THE ULTIMATE CHECKLIST FOR CHOOSING MUA AGENCY AND APPLYING FOR IT

What are the MUA Agencies and how do they work?

An MUA agency can literally be called a link between makeup artists and clients. The role of the agencies is to introduce you to new clients, guide you on your career trajectory, and take you out of the business side of the makeup profession including marketing, negotiating, booking, invoices, payments, and legal support so you can fully focus on your craft, career goals, and growth. They manage, help, and advise what you should do as a makeup artist and package you properly so that clients feel more compelled to hire you.

Qualities and skills that MUA agencies value in artists

• Working with different skin types

• Versatility: skills in creating different types of makeup

• Neatness, hygiene, and sanitation

• Makeup photography skills

• Excellent communication

• Endurance and responsibility

• Teamwork

YZABELLA BALETTE, Online Makeup Academy Enrollment Specialist & Mentor: 

“Be honest about your abilities. If you have never done a bridal shoot, don't say you have. And if you have no interest in working with brides, then let them know; they'll continue to find you jobs in the same field if they think you can or enjoy that field and this leads to burnout.”

Your Steps for Choosing and Applying to a MUA Agency:

• Do a thorough search for MUA agencies in your area.

Study their websites and social media to determine the kind of clients they have and the makeup artists they represent. Take note of what you like and dislike. If an agency seems suitable, add it to your list and note down its contact details.

Note: Use the ready-made list of 100+ MUA agencies around the world, which you will find below!

• Contact each agency to find out if they are adding new artists to their roster. You can call or email them to learn more about their application process.

• Submit your cover letter, resume, and portfolio.

Note: Look for the cover letter and resume templates for the application below!

• Pass the interview.

• Sign a contract.

Tips from Yzabella Balette, Online Makeup Academy Enrollment Specialist & Mentor:

1. Be cautious of agencies that require you to pay upfront for their services. Most agencies take a percentage of your job's completed pay.

2. Location is an essential factor to consider. If your city does not have an agency, you may have to join an agency in a neighboring city. This may require a lot of traveling, and work opportunities may be scarce due to the distance.

3. If you're new to the industry, it's better to build your network and improve your skills before applying to an agency. This will ensure that you are fit to take on jobs assigned by the agency.

4. You may need to reach out to several agencies to find the best fit for you. Check local magazines for the names of credited photographers and reach out to them. They usually work with agencies and may recommend you to those they have worked with before.

Cover Letter Template 

Insert your data instead of the text in bold italics

Subject: Application for the position of Makeup Artist

Date
Hiring Manager’s First and Last Name
Target MUA Agency Address
Target MUA Agency City, State, Zip Code
Contact Number
Hiring Manager’s Email Address

Dear Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager’s Last Name or Full Name,

I was very excited to see that there are positions open for makeup artists at your agency as I’m looking for representation. Target MUA Agency name has a long-standing reputation for providing high-quality services, as well as working on interesting projects. I am inspired by the work of your artist Name of Makeup Artist in the recent Vogue cover shoot and I find this admirable. I would appreciate the opportunity to be part of your great team.

I am a certified freelance makeup artist with over five years of experience. I worked with brides and created wedding, evening, and natural types of makeup. In addition, I have experience in creating makeup for beauty campaigns and fashion magazines.

I am well aware of the beauty industry, constantly improving and updating my knowledge in this area. I believe that my experience, skills, and passion for the work will make me a valuable addition to your team.

Please take a look at my CV and portfolio attached to this letter. I would be happy to discuss my interest in representation in the Target MUA Agency name with you in more detail. Please let me know if there is anything else you require.

Thank you for your time and consideration of my application. 

Sincerely,

Your Full Name
Your Email Address
Your Contact Number
Your Website/LinkedIn link
Your Instagram link

!DO NOT FORGET TO ATTACH YOUR PORTFOLIO AND CV!

Makeup Artist CV Template

Insert your data instead of the text in italics*

First and Last Name

Makeup Artist

Contact Number: 

Email: 

Website:

LinkedIn: 

Instagram: 

Facebook: 

Professional Skills

Interpersonal Skills

Language Skills

Work Experience

Education

Certification

Awards

Applying for MUA Agency: Portfolio Checklist

Make sure the photos in your portfolio match the following points:

• High quality photos

• Close-up shots

• Natural makeup look: 4 photos

• Soft Glam: 4 photos

• Hi-Glam/Fashion 3 photos

• Editorial makeup looks 3 photos

• Diversity: models of all ages, genders and ethnicities

• Publications: magazine pages, covers, TV commercials  (if you have been published)

• A minimum of retouching and Photoshop

As a guide, look at the portfolios of other artists already represented by the agencies you are applying to.

MUA AGENCIES LIST

USA

New York

California

Texas

Other States

Canada

Europe

Asia

Australia

United Arab Emirates