so much room to grow before you become stagnant. Listening, learning, and applying the suggestions given to you is crucial. When you’re receptive to constructive feedback, you AND your career will soar to even greater heights because you’ll learn how to see your work with a fresh set of eyes.

For instance, would you want to create a look for someone – such as a bride – and later realize that it wasn’t what you expected? Even worse, what if it wasn’t what SHE expected? Of course not. You’d be hurting your reputation, all because you didn’t have the proper education and refused assistance. We know you don’t want that!

The Importance of Constructive Criticism in Your Makeup Course

As part of your professional makeup training, you’ll be paired with a tutor. This tutor will be an industry expert with years of experience. In other words, they know their stuff and possess an insight you don’t yet have.

If you’ve never before had proper makeup training, chances are there’ll be at least one thing you’ve been doing wrong. Your instructor’s job is to help you break bad habits, so you can instead learn how to do things the correct way. In order for them to do this, they’ll need to tell you what you’re doing right and what you’re doing wrong.

Remember: this is a natural part of the process. Everyone needs to go through it. Even they started somewhere and received the same types of critiques they’re now giving you. This type of support is essential for keeping you on the right track and giving you the proper skills to succeed!

If you truly want to know how to become a makeup artist, don’t you want to push yourself to be the best you can be?

The Consequences of Rejecting Constructive Criticism

If you’re making mistakes, it’s EXTREMELY important that you’re aware of it. More importantly, it’s critical that you understand why and what specifically you’re doing wrong. Only then can you improve and move forward with the intent of correcting your errors the next time.

Think of it this way: you wouldn’t walk into a professional restaurant and insist on cooking a meal if you didn’t know how to cook. The logic is the same for makeup artistry.

Simply put: if you continue doing the wrong thing over and over again, you will struggle to become a makeup artist. You will never learn properly and your reputation will take a massive hit.

Speaking from personal experience, the constructive criticism you’ll receive from your QC Makeup Academy tutor is going to be invaluable! Nathan Johnson has given me plenty of honest and straightforward responses to my work. He’s honestly the best!

No, your tutor is not always going to stroke your ego. But they WILL provide every last bit of feedback with kindness and knowledge. And as we all know, knowledge is the power to succeed. The critiques you receive during your training are only said with love. They’re meant to steer you in the right direction; pinpointing step-by-step what’s working, what isn’t, and how to achieve the best result.

Personally, my feedback has given me the motivation to become way more attentive to detail. I couldn’t be more grateful for it!

Constructive Criticism in the QC Virtual Classroom

This is a great way to get many different eyes looking at your work. It’s also the perfect chance to get you used to receiving constructive feedback, so you’ll be better prepared for the working world. I love that QC makes this sort of environment available to us!

In the Virtual Classroom, students and graduates are encouraged to share photos of their work. Then other students, alumni, and tutors (I’m looking at you, Nathan) can see your work and examine it. They’ll regularly congratulate what you’ve done well, as well as suggest beneficial ways the look can be improved upon in the future.

Being a part of QC Makeup Academy’s Virtual Classroom on Facebook provides a great opportunity to see how constructive criticism is offered to students. This group also demonstrates real-life examples of constructive criticism being given and received in a healthy, positive way.

Tips for Giving Productive Feedback

Back up your critiques. Don’t just tell someone what they are doing wrong. Rather, explain which technique appears to be incorrect and why.
Be helpful. If you’re pointing out what could have been done better, take the extra minute to explain how the individual can better that technique next time.
Please use tact. There is no room for nastiness in constructive criticism. If you can’t phrase your feedback in a positive way, keep it to yourself.
Make sure you are qualified to make that judgement call. If it’s not your area of expertise, or you are struggling yourself, it’s probably not your place to comment.
Always be kind and respectful. Consider the kind of constructive criticism YOU would prefer to hear. If it would hurt your own feelings, it could very well hurt someone else’s. Getting critiqued can make people feel vulnerable. Delivering feedback in a way that makes them understand without taking offense isn’t always easy. So, it’s important to be mindful of the things you say and how you say them.

How to Become a Makeup Artist: Tips for Taking Productive Feedback

Don’t get defensive. Constructive criticism isn’t meant to be an attack, so don’t treat it as such. In the professional industry, the way you respond to critiques can make or break your career. You’ll need a thick skin. Just try to remember that it’s coming from a good place and not meant to hurt you.
Really listen to what’s being said. Not ALL critiques will be correct, but many of them will be. So, don’t shrug them off. Even if you initially disagree, take the time to really absorb the feedback. Try to view things objectively. As we discussed before, you’re never going to know everything. Sometimes, the only way to truly get better is by first acknowledging this.

Best of luck in your journey! 💕

As always, thank you so much for taking the time to join me today. Please feel free to comment below with any questions or comments you may have. If you’d like to connect with me directly, I’m always available to chat in the Virtual Classroom.

So long as you’re open and receptive to the constructive feedback you receive, you’ll be become a makeup artist and launch a successful career before you know it! You’ve got this!

The best way to become a makeup artist is by first getting professional certification training. Enroll with QC today and start your career in just 3-6 months!