Makeup Artists, Theatrical and Performance

Typical tasks

From O*NET 31.0. Core tasks first. Few of these tasks have a benchmark today.

• Clean supplies such as makeup brushes.
• Duplicate work precisely to replicate characters' appearances on a daily basis.
• Apply makeup to enhance or alter the appearance of people appearing in productions such as movies.
• Analyze a script, noting events that affect each character's appearance, so that plans can be made for each scene.
• Alter or maintain makeup during productions as necessary to compensate for lighting changes or to achieve continuity of effect.
• Confer with stage or motion picture officials and performers to determine desired effects.
• Requisition or acquire needed materials for special effects, including wigs, beards, and special cosmetics.
• Study production information, such as character descriptions, period settings, and situations, to determine makeup requirements.
• Establish budgets, and work within budgetary limits.
• Select desired makeup shades from stock, or mix oil, grease, and coloring to achieve specific color effects.
• Write makeup sheets and take photos to document specific looks and the products used to achieve the looks.
• Assess performers' skin type to ensure that makeup will not cause break-outs or skin irritations.