Hannah Wing

What inspired you to enter the makeup department?

I've always loved film, TV and theatre but having attended a drama school in my early teens, I realised I preferred being behind the camera. The art that goes into creating a character has always fascinated me so working as a hair and makeup artist was a natural choice.

What is your current position, can you tell us what your responsibilities are?

I am the director of Bellus Femina Ltd which I set up in late 2007. I am a hair and makeup designer covering everything from bridal to special effects. Day to day my role and responsibilities will include networking, designing according to production briefs, meeting with clients to conduct trials and maintaining an up to date knowledge of the industry. I also teach media hair and makeup both privately and at colleges and universities so I can often be found writing courses too!

What career path did you take to get you to the position you hold today, and how did you get your first paying job?

Well, I actually left drama school at 18 and concluded that life as a jobbing actress was probably not for me (I'm a rubbish waitress). I decided to train as a financial consultant which offered far more security financially however after 12 years of working in the city, I decided it was 'now or never' to pursue what I really wanted to do as a hair and makeup artist.

I got business cards made up, designed a basic website and networked like crazy.

My first paid job was working as a makeup artist for a bride.

What are the greatest challenges of working on a feature film?

Feature films are great fun but they are also a lot of hard work. You have to be a team player at all times. Everyone on a set is integral to making the project work so you have to ensure you keep that in mind at all times.

What has been the most memorable part of your career so far?

Wow, there's been so many fantastic things it's hard to choose.I am most proud of being a published author as writing a book was a big thing on my bucket list.

What do you think is the most important thing to remember when working on set, is there any set etiquette that a trainee should observe?  

There is most definitely a set etiquette. The number one thing I tell my students or trainees is to show willing. The industry is cut throat and days can be long and tiring. Having a 'can do' attitude is imperative to making the right impression. There just isn't time for negativity or laziness on set!

What advice would you give to new entrants to help them establish their careers?

Create a portfolio, give everything a go to see what you like/are particularly good/not so good at, network, be positive, be pro-active (you have to be fresh in people's minds), have a thick skin (you will get rejected - a lot) and most of all, never give up on your dreams!