makeup artist Archives - QC Makeup Academy
Tag

makeup artist Archives - QC Makeup Academy

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz Feature Image

Meet QC Makeup Academy Graduate, Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz!

By About the School, Career Advice, Education, Featured, Graduate Feature, Industry Spotlight, Student Features No Comments

Meet QC Makeup Academy graduate, Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz! Tell us a little bit about yourself, Vanessa!

My name is Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz, and I am a professional makeup artist and photographer in Canada! I’ve been working in the industry for 11 years now!

When (and why) did you realize you wanted to pursue a career in the makeup and beauty industry?

I knew my whole life that I wanted to be a makeup artist. However, I really started diving into it professionally in 2012 when I began training at QC Makeup Academy. Prior to that, I was working as a portrait photographer, doing the odd makeup here and there for friends and family.

RELATED: Check out QC Makeup Academy’s full list of self-paced, online certification courses!

Why did you decide to pursue your certification training online (rather than in-person) – and how did you both hear of QC Makeup Academy?

As a mother of two young children at the time (one of them being a new born), I knew that if I wanted to pursue this career path, I had to find a reputable school online because I was a stay-at-home mom. So, I began searching, but didn’t find anything that looked professional to me.

Then one day, I turned on my computer and QC Makeup Academy’s ad was running through my Facebook feed! I clicked on it, did my homework, and was SOLD! There is where my journey began!

Why did you choose to enroll with QC Makeup Academy? (E.g., What was it about our school that won you over, compared to other online makeup schools out there?)

I loved the flexibility, the courses, the materials, the school’s reputation – and most of all, the tutors! I wanted expert training and saw that this was the place where I would receive that!

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 1
QC Makeup grad Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 2

You’re a multiple QC Makeup Academy graduate – but your journey started with our self-paced, online Master Makeup Artistry Course. Tell us about your experience with this program! What was the most challenging aspect of this course for you? How about the most rewarding? Also, what was your favorite hands-on assignment and why?

This course changed my life! When I came in, I thought I already knew everything and just needed that certification hanging on my wall. WOW, was I wrong!

I had to UN-LEARN everything I thought I knew, open my mind, and set aside my ego so that I could receive Nathan Johnson’s critiques and constructive criticism. All of this was intended to help me GROW as an artist. Bye-bye, everything I knew… HELLO to the new me!

And I would say that THAT was the most challenging aspect of the course for me! It isn’t easy to allow yourself to be broken down and then re-molded! By the end of it all, I would say that the most rewarding aspect of the course (for me) was seeing how I grew as an artist – simply because I DID stop, listen, and then do the work!

Also, I think my favorite hands on assignment was the bruise assignment! My husband is a professional fighter and will sometimes come home with a bruised eye. So, I had an idea of how that looked and was super excited to re-create it!!! It came out amazing! Nathan was impressed, haha.

FACT: Being able to positively and openly accept constructive feedback – both from your makeup instructor and when working in the real world – is one of the TOP skills that can either make or break your career!

What would you say is the #1 biggest and best lesson you learned in QC Makeup Academy’s Master Makeup Artistry Course?

I learned how to humble myself, how to receive constructive criticism, and how to be brave. Furthermore, I also learned that:

  • I’m capable of much more than I give myself credit for;
  • I have value in the eyes of people who are looking for makeup services;
  • And that I could 100% pursue my goals and dreams!

I also learned the UNDISPUTED VALUE of mastering foundational makeup techniques! When you learn those, you can do ANY makeup look!

After receiving your Master International Makeup Professional (MIMP) certification, you then went on to complete our Pro Makeup Workshop. How did this program build upon everything you learned in the MMA Course and take your skill-set to the next level? Moreover, would you recommend the Pro Makeup Workshop to MMA students/grads (and why or why not)?

This course fine-tuned everything that I learned in the MMA course. It takes your skill to the next level by zeroing in on specific techniques! I would highly recommend this course to ALL Master Makeup Artistry graduates! It forced my eye to zoom in on and correct even the tiniest discrepancies.

As an MUA, you specialize in global beauty, and even completed our Global Beauty Workshop to add to your professional qualifications. In your opinion, what were THREE of the most important lessons and/or skills you acquired from this program? Why would you recommend this course to other makeup artists?

This course was a game-changer for me! Prior to taking it, I always felt I held back to a certain degree when I had requests for makeup on women of color.

One of my biggest sources of insecurity as an artist was skin. ALL types of skin! I was always scared of messing that up. So, I decided that I needed to take QC’s Global Beauty Workshop because I needed to dive into the thing that scared me most!

The lessons I learned in this course have truly made me a confident, global artist. I’ve mastered skin because I took the time to really listen and apply what I learned! As a result, I can now work on anyone, anywhere – with gorgeous results!

Here are my three top takeaways:

  1. If you truly want to be a makeup artist, you need to have a global kit and be ready to work on anyone!
  2. Understanding the cultures and traditions of your clients, and being sensitive to that, is of utmost importance. QC’s Global Beauty Workshop will teach you how to be truly professional in this regard!
  3. COLOR CORRECTION! This course will teach you all you need to know about color correction for different skin tones. This is something that will not only bring an extra level of professionalism to your work; it will revolutionize your applications, too!

PRO TIP: Not the best at hiding blemishes and color correcting? Watch this informative webinar – hosted by QC Makeup Academy executive tutor, celebrity MUA, and certified skincare consultant, Nathan Johnson!

Finally, you also took QC Makeup Academy’s mini Virtual Makeup Training Course as well. What motivated you to take this course, how has it benefitted your makeup career, and why do you feel being able to offering virtual beauty services is such a smart business move nowadays?

My decision to take this course came during COVID. While I was unable to physically apply makeup to my clients, they would often call me and ask if I could advise them on how to do it themselves. It just made sense to me that this was a new avenue I could explore, in order to help my clients more efficiently!

I now have the opportunity to assist people in a way that helps them achieve amazing results! And in our current climate, more and more people appreciate being able to access this kind of information online! As a makeup artist, we can use this tool to help our clients AND grow our business!

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 3
QC Makeup grad Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 4

You’re notorious for your high praise of QC Makeup Academy’s executive tutor (and celebrity makeup artist), Nathan Johnson. Obviously, we know why Nathan is the best – but tell us in your own words why you agree!

Nathan Johnson is a professional, through and through. His love for the industry, as well as his desire to educate and see his students grow into an incredible career, is evident in everything he does.

I needed a teacher in my corner who did not coddle me. I didn’t want someone who just told me everything was great and let me pass with flying colors – only to let me go out into the world with NO idea how fierce this industry can truly be… And watch me fail and fall flat.

Nathan gave me the grades I deserved, gave me the critiques I needed in order to grow, and helped me become a better artist. Yes, he was tough. Yet all the while, he never ceased to remind me that I was amazing and had something to offer. (Even when I needed to correct how I did my work.)

He believed in me, and I would not be where I am today if not for his guidance and tough love!

Speaking as a QC Makeup Academy graduate, do you believe that all professional makeup artists should be properly trained and certified? Why or why not?

Yes, I do believe that! I place so much value on education. You may be an amazing self-taught artist, but there are foundational techniques that can only be learned through proper guidance and education.

And that’s only with regard the application process! There is a WHOLE other world involved in this field, such as best sanitary practices, owning/operating a business, etc.! The business end of being a makeup artist, in particular, is over half of the equation.

RELATED: Join QC Makeup Academy graduate, Devyn Gregorio, as she discusses why business training is ESSENTIAL to every makeup artist’s career!

How would you describe your style as an MUA?

I think I would use the word CLASSIC. While I will/can do any makeup look requested of me, my passion definitely lies in clean, classic beautiful skin and makeup.

Where did the name of your business, WarBaby Cosmetics, come from?

My dad used to call me “warbaby” when I was young because I was obsessed with WW2 history, war documentaries, and 1940s makeup/fashion! So, when I was trying to come up with a name, this seemed like the perfect choice!

I love the courage, strength, innovation, and creativity of women during the war era. I find it truly inspiring!

Why did you decide to open your own business, as opposed to working as an MUA for someone else?

I wanted creative control over ALL aspects of my presentation, applications, client handling, etc. I’ve always been an entrepreneur. And because I was already a professional photographer, I could bring makeup applications into my business without any interference.

What would you say have been the biggest challenges about launching/running your own makeup business? Furthermore, what would you say have been the greatest rewards?

For me, right from the beginning, it was the feeling that I had to try and convince people that this was a good career choice; that I could make a living, and support myself and my family.

I finally stopped trying to convince people. Instead, I decided that my focus had to shift to my success, and not to what other people thought. The greatest reward has been doing the hard work, becoming exactly who and what I wanted to become, and having the most amazing career and business!!!

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 5
QC Makeup grad Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 6

What services do you currently offer clients? Tell us about them!

I currently offer full makeup services with travel. I also teach classes, people can shop online for my products via my website, and I also offer connections to my photographer and hair stylist when those services are requested!

In addition to makeup application services, WarBaby Cosmetics also offers clients its very own line of loose shimmer eye pigments. Many aspiring makeup artists also dream of having their own line of cosmetics. How did you get started in having your own makeup products? Do you have any tips for other MUAs who want their own product line someday?

The journey to creating my own products came from a deep desire to have a brand, as well as to have my name on something that I created. When I started researching makeup ingredients, I realized that if I could get the time and the funds together, I could create something!

So, I began studying and would spend whole nights online at my computer, falling asleep on my keyboard! After about a year and a half, I was ready to start buying ingredients and experimenting! I would mix things, make mistakes, throw a lot of things out… It was a process!

When I was ready, all of my products had to be run through Health Canada. All of this took a lot of time, but it was worth it to see it all come together!

For anyone wanting to embark on the journey of actually formulating and manufacturing your own products, be ready for a LOT of work. It takes dedication and strict adherence to government guidelines to make it a success. But if you want it bad enough, you can bring your vision to life!

Figure out what makes what YOU have to offer unique from the rest!

PRO TIP: Make sure you know these 6 harmful ingredients that ALL professional makeup artists need to AVOID!

Tell us a little about your business strategies with regards to: marketing yourself, networking, attracting/booking clients, building your portfolio, etc.!

I once read a quote by a marketing professional that advised, “Shameless self promotion.” I liked that idea because it’s a challenge to present yourself in a way that’s not arrogant, while also asserting your presence in the industry! This takes courage and a strong belief in yourself.

Once I felt that I grew into that, I was ready to start sticking my neck out. I built a brand for myself and started messaging people, asking them to model for me. I also:

  • Messaged photographers and agencies as well;
  • Put a solid, professional booking system in place;
  • And built a clean, professional website and social media presence.

From there, I started dipping my toes into the waters of sharing my work with OTHER seasoned professionals. I did this in order to get their critiques, no matter how painful they were in the beginning.

Over time, people wanted to talk to me, ask me my opinions, learn, and grow from what I knew. This grew into a client base for me! And then I ventured into the creation of my own line of products, which immediately took off because of my already established client base!

In addition to being a QC Makeup Academy graduate, you’re also BARBICIDE® certified. Tell us more about what this means, and why this certification is so important for beauty professionals.

BARBICIDE® is a simple, online certification that your clients will really appreciate seeing when they sit in your chair. It tells them that you are a professional, and that you are up-to-date on the requirements for a clean and sanitized work environment. This certification gives your clients an extra measure of trust and confidence in both you and your work.

WarBaby Cosmetics has received some awards and features over the years! Humble brag for a moment and tell us more about those!

In no particular order, the immediate things that come to mind are as follows:

  • I have been published in the ‘Stanford New York Who’s Who’ Black Book of Elite Professionals’;
  • I was featured in the 2019, Volume 2 Issue of ‘Know Book’ YYC, Canada;
  • Moreover, I was also honored to be nominated as 2018 Alberta Woman Entrepreneur of the Year;
  • And I was also selected as one of 56 female entrepreneurs across North America to be featured in the 2014 edition of the Sexy and Wealthy in Heels, #successBABE eBook, and featured in the October 2019 issue of Community Now Magazine!

On top of all this, I also had my work on display at an art show in Europe, as well as having it published in a book for a New York Times Best Selling Author. I’ve also seen my work in newspaper articles and other local magazines!

You live in Calgary, Alberta – a major Canadian city with a population of over 1.6 million. With so many competitors in and around your area, why does WarBaby Cosmetics stand out from the rest? What makes you and your business unique?

I think my branding, versatility, and reputation for being extremely real and authentic have definitely helped me to stand out from the crowd! The fact that I also manufacture and sell my own cosmetics – as well as working in the area of professional photography – has made me a bit of a “one stop shop”.

People really appreciate my expertise. I love my job so much. I have so much fun – and it shows! People always leave my chair feeling loved and appreciated because that is what means the most to me!

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 7
QC Makeup grad Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 8

Do you have any advice for other aspiring MUAs who dream of running their own business?

Gain a solid understanding of how to run a business BEFORE you begin. Talk to people who already successfully manage their own company, learn how to handle your money, and price yourself accordingly. Moreover, learn about the importance of model release forms, contracts, deposits, etc..

Also, be comfortable putting all of these measures into place! You can be the best MUA in the world, but if you are a terrible businessowner, you will not see success. The business side of makeup artistry is a HUGE component to being successful.

Oh, and finally, hire a good accountant!

RELATED: These are just 5 key reasons why you need a professional contract as an MUA!

In your opinion, what are the most rewarding aspects of being a makeup artist?

The relationships you build with your clients! My favorite part of the job is the conversations I have with my clients, the special times we get to share, as well as inspiring and uplifting one another.

We have the power to make a difference in people’s lives… And that is EVERYTHING to me!

In your own words, can you tell us why you believe hiring a professional makeup artist is worth the cost?

Firstly, you’ll have someone working with you who is trained in foundational techniques, understands the products, and works with quality products and ingredients. Secondly, you’ll alleviate the risk of illness and disease if you invest in an artist who understands the importance of sanitary practices and how to implement them.

I’ve heard SO many horror stories from my clients. Risking your health to save a dollar is NOT worth it!

Do you remember your very first professional makeup job? Tell us about it! What did you learn from it, what went well, what didn’t go as planned, etc.?

I think my very first “real” job was a makeup I did for my sister-in-law for her wedding. I remember being terrified! This was the first time I would not do makeup my OLD way… Instead, I was going to do it using the new techniques I had learned as a QC Makeup Academy graduate.

I remember wanting to constantly revert back to my old ways, so it was a struggle! Plus, I was also battling serious heat and humidity because we’d traveled from Canada to Mexico. So, I was working with a world of new products in the way of primers, setting sprays, etc.

All that said, it actually came out amazing! The only thing I would have changed was the amount of highlight I used (which was too much). The highlight – plus the heat and sweating – made her look like a glazed donut by the time dinner rolled around. 😅

What’s your favorite makeup style and why?

I love clean makeup – the “no makeup, makeup”.  It’s challenging and pushes me out of my comfort zone. With every client, I feel like I learn something new, and get to expand my skills and ability!

Who are some of your makeup gurus/inspirations?

Kevin Aucoin will forever be my biggest inspiration. He never puts himself in a box. He’s so creative with his use of product, and would use anything and everything to get the job done.

What words of wisdom would you give to other makeup lovers out there who dream of a career in the beauty industry, but are hesitant to take the leap?

Be bold, be brave, and listen to your heart. If this is what you really, truly want to do, then jump into it! BUT – and I can’t stress this enough – jump into it prepared for the fact that you ARE going to need to set your ego aside and do some hard work.

This isn’t about being like everyone else. It’s not about the makeup fads and trends you see on Instagram or TikTok. Rather, it’s about taking this industry and your education seriously, mastering foundational techniques, and figuring out what makes YOUR unique style of application stand out from the rest!

There will be times where you’ll face rejection – and you need to be able to bounce back from that. You WILL be critiqued and given constructive criticism. So, receive it if you want to grow!

Believe in yourself, be assertive, and be loving, compassionate, and caring. Working on someone’s face is very personal! As such, you need to really care about people.

QC Makeup Academy graduate Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 9
QC Makeup grad Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz in-post image 10

Overall, as a QC Makeup Academy graduate, why would you recommend QC’s self-paced, online certification training?

QC Makeup Academy’s level of training is exceptional! The tutors are highly experienced professionals who want, more than anything, to make sure you reach your potential. So much so, that they are willing to tell you the hard stuff in order to help you grow.

THAT is exactly what you want! There are no short cuts in this industry, and anyone with experience knows it! You can trust your tutors at QC to have your best interest at heart, always!

Furthermore, the courses contain absolutely everything you need to make your way into the world of professional makeup artistry! Any questions you may have are covered! The course units are easy to follow, the timelines for completion are excellent, and the course materials themselves are awesome!

Not to mention, the access you get to other students through the school’s private Virtual Classroom on Facebook is an invaluable tool for learning, growing, and interacting with other people who are at the same stage you are… As well as those who have gone through it before you!

To date, what do you consider to be the proudest moment of your career so far?

I think my proudest moment so far has been connecting with my creative team. On top of my own freelance work, I work with a fine art photographer and hair stylist in our own studio. I’ve had so many amazing clients in my chair! It has been a dream come true!

I do a lot of work with international models and agencies, and it’s so incredible. Most of all, I love the talks I get to have with the young models who sit in my chair. It’s my opportunity to encourage them, remind them of how special and beautiful they already are WITHOUT makeup, and have the privilege of walking beside them on their incredible journeys!

What’s in store for you and WarBaby Cosmetics the rest of this year and beyond?

As always, I have big plans for growth! This year, my eye shadow line will be sold NOT ONLY in my online store (via my website), but also in the studio. This way, it’s immediately accessible to my clients!

Our creative team has also been contacted by multiple magazines who would love to publish our work. So, I am very excited about that and am hoping we are looking into a possible trip out of the country. One of my regular clients is an international model, so I’m hoping to have the opportunity to travel with her as well.

Aside from all of that, I just hope to continue working on every face possible!

Imagine: You’re trapped on a deserted island and can only have THREE makeup products and/or tools with you. Which do you choose and why?

Oooohhhh… I’m definitely going to choose skin care products!

  1. SPF;
  2. Moisturizer;
  3. And lip balm with SPF!

My skin needs to be amazing when I eventually get OFF of the island, so that makeup still looks good on my face! Haha!

Love you all!!!!!

-Vanessa Hernandez-Munoz

Makeup photography Feature Image

18 Secrets to Makeup Photography Success

By Career Advice, Makeup Tips and Tricks, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Are you a professional makeup artist and want to improve your portfolio? Have you been hired to do editorial makeup and you want to make sure you deliver the best possible results? Or maybe you’re a makeup lover who simply wants to improve your makeup photography skills for your Instagram feed?

If you answered YES to any of these questions, we’ve got some great news for you! Makeup photography doesn’t have to be complicated. In this article, we’ll go over 18 secrets that will help you take your makeup photos from mediocre to magazine-worthy.

So, let’s get started!

The Importance of Makeup in Photography

Makeup plays an an important role in in photography, as it helps enhance your features and create a certain look. Furthermore, makeup also makes it easier for photographers to capture colors, tones, and textures in the images they take.

In the world of professional makeup artistry, makeup is especially important in editorial work. In a nutshell, editorial photoshoots are all about creating a specific look or atmosphere. Usually, the purpose is to sell some sort of product, tell a story, or portray a concept. Makeup is the key to helping achieve this vision!

You’ll also find that makeup photography is of major importance when it comes to building your professional portfolio. After all, as a makeup artist, your portfolio is essentially your resume! It’s what potential employers look at to determine if you have the skillset they’re looking for. As such, knowing how to apply makeup for the camera is a must.

Now, let’s say you’re not a professional MUA. Perhaps you simply want to take your social media content to the next level. Well, makeup is just as important here, too. It helps you look your best and creates a more polished image!

Makeup photography in-post image 1

18 Secrets to Makeup Photography Success

Okay, let’s not waste anymore time! Here are 18 tips to help you achieve the perfect makeup look for photography…

But WAIT! Before we reveal these 18 secrets, make sure you know HOW to build a professional makeup artistry portfolio first!

Secret #1: Prep the skin with moisturizer and primer!

Make sure your (or your client’s) skin is well-hydrated and prepped first before applying makeup. This will help ensure that the products you use stay put and look their best all day long!

Secret #2: Know how to color correct!

Color correcting is basically using a specific product to cancel out any unwanted tones in your skin. Make sure you have a good understanding of how to color correct before doing makeup for photography. Otherwise, you’ll end up with an uneven and inconsistent look.

Pro Tip: Become a color correcting master with the help of this educational webinar – hosted by QC Makeup Academy executive instructor and professional MUA, Nathan Johnson!

Secret #3: Use bold colors that’ll pop on camera!

When it comes to makeup photography, bold colors are always best! So, make sure you use products that’ll show up clearly and will stand out in photos.

Secret #4: Ditch the cakey foundation!

Cakey foundation looks unnatural and unflattering in photos. For this reason, it’s important to avoid this look! Instead, make sure you use a lightweight foundation that’ll provide a sheer and polished finish.

Secret #5: Focus on the eyes!

The eyes are the most important feature in makeup photography because they’re the “windows to the soul”. So, make sure you focus on creating a dramatic and beautiful eye look that’ll make an impact in photos. You can achieve this by:

  • Swiping on some colorful eyeshadow;
  • Applying a dramatic cat eye;
  • Doing a sharp, crisp wing;
  • Applying false lashes;
  • Choosing colors that enhance the eye color;
  • And more!

Pro Tip: Need help perfecting your smokey eye? This step-by-step video tutorial by QC Makeup Academy grad, Devyn Gregorio, will show you everything you need to know!

Fashion African American model in gold jewelry, with perfect bright makeup and pigtails. Beautiful stylish African model on colored background. Makeup photoshoot article.

Secret #6: Make sure the lips don’t go unnoticed!

Just because you’re focusing on the eyes doesn’t mean you should overlook the lips. Make sure to create a luscious and full-looking pout with the help of lip liner, lipstick, and/or gloss!

Secret #7: Go with matte products!

Shimmery and sparkly products can be distracting in photos. Furthermore, they can also cause unwanted shine. Instead, make sure you opt for matte or subtle sheen products instead.

By doing this, you’ll be able to create a more subtle and polished look!

Secret #8: Use powder so skin doesn’t look shiny!

While we’re on the subject, applying a translucent setting powder on the face is also essential for keeping skin from getting shiny or greasy. So, make sure you lightly dust this over your (or your client’s) face – either before or after taking photos.

Secret #9: The fashion should match the makeup (and vice versa)!

If you’re choosing your or your client’s wardrobe, make sure to choose an outfit that’ll match the makeup look. This means making sure the colors, styles, and textures don’t clash with each other! And if someone else has picked out the wardrobe, make sure to adjust the makeup accordingly.

Either way, creating a cohesive look is key for achieving the perfect makeup photography look!

Interested in a career as a Fashion Styling Consultant? Become trained and certified in as little as 8 weeks with QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Fashion Styling Course!

Secret #10: Choose colors that compliment the skin tone (and undertones)!

The colors you use in makeup photography can make or break the final look. Thus, we strongly recommend choosing colors that are flattering and will highlight the best features of the person you’re working with. Make sure to take their skin into consideration before you choose colors – as this will help create a more balanced and harmonious look.

For example, all people’s skin tones fall into any of these categories:

  • Cool (blue undertone)
  • Warm (yellow/golden undertone)
  • Neutral (a balance of cool and warm undertones)

Once you know the undertones, you can then choose colors that’ll enhance them!

Secret #11: Don’t be afraid of natural skin texture!

No amount of makeup in the world can completely erase skin texture – and that’s just a fact. Personally, when I see a model who has no pores, I immediately think “Photoshop”… And Photoshop doesn’t sell me on anything other than Photoshop.

So, when applying makeup for photography, as it’s important to keep some of the natural skin texture still visible. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should leave your or your client’s skin looking dull and dry. It simply means that you shouldn’t cake on the makeup.

Make sure to use the right products and techniques to create a glowing, healthy complexion without losing the skin’s natural texture. Remember: having texture on our skin is part of being human. There’s absolutely nothing wrong with it!

Secret #12: Make sure to use a setting spray!

Setting spray is essential for keeping your makeup in place and ensuring it still looks fresh after hours of shooting. We recommend using a product that’s specifically designed for photography (such as any of these), as this will give you the best results.

Makeup photography in-post image 3

Secret #13: Know how to do a variety of looks!

You’ve probably noticed that so far, we’ve put a lot of emphasis on the bolder, more dramatic side of makeup photography. That being said, you should also be aware of the importance of subtler looks as well. Not only does your professional portfolio need variety; if you’re limited to one or two styles, you won’t be able to book as many photoshoot jobs!

With that in mind, you should learn how to do a variety of looks, such as:

  • Everyday makeup;
  • Soft glam makeup;
  • Bridal/wedding makeup;
  • SFX makeup;
  • Makeup for men;
  • Makeup for mature skin;
  • Global beauty makeup, etc.

Pro Tip: QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online courses cover ALL of these styles of makeup (and SO much more)! Plus, you’ll earn a legitimate, globally-recognized certification AND learn how to start/run your own MUA business… All in as little as 12 short weeks!

Secret #14: Do touch-ups throughout the photoshoot!

No matter how perfect the makeup looks at first, it’s bound to need a few touch-ups here and there. When you forget to re-apply powder or blend eyeshadow, the makeup will begin to look patchy and cake-like. So, make sure you have a few key products on hand to help you out when needed.

How to Retouch Makeup for Photography

If you or your client/model needs their makeup retouched during the photoshoot, you’ll need to do two things:

  1. Make sure your makeup is still intact (i.e., powder, eyeshadow, blush, etc.);
  2. And make sure your skin is still matte and not shiny or greasy.

To do this, use a setting spray to re-set the makeup and blot any excess oil with a tissue or blotting paper.

Secret #15: Lighting is literally everything!

We can’t stress this one enough! Makeup photography is all about playing around with light and making sure it’s hitting the face in the most beautiful and flattering way possible. Make sure to experiment with different lighting techniques, as this will help you create a more dynamic look!

Makeup Photography Lighting

Here are the different types of lighting you can work with, and the pros and cons of each:

Natural Lighting

This is widely considered the most flattering type of light, as it comes from the sun and is softer on the skin. However, you’ll need to plan your photoshoots around certain times of day (which may be difficult to do!)

Studio Lighting

This is often used in professional photography studios, and provides a more direct/intense light. It’s trickier to work with, as you’ll have to experiment a lot until you find the right balance.

Moreover, the type of light bulbs used will also affect the final result. For example, “warm” bulbs are often used to create softer and more subtle lighting, while “cool” bulbs can be used to create a sharper look.

Ring Lighting

Used predominantly by social media influencers and beauty gurus, this is a diffused light that’s perfect for makeup photography. Why? Because it provides an even and soft illumination on the face.

While ring lighting isn’t common for professional shoots, it’s definitely recommend for those wanting to take pics of themselves for social media. If you’re interested in trying out ring lighting for your personal photos, make sure to play around with the strength of the light, too. This will help you create different effects.

Secret #16: Take multiple shots from different angles!

If you’re working with a professional photographer, we guarantee this is something they’ll do. But if you’re the one snapping the pics, you’ll need to remember to take multiple shots from different angles. This will ensure that you get the best results!

For starters, this will allow you to capture more detail (such as different eyeshadow colors). And secondly, it allows for better creativity, too, as you can choose the most flattering angles of your – or your client’s – face.

Portrait of elegant beautiful Asian woman in a fashionable raincoat around colourful bright neon uv lights posing in studio. Makeup photoshoot article.

Secret #17: NEVER take selfies!

This one’s important, whether you’re taking pics of makeup for your portfolio or simply adding content to your social media pages. Now, it’s first key to point out that when we say “selfie”, we don’t simply mean a photo you take of yourself. If done correctly, a self-portrait is absolutely fine!

What we’re referring to is when people take photos of themselves with their arms stretched out and the camera in an unflattering position. A better solution is to buy a tripod, position it at the correct angle, and place your phone or camera on it. This will provide much more professional-looking results.

Remember: makeup photography should be taken seriously. If you have trouble taking the perfect pic of yourself, try getting help from a professional photographer or even an assistant.

Secret #18: Know what makes for a high-quality shot!

Finally, it’s important to understand what makes for a high-quality makeup shot. If you’ve been hired for a professional gig, then you probably won’t have to worry about this. Chances are, the photographer hired will be able to deliver the best images.

Essentially, makeup photography should be crisp, clear, and detailed. It should NOT be blurry or grainy – no matter the type of camera you (or the photographer) are using!

How to Take Amazing Makeup Pictures

Here are some tips to help you achieve this, if you’re the one snapping the pics:

  • Make sure to adjust your white balance settings correctly, as this will help create a more even and accurate tone;
  • Set your camera to “Manual Mode”, so you can adjust the exposure, shutter speed and aperture;
  • Set your camera to the highest resolution available. This will ensure that no details are lost in translation;
  • If you’re using the camera on your phone, make sure to check your focus before taking a photo.
  • Furthermore, if you have an iPhone, you can also set your phone camera settings to “Portrait Mode”. This will greatly help you blur out the background – which is perfect for showcasing makeup looks!

If You’re Hiring a Photographer

Now, if you’re looking to hire a photographer to take the pics (say, for your professional portfolio or social media), the key is doing your research. The goal here is to hire somebody who has an eye for detail and knows how to capture the best shots.

Make sure to look through their portfolio and ask questions about their experience and process. Furthermore, don’t be afraid to ask them for any tips they have on taking great makeup pictures!

How to do Makeup for Photography: Black and White Photos

Now, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention black and white photography. After all, makeup looks can look amazing in black and white! However, as an MUA, you’ll have to pay extra attention to detail when doing makeup for this type of photography.

The key here is to think of the contrast. Make sure your makeup pops! This means going for a bold lip or an eyeshadow that will stand out against the darkness of the photo. Plus, you should also make sure you also focus on highlighting your or your client’s features, as this will help them stand out even more.

FAQs

Phew, that was a lot of info! Let’s wrap things up by answering some of the common questions people have about makeup and photography:

Q: What is makeup photography called?

A: Makeup photography is also known as beauty photography.

Q: What is the best makeup for photography?

A: Makeup for photography should be bold and full coverage, in order to make sure all the details show up in the pictures. Some brands that meet this criteria include (but certainly aren’t limited to):

  • Tarte Cosmetics
  • Rimmel London
  • Anastasia Beverly Hills
  • Hourglass
  • Urban Decay
  • Becca
  • Charlotte Tilbury
  • Jouer
  • Fenty Beauty
  • e.l.f. Cosmetics
  • Huda Beauty
  • Marc Jacobs Beauty
  • Patrick Ta

As an added bonus, all of these makeup brands are also cruelty-free! Win-win!

Q: What are the steps for flawless makeup on camera?

A: Here are the steps for flawless makeup on camera:

  1. Make sure your (or your client’s) skin is properly prepped and hydrated.
  2. Choose makeup products that are full-coverage and long-lasting.
  3. Make sure to pay extra attention to the lips, cheeks, and eyes.
  4. Keep your makeup natural and dewy-looking.
  5. Set the makeup using a setting spray or powder.
  6. Finally, adjust the white balance settings on your camera to ensure accurate colors.
Makeup photography in-post image 5

Q: What are the 7 tips for taking good photographs?

A: In the world of makeup photography, it’s important to keep these seven photo-taking tips in mind:

  1. Have a clear vision of what you want the end result to look like.
  2. Set up your lighting correctly.
  3. Choose the right lens and background.
  4. Stick to natural poses, as they tend to look better on camera.
  5. Pay attention to the makeup details and adjust accordingly.
  6. Use a setting spray or powder to set the makeup in place.
  7. Make sure the colors are accurate by adjusting the white balance on the camera.

Q: Why doesn’t my makeup look good in pictures?

A: Makeup doesn’t always look the same in pictures as it does in person – and there are lots of factors to consider.

Make sure your makeup is full coverage, long-lasting, and natural-looking. What’s more – make sure to focus on the details of the eyes, lips, and cheeks. Next, ensure that the lighting is good, and adjust the white balance on your camera. Lastly, use a setting spray or powder to make sure everything stays in place!

Q: Is makeup really necessary for photography?

A: Makeup is essential for photography – both for everyday pictures AND professional photoshoots! Makeup can enhance the features of whoever’s in the photo, as well as bring out the colors and help create contrast. Plus, it’s also a great way to experiment with different looks and create something unique!

Conclusion

Makeup is an essential part of photography, whether you’re a professional MUA or just someone taking pictures for personal use!

As such, make sure to pay attention to the details and use products that are full coverage and long-lasting. Your lighting should be good and the white balance should be adjusted on your camera for accurate colors. Lastly, set everything in place with a setting spray or powder.

With all of these tips in mind, you’ll be able to take stunning makeup photos every time! Make sure to also check out the recommended reading section for more information on makeup portfolios and how to showcase them.

Good luck, beauties, and happy snapping!

In as little as 2 months, learn how YOU can put together the ULTIMATE makeup portfolio for your career as an MUA. Enroll in QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop and get started today!

Bad business habits to leave in 2022 Feature Image

15 Bad Business Habits to Leave in 2022 as a Professional Makeup Artist

By Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

Hey, makeup artists! Are you looking to start the new year off on the right foot? If so, then you’ll want to break some bad habits that’ve been holding you back professionally. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of 15 bad business habits to leave in 2022.

So, let’s take a look together and see what they are!

What are Some Bad Business Habits?

Before we reveal our list of 15 bad business habits to leave in 2022, let’s first take a more general look at what constitutes a “bad” business habit…

Essentially, any habit that prevents you from growing your business or achieving your goals is a bad one. This could mean:

  • Overspending on unnecessary items;
  • Not taking time to network and build relationships;
  • Or even procrastinating important tasks like bookkeeping.

In any case, these habits get in the way of success and should be left behind as soon as possible!

Bad business habits to leave in 2022 in-post image 1

15 Bad Business Habits to Leave in 2022 as a Professional MUA

In a nutshell, these are the 15 bad business habits that you should leave behind in 2022 as a professional makeup artist:

  1. Not keeping up with the latest trends;
  2. Not staying organized and timely;
  3. Relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing;
  4. Not setting goals and objectives;
  5. Not taking advantage of online resources and tools;
  6. Poor communication with clients and other MUAs;
  7. Not diversifying your makeup portfolio;
  8. Spending too much time on social media;
  9. Being overly competitive against other MUAs;
  10. Not delegating tasks to free up time for important work;
  11. Ignoring customer feedback, not listening to what they want, and being unreceptive to constructive criticism;
  12. Failing to take risks;
  13. Not asking for help when you need it;
  14. Letting negative thoughts derail your goals;
  15. Not investing in yourself and your business.

Let’s take a closer look at each one, shall we?

While we’re on the topic of bad habits to break, here are 5 bad makeup habits (not business-related) that ALL MUAs need to stop doing ASAP!

Bad Habit #1: Not keeping up with the latest trends.

The beauty industry is always changing and evolving. So, it’s important to stay up-to-date with the latest trends! In turn, this will help you create looks that are fresh and on-trend for your clients.

Consequently, if you choose not to keep up with the latest trends, your makeup looks can quickly become outdated.

FUN FACT: Here are 15 makeup trends that EVERY professional MUA needs to know!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

In the New Year, make sure to allocate time each month (or even week) to research the latest trends.

Also, try reading beauty magazines for inspiration or industry-related books. Another excellent idea is to enroll in a makeup course (such as the self-paced, online programs offered at QC Makeup Academy) to learn the latest techniques – and add a reputable certification to your resume at the same time.

Finally, attending makeup workshops or conferences can also be a great way to stay informed on the latest looks and techniques!

Bad Habit #2: Not staying organized and timely.

When it comes to running a successful business, organization and timeliness are key. That is, if you don’t have a solid plan for how to run your business efficiently, then chaos can quickly ensue. For example, not responding to inquiries in a timely manner, not having a proper filing system for paperwork, or forgetting about important appointments are all mistakes that will cost you clients AND profits.

Furthermore, being organized and timely also extends to each and every makeup application, too. Meaning, you’ll need to be prepared in advance (having all the necessary tools on-hand), ensure your clients don’t have to wait too long for their service, and hone your makeup skills so that the application process is fast and efficient – without losing quality!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in the New Year, start by creating detailed plans ahead of time. For example, prepare a list of all the supplies you’ll need for each client ahead of time, and try to arrive at least 10 minutes earlier than your appointment time.

Additionally, create a filing system to store all of your paperwork in one place. This way, it’s easy to find when needed. Moreover, make sure to set reminders on your phone or calendar app for any upcoming appointments.

Finally, invest in good quality makeup brushes and other tools that will make the application process smoother and faster. You can (and should) also work on improving your application time by challenging yourself to time trials in the New Year. If you’ve never heard of time trials, this is basically a process where you time yourself while doing a makeup look, and then try to beat your time in every time trial afterwards.

As a result, you can compare and measure your progress over time. And of course, the ultimate goal here is to be able to shorten the amount of time it takes for you to do makeup looks, without sacrificing any of its quality.

Bad Habit #3: Relying solely on word-of-mouth marketing.

Yes, word-of-mouth marketing can be a powerful tool for any MUA… However, it’s important to diversify your marketing methods! After all, relying solely on word-of-mouth will only get you so far – and it won’t help you reach clients outside of your current network.

Consequently, investing in other types of digital or traditional marketing (such as social media or print advertising) will help you reach a much larger pool of potential clients.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in the New Year, start by creating an online presence for your business. This can include setting up a website, social media accounts, and even a blog. The more places potential customers can find you, the better!

Additionally, make sure to create quality content for your social media accounts. Think behind-the-scenes videos/photos of you doing makeup looks, helpful tips and tricks videos for beginners, or even reviews from happy clients. Doing so will not only help people get to know you better, but it can also act as free advertising for your business.

On top of that, consider investing in paid advertising campaigns on social media, as well as other methods to improve your SEO (search engine optimization). For this, just remember to set a budget before launching any ads and keep track of its progress over time. Also, don’t forget about traditional marketing methods such as print or radio ads! They can still be effective in reaching potential clients.

Finally, don’t forget to ask your satisfied customers for referrals. After all, word-of-mouth marketing is still a great way to attract new people to your business. And while it shouldn’t be your ONLY marketing strategy, it should still be ONE of them!

PRO TIP: Here are 15 of the BEST ways to successfully market your professional makeup business!

Makeup artist applies eye shadow . Beautiful woman face. Hand of visagiste, painting cosmetics of young beauty model girl . Make up in process. Bad business habits article.

Bad Habit #4: Not setting goals and objectives for your business.

It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day operations of your business and forget about taking time to set goals. But without them, it’s hard to measure success and growth. And as a result, it can be difficult to know what areas you should invest more time and energy in.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad habit and leave it behind in 2022, start by setting both short-term and long-term goals for your business.

Short-term goals are usually things that you’d like to accomplish within a year, such as increasing your client base or launching a new product. Meanwhile, long-term goals are those that you’d like to achieve over the next 5 years or more, such as opening your own brick-and-mortar makeup store.

Once you have your goals in place, create action steps for each of them so that you know how to get there. From there, make sure to create a timeline for each action step so that you can measure and track your progress throughout the year.

Finally, don’t forget that all of your business goals should be SMART goals. Meaning, goals that are:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Relevant
  • And Time-Based.

Doing so will ensure that your goals are clear and achievable – which is essential for business success!

Bad Habit #5: Not taking advantage of online resources and tools.

With everything going digital these days, it can be easy to miss out on useful online resources and tools. For instance, there are countless programs out there that can help with invoicing, client management, marketing, and even social media scheduling.

By failing to maximize these resources to your benefit, you could be missing out on a LOT of opportunities for growth, marketing success, and more.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this habit in 2022, start by doing some research on the various online tools and resources that are available to you. From there, create a list of those that could potentially help your business – whether it’s an invoicing program or website hosting service.

Once you have this list in place, take the time to read reviews and do your own testing if necessary. Then, decide which online tools and resources you’d like to invest in for your makeup business.

Finally, make sure to set up a timeline for when you’d like to use these tools. Doing so will help ensure that you have the budget for them, that you’re making the most of them throughout the year, and that you’re getting the best possible results for your business!

Bad Habit #6: Poor communication with clients and other MUAs.

Poor communication can be a MAJOR issue for makeup artists. Whether it’s not responding to client inquiries in a timely manner or failing to follow through on commitments, bad communication can quickly lead to unhappy customers and lost business.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To make sure you’re communicating effectively with your clients and other MUAs in 2022, start by setting clear expectations from the very beginning. Make sure that you’re upfront about your scheduling and availability so that clients know what to expect when they book an appointment with you.

Also, make sure to set up a reliable system for responding to messages and inquiries – whether it’s via email or through a messaging app. Doing so will ensure that no messages slip through the cracks and that you’re always responding in a timely manner.

Finally, make sure to follow through on your commitments – no matter how big or small they may be. This could mean anything from turning up on time for an appointment to sending out invoices promptly after a job is completed. By following through, you’ll be able to build trust with your clients and other MUAs – which is essential for long-term success.

Bad Habit #7: Not diversifying your makeup portfolio.

It’s easy to get into a creative rut when you’re doing the same kind of makeup looks for every client. But if you want to stand out from the competition and attract new clients, it’s essential that you diversify your portfolio!

After all, if your makeup portfolio isn’t diverse enough, it could lead to:

  • Clients not wanting to book you because they’re not impressed with your range
  • You getting bored with the same types of makeup looks
  • More difficultly promoting yourself and your services, etc.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

So, how can you leave this bad business habit in 2022 and make sure you have a diverse makeup portfolio in the New Year (and beyond)?

Start by setting aside some time each month to practice different styles of makeup – whether it’s bridal, glamor, special effects makeup, or something completely unique. Also, make sure to take high-quality pictures of your work and upload them to your portfolio on a regular basis. This will help potential clients get an idea of your range and could potentially lead to more bookings.

Finally, consider taking a makeup course or attending a makeup workshop so that you can refine your skills and learn new techniques. Furthermore, you can enroll in a course that’s specifically about building a solid makeup portfolio – such as QC Makeup Academy’s self-paced, online Portfolio Development Workshop!

Doing so will help ensure that you have all the tools you need to create unique and stunning makeup looks for every client!

PRO TIP: Never put together a professional makeup portfolio before? These 10 steps will walk you through the process from start to finish!

Bad Habit #8: Spending too much time on social media.

Spending too much time on social media can be a huge productivity killer. After all, if you’re not careful, it’s easy to get sucked into an endless cycle of scrolling and liking – which can lead to lost hours (and dollars) in the long run.

What’s more, if you’re not using social media strategically, it can also be a huge waste of time for you and your makeup business!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To make sure you’re using social media efficiently in 2023 and beyond, start by setting aside a specific amount of time each day to dedicate to your business’s presence on the various platforms. Make sure to stick to this allotted time and use it strategically. As in, think about what content you should be posting and how often.

Also, consider investing in tools and software that can help you further streamline and optimize your social media management. This could include anything from scheduling apps to analytics tools that give you insights into your performance, etc.

Finally, make sure to take regular breaks from social media! Too much time on the platforms can not only be bad for productivity but also for your mental health. So, be mindful of how much time you’re spending scrolling, and strive to find a healthy balance.

Bad business habits to leave in 2022 3

Bad Habit #9: Being overly competitive against other MUAs.

Although it’s natural to be competitive in business, being overly competitive against other MUAs can really hurt your own success – and the makeup community as a whole.

Why?

Because it can lead to a negative environment and create unnecessary drama. Plus, it’s important to remember that everyone is at different stages in their career. Making comparisons won’t do you any good.

So, instead of competing with one another, you should focus on collaborating and supporting each other!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad business habit in 2022, start by taking the time to reach out to other MUAs and build relationships. You never know when someone may have a job opportunity that they need extra help with!

Also, don’t be afraid to ask for advice – especially if you’re just starting out in your career. Chances are, fellow MUAs will be more than happy to help you out. Finally, try to focus on your own business rather than worrying about what other MUAs are doing.

That way, you can strive for success without letting negative feelings of comparison get in the way!

PRO TIP: Learn more about why other professional makeup artists are your FRIENDS – not enemies!

Bad Habit #10: Not delegating tasks to free up time for more important work.

If you’re not delegating tasks, it can be really easy to become overworked and overwhelmed. After all, there’s only so many hours in the day – and if you’re trying to do everything yourself, your progress is likely to suffer. Not to mention, you’ll probably wind up burning yourself out… and forgetting why you love makeup in the first place!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To successfully break this habit, start by figuring out which tasks you should be delegating – and who you should delegate them to! Then, make sure to set up clear expectations and deadlines for each task that’s being delegated.

Also, set aside a specific amount of time each week for planning and strategizing. That way, you’ll have enough time to think about the tasks that need to get done – and how best to delegate them.

Finally, don’t be afraid to take things off your plate if they’re not essential! Learning when it’s okay to say no will help you to create more space for yourself and focus on the tasks that you actually enjoy doing.

Now, what if your makeup business is a one-person-operation and you don’t have anyone to delegate things to? In this case, you should look into outsourcing! Hiring freelancers or independent contractors can be a great way to help free up your time and delegate certain tasks.

Lastly, make sure to outsource the right tasks for you – such as administrative work or marketing – so that you can focus on the creative side of things. That way, you can still be productive without getting overwhelmed.

Bad Habit #11: Ignoring customer feedback, not listening to what they want, and being unreceptive to constructive criticism.

As a makeup artist, it’s essential to make sure that you’re listening to your customers and taking their feedback into consideration. After all, they’re the ones who are going to be using your services. So, it only makes sense to take their opinion into account.

Furthermore, the beauty industry is one where being able to take constructive criticism is VITAL for your success. If you’re not able to accept and learn from it, then you’ll never be able to grow and improve as an artist. Not to mention, you’ll likely gain a poor reputation for being unprofessional.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad business habit, start by creating a feedback system that allows customers to share their thoughts and opinions. Then, make sure to take the time to actually listen and respond to what they have to say. Even if it’s not necessarily something you agree with or want to hear, try your best to remain open-minded and be receptive.

Finally, be sure to thank customers for their feedback – even if it’s negative – and show that you’re taking it seriously. This will help to build trust and ensure they know their opinion matters.

PRO TIP: Check out this helpful article to learn the difference between constructive criticism vs. insults – as well as tips for receiving and giving constructive feedback!

Bad Habit #12: Failing to take risks.

When it comes to makeup artistry, being able to take risks and experiment can be incredibly helpful for your career. After all, stepping outside of your comfort zone can help you to grow and develop new skills that will set you apart from the competition. However, if you’re not taking any bold steps or trying something new – then chances are your work will remain stagnant and you’ll miss out on opportunities.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To break this bad habit, start by committing to taking at least one risk every month. This could be anything from trying out a new technique to taking on a daring project. Just make sure it’s something that pushes you out of your comfort zone!

Additionally, make an effort to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and news in the makeup industry. That way, you’ll be more informed about what types of risks might pay off. Finally, remember that taking risks doesn’t guarantee success – but it does give you a better chance of achieving something amazing.

So, stay positive and keep pushing yourself!

Bad Habit #13: Not asking for help when you need it.

One common downfall of an entrepreneur is the misconception that you need to be able to do it all – from marketing to accounting and everything in-between. However, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to be superhuman – and it’s totally okay to ask for help!

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

To kick this bad habit, start by reaching out to your network and letting people know that you’re looking for assistance. You’d be surprised how many people are willing to lend a helping hand! Additionally, think about hiring an assistant or virtual assistant to help with tasks like scheduling and customer service. That way, you can focus on the creative side of your business without getting overwhelmed.

Finally, don’t forget to take advantage of all the amazing online resources available, such as tutorials and online courses. In turn, you’ll be able to develop the skills you need – without needing anyone else’s help!

Are you currently a QC Makeup Academy student? Our Student Support Team is always available to help with any questions or concerns you have! Simply contact them by phone, email, and/or live chat!

Professional makeup artist working with young bride at home, closeup. Bad business habits article.

Bad Habit #14: Letting negative thoughts derail your goals.

As an artist, it’s normal to experience a bit of self-doubt now and then. However, letting negative thoughts go unchecked can quickly lead to a spiral of despair that derails your progress and make it difficult to move forward.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

The first step is being aware of your thoughts and the words you use when talking about yourself. Whenever you catch yourself in a negative thought cycle, take a step back and reframe it into something more positive and empowering.

Remind yourself of all the things you’ve accomplished so far, as well as any successes that have come from taking risks or stepping outside your comfort zone. Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends and mentors. Having a support system can make it much easier to stay focused on your goals and keep the negative thoughts at bay.

By breaking this bad habit in the New Year, you’ll be able to focus more of your energy on what’s important – creating amazing makeup looks!

Bad Habit #15: Not investing in yourself and your business.

Finally, our last bad business habit to leave in 2022 is not investing in yourself and your business. Whether it’s not taking the time to attend workshops and seminars or neglecting to upgrade your equipment, failing to invest in yourself can quickly lead to burnout and stagnation.

What Things Should You Do in the New Year to Break this Habit?

In the New Year, start by setting aside a budget (no matter how small) for investing in yourself and your business.

Put aside money for workshops, online courses, or even a new piece of equipment to help you uplevel your artistry. Additionally, consider volunteering or interning with other makeup artists. Not only will you learn valuable skills, but you’ll also be able to expand your network!

Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Invest in self-care activities like getting a massage, going for a walk, or even just taking some time to relax and recharge.

By breaking this bad habit in the New Year, you’ll be able to stay motivated and work towards creating amazing looks with confidence!

Frequently Asked Questions

Before we wrap things up, let’s take a look at some frequently asked questions related to breaking bad business habits in the New Year.

Q: What 3 habits of an entrepreneur can most negatively impact entrepreneurial growth?

A: Three of the biggest habits that can most negatively impact entrepreneurial growth include:

  1. Procrastination;
  2. Spending too much time on unproductive tasks;
  3. And not investing in yourself and your business.

Q: What are the top 5 bad habits that will negatively affect your makeup career?

A: The top 5 bad habits that can negatively affect your makeup career include:

  1. Not setting clear and achievable goals;
  2. Failing to market yourself and promote your work;
  3. Staying stuck in the same style instead of trying new things;
  4. Letting negative thoughts derail you;
  5. And not investing in yourself and your business.

Q: How can you identify “bad” career habits?

A: To identify “bad” career habits, it’s important to take a step back and look at your current workflow. Ask yourself if any of the following applies to you:

  • Do you procrastinate or lack motivation?
  • Are you stuck in your comfort zone instead of taking risks?
  • Do you struggle with time management or setting clear goals?
  • Are you neglecting to invest in yourself and your work?

If the answer is yes to any of these questions, it’s likely that you have developed some bad career habits. Fortunately, by identifying them and taking steps to break them in the New Year, you can reignite your passion for makeup artistry!

Q: How can you track your progress so that you know if you’re actually improving your bad career habits?

A: One of the best ways to track your progress is to keep a journal and write down your thoughts, feelings, and successes. Additionally, you can create a vision board or set measurable goals for yourself that you can work toward each week.

Moreover, there are also ways that you can gather stats and data to measure your progress. For instance, you can track the number of followers you have on social media or analyze how many bookings you’re getting each month. By tracking these metrics, you can easily see where your bad business habits are hindering your success and adjust accordingly!

PRO TIP: Here are 12 business metrics that EVERY business owner should know and keep track of, courtesy of Scoro!

Bad business habits to leave in 2022 5

So, What Would YOU Improve in 2023 and Beyond?

Now that you know how to break your bad habits, the only thing left is for you to start taking action! Set yourself up for success by investing in yourself and your business, expanding your network, and taking time for self-care. With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to create amazing artwork and reach new heights of success in no time.

Good luck and Happy New Year, beauties!

Start the New Year on the best foot possible by getting professionally trained and internationally-certified as a makeup artist! Enroll with QC Makeup Academy and earn globally-recognized certification in as little as 8 short weeks!

Running a makeup business Feature Image

Running a Makeup Business: Expectation vs. Reality

By Career Advice, Your Makeup Career No Comments

There’s no question that owning your own business is a dream for many professional makeup artists. But what is the reality of owning and running a makeup business? Is it all glitz and glamor – or are there some hidden truths that you need to know before taking the plunge? Today, we’ll explore the expectations vs. realities you may not have considered.

So, keep reading to learn everything about the reality of having your own makeup business!

What It’s Like To Run Your Own Makeup Artistry Business: Expectation vs. Reality

Alright, let’s dive right in! Here are 10 expectations vs. realities of running a makeup business that you need to know…

Running a makeup business in-post image 1

Expectation #1: You’ll Make Bank Right Off The Bat

Many people expect that they’ll make a ton of money right away when they start their own makeup business. As in, they’ll be raking in cash hand-over-fist and living the high life within a few short months.

Where does this myth come from?

Probably from all of the social media “gurus” out there who make it look like they’re swimming in dough. Similarly, celebrity MUAs who work with A-listers probably charge – and earn – a pretty penny. In turn, this can mislead the everyday makeup artist into thinking that they, too, will be making a killing right out of the gate.

HOWEVER, that’s not to say that you can’t eventually make a wicked income! Learn more about the average yearly salary for a makeup artist to get a better idea of the kind of figures YOU can earn!

Reality #1: It Might Take A While To Build Up Your Makeup Business (and In Turn, Your Profits)

In the real world, it will likely take time to build up a clientele and establish yourself as a reputable makeup artist. This means that in the beginning, you might not be bringing in as much money as you’d like.

And that’s okay! Remember, Rome wasn’t built in a day.

The same goes for building up a successful makeup business. It takes time, patience, and a whole lot of hard work. So, if you’re not making bank right away, don’t sweat it. Just keep hustling and eventually, the money will start rolling in.

Expectation #2: Starting a Makeup Business Can Be Done For Dirt Cheap

If you want to start your own makeup business, you might think that all you need is a few decent brushes, some good quality products, and voila – you’re in business! Understandably, this misconception is especially appealing to those who are just starting out and might not have a lot of disposable income.

Reality #2: Starting ANY Business Requires an Investment

While you might be able to get away with spending very little money when you first start out, it’s important to understand that starting ANY business requires some level of investment.

For example, in addition to brushes and products, you’ll also need things like:

  • A registered business name
  • A website
  • Business cards
  • Business insurance
  • Marketing materials, etc.

Plus, if you’re planning on working from a brick-and-mortar location, you’ll need to factor in the cost of rent, utilities, etc.

Furthermore, you’ll want to plan ahead to make sure your finances are covered for the first year of operation. This is especially important because it can take time to build up a clientele when starting any business… And that means your income might be a bit erratic in the beginning. Therefore, during the first year of business, there may be times where you’ll need to dip into your own pockets in order to stay afloat.

To give you a tangible number that you can work with, Small Biz Trends states that in the United States, the average startup + first-year costs for small businesses tends to range between $30,000 and $40,000 USD. Of course, it’s 100% possible to spend less (or more) than this – it all depends on the specific business being started and where it’s located.

What we’re basically saying is, while you might be able to get by with spending very little in the beginning, understand that there will be some costs associated with starting your own makeup business!

Expectation #3: You Can Work Anywhere, Anytime

As a makeup artist, you might think that you can work whenever, wherever, since you get to determine your schedule. After all, you’re your own boss, right? So, if you feel like working at 3 am on a Tuesday, who’s going to stop you?

Reality #3: Running a Makeup Business Means Making Certain Sacrifices

While it’s true that being your own boss has its perks, it’s important to understand that running a business also requires making certain sacrifices.

For example, as much as you might want to, you can’t always work whenever, wherever. Yes, having the ability to create your own schedule is amazing… But ultimately, you’ll need to be available when your clients are available. And that might mean working during weekends, evenings, and even holidays!

Furthermore, you’ll need to be willing to travel to wherever your clients are. So, if you’re not up for putting in the extra miles (literally), then being a makeup artist might not be the right career for you.

Young woman sitting at dressing table and looking in the mirror while makeup artist applying concealer with cosmetic brush. Female stylist doing professional makeup for client in beauty salon. Makeup article.

Expectation #4: You Can Quit Your Day Job Immediately

This is a big one. A lot of people think that once they decide to start their own makeup business, they can immediately quit their day job and pursue their passion full-time.

Reality #4: You Should Probably Keep Your Day Job – At Least for a Little While

Look, we totally get it. Choosing to pursue your passion and start your very own business is a huge accomplishment – and it’s super exciting! So, it’s understandable that you might get caught up in all of the hype and want to quit your day job immediately in order to pursue your new career.

But here’s the thing: as much as we’d all love to be able to do that, it’s just not realistic for most people. In fact, unless you have a ton of savings that you can fall back on, quitting your day job without any sort of backup plan is actually a pretty big gamble. This is because, in reality, the average small business takes approximately 2-3 years to become profitable.

So, while we know it might be tempting, our best advice would be to keep your day job (at least in the beginning) and work on building up your makeup business on the side. This way, you’ll have a steady income to fall back on in case things don’t go as planned.

Expectation #5: Running a Makeup Business is All Fun and Games

Another common misconception about running a makeup business is that it’s all fun and games.

After all, what could be better than getting paid to do something that you love? Not to mention, the world of makeup artistry is not like, say, the world of finance. Rather, it’s creative, it’s fun, and it’s pretty darn glamorous.

So, understandably, this might lead you to believe that running a makeup business is all rainbows and butterflies…

Reality #5: Running a Makeup Business is a Lot of Hard Work

Make no mistake about it – running a successful makeup business IS creative, fun, and glamorous. But at the same time, it also takes a lot of hard work.

Yes, you’ll get to play with makeup all day long and make people look and feel their best… But you’ll also have to deal with the not-so-fun parts of running a business, like advertising, marketing, accounting, and (if you have employees) HR.

So, if you’re thinking about starting your own makeup business, just know that it’s not all fun and games. Running a successful business requires dedication, discipline, and a whole lot of hard work. But if you’re up for the challenge, then we say go for it!

Expectation #6: You Can Operate a Successful Business WITHOUT Proper Makeup Training

Interesting fact that you may not have known: in many places around the world, makeup artistry (unlike cosmetology and esthetics) is NOT actually a regulated field. Meaning, there are no formal education or training requirements in order to become a makeup artist.

So, obviously this means that you have the green light to launch a career – and makeup business – without first getting some professional training under your belt… Right?

WRONG.

Reality #6: Professional Training is a MUST If You Want Your Makeup Business to Succeed

Just because there are no formal education or training requirements in place for makeup artists, doesn’t mean that you can operate a successful business without proper makeup training. In fact, we would argue that the opposite is true.

If you want people to take your business seriously (and trust us, they will), then it’s important that you have some sort of professional makeup training. This could be anything from a certification program (such as the self-paced, online certification courses offered at QC Makeup Academy) to a full-blown degree from a cosmetology school.

Think of it this way: if YOU were the client, and you had to choose between an MUA without any formal training and an MUA with a professional certification or degree, who would you choose? We’re guessing the answer is pretty obvious.

So, if you’re serious about starting your own makeup business, then our best advice would be to get some proper training first. Trust us, it’ll be worth it in the long run!

Check out the full list of online makeup certification courses currently offered at QC Makeup Academy!

Running a makeup business in-post image 3

Expectation #7: Running a Makeup Business is Expensive

This is another common misconception about running a makeup business – that it’s expensive. While we can’t pinpoint for sure where this myth stemmed from, our best guess is due to the fact that, in order to run a successful business, you need to make sure you have the proper tools and equipment.

And let’s face it, quality makeup products aren’t exactly cheap!

Reality #7: You Can Easily Operate Your Makeup Business On a Budget

While it’s true that you running a makeup business requires having the proper tools and equipment, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s expensive. In fact, depending on how you choose to operate your business, it can actually be quite inexpensive.

For example, if you decide to work freelance and visit your clients at their homes or chosen location, then you won’t need to worry about the costs associated with renting out a studio space.

Or, if you choose to specialize in a certain area of makeup (like weddings or special effects), then you can invest in the specific tools and products required for that area, rather than buying a bunch of expensive, general-use products.

So, as you can see, there are a number of ways to operate your makeup business on a budget. It’s all about being strategic with your finances and only investing in what you need.

Tips For Creating a Realistic Budget for Your Business

Now that we’ve busted this common myth about starting a makeup business, it’s time to give you some practical tips for creating a realistic budget for your own business. Here are a few of our best suggestions:

  • First and foremost, it’s important that you have a clear understanding of your financial situation. This means knowing how much money you have to work with and what your regular expenses are. Once you have a good handle on this, you can start to think about how much you can realistically afford to spend on your business.
  • Next, make a list of all the essential items you need for your business. This could include things like makeup products, brushes, a website, business cards, etc. Once you have your list, start to research the prices of these items so that you can get a better idea of what they will cost.
  • Finally, remember that your business budget is not set in stone. As your business grows and changes, so too will your budget. So, don’t be afraid to revisit it on a regular basis to make sure that it’s still accurate and realistic.

PRO TIP: Discover how you can better budget yourself as a makeup artist with the help of these 4 industry secrets!

Expectation #8: You’ll Need To Undercharge Your Makeup Services At First

This is another myth that we hear all the time from aspiring MUAs: that they’ll need to undercharge their services at first in order to get their business off the ground. Now, we can absolutely understand why this logic appears to make sense. After all, if you want to attract customers, then you need to offer them a good deal, right?

Furthermore, especially if no one knows who you are yet, you might think that it’s going to be hard to charge top dollar for your services.

Reality #8: You Should NEVER Undercharge Your Makeup Services

As a general rule, you should never undercharge your services in order to attract customers. In fact, if you do this, you could actually end up doing more harm than good.

Why? Well, first of all, it sends the wrong message to your potential clients. If you charge too little for your services, they might think that your work is also low quality. After all, why would someone pay top dollar for something that’s not worth it?

Secondly, undercharging for your services can also make it difficult to run a profitable business. After all, if you’re not making enough money to cover your costs, then how are you supposed to stay in business?

But thirdly, and arguably most importantly, undercharging your makeup services is doing YOU a major disservice! As a professional makeup artist, you have invested time, money, and energy into perfecting your craft (especially if you’ve gotten professionally trained and certified). So, why sell yourself short by not charging what you’re truly worth?

So, What’s The Solution?

The key is to find a happy medium between charging too little and too much for your services. Do some research on what other makeup artists in your area are charging and use that information to help you determine a fair price for your own services. And, of course, don’t forget to factor in your own unique experience and skills when setting your prices.

Need help figuring out what you should be charging clients for your makeup services? Here are 4 types of makeup artistry services and what you should be charging for them!

Expectation #9: You Can (and Should) Be Doing Everything Yourself

Running your own business can be a lot of work. But as a result, it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that you have to do everything yourself in order to be successful. After all, it’s your makeup business. So, shouldn’t you be the one in charge of everything?

Reality #9: This Will Probably Lead To Burnout

One of the biggest mistakes that new makeup artists make is trying to do everything themselves. And while it’s admirable to want to be in control of every aspect of your business, the truth is that this is simply not realistic (or sustainable) in the long run.

Think about it this way: as a makeup artist, your time is better spent doing what you’re good at (i.e. doing makeup). So, why waste your time on tasks that someone else could easily do for you (like social media, marketing, bookkeeping, etc.)?

The key is to learn how to delegate and outsource the tasks that you’re not good at or that you don’t have time for. This way, you can focus your energy on growing your business and doing what you love!

But What If You Don’t Have The Budget For This?

If you’re just starting out, then it’s understandable if you don’t have the budget to hire someone to help you with your business.

In this case, the key is to be strategic about the tasks that you delegate. Start with the tasks that are taking up the most time or that are causing you the most stress. Then, once you have more money coming in, you can gradually start outsourcing more and more tasks.

Expectation #10: Getting Your Startup Running Will Take Up Most Of Your Time

Depending on how you view this particular myth, this may actually be a reason why you’re hesitant to start your own makeup business. After all, if it’s going to take over and dominate your entire life, then is this endeavor really worth it?

This can be an especially damaging misconception if you happen to have a full-time job, are a student, and/or are a busy parent.

Reality #10: This Depends On Your Definition Of “Most Of Your Time”

Yes, the truth is that starting your own makeup business will probably take up more of your time than you originally anticipated. But this doesn’t mean that it has to take over your whole life!

As we mentioned earlier, one of the best things about being your own boss is that you get to set your own hours. So, if you only have a limited amount of time to work on your business, then you can simply schedule your work around the other important things in your life.

Of course, this doesn’t mean that you won’t have to make some sacrifices in the beginning. But if you’re strategic about how you use your time, then you should be able to get your business up and running without completely sacrificing your personal life.

After all, keeping a healthy work-life balance is one of the most important things you can do for your business (and for yourself)!

Young girl with a make-up artist in the studio in front of a mirror. Makeup article.

Final Thoughts

Starting your own makeup business can be a very rewarding experience. But it’s important to go into it with your eyes wide open. Be prepared for the challenges that you’ll face and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

If you can do these things, then you’ll be well on your way to success!

Got any questions or comments for us? We’d love to hear from you! Leave us a comment down below or send us an email at [email protected].

Thanks for reading! 💕