Mistakes I Made as a Makeup Artist (And What I Learned)

We all make mistakes, especially when we are young and still figuring things out. Looking back at my time as a makeup artist in Indonesia, I cannot help but cringe at some of the choices I made. I was immature, a little selfish, and honestly, my mindset was not always in the right place. But growth is a journey, and I have come a long way since then. Reflecting on those mistakes has helped me become a better artist and a more grounded person. So, here are some of the biggest lessons I learned the hard way. Hopefully, they can help someone else avoid the same pitfalls.

1. Not Asking for Feedback

One of my biggest regrets was being too proud (or maybe too scared)to ask for feedback. In my head, I convinced myself that if clients liked my work, they would message me first. If they did not say anything, it must mean they hated it. Spoiler alert: that is not how it works.

I missed out on so many opportunities to improve because I did not seek constructive criticism. Feedback, whether good or bad, is invaluable. It helps you grow, learn, and refine your craft. Plus, positive feedback can be used as testimonials to attract more clients. I was young and thought I knew everything, but the truth is, I had so much to learn.

Now, I make it a point to ask for feedback genuinely and openly. For example, if a client requests a complicated hairstyle I am not entirely confident about, I will be upfront with them. I will say, “This is not my forte, but I am willing to try my best. If you are happy with it, you can pay me for the service. If not, no worries.” This approach not only takes the pressure off me but also builds trust with my clients. Good communication leads to better reviews and stronger relationships.

2. Not Investing in Proper Equipment

Ah, the camera and lighting situation. Let us just say I made some questionable choices here. Instead of saving up for one high quality Fujifilm camera (which I really wanted), I ended up buying multiple cameras from different brands. None of them gave me the results I was looking for, and I ended up spending more money in the long run. I knew I wanted Fujifilm images and I spent money somewhere else.

Lighting was another area where I cut corners. Back then, I did not realise how crucial good lighting is for showcasing your work. Now, I have invested in proper lighting equipment; reflectors, ring lights, a Hollywood mirror and the dual arm LED lights. These tools have made a world of difference in my portfolio.

While you do not necessarily need a professional camera (smartphones can work wonders these days), I personally prefer using one because I want to be proud of the quality of my work. Your portfolio is your calling card, and investing in the right tools can elevate your brand and help you stand out.

3. Spending Money on the Wrong Products

As a makeup artist, it is easy to get carried away with all the shiny, colourful products; eyeshadow palettes, blushes, bronzers, you name it. But here is the thing: you do not need a ton of decorative products. What you do need is a solid collection of base products like foundations, concealers, and powders. These are the essentials that make the biggest difference in your work.

I wish I had realised this sooner. Instead of spending hours researching the best eyeshadows (which, let us be honest, all look pretty similar once applied), I should have focused on finding the best base products for different skin types and tones. A flawless complexion is what people notice most, especially as the day goes on.

In Indonesia, where I started, the makeup market was more limited compared to places like Australia, where I am now. Back then, I got caught up in the hype of imported makeup and spent way too much on products I did not really need. Lesson learned: invest in quality, not quantity.

4. Seeing Other Artists as Competitors, Not Allies

This one stings a little. I used to view other makeup artists as competitors rather than potential allies. I was too proud and often thought negatively about them instead of trying to connect and build relationships. Big mistake.

The beauty industry is all about networking and collaboration. Other artists can be your greatest source of inspiration, support, and even referrals. Now, I make it a point to connect with fellow makeup artists, both in Indonesia and abroad. Building a community has not only helped me grow professionally but has also made the journey so much more enjoyable.

Final Thoughts

Mistakes are inevitable, but they are also some of the best teachers. Looking back, I wish I had been more open to feedback, invested in the right tools and products, and seen my peers as allies rather than competition. But I am grateful for these lessons because they have shaped me into the artist I am today.

If you are just starting out as a makeup artist, my advice is simple: be humble, invest wisely, and do not be afraid to connect with others. Growth takes time, but every mistake is a step forward. And who knows? Maybe one day, you will look back and laugh at your own “what was I thinking?” moments too.