Posted on March 19 2025
Introduction
Imagine waking up to a world of colour and creativity, where no two days are the same. One moment, you're prepping a bride for her big day; the next, you're on set for a high-fashion shoot. For many aspiring artists, makeup is a passion, but what does the reality of a career in makeup artistry actually look like?
Beyond the flawless finishes and red carpet glam, being a professional makeup artist requires skill, adaptability, and business acumen. Whether you're just starting out or considering formal training, this behind-the-scenes look at a pro MUA’s day will give you an inside scoop on what it takes to turn passion into a profession.
Morning: Preparing for the Day
The workday begins long before the first brush touches a client’s face. Preparation is key. Take Emma, a seasoned bridal and editorial makeup artist. Before her first coffee, she checks her schedule, reviews client notes, and ensures her kit is stocked with essentials: ✔ Clean, disinfected brushes ✔ A variety of foundation shades for custom blending ✔ Long-wearing lip products that hold up under studio lights
Like many freelance artists, Emma also uses mornings for social media marketing. While waiting for her Uber, she posts a quick Instagram story featuring yesterday’s shoot with a caption: “Soft glam perfection ✨ Who loves a fresh, radiant base?” Within minutes, a potential client DMs her about bookings. Even before her first appointment, she’s already setting up for success.
On Set: Bringing the Vision to Life
By mid-morning, Emma arrives at the Glassons studio, where racks of vibrant, on-trend pieces line the walls. Photographers adjust lighting, stylists steam dresses, and models sip lattes while reviewing the shoot’s mood board. Today’s brief: fresh, glowing skin with an effortless edge—brushed-up brows, dewy highlights, and a natural flush.
Adapting on the Fly
Emma gets to work. She blends a sheer foundation, allowing natural freckles to peek through—because nothing ruins a campaign faster than cakey, heavy makeup. A touch of cream blush mimics a post-beach glow.
Halfway through, the photographer checks the test shots. The lighting is harsher than expected, washing out the subtle makeup. Without hesitation, Emma adjusts—adding soft contouring, warming up the complexion, and tapping a hint of gloss onto the eyelids to subtly catch the light.
Working on set requires more than just skill; it demands adaptability and problem-solving. The lights, the angles, and even last-minute wardrobe changes can all impact how makeup translates on camera.
The Art of the Touch-Up
Throughout the shoot, Emma is on standby, monitoring the models under the studio lights. The key to professional makeup isn’t just the initial application—it’s maintaining perfection throughout. A model’s skin starts to shine too much? She lightly blots. Lipstick begins to fade? A quick refresh keeps it looking pristine.
After four hours, the final shots come together seamlessly. Every detail—from the soft glow on the cheekbones to the perfectly defined lips—captures the effortless, aspirational look that defines Glassons’ campaigns. With her kit packed and a quick IG story posted (“Loved today’s shoot! Fresh skin + soft glam = my fave combo ✨”), Emma is off to her next gig.
Conclusion: The Reality of a Makeup Artist’s Career
As Emma steps out of the studio, she takes a deep breath—one job done, another to go. Next up: a bridal trial for a nervous but excited bride-to-be. Another look, another story to tell.
Being a makeup artist is about more than just applying products; it’s about adapting, problem-solving, and building connections. The industry is fast-paced, competitive, and demanding, but for those who are passionate and dedicated, it’s incredibly rewarding.
If you dream of a career in makeup, the right training makes all the difference. At the Academy of Makeup, we go beyond teaching techniques—we prepare you for the real world with hands-on experience, expert mentors, and the skills to build a thriving career.
