Keeping Make-up Fresh During Filming
Your job as a make-up artist is definitely not complete when the actor walks onto the set. The make-up you have applied needs to be maintained and kept intact during the shoot - however long it lasts.
Whether filming is under the hot lights of the studio or on an external location in various weather conditions, you need to be on standby to repair any and all damage to the actor's make-up.
Make-up is a work in progress
You will be checking the make-up between shots, with a complete make-up check after each meal break. At the very least you'll probably be touching things up - adding more lipstick, blotting sweat, and re-powdering the face. For even the most simple touching up of the make-up, try to get the actor to sit comfortably in a chair. This relaxes the actor and makes it easier for you, too, to apply the necessary blotting or lipstick.
And when the actor needs a complete change of costume, hair, and make-up, remember to agree the right amount of time you need for this with the assistant director. There's nothing worse than having the whole set waiting impatiently for you to finish! You want to always work quickly but remain calm.
Keeping your make-up supplies safe and clean
When on set, keep all your essential make-up tools and materials in a small bag or set box. Particularly useful are clear plastic bags that can be zipped up: not only do these protect your make-up kit but the see-through plastci means you can quickly spot what you need. Film sets are usually not the cleanest of envirnments - perhaps with smoke machines and other effects being used - so always try to avoid leaving your kit box open or uncovered.
"I have recently worked on 'Hamlet', which has been an out of this world experience for me! 6 months ago I was working in a hotel and now I have the best job in the world. The hours are long but you meet some amazing people and you have a rewarding job. I love getting up early and going to work as every job is different. I am so pleased I chose to move down to London and change my life!"
Lucybelle Thompson
