By Charles Watley, DigitalBizSolutions.net
If you think getting a job in the special effects (sfx) industry is a pipe dream, think again. Just look at Lucasfilm’s Industrial Light & Magic. They recently hired a YouTuber who went viral with a video that showed him using deep fake technology to improve upon the special effects in an episode of “The Mandalorian.” But, when it comes to a job in special effects, you’ll need to develop a variety of abilities. This entails more than just understanding which foundations and eyeliners to use. Special effects makeup goes so far beyond, pushing the boundaries of creativity.
We’ll look at how to be a SFX makeup artist within this guide. You might be drawn to special effects if you are seeking for a job that allows you to express yourself creatively while still being consistently gratifying.
What is Special Effects Makeup, and how does it work?
Rather than simply enhancing someone’s complexion or giving them a certain look, special effects makeup can be utilized to make them look drastically different than they do in real life. Visual effects makeup is any cosmetics-based makeup that generates a non-traditional effect, such as an illusion.
Its key themes include old age, creature, character, prosthetic makeup, and even body art and face painting. The look of all those zombies you see in horror movies is created by special effects makeup artists!
How to Become a Licensed Makeup Artist for Special Effects
There is not a license to practice special effects makeup. However, because this is a challenging career path, people who hire makeup artists, particularly SFX makeup artists, want to know that they can trust the individual’s expertise.
However, these professionals are seeking for proof of your abilities as well as a well-rounded portfolio. They want to see that you’ve had extensive training. Attending a makeup school or a makeup course is an excellent approach to demonstrate your qualifications.
Demonstrating to a potential client or company that you have sufficient knowledge of the makeup industry and how to perform a professional job while keeping your model safe and secure.
Makeup Tips for Great Special Effects
Learning how to become a special effects makeup artist necessitates a certain level of expertise and understanding. Much of it can only be learned by experience or by following these guidelines for improving your skills:
Know Your techniques and materials.
It is critical to conduct research and analyze the tools/products as well as their intended uses. Because a lack of knowledge in these areas can have an impact on your work’s outcome. As a result, knowing how to use the proper tools and equipment will aid in efficient design and a stunningly accurate result. The options are limitless!
Use your imagination.
This appears to be a no-brainer. It is already a creative work, but we’re talking about truly stretching your imagination. Experiment with some of the more unorthodox approaches to problem-solving. If you are requested to make a zombie or an extraterrestrial, think outside the box and come up with a unique appearance that will stand out.
Keep an eye on the industry.
In the makeup industry, there are some trends that you can follow. Some makeup artist influencers, for example, can be found in Hollywood or the entertainment industry. This enables you to view any tutorials they publish, as well as obtain creative ideas and inspiration from their current work.
Always make an effort to learn new things.
It does not have to be the end of your education if you only take one course. The top makeup artists are continuously on the lookout for new techniques. They are taking classes and seeking ways to better their abilities. It is a never-ending process, especially given the fact that this is a rapidly developing and dynamic sector. New strategies are constantly emerging, and you must be prepared to master them whenever they do appear!
Though there are a lot of variances in the amount of money you can make working in the sector. For the most accomplished makeup artists, it may be a very rewarding career.