Lynda Belcher is a writer, editor and public relations professional. She worked for a daily newspaper for 10 years and has been a freelance writer for more than 15 years. She has written for Demand Studios, "Break Magazine," "Circle K Magazine," Revolution Health Group, All Headline News, and many more.
Overview
Many people think you need to have the most beautiful, exotic features around to make it as a makeup model, but that couldn't be further from the truth. The fact is, most companies or scouts are looking for plain-looking people with clear, bright skin to pose as makeup models. The idea behind that concept is not to have the model outshine the product which they are advertising.
Step 1
Get your skin ready. Makeup models are required to have good, solid skin. Even skin tone is important, as is a face clear of blemishes. To accomplish this, begin a strict skin care regimen immediately. Limit exposure to the sun and begin washing, moisturizing, toning and exfoliating on a regular basis, at least once a day. Makeup models should actually wash and moisturize at least twice a day, if not more, depending on the job.
Step 2
Start attending casting calls. Information about these calls can be found in different places, including trade magazines and on some of the top modeling recruitment/portfolio sites, such as www.modelmayhem.com or www.onemodelplace.com. Generally, the first round of casting calls simply requires you to show up and let the scout look over your face, bone structure, skin tone, etc., to see if you have the basic palette to work well with the product. You may then be short listed with several other models and be given a tryout to see how the product actually looks on your skin before possibly being chosen.
Step 3
Call your local beauty trade school and explain that you are an aspiring makeup model looking to build a portfolio and inquire about getting involved as a test subject for students. This is not only a great way to gain exposure as a makeup model, but it is also a good way to get a new look on a regular basis. While you may not always end up with a perfect look--these are students after all--it's worth it for the exposure and the opportunity to build your portfolio.
Step 4
Build a portfolio. This is a model's most important weapon. You must keep a portfolio of your work to show to potential employers. Scouts and agents want to know that you've worked before and how your face photographs, particularly with makeup on it. Keep an organized picture look book as well an online portfolio of your most recent shoots and make sure to include the best photos in the front. Many photographers work with models to build up each others portfolios, with them giving you free studio time for your portfolio and you providing them with a subject for theirs. This is always worth looking into if you are just breaking into the modeling industry overall.
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