Different Types of Makeup Artists
3 Three Types of Professional Makeup Artists & How to Choose the Right One
Makeup artistry is a diverse and creative field with professionals who specialize in different industries. Whether you're walking down the aisle, walking a runway, or stepping on set, the right makeup artist can make all the difference. Here's a breakdown of three major types of professional makeup artists—and how to choose the right one for your project or event.
Bridal and Event Makeup Artists
Bridal and event makeup artists are known for their calm presence, professionalism, and ability to create flawless, long-lasting looks. These artists specialize in enhancing natural beauty, often using neutral, timeless palettes that translate beautifully in person and in photographs.
What They Do Best
Create soft glam or natural looks tailored to the client’s features
Ensure all-day wear for weddings, red carpet, or private events
Provide exceptional client experience and on-site touch-ups
Book far in advance—often a year or more
Deliver makeup that photographs well across lighting scenarios
Work efficiently while maintaining luxury service standards
Fashion and Editorial Makeup Artists
Fashion, runway, and editorial makeup artists thrive in creative environments. They often collaborate with photographers, stylists, and designers to create high-concept beauty looks for magazines, ad campaigns, and shows. While known for bold, trendsetting artistry, they are also experts in refined, natural glam for red carpets and commercial shoots.
Key Qualities
Create bold, avant-garde makeup for shoots and fashion shows
Understand how makeup appears under bright lights and macro lenses
Work with talent, stylists, and creative teams on vision execution
Set trends in the beauty and fashion industry
Work under tight deadlines and fast-paced environments
May be represented by agents or agencies
Highly versatile: skilled in no-makeup makeup, glam, and editorial extremes
Film and Television Makeup Artists
Production makeup artists work on film and TV sets, often for long days and under demanding technical conditions. Their job goes beyond simple beauty—they're often responsible for continuity, character development, and even special effects.
What Sets Them Apart
Ensure makeup continuity across multiple shoot days or episodes
Design character looks based on scripts and storyboards
Understand how makeup reads on ultra-high-res (4K–8K) cameras
Collaborate closely with wardrobe, lighting, and directors
Often cross-trained in natural, beauty, and special effects (SFX) makeup
May be part of unions like IATSE Local 798, a prestigious TV/film guild
How to choose the right Makeup Artist?
Not all makeup artists are the same—and that’s a good thing. Your choice should be guided by the type of project, the artist’s specialty, and how well their experience matches your needs.
When selecting a makeup artist, consider the following:
Experience in the specific type of work you need (e.g. bridal, editorial, TV)
A strong portfolio showing diverse skin tones, skin types, and age ranges
Clear understanding of lighting and photographic requirements
A professional website or booking system
Sanitation certifications and hygienic product use
Excellent communication, flexibility, and on-set etiquette
In smaller markets, it’s common for artists to wear multiple hats. But regardless of specialty, the best makeup artists share a commitment to professionalism, creativity, and helping you look and feel like your best self.
Need Help Choosing or Booking a Makeup Artist in Miami?
Whether you're producing a campaign, planning your wedding, or coordinating a TV shoot, I offer expert makeup and grooming services tailored to your unique vision. Contact me to learn more or check availability.