Whether you want to start your own makeup business, work on film sets or learn special effects, there is a range of makeup artistry courses that can help get you there.
It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or already know a few techniques, there are courses starting at any level that will be sure to enhance your current skills and get your MUA career started.
Courses usually start at a NZQA level 3, although there are some short courses out there. Once you've mastered these foundational skills, you'll be qualified to advance to a level 4 or level 5 where you can specialise in more advanced techniques.
MUA's may do some or all of the following:
client consultations
putting make-up on their clients
selling cosmetics in a retail or sole ownership position
make and apply prosthetics
teach make-up skills
write about how make-up should be applied
read the background on film or tv's shows to gauge how the make-up should look like
Pay for make-up artists varies depending on skills, experience and where they work.
Pay for make-up artists in salons and stores
Make-up artists in salons and stores usually earn minimum wage, and often work part time.
Make-up artists working as team leaders or managers can earn up to $30 an hour.
They may receive bonuses, commissions and staff discounts.
Pay for make-up artists in television
Assistant make-up artists in television – usually freelancers – earn from $25 an hour.
Make-up team leaders – usually employees – earn from $30 an hour.
Pay for make-up artists at New Zealand film production companies
Make-up artists in film earn from $250 per half day, or $500 per day.
Make-up designers – who create the overall make-up look for a production – earn from $350 per half day, or $650 per day.
They receive time and a half over 10 hours, and double time after 12 hours, and may charge kit fees.
Pay for freelance make-up artists
Freelance make-up artists’ income depends on how often they work, and the success of their business.
Recently qualified freelance make-up artists with some work experience usually start on $50 an hour.
Experienced freelance make-up artists usually earn $70 to $130 an hour.
Senior freelance make-up artists who also style hair can earn $150 an hour or more.
Source: https://www.careers.govt.nz/jobs-database/retail-and-personal-services/hair-beauty/make-up-artist/