How to start freelancing??

[thedrinkgirl]

Hi There: I was just hired by MAC as a freelance MA here in Vegas and I did my "demo" the other day and was completely nervous. They told me that MAC is about image and so it helped that I dressed the part going to the demo. I wish I knew how to add pictures cuz I've got pics from that day but anyways, I got offered the position yesterday. They said that I will be used for events or to cover shifts for girls that are on vacation and I have the ability to go to different locations. I'm also a cocktail waitress so I've got lots of girls at work to practice on too which will help me to feel less nervous. In fact, I've got my first client tomorrow - YIPPEE!!

[AdlersMommy22]

I really really really want to start freelancing for MAC... the guy im seeing is a pro photographer and Im going to start doing the make up for his photoshoots.. hes making me a huge book with all my work in it... (hes so supportive its soooo sweet!)...

The problem here is that I dont have a MAC anywhere around me- there are a ton up in Chicago--- the closest is at least 2 hours away from me... so Im not sure what I would do as far as the interview and what not...

I live in Peoria, IL... and I just dont know what to do... I need some help-- pahleeze! I want to start freelancing professionally for weddings, proms, etc... but moving up to chicago to do that with a 6 month old baby while im still in college is just NOT going to happen right now

advice?????

[Silveretta]

I am starting my porfolio. It is harder then I thought.

I am a Reg. Vet Nurse ,but am looking for a new career.Makeup is my passion.

A Nord. is hiring in there cosmetics area, and I am wondering if anyone can roughly give me an idea of pay.

I would start by going part time as a RVT, and working in the maekup field.
Then seeing where it leads me.

I need a new path, and this is what I have wanted for so long.

I just do not know where to start.

[angelzlilone]

Quick question: I'm thinking of going in to apply as a freelance MUA at MAC and I was wondering if they will be expecting me to bring in a sample/portfolio of looks I have done?

[carmaqara]

I am a MAC Frelancer, and it is true you go through 2 interviews verbal and the makeup audition, its nothing, they will tell you word for word, step by step exactly what they want you to do, you don't get any training as freelance, only if you are placed in a store....I love freelancing, we get to travel from store to different events and meet so many people, but the family atmosphere of the store is nice too! My best advice to you is that if you are going to persue it bring a model with you that you have done before and feel comfortable with, they are going to also want you to act out that you are selling to her so make sure to talk to the model and explain what you are doing and why!!! Good Luck!!xoxoxo

[Cupid]

I just got hired as a freelancer last week! I am so excited to start working!!!

[gingin501]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cupid

I just got hired as a freelancer last week! I am so excited to start working!!!

Congrats!!!

[L1LMAMAJ]

this is a great thread. i do want to start freelancing in the near future. i'm gonna practice on my friends for free so i can gain more confidence. btw how do u freelancers get the disposable mascara wands/lipgloss sponges, etc.?

[Ted Darin]

It is very difficult to begin a freelance writing career. Like singing and acting, many people believe they have the talent to be a rich and famous writer if only they can “get discovered.” Competing with the clamor of these self-delusional hacks can be extremely frustrating for a serious writer, because it is the flood of mediocre manuscripts they produce that makes the publishing industry so unwelcoming to new, unproven writers. Here are a few ideas on how to “break in” to the tough, competitive world of freelance writing.

[Lizzie]

Quote:

Originally Posted by L1LMAMAJ

this is a great thread. i do want to start freelancing in the near future. i'm gonna practice on my friends for free so i can gain more confidence. btw how do u freelancers get the disposable mascara wands/lipgloss sponges, etc.?

There are a lot of places to get them online, you can also get them at beauty supply stores (like Sallys), and I think they have them at pro stores.

[jamie89]

Hi everyone! I have read through this thread and it's been very helpful, but I still am confused about how I should get started.

I am about to enter my junior year of college as a musical theatre major. My plan after school is to move to NYC and hopefully get an agent. I am interested in film and theatre, so would like to be bi-coastal and working as a performer in both LA and NYC (or wherever my career takes me)! Now, this profession is very iffy, but it is my passion. I'm obviously going to need other jobs to support myself in between shows/whatever, and am NOT interested in being a waitress the rest of my life!

I absolutely love makeup, and am pretty darn good at it. My friends at school always come to me when we have events or anything going on, or if they're getting headshots taken. I'd love to work as a freelance makeup artist, but feel like I don't have the means/skills/certification to do so. I am POOR and don't really have money to have a full "kit" or anything. What do I dooo? I also would love to take a makeup course, but again...no money. Is there any way I can still do this? How should I go about starting a portfolio?

Thanks again for your wealth of information, ladies. Love!!!

[Shazy]

Phew! I just about spent the whole day reading this thread!! I learned so much about freelancing! When you do start a portfolio, does this have to be printed out and what sizes should the photos be? Will a CD portfolio work as well?
Where are some good places to start my kit but on a low budget?

TIA

[ChrisMakeupMan]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Shazy

Phew! I just about spent the whole day reading this thread!! I learned so much about freelancing! When you do start a portfolio, does this have to be printed out and what sizes should the photos be? Will a CD portfolio work as well?
Where are some good places to start my kit but on a low budget?

TIA

I wouldn't worry about printing a portfolio just yet. I would however make sure you have a website, and not a myspace or modelmayhem either a real website with your name and contact info and images. And business cards with all the info on them.

When you do get enough images to start a printed portfolio, the industry standard for makeup is 11x14. You really will only need the physical portfolio when talking to agency's and or corporate jobs.

I replied to your message so check your mail.

For kits i would try Camerareadycosmetics.com
or Yabycosmetics.com
Both offer great pro products and great value kits

[merryandlovely]

What does a MAVC freelance do exactly?

[Jishin]

Quote:

Originally Posted by ChrisMakeupMan

For kits i would try Camerareadycosmetics.com
or Yabycosmetics.com
Both offer great pro products and great value kits

do they ship to Europe?

[Sexy Sadie]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jishin

do they ship to Europe?

Get the GRIMAS palettes. The eyeshadows and the cream foundations are to die for.



Grimas B.V. Producers of decorative cosmetics for the professional and hobby market.

[beautymarkJennG]

So after reading this entire thread, I am still not sure if anyone answered the question: To be a freelance makeup artist is a license required? How can I find out if it is required in my state? Would I look for Cosmetology? Esthetics? As a makeup artist, I would only be applying makeup.

Thanks