Preface

The Makeup Artist Handbook has become our journey into writing about what we do, how we do it, and why we do it. The Second Edition gives updated information, with new artists and products, and the latest in innovations and techniques. Our pro tips and artist quotes will inspire you and give you an advantage on the job. Our new addition of on-the-job, professional examples written from the set, gives you insight into a moment, or day, in the life of a professional Makeup Artist, with invaluable lessons from the field.

Our goal has always been to pay it forward and share the experience and knowledge of our careers in makeup, to provide the next generation of artists with the most real, timely knowledge from many points of view. The original idea was simple: think outside the box, include as many of our colleagues as possible to share their expertise and knowledge, and give the book as many “voices” to learning as possible. We had no idea how rewarding this experience would be, not only for you but for us—we have been inspired. Our global group brings knowledge rich with talent, skill, and innovation. This community's generous nature to share and mentor from their phenomenal experience is your gain, and to your advantage. You are learning from some of the best of the best!

Learning from one standpoint puts the students at a disadvantage and our global base gives you more insight into working as a freelance Makeup Artist, with all the skills, knowledge, and protocol that are required of you. By exposing you to as many different approaches as possible you will learn to work outside the box and be able to handle the flow of your first day on any job. There are countless ways to go about creating and applying makeup, so we have included examples from different artists to develop your hand, your instincts, and open your mind.

The innovations within our industry keep us constantly learning, evolving, and moving forward with our talents. This is a career where you never stop learning, so for us, this time of updating products, techniques, and added information is exciting, necessary, and an opportunity to continue sharing the experience.

We assure you that all product references, lists of industry standards, and the techniques in this book are genuine working examples in today's market. The lists are a culmination of our 25-plus years of experience, interviews with our colleagues in all mediums, and done without bias or favoritism. No endorsements or promotional fees by any company or individual were paid to us or our colleagues in the preparation of this book. We are part of an international community: Sharing knowledge, product information, and techniques are all part of the lessons learned and shared with each other through our travels and our commitment to the art.