Make-up

Contrary to popular belief the function of make-up is not just to make people look as good as possible in front of the camera. The aim is to get quality pictures from your studio, and to assist performers in their roles. Make-up can normally be considered in one of three groups.

Straight

This doesn’t greatly change the appearance of the presenter or performer, but compensates for the environment we work in – namely under hot lights for a long period. Typically this includes removing ‘shine’ from foreheads, lightening bags under eyes and strengthening lips. It also includes reducing blotchy skin and darkening pale faces.

Corrective

This sorts out ‘problems’ with appearance. It includes covering up scar tissue, skin blemishes, growths and thinning hair. The aim here is to improve appearance without giving the impression of being made up.

Character

This assists the portrayal of the character, and is used extensively in drama. It can be facial reshaping, changing hair etc., right the way up to creating monsters. Specialists may be brought in for prosthetics to build up the skin and add body parts. Complex hair and wigs are also usually done by an expert in this field.

Planning and staffing

In preparing for a programme you need to make sure there are enough make-up facilities to cope with your requirements. The floor manager should make sure your contributors all get to make-up in time for your studio schedule.

For difficult make-up, which can take several hours in extreme cases, schedule sufficient time for the work to be done. You may have to plan your recording to use these performers late in the day.

Refurbishing

Most make-up wears off after a while, or the effect is reduced. It is useful to have a make-up artist in the studio keeping an eye on the state of the performers throughout the shoot. If not, then you must keep an eye on what the presenters look like yourself. Under the pressure to get a programme through a studio on time it’s easy not to notice hair out of place, running make-up etc.

Courtesy New Delhi Television

The make-up artist is a bit of a cosmetic doctor, making people look better when they need help, and knowing the deepest secrets of the presenter’s appearance (including any assistance they may be using to retain a youthful look).

Some presenters only fee! comfortable working with their regular make-up artists, who know not only what is needed of their craft skills, but also have the temperament to deal with performers’ tensions and personalities.