Rules for Assisting
As a makeup assistant, your main goal is to support the key makeup artist and ensure their success on set. This role provides you with invaluable hands-on experience, skill development, and can lead to future job opportunities if done well. However, failing to meet expectations can harm your chances of future work, so it's essential to understand what’s required.
Here’s what you can expect to do on set:
Setup and breakdown: Assist with assembling and disassembling the workspace.
Cleaning: Keep the makeup area tidy and sanitize brushes regularly.
Organization: Ensure that tools and products are well-organized.
Errands: Run any necessary errands quickly and efficiently.
Touch-ups: Be prepared to step in for touch-ups when needed.
Here’s how to be the best assistant possible and avoid common mistakes:
Know the Rules and Expectations
“I didn’t know” isn’t an acceptable excuse in this industry. It’s your responsibility to understand the guidelines of your role. The key makeup artist's reputation depends on your actions, so if you make them look bad to their client, you could damage both your relationship and your career prospects.
Anticipate Needs
A great assistant stays one step ahead. Watch the key artist closely and keep their workspace in order. Ask yourself:
- Do they need their brushes cleaned?
- Are their tools organized and ready to go?
The more you anticipate their needs, the more valuable you become.
Comply with set etiquette
Don’t take photos unless directed by the key artist to do so. Don’t socialize on set with other departments or talent. Don’t be on your phone unless you have a break. The key mua shouldn’t have to babysit you. Have a great attitude and enjoy your day!
Dress appropriately & comfortably
Layers are great because you can adjust your temperature comfort. Comfortable shoes are important on set because you will be running around and carrying equipment. Being comfortable overall helps with productivity and creativity. I highly recommend Oofos shoes for anyone on their feet all day.
Bring your own snacks & water
Be self-sufficient. Bring your own snacks and water; don't assume they’ll be provided. Sometimes they are provided and sometimes not.
Always bring your kit
Even if the key artist hasn’t required you to use it before, always bring your kit and brushes. In fast-paced, high-pressure situations, having your supplies could save the day, especially if schedules change or unexpected challenges arise.
Know who your client is
Your “client” is the key makeup artist who hired you. Your client is not their client. You are there to make the key makeup artist shine and to impress them with your good work ethic and skill set.
Understand your role
Your primary “client” is the key makeup artist who hired you—not their client. Your focus should be on making the key artist shine through your work ethic and skills. Always represent their business, not your own, by following their dress code, distributing their business cards, and respecting their protocols.
Promoting your personal business or attempting to network is unprofessional when you're hired as an assistant. You’re there to support, not self-promote.
Patience Leads to Opportunity
If you excel in your role, more opportunities will come your way. However, don’t expect immediate referrals. Trust takes time to build, and only when the key artist is confident in your abilities will they start referring you for your own jobs.
By following these guidelines, you’ll stand out as a valuable asset to any key makeup artist, laying the foundation for future career advancement.
For Key Makeup Artists Hiring Assistants:
It’s important to clearly communicate expectations to your assistants to ensure a positive experience for both of you. Never assume they know the rules—outline them clearly to avoid any misunderstandings.
