This professional specialises in the creation of aesthetic special effects on the faces and bodies of models, therefore modifying their original aspect and giving them the likeness desired. Special effects makeup is generally used in the creation of a fantasy subject matter, or to recreate certain effects on the skin, such as injuries, scars, malformations, etc. This is also applied in actor/actress characterisation and in the creation of animatronic characters or visual effects.

• Devise and conceive the characterisation of the subject in question, defining the physical characteristics to be achieved.
• When dealing with a readily defined concept, establish the best suited characterisation process and decide on the technical operations to be carried out.
• Decide which materials are those best suited to achieve the desired result and place the relevant orders will the appropriate suppliers (some professional VFX makeup products are difficult to find in Spain).
• If the work is to be executed as a team, organise and distribute the relevant tasks and roles required at every stage of the project.
• Produce characterisation items by creating prosthetics and using modelling processes. To do so, take measurements and obtain moulds of the subject to be characterised. Upon obtaining positives of these moulds and by using modelling techniques, create the fake items to be used, such as elfin ears, deformed hands, dentures , etc.
• If no prosthetics are required, use different stick-on materials (latex foam, gelatine, silicone) to be subsequently attached to the body or face of the model.
• Once the prostheses and fake parts are created and in place, apply the most appropriate techniques to integrate all components under an even makeup. Use air-brushing techniques, for instance.
• Take suitable photographs of any creations in order to show the optimal lighting conditions under which to present the FX work.
• When on set, manipulate the work (usually previously created in the workshop), adapt it to the actors, overseeing and attending to any performance or shoot related incidents.
• Advise the model on the best way to maintain and preserve the makeup.
• Design and build animatronic characters which can be manipulated with a remote control or computer. This solution is appropriate when due to the character features to be achieved, makeup alone is not enough to confer the necessary credibility. These are also used to create characters which can not be played by an actor.
• Once the work is finished, remove all makeup and prostheses, cleaning any residues without harming the model or leaving sequelae.

Regulated training and graduates

• Professionalism Certificate: Aesthetic hygiene, hair removal and make-up services (Level 2)
• Certificat de Professionalitat de la Família Imatge personal: Bronzejat, maquillatge i depilació avançada (Nivell 3)
• Certificat de Professionalitat de la Família Imatge personal: Maquillatge integral (Nivell 3)
• Certificat de Professionalitat de la Família Imatge personal: Caracterització de personatges (Nivell 3)
• Professional Training Course(s) in the field of Personal Image - Intermediate Level: Aesthetics and beauty
• Professional Training Course(s) in the field of Personal Image - Advanced Level: Professional makeup and characterization

Complementary training

Other specific skills

Creativity: Level 3

Orientation within reach: Level 3

Learning and use of knowledge: Level 1

Flexibility and change management: Level 2

Planning and organisation: Level 2

Concern for order and quality: Level 2

Artistic

People who show an interest in the artistic field enjoy expressing ideas and feelings through the language of art A creative spirit and the motivation to convey concepts or emotions are inherent to this interest. This field includes all the activities that are oriented towards creating artistic products in their various forms: works that are musical, cinematographic or visual in nature, as well as dance and related arts.

Physical well-being and personal image

People related to the field of physical well-being and personal image are interested in carrying out activities aimed at the care, maintenance and improvement of one's image and physical condition. These activities entail personal contact with the client, offering a service that takes into account their needs, as well as their tastes and preferences. Activities that represent this field include advising and the application of aesthetic, cosmetic and physical treatments.

Make-up artist and hairdresser for shows

Beautician

Beauty advisor

Specialist in post-traumatic and reparatory aesthetics

Storyboard creator

• Other features

  This professional is hired by film, publicity, television and theatre production companies. Events and promotions companies, theme parks, exhibition centres, museums, etc.

• Professional category

  Specialist staff

• Human resources and equipment

  This occupation is exercised either alone or in association with other workers, depending on the magnitude of the project. The materials employed fall under the responsibility of the production or hiring company. Makeup artists occasionally cover material expenditures themselves when working for a low-budget production likely to open up career opportunities (as an investment).

• Initial investments

  Possessing a space that can be adapted as a work studio, with all the necessary tools, is ideal for this activity. An initial investment in materials so as to be able to complete a series of projects to be incorporated into a portfolio, etc.