Professional Makeup Artistry
Transform your makeup artistry skills with our intensive professional course designed for experienced practitioners working in film and television. This advanced program focuses on high-definition makeup techniques, character transformation, aging effects, and the specialized knowledge required for working on major UK and international productions.
Course Overview
The Professional Makeup Artistry course is designed for makeup artists with at least two years of industry experience who want to refine their technical skills and expand their creative repertoire. Led by BAFTA-winning and Oscar-nominated makeup artists who work on blockbuster films and premium television series, this course provides comprehensive training in the advanced techniques that define professional-level makeup artistry.
Training takes place at Pinewood Studios, giving you access to professional-grade facilities and the opportunity to work with industry-standard products from leading manufacturers. With a maximum of 10 participants per course, you’ll receive individual attention and personalized feedback on your work, ensuring you develop the confidence and expertise needed to excel in competitive production environments.
What You’ll Learn
High-Definition Makeup Techniques
Modern film and television productions use ultra-high-definition cameras that capture every detail of makeup application. This module teaches you how to create flawless, natural-looking makeup that withstands the scrutiny of 4K and 8K cameras. Learn advanced skin preparation, seamless foundation application, and techniques for controlling shine and texture under various lighting conditions.
Key topics include:
- Understanding camera technology and how it affects makeup
- HD foundation matching and blending for diverse skin tones
- Airbrush techniques for flawless camera-ready finish
- Controlling shine, texture, and pores for close-ups
- Working with different lighting scenarios (daylight, tungsten, LED)
- Correcting common skin concerns while maintaining natural appearance
Character and Period Makeup
Creating believable characters requires more than technical skill—it demands an understanding of personality, history, and storytelling. This comprehensive module covers character analysis, period research, and the makeup techniques used to transform actors into different personas, eras, and social classes.
You’ll explore:
- Character analysis and collaboration with directors and actors
- Researching historical periods and social contexts
- Period-appropriate makeup styles from various eras
- Class distinctions and cultural authenticity in period work
- Creating subtle character changes (aging by 5-10 years, illness, fatigue)
- Maintaining character consistency throughout production
Advanced Aging and Effects
One of the most requested skills in professional makeup artistry is the ability to age actors convincingly. This module provides in-depth training in aging techniques, from subtle changes to dramatic transformations spanning decades. Learn to analyze facial anatomy, understand how aging affects different skin types, and apply professional-grade aging products and techniques.
Comprehensive coverage includes:
- Analyzing bone structure and facial features for aging
- Stippling, highlighting, and shadowing techniques
- Working with aging products (stipple, rubber mask grease, alcohol palettes)
- Creating realistic skin texture and age spots
- Aging hands, neck, and décolletage
- Photography and lighting considerations for aging makeup
- Combining aging with prosthetics for extreme transformations
Continuity and Production Management
Professional makeup artists must manage continuity across complex shooting schedules while maintaining creative excellence. Learn systematic documentation methods, digital photography techniques for continuity, and effective communication with other departments. This module also covers kit management, professional conduct, and the business aspects of working as a freelance makeup artist in the film industry.
Industry Recognition and Standards
Professional makeup training is increasingly recognized as essential for career advancement in the UK screen industries. ScreenSkills Select, the industry’s quality standard for training, accredits programs that meet professional requirements. Organizations like The Iver Makeup Academy at Pinewood Studios and established institutions such as MetFilm School demonstrate the growing professionalization of makeup training.
The Charlotte Belmont Makeup Academy and similar institutions emphasize the importance of comprehensive training in building successful careers in film and television makeup artistry. Many graduates secure positions on major UK productions including BBC period dramas, Netflix series, and feature films shooting at Pinewood, Shepperton, and other major UK studios.
Who Should Attend
This course is designed for working makeup artists with solid foundational skills who want to specialize in film and television work or advance to department head positions. You should have at least two years of professional experience in makeup artistry, be familiar with industry-standard products and tools, and be comfortable working in fast-paced production environments.
Ideal participants include:
- Makeup artists transitioning from fashion, theatre, or events into screen work
- Assistant makeup artists seeking to develop supervisory skills
- Experienced practitioners updating their skills for HD and 4K production
- International makeup artists wanting to understand UK industry standards
- Returning professionals re-entering the industry after a break
Course Structure and Practical Work
The course combines theoretical knowledge with extensive hands-on practice. You’ll work on live models, create portfolio pieces, and practice techniques repeatedly until they become second nature. Each day focuses on specific skills, building progressively from fundamental HD techniques to complex character transformations.
Daily Schedule:
- Morning sessions: Technique demonstrations and theory
- Afternoon sessions: Hands-on practice with instructor guidance
- End-of-day: Photography, portfolio review, and group critique
You’ll leave the course with:
- A professional portfolio of photographed work
- Comprehensive knowledge of advanced makeup techniques
- Industry contacts and networking opportunities
- Confidence to work at the highest professional levels
- Certificate of completion from Creative Media Skills
Course Details
Duration: 5 intensive days
Class Size: Maximum 10 participants
Location: Pinewood Studios, Buckinghamshire
Prerequisites: Minimum 2 years professional makeup artistry experience
What’s Included:
- All professional makeup products and materials
- Live models for practical sessions
- Professional photography of your work
- Industry-standard continuity templates and documentation
- Product recommendations and supplier contacts
- Certificate of completion
- Alumni network access and career support
Advance Your Career
The UK film and television industry offers exceptional opportunities for skilled makeup artists who can deliver professional-quality work under pressure. Our advanced training provides the technical expertise, creative confidence, and industry connections necessary to secure positions on high-profile productions.
With instruction from working professionals, small class sizes, and training at Pinewood Studios, you’ll gain practical experience that directly translates to on-set success. Whether you’re aiming to work as a key makeup artist, department head, or specialized character artist, this course provides the foundation for career advancement.
Apply now to reserve your place in our next Professional Makeup Artistry course, or contact us for more information about upcoming dates, course fees, and payment options.
Creative Media Skills training is designed in collaboration with working film professionals and aligned with ScreenSkills industry standards. Our courses prepare makeup artists for successful careers in the competitive UK screen industries.