Placement Overview

This placement works as a freelance hair and make-up artist for television productions. Their role involves reading scripts and learning about characters then creating suitable hair and make-up designs. They are also responsible for the continuity of hair and make-up on set on television productions.

Generic Job Description for a Television Hair and Make-up Artist

Make-up Artists work in the broadcast industry, creating the appearance of performers in television, film theatre and live shows.

Television Make-up Artists apply make-up and style hair for performers to ensure that they look their best when appearing in front of the camera. The performers they work with can include actors, presenters, models and singers. Their work often involves creating a look that is suitable for the type of production i.e. historical hair and make-up for a period drama or theatrical make-up for a hospital drama.

They often work alongside a team of make-up artists and stylists to create the right look for the production.

Skills:

• Creativity
• Good communication skills
• A broad knowledge of styles and techniques
• An understanding of production lighting processes
• The ability to work well under pressure

Pay:

• Entry £15,000
• £18,000 - £25,000 with experience
• £26,000 or more on major productions

Please not that salary figures are a guide only. Actual salaries may vary depending on the organisation and geographical location

Hours:

• Long and unsocial hours are common
• Working late into the night is often required in order to finish a project on time
• Some Make-up Artists work shifts

Environment:

• Usually based in studios or dressing rooms on production sets
• Location work can be outside in all conditions
• Travel to locations is common

Qualifications:

• No set entry requirements
• A degree in performing arts, costume design, media studies or a related subject can increase chances of employment
• Most degree courses require five GCSE passes grades A-C and two A-Levels although NVQ qualifications are sometimes accepted
• Ability to demonstrate creative and practical skills is essential

Training:

• Experience in the Television broadcast industry is essential
• There are courses available to develop skills through the National Association of Screen Make-up Artists and Hairdressers (NASMAH)

Opportunities:

• There are over 1000 Make-up Artists working in the UK film and television industry
• Opportunities exist with film, television and stage production companies of all sizes
• Competition for jobs on major productions is fierce and based on reputation 

Links:

www.fashion.arts.ac.uk - London College of Fashion

www.bbc.co.uk/designvision - BBC Vision

www.nasmah.org.uk - National Association of Screen Make-up Artists and Hairdressers