How To Reach Out To Make Up Artists/Stylists as a Fashion Photographer
Make up by Abigail Lemar, Stying by Daisy Jordan, Model is Mariam at The Hive, shot for wear-next.com
Reaching out to a make up artist/hair stylist/fashion stylist (anyone) couldn't be easier these days. Genuinely, I find most people on Instagram. When I see someone who's work I love and want to work with them, I literally just send them a direct message on Instagram saying something along the lines of:
“Hi____, I hope you're having a really lovely day! I absolutely love your work. Your latest shoot with x / that image you've shared of x is beautiful! I'm planning a shoot in the next few weeks, and I wondered if you might be interested in coming along to do the hair/make up/styling? Please see a moodboard below!"
The main things to keep in mind when you reach out are these:
MUA's/Stylists can get a lot of messages, so instead of just reaching out and being vague, I'd recommend approaching them with a specific idea.
Always ask for their input! They are just as creative as you, and want to be included as much as possible.
They may have questions about what the project is for, and if there is budget. That is well within their right to ask, and if they say no to free projects and tests, don't take it personally. A lot of MUAs/Stylists will only work with photographers when they have a pull letter already (that's a letter from a magazine confirming that you'll work with them) but a lot are also really keen to collaborate and just want a chance to be creative.
I'd recommend reaching out to people who are at a similar stage in their career to you, so that you can grow together. I've been lucky enough to work with so many talented people, and we all help one another out as we grow.
If you don't ask, you don't get. If there is someone you love and admire, don't be intimidated. Just tell them how much you love and admire them and ask them if they'd like to work with you! Honestly, the amount of times that I've done this and been amazed that they've said yes still gets me. You need to be brave, put yourself out there, and go for it!
If you can't find an MUA/Stylist on Instagram, I do recommend getting in touch with agencies. There are loads of them around (especially in big cities) and if no one that they represent is free, they often have lists of freelancers that they recommend. I found a manicurist this way a few weeks ago, and she was amazing! You can find lists of agencies on Models.com.
