Stage vs. Screen: The Differences Between Theatre and Film Makeup
What is the difference between theatre and film makeup? This is a common question for newcomers arriving within the industry. Here, we reveal the answers!
Stage and screen makeup are largely varied for a number of reasons, from how they handle the heat of lighting, to preference with skin tones. In this article, we dive into the difference between film and television makeup versus stage makeup. By understanding how these differ will help you to make a more informed decision about what makeup to opt for depending on the industry that you are pursuing.
Key points:
- Discover key techniques and products used in movie and stage makeup.
- Learn how makeup requirements vary between film and live performances.
- Explore best practices for makeup artists in both film and theatre.
- Understand the career pathways in the makeup industry for screen and stage.
- Gain insights into the practical considerations for applying makeup that meets the demands of diverse entertainment mediums.
What is Film and Television Makeup?
Film and TV makeup, also known as cinema or movie makeup, is often used to withstand the scrutiny of the camera lens.
It aims primarily to improve the actors’ features, ensuring they appear flawless on the screen. This type of makeup is crucial because it must address the detail picked up by today’s high-definition cameras, differentiating it significantly from stage makeup which is intended to be visible from a distance.
Techniques Used in Film and Television Makeup
Film and TV makeup artists rely on a blend of techniques to achieve a natural yet polished look that holds up to high-definition standards. The following makeup methods are used to ensure this:
- Contouring: Essential for creating depth and dimension on camera, contouring uses a mix of darker and lighter shades to sculpt the face.
- Airbrush Makeup: A staple in film, airbrush makeup uses a fine mist to apply foundation, resulting in a flawless, poreless finish. Unsure of what is airbrush makeup – find out now.
- Special Effects Makeup: Beyond beauty, film makeup often involves creating realistic injuries, ageing characters, or other transformations that require intricate detailing and prosthetics.
Screen Makeup Considerations
The application of film makeup is a delicate process that aims to balance a natural appearance with the demands of camera technology and lighting. The process typically includes:
- Preparation: Start with a clean and moisturised face so that the makeup can easily be applied. This primer or moisturiser first guide can confirm the positives towards moisturising your face prior to applying film makeup.
- Foundation: A skin-matching shade is applied to even out complexion without appearing heavy.
- Detailing: Brows are shaped to look natural, and subtle eyeshadows are used to add depth without looking overly dramatic.
- Finishing Touches: Gel liners prevent smudging, and a touch of mascara and blush ties the look together. A setting powder can be added at the end of this process.
Best Practices in Film and Television Makeup
The movie makeup industry is as dynamic as it is demanding. Aspiring makeup artists looking to excel in film and television need to follow several best practices that ensure their work not only meets but exceeds the rigorous standards of this industry.
Current Trends and Techniques
To thrive in movie makeup, artists must continuously educate themselves about the latest trends and techniques. This ongoing learning process can take the form of attending workshops, following online tutorials and seminars, and engaging with other professionals in the field via forums and stage makeup blogs.
Mastering these techniques will allow makeup artists to deliver looks that are both contemporary and suitable for the production’s specific needs, ensuring relevance in a fast-evolving industry.
Performing Under Pressure
The ability to work under pressure is crucial in the fast-paced environment of film and television sets. Makeup artists must manage their time efficiently and adapt swiftly to any last-minute changes.
Developing a calm, focused approach and preparing thoroughly for each project ensures that artists can deliver precise, high-quality work even when conditions are challenging.
Tools and Products for Movie Makeup
Choosing the right tools and products is key to achieving the desired natural look on camera, which is softer and more subtle compared to stage makeup.
Essential items include:
- Foundation Palettes
- Concealer palettes
- SFX airbrush
- Creme palettes
- Neutral-Coloured Lip Products
- Mehron Colorset Translucent Setting Powder
What is Theatrical and Stage Makeup?
Stage makeup serves a very distinct and unique purpose when compared to film and TV makeup. It is designed to be bold and vivid, allowing actors’ expressions and features to be visible even from the back of a large theatre. This requirement for visibility means that stage makeup is heavier and more dramatic than movie makeup.
Techniques Used in Stage Makeup
Creating a theatrical look that can withstand the distance and lighting of a stage setting involves several specialised techniques:
- Heavy Contouring: Since stage lighting tends to flatten facial features, heavy contouring is necessary to add depth and dimension, ensuring features are discernible from afar.
- Vibrant Colours: To make sure the actors’ features stand out against diverse stage backgrounds and lighting, makeup artists use bright and bold colours.
- Stylized Character Makeup: For productions that require unique character representations, such as in fantasy plays or musicals, makeup artists might use exaggerated makeup styles, which often include intricate designs and the use of SFX prosthetics.
These techniques are essential for conveying the story and the emotions of the characters to the audience, regardless of their seat in the theatre.
Stage Makeup Considerations
The application of stage makeup is a thorough process that needs to address several factors:
Initial Work:
- Preparation: Actors must start with a thoroughly cleansed and exfoliated face to ensure the makeup applies smoothly and lasts throughout the performance.
- Foundation Application: A heavy layer of foundation is applied to create a uniform canvas, often using a sponge or brush for a better coverage.
Improving Features:
- Contouring: To counteract the washing-out effect of intense stage lights, darker creams are used for contouring.
- Highlighting: Pale highlight creams may be added to areas like the centre of the eyelids and the brow to make the eyes appear more open and expressive.
- Eye Definition: A firm line above the upper lashes and a thinner line beneath the lower lashes improves the eyes’ visibility, complemented by carefully drawn eyebrows to maintain natural facial expressions.
- Lip Definition: The lips are outlined with a firm, dark liner to ensure they are noticeable even from a distance.
- Final Touches: The entire face is set with a generous amount of powder to prevent the makeup from smearing under the heat of the stage lights.
Best Practices for Stage Makeup
To ensure that stage performers and actors can look their best for the audience sitting close and from afar, these practices must be met:
Know Your Lighting and Set Design
Understanding the specific lighting and set design of a production is crucial when applying stage makeup.
Different types of lighting can drastically affect how makeup appears. For instance, softer lights may require less intense coloration, whereas brighter, harsher lights might require bolder and more vivid makeup applications.
Makeup artists must choose colours and styles that not only suit the lighting but also fit the set design to maintain aesthetic consistency throughout the performance.
Take Audience Viewing Distance into Account
The physical distance between the stage and the audience greatly influences how stage makeup is applied.
Makeup must be highly visible, which is why artists often opt for heavier application and more vibrant colours.
Each area of the stage may be lit differently or viewed from various angles, demanding adaptable makeup strategies to ensure actors’ features are always clear and expressive.
Collaborate with Costume Designers
A successful theatrical performance features a seamless integration of makeup and costumes.
By working closely with costume designers, makeup artists can ensure that their choices benefit the costumes, too, contributing to a unified portrayal of the character.
This collaboration extends to discussing themes, colour schemes, and the specific roles and personalities of each character to create a cohesive visual presentation.
Essential Stage Makeup Products
For a perfect performance under the demanding conditions of live theatre, certain products are better than others in order to elevate the performance of a lifetime:
- Colour Cake Foundations
- Cake Eyeliners
- Fake Eyelashes
- Creme Blushes
- Mehron Translucent Setting Powder
- Final Seal Spray
Key Differences Between Film and Stage Makeup
While movie makeup and stage makeup both aim to transform actors into their characters, their application techniques and intended effects differ significantly:
- Intensity and Technique: Stage makeup is more intense and uses bold colours and heavy contouring to ensure visibility, unlike the subtle, detail-oriented approach of movie makeup.
- Lighting Considerations: Stage makeup must perform under varying lighting conditions and from great distances, whereas movie makeup is designed for the intimacy of close-up, high-definition filming.
- Durability: Stage actors require makeup that lasts throughout an entire live performance without fading or requiring significant touch-ups, a contrast to film where there’s often the opportunity for makeup adjustments between scenes.
Starting a Career in Entertainment Makeup
For those interested in a makeup career in the entertainment industry, whether in film, television, or theatre, the following steps are crucial in order to prosper:
- Skill Development: Practice various makeup techniques and consider professional courses, such as those in Special Effects Makeup, to broaden your skill set.
- Portfolio Building: Compile a diverse portfolio demonstrating your range and expertise, crucial for securing jobs and attracting clients.
- Networking: Engage with professionals in the industry through events and social platforms to form relationships that may lead to job opportunities.
- Gaining Experience: Seek internships or volunteer positions to improve your resume and deepen your industry knowledge.
- Continuous Learning: Stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in makeup artistry through ongoing education.
In conclusion, the art of makeup in the entertainment industry varies significantly between film and stage. While movie makeup focuses on natural, subtle enhancements suitable for high-definition cameras, stage makeup demands bold and vivid applications that ensure visibility from all theatre angles. Both fields require a deep understanding of lighting, detailed techniques, and product knowledge to effectively transform actors into their characters, supporting their performance and aiding the overall production quality.
FAQs
Is it possible to use the same cosmetic items for both film/TV and theatrical performances?
While there may be some overlap in products, each makeup type demands specific products and application techniques. Stage makeup generally requires products that are more durable and long-lasting due to the intensity of stage lighting and live performance demands, whereas film and television makeup needs to be subtler and capable of withstanding the scrutiny of high-definition cameras.
Do you have any tips for creating cosplay makeup looks?
When crafting cosplay makeup, it’s crucial to accurately reflect the character’s unique design and features. This often includes the use of prosthetics, body paints, or special effects makeup to achieve an authentic look. Seeking advice from expert cosplayers or makeup artists and watching tutorials can also be beneficial. Success in cosplay makeup relies heavily on creativity and more attention to detail.
What is the best method for removing stage, film, or television makeup?
Since makeup for stage, film, and television can be quite heavy, using an oil-based cleanser or a specialised makeup remover is typically most effective. It’s important to follow this with a gentle facial cleanser and moisturiser to thoroughly clean and hydrate the skin. Choosing a makeup removal routine that best fits your skin type and personal preferences is essential for maintaining healthy skin.
About the Author
By Isabelle Kerrington from Treasure House of Makeup
Isabelle Kerrigton is an expert in the theatre and film makeup industry and has been writing detailed articles based on topics within the industry for over a year. She enjoys going to the cinema and watching the latest flicks and spending time with the family.