The work of a makeup artist is more than applying eyeshadow and lipstick. It requires a deep understanding of different skin types, facial features, and cosmetic products. They must keep up with the latest trends and techniques, continuously honing their craft. Makeup artists often possess an artistic background and are adept at using color theory and lighting to achieve desired effects.
In addition to technical skills, interpersonal skills are vital. Makeup artists work closely with clients and must understand their needs and preferences. They often work under tight schedules, particularly in the entertainment industry, requiring time management and adaptability.
However, if a person wants to become a makeup artist they need to understand more than how to apply makeup, they need to understand their target market. A target market is a group of people that is the most likely to buy a product or service. For many businesses, this isn’t always as clear as many people think. To get the most out of your business, we’ve collected the best target market for a makeup artist business.
Brides-to-Be
Every bride wants to look her best on her wedding day. Because of this, brides-to-be are a target market makeup artists cannot afford to ignore. The wedding industry which was valued at $165 billion back in 2020 is expected to grow to $416 billion by 2030. Any professional who can make a wedding couple’s special day a dream come true, including florists, photographers, and yes, makeup artists, should do all they can to attract these clients.
Bridal makeup often requires a unique approach. Of course, some brides want traditional styles with personal preferences to create a look that is both timeless and reflective of the bride’s personality. Then, there are brides who want to replicate a modern look that they have seen in magazines and on social media.
Makeup artists working in this sector must be adept at understanding and executing a range of styles, from the subtle and natural to the more dramatic and glamorous. But it is not only the brides these artists will need to make look amazing. Often, makeup artists need to be prepared to work with a diverse group of clients, including bridesmaids and family members.
Also read: Finding the Target Market for a Hair Salon
Influencers & Celebrities
Working with celebrities and influencers can be a lucrative and high-profile opportunity for makeup artists. This market segment demands a high level of skill and creativity. This market, along with a few others, expects their faces to be seen by a large audience. They also plan to be seen on multiple platforms from YouTube to Instagram or even possibly television.
This means that the makeup artists that they hire must understand how to help them achieve the look they desire no matter which platform they’re appearing on. Artists in this field must be adaptable, able to work under pressure, and skilled in a range of techniques to suit different personalities and occasions.
To attract this target market, makeup artists must be ready to do makeup for the following occasions and more:
- Photoshoots
- Red Carpet
- TV and podcast interview
- Public appearances
Graduation and Prom
Previous generations did not have the opportunity to share their graduation or the graduation of one of their family members with the world. The same was true for prom and homecoming pictures. Today, a person can share these special events in a young person’s life with hundreds or even thousands of friends, family, and strangers. Because of this, makeup artists have found a new target market for young people wanting to look their best.
This segment requires a balance of creativity and subtlety. Artists need to understand that they need to enhance the features of their subjects. However, they need to also be sure to make their look age-appropriate. Makeup artists targeting this market need to stay on top of current trends popular among teenagers and young adults. The ability to create a variety of looks, from the more sophisticated and understated to the bold and trendy, is crucial for success in this market.
Graduation and prom are pivotal moments in many young people’s lives. Makeup artists have an opportunity to take part in these events, make their clients happy, and grow their businesses in the process.
Fashion Shows
Fashion shows are a dynamic and high-energy environment for makeup artists. While many are familiar with some of the most famous fashion shows like New York Fashion Week, several other shows are happening all over the world year-round. And, these shows bring in a lot of money for those who participate in these events. According to The Econ Review, New York Fashion Week draws in around 232,000 people. From that group, it makes around $532 million in direct visitor spending each year.
While an up-and-coming makeup artist may not be able to find their way to an event of that caliber, they may be able to find a local fashion show where they can showcase their talents. In this setting, the makeup often needs to make a bold statement and complement the fashion designer’s vision and the theme of the collection being presented.
Also, creativity and innovation are key. For fashion shows, makeup artists must often develop unique looks that make an impact on the runway. Collaboration with fashion designers, understanding the vision and concept behind the collection, and the ability to work quickly and efficiently under pressure are essential skills for success in this market.
Photo Shoots
Image by lookstudio on Freepik
Photo shoots, ranging from commercial advertising to editorial and high fashion, are another primary market for makeup artists. This sector demands versatility and precision. A makeup artist must create looks that are specifically designed to be photographed.
Artists must understand lighting. Also, they need to know how different makeup textures and colors will appear on camera. An understanding of the overall concept of the shoot is critical.
Artists must collaborate effectively with photographers, stylists, and models to achieve a cohesive look that aligns with the project’s goals. Whether creating a natural, barely-there look or a dramatic, avant-garde style, makeup artists in the photo shoot market need to be meticulous and detail-oriented.
For corporate shoots or professional headshots, they need to understand how to create an attractive yet professional look. Oftentimes, professionals who are high-profile or high-visibility such as real estate agents need great headshots for social media and even print advertisements. A makeup artist’s job is to help the professional look their best.
Also read: Key Target Markets for a Photography Business
TV and Film Productions
The television and film production industry offers a diverse range of opportunities for makeup artists. From creating natural, everyday looks to elaborate character transformations, this field demands a broad skill set. Makeup artists in this sector need to be knowledgeable about how different products and techniques will appear on camera under various lighting conditions.
To be a TV and film makeup artist is usually a little more difficult than finding clients independently as an entrepreneur. Film and TV studios usually want their makeup artists already familiar with the environment before becoming primary artists. This means that the artist must work as an assistant to a TV and film makeup artist for a few years.
They may also require makeup artists to have their cosmetology license. Also, since traditional makeup isn’t enough in this industry, it helps to understand special effects makeup. This may mean getting additional education.
They must also be able to work closely with directors and actors to achieve this. Makeup artists need to create a look that aligns with the characters and the story being told. This market requires not only artistic skill but also an understanding of makeup’s role in storytelling and character development.
Conclusion
The makeup artist profession is one that can be challenging and rewarding at the same time. It has its share of glamour if the artist is working with high-profile clients. However, it can be intimate while working with clients and sharing in their special, memorable life events. As a makeup artist, work to find the target market that most excites you and helps bring out the best of you and your skills.
Also read:
4 Key Target Markets for Skin Care Products
5 Target Markets for Hair Accessories
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